ÔHEALTHY
CANINE CUISINEÕ
In
the news this past week comes alarming new evidence that the ingredients used
by many pet food companies is not only poor nutrition at best it could even
prove to cause kidney failure leading to the death of your dog. Just as many of
us continue to pursue a healthier life style, eating a variety of fresh foods
and cutting down on or eliminating processed foods our beloved pets certainly
deserve the same consideration.
Commercially
processed dog food does provide convenience, but this new evidence now in the
forefront regarding the quality of the food and the preservatives we can no
longer overlook the need for some drastic change in how we feed our pets.
Fortunately, a growing number of more nutritionally balanced dog foods can now
be found lining the aisles of your grocerÕs pet food section. Health food
stores have gotten in on the act as well with specially baked treats and chews
made with 100% organic ingredients.
Still
variety that prevents nutritional deficiencies can be an issue. Some
veterinarians feel that to constantly change a dogÕs food causes digestive
upsets and fussiness about diet. Some experts feel this is only a ploy by the
manufacturers to lock you into their food instead of switching around. For
other less fussy pouches variety is not an issue eating whatever is presented.
Many dog owners find their pooch fussing and picking when their diet is
switched to a higher quality food.
In human terms, itÕs similar to someone switching you unwillingly, from
burgers and fries to fruits and veggies. The adjustment will take time. They
may complain and pout but a dog will not starve itself.
Contrary
to popular opinion scraps are good for your dog. Not the cut away pieces of
skin or fat, but a few choice pieces of whatever they will eat and agrees. If
youÕve never fed your animal quality grains, brown rice, vegetables and fruits
you might be surprised how well it goes over. Some studies show that animals
fed small amounts of a variety of these foods are more sated and will settle in
latter with a quality dry food without complaints.
A
high quality vitamin mineral supplement is optional but just as in human
health, along with a healthy diet supplements will help keep your pet youthful
and strong. Use glucosamine for joint health, garlic for coronary and immune
health and fish oil for skin and coat health, and depression- sometimes acted
out as destructive behavior. A healthy skin and coat dramatically reduces doggy
odor. Dogs do not need vitamin C, as they make their own. Digestive enzymes are
a must as your dog reaches into his later years. It doesnÕt matter how quality
a diet you feed them, if they cannot digest and assimilate it their health will
fail. Enzymes also help prevent their odoriferous gas that has been known to
clear the room.
4/12/07
Your
dogÕs nutritional needs will vary according to size, weight, breed and
age. Sound nutritional practices
started in their youth will extend their life, health and the joy they bring to
your life. Till next time, Rebecca