Most well-meaning pet owners are very concerned about what they are feeding their pets. Commercial dog and cat food is regulated by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). State regulators may decide to follow or not follow AAFCO standards, but most pet food manufacturers choose to comply with the AAFCO regulations so they can sport the AAFCO wording “a complete and balanced diet” on the feed bag or can. The wording is reassuring in that it indicates that the food sustains the animal for which it was manufactured. It can stand alone as a complete diet.
Why good nutrition is so important – Without good nutrition, your dog can suffer from a number of problems, including allergies, malnutrition, skin and coat problems and obesity. In addition, with artificial additives such as colorings, flavorings and artificial preservatives dogs can react adversely. Many dogs are overweight which is a health risk and a lack of antioxidants like vitamin C and E could contribute to an increased risk of Cancer.
Feeding dogs is a choice made by the owners. Allowing a dog unlimited access to food can create problems when a dog gorges himself and eventually gains too much weight which puts extra strain on joints and increases the risk of heart and liver disease. Feeding a dog twice a day (at your mealtimes) stabilizes metabolism. Providing a slightly reduced amount of food, reducing treats and table scraps and adding a walk will all bring about the result you want. Feeding a high quality pet food also creates an easier backyard cleanup.
People Food vs. a Commercial Diet – Not everyone agrees on this subject. Buying a high-quality dog food provides the dog with all the nutrients he needs in correct proportions. On the other hand, holistic veterinarians and their clients believe that home-cooked food is fresher and less processing is an advantage. However, once a dog gets used to Mommy cooking for him, it is sometimes difficult to interest the dog in store bought food. I have talked to people almost in tears as to how to switch a dog back to commercial food once they have started cooking for him. Vacation travel, illness and changes at home can sometimes occur and interrupt the food preparation process. Be very sure of your commitment and follow-through before you decide to start cooking.
Don’t even think about feeding your dog - Chocolate that is darker and less sweet is especially toxic. Onions and Garlic in a large quantity is harmful in that it can cause hemolytic anemia. Onions are potent and should never be fed to dogs. Raisins and Grapes – One grape hand-fed to the dog will probably not be harmful but certainly dogs should be kept away from grape vines and not given a cluster of grapes to eat. Raisins are especially toxic and can lead to lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea and eventually renal failure. Alcohol – dogs absorb alcohol quickly and are prone to toxic reactions such as seizures, arrhythmias of the heart, low body temp, kidney damage and even coma or death.
How to read a label – Dog food manufacturers must list ingredients in descending order according to weight. If Corn is listed as the first ingredient that means that corn is the largest single ingredient. Generally, dogs do better if a high quality protein is listed as one of the first ingredients. Grain based diets don’t typically provide dogs with as much usable protein and may be harder to digest. Also, watch out for grains being listed separately as in corn meal, ground corn, chicken by-product meal and corn gluten meal. Manufacturers can list meat as the first ingredient and then split up the corn products so it appears that corn isn’t the main ingredient. Fresh meat sounds delicious but may not be as nutritious as meat meal which has its moisture removed before being added to the dog food. Hence, fresh meat is lower in protein than meat meal. AAFCO regulations protect the consumer and only qualified terms can be used after inspections and standardized terminology.
Supplements - Many people believe supplements should never be added to food and that if needed, should be taken separately to ensure proper dosage. Antioxidants are vitamins C, E and selenium which have anticancer properties. Fatty Acids – Omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil and flax seed oil is one such fatty acid. Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM – support and promote joint health and can even restore cartilage. Probiotics – intestinal friendly, “good” bacteria that promotes healthy digestion. These are all added to dog foods. Check to see what your food might contain
Other natural, “health food,” type products are available like “Royal Coat”, “Sea Mobility Chicken or Beef Jerky”, “Itch Free,” and “Gentle Digest” for dogs that need additional supplements for skin problems, joint problems, and digestive problems.
Call us or e-mail us with any questions you might have in deciding if you are feeding your pets the best possible food and/or supplements.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment