The Raw Feeding Advantage

I've been feeding my dogs a raw diet (combined with home-cooked) for about eight months.  Even with what I had read about it and learned about it in my advanced canine nutrition course, I was still somewhat leery.  Would my dogs really like it? I think sometimes I forget my dogs are....well....dogs! (don't tell them otherwise!)  I'm sure that's because to me they are family.  When I had them on a home-cooked (with a little kibble) diet, I purchased meat at the grocery store, which was intended for human consumption, but I thoroughly cooked it...so raw, that's a different story!  I'm not squeamish about handling raw meat or working with it, but would they eat it? Really? And like it?

So, instead of jumping in feet first, or going cold turkey on them (ha!) I waded in...almost felt like I was being sneaky...using a mixture of cooked and raw meats, masked by some veggies....yeah....they won't notice that! They ate it, and continued to eat it even as the cooked meat became less, and the raw meat more over the weeks! Then, one day...surprise! You have successfully changed them over to a raw meat diet! Whew! That wasn't so hard.


So, fast forward all these months, and they are bonkers over it!  Needless to say, in our multi-dog home, the noise at times is deafening when I'm preparing a meal.  They know what's coming, and on occasion they're tripping over each other to get to their eating spot. Makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. :-)  What you feed your dog is his/her first line of defense in the nutritional battle for good health.

Some of the switch has been trial and error, and that is to be expected.  Most of mine did not like the ground pork, and several of them didn't stomach the young beef, probably because it is so rich.  But that's ok, I believe dogs have preferences just like people.  And the supplier I use (My Pet Carnivore - www.mypetcarnivore.com) has a nice variety of meats to choose from, so I never need worry that I won't have enough selection.  There will be plenty for their palate to like.

I suppose one of the most important factors to consider when 'going raw' for your dogs, is, know your supplier AND know your supplier's sources. You do not want inferior meats, and you certainly don't want your precious babies getting sick.  You are making a healthy and proper choice for them.  That's a big benefit of raw feeding.

Ok, so first off, you need to find a reputable supplier, hopefully close to where you live so you can pick up the food and avoid shipping charges which adds to the expense.  You could surf the overwhelming Internet sources, or hopefully you know someone personally who already feeds their dog (or cat) raw.  Make sure the meat  your supplier sells to you has not been denatured.  In short, this is meat the U.S. law states is 'not fit for human consumption'.  It is a process that involves the use of charcoal, and even though this is somewhat a 'natural' product, I do not believe it is safe for use in food, not for humans or pets.  Charcoal has numerous beneficial uses, but this isn't and shouldn't be one of them.

What I like about raw meat for dogs is you get not only the muscle meat, you also get the benefit of bone and organs.  Also, your supplier should have tripe product available for you to purchase.  This is definitely part of the diet of wild dogs and wolves. What is tripe? The stomach of ruminant animals (ox, sheep, goats, etc), and it contains very important nutrients that go beyond bones and organs. You will also notice your dog's bowel to be smaller, and less smelly (personally, there's no such thing as good smelling poop in my book!)  Cleaner teeth, a healthier coat, all advantages of raw feeding that you won't get with the junk commercial dry stuff!

Raw meat is truly what dogs need, it is how they are intended to eat.  In the wild, they would derive about 14% carbohydrate from their diet...not the 50% plus domesticated dogs in a home environment eat on a daily basis.  This is why disease is so rampant in dogs, as an improper diet, over time, will bring on cancer, diabetes and a plethora of debilitating maladies, many which I am encountering that I have never heard of.

I hope you will consider this option for your dog. I don't believe you will be disappointed, and your pooch will be delighted! I have several raw recipes posted on this blog, be sure to check them out.  If you know of a reputable source for raw, let me know so I can share it with other blog readers....and by all means, feel free to use My Pet Carnivore as a supplier for all your raw feeding needs. Isn't it time you made the switch to better canine health?

Raw Chicken Veggie Soup (Recipe)

Bringing to you another 'Chaplin Doggie Diner' original recipe for your doggie's dining pleasure:

32 oz. Organic Chicken Broth (low-sodium)
1/2 lb. organic baby carrots
1/2 small organic yellow squash (partly peeled)
1/4 cup organic green pepper
1/4 cup organic celery
3 medium organic potatoes (peeled)
1/2 cup organic broccoli
1 Tablespoon dried parsley

Cut up squash, green pepper, celery, potatoes and broccoli.  Put in pan with broth and cook until vegetables are soft.  Add parsley toward end of cooking.


Note: I have dogs that only have a few teeth (and one that doesn't have any), so I mash up the vegetables for them before adding the meat

Spoon veggies with broth into a bowl...allow to cool slightly, then add 1/4 cup to 1 cup raw ground chicken to top, depending on size of dog.  (Note: I only use raw meat that is for dogs, not bought from the grocery that is intended for human consumption)

Talk To The Paw In Indy - Now Accepting Canine Clients

The reason I started this dog blog a year and a half ago, was to help pet parents make better informed decisions for their furry companions.  I have learned a lot about caring for dogs over the last five plus years.  Being involved in small dog rescue has brought a lot of different needs literally to my doorstep...most people would not have the number of pets in a lifetime that I have and care for in my home.  It is a tremendous responsibility.

 

Feeding time in the Chaplin household is not a simple 'pour a bowl of kibble'.  It is a thought-out plan for healthier doggies.  It's something I have spent countless hours in study and research on...increasing my knowledge, working through the hype, and utilizing my nutritional background that spans nearly three decades, to bring no-nonsense nutritional awareness to those who want to do what is best for their family member with fur.  In doing this, I can pass along to my blog readers, straight-forward, useable information.  There is a lot out there...where do you begin? It can be frustrating, confusing and sometimes down right misleading.  I have made it my job to eliminate that. 

 

I’m not perfect, and I certainly don’t know everything.  I am here to help, and I am extending an invitation to my blog readers that I am now accepting canine clients.  Here’s how it will work…you have a health issue with your dog.  You can’t seem to get the problem cleared up with what you are currently doing, or you don’t like what you are currently doing regarding it, and would like to use a natural/herbal/nutritional approach.  Send me an email with your issue to TalkToThePawInIndy@aol.com.  Be as detailed as possible regarding symptoms, diagnosis (if your vet has given one).  Tell me your dog’s health history, including current meds, what foods you are feeding, and basic things such as breed, age, weight, etc.  Any information that would help me to give conclusive findings…the more the better.  I will research and conclude my results and provide a personalized, detailed report to you, which will include a nutritional outline for your dog’s specific needs.

My initial consultation fee is $25 (U.S. Funds).  I will invoice you through my PayPal account, and once you have paid the invoice, I will send you your report as an attachment via email.  It is not necessary for you to have a PayPal account, as credit cards are accepted.  It’s fast and simple.  I try to turn around all information within seven (7) days.  90-day follow-up is at no charge to you.  That’s really getting a lot for your money!  I certainly have a lot more to blog about…granted, I’m kept very busy with my own dogs and other responsibilities.  I love dogs…my dogs, your dogs, everypawdy’s dogs! I want what is best for mine nutritionally…isn’t that what you want for your own too?

I look forward to servicing your needs and hope you will continue to read and share my blog with friends and family members who are canine pet parents as well.  Thank you.

 

 

Dust Doggies - Shedding Light On A Hairy Issue

Chances are you are a pet parent of a dog that sheds, as there are few breeds that do not.  So, since it comes with the territory, it's necessary to deal with it...I'm going to offer some helpful information that I hope you will find useful. I have small dogs, but they do shed...I have friends who have big dogs that shed really big....it stands to reason, more dog, more flying fur. Ugh! When I broom sweep, I refer to the hair as dust doggies. (instead of dust bunnies!)  I have found some solutions that help very much.

Bissell has this nice hand-held 'Pet Hair Eraser'.  It works very well for homes with small dogs due to its compact size.  I love it...my mom bought one for me several years ago....cleans the upholstered furniture very well.  The pink end on it is rubbery, so it grabs the hair. (Note: Bissell also carries a full-size upright vacuum for pet hair.)

I purchased this black rubber brush in the pet section at Meijer.  I think I paid about $6 for it....I use it to clean the hair off the doggie beds.  It does very well.  I clean the bed on the outside, and turn it inside out and clean the hair out there too. Of course from time to time the bed goes into the washer and dryer...but you need to make sure you have the doggie hair off first!

After I clean the beds with the rubber brush, I spray them with Caldrea Linen and Room Spray.  You can get it at the Vitamin Shoppe (www.vitaminshoppe.com)  This particular scent is Basil Blue Sage...what a delightful natural smell!  These are made with essential oils, and can me used on linens, garments and in the air.  It contains plant-derived ingredients, no artificial color, and is not tested on animals! I always use the natural stuff.  Please don't use Febreeze, it not a safe product to use around your pets.

 Keeping your dog's environment clean is important to having a healthy companion, and it doesn't need to be time consuming, but it certainly should be done using safe products that are not only environmentally friendly, but Fido-friendly too! 

Raw Green Duck (Recipe)

1 lb. ground raw duck meat
2 cups organic broccoli florets
1 Tablespoon organic butter
1 Tablespoon organic parsley flakes

Lightly steam broccoli (this helps it to be more digestible for your dog), then chop in food processor (this also aids digestion).  Add 1 Tablespoon butter and 1 Tablespoon parsley flakes and stir together.  Add a heaping Tablespoon to raw meat in dog food bowl and stir.

Raw Green Duck

 

Make it 'greener' by adding other green veges your dog can eat, such as zucchini, green pepper and/or celery (organic is best, and lightly steam the vegetables.)  You can also use other raw meats.  See below, ground chicken without giblets.

Raw Green Chicken

Note: You can also warm some organic, low-fat chicken or beef broth and drizzle over the food.  Be creative!

Small Paws Senior Canine Sanctuary

Over the years I have grown to love senior dogs.  I have volunteered in small dog rescue for a little over five years.  In November of last year, I decided I wanted to do something more for these precious little creatures.  I decided to transform a room of my home into a senior sanctuary.  Small Paws Senior Canine Sanctuary was born!  The room was one that was more of an office/computer room....so that got moved to the spare bedroom, and that room is no more...a small sacrifice! I began tearing out carpet, pad and tack strip....repainting walls and decorating with a doggie theme.  It took months of work, as I was doing this all myself, in between every other responsibility I had.

 

I did not have to go far for my inspiration.  My little Clarisse, a Maltese, then 17 years old, whom I’d had since she was eight weeks and three days old, had certainly placed a permanent paw print on my heart.  Blind from cataracts, she needed a safe place to be away from the other ‘younger’ siblings.  This was a perfect accommodation for her, but one I was hoping to share with other senior dogs in need.  I have commented over the years that I don’t remember my life B.C. (before Clarisse), and how I couldn’t imagine my life A.D. (after dog).  Unfortunately, my sweet baby was diagnosed with kidney disease in May, and at the end of August, five weeks and one day short of turning 18 years old, she passed to the Rainbow Bridge.  I certainly want to honor her….she was a good girl.  I do not want her memory to die…she has a legacy now that needs to live on so other senior dogs can live out their golden years in a loving environment. 

 

By the time Spring of 2013 rolled around, I had managed to complete the room.  On May 5th, we were guests at a local t.v. station WISH-TV Channel 8, to promote the Senior Sanctuary.  I had gotten my first two 'residents' at the end of April.  Taegan, a 9 year old Chihuahua, and Tobie, a 10 year old Pomeranian, both from Ohio....both 'Craig's List' dogs.  Each one had their own sad story.  Then by May, we brought in Otis, a 19-year old Chihuahua.  He was an owner surrender.  He had been brought to a shelter as a stray with another dog.  When the family came in to pick them up, they said to ‘put Otis down’, they didn’t want to take him back…he was ‘too old’.   I have the surrender paperwork, that’s the words the owner used! Can you imagine? Being abandoned by someone you’d spent a decade of your life with to have them throw you away?  It is sad…it makes me angry, and it is far more common than most people would think.

 

Of course, there is no ‘free dog’.  Dogs are a daily expense, beyond the monthly heartworm meds, and yearly shots, they eat every day…and from time to time require extra medical attention for things that pop up.  Especially these older ones, you just never know, but they deserve to live out their lives, not have it callously extinguished before his/her time.  These are precious lives, they have emotion, they feel pain, but they are also very loyal and capable of unconditional love.  Would you please consider helping me to help them? I need financial assistance to care for them…to pay for their food, vetting and such….as I said, there is no free dog.  I want these babies to have the best I can offer, they deserve that.  I am limited financially…it’s just me doing this, and it is a tremendous responsibility personally and financially.  I am hoping to raise enough funds to apply for 501(c)3 status, which would make Small Paws Senior Canine Sanctuary not-for-profit, and those donating could make tax-deductible donations.  The cost of that is $450.  There are other fees that go along with that as well.  If you could donate to support this cause and help Clarisse’s memory live on to help other senior doggies, it would be so appreciated.  There is a donation button at the top left of this blog.  You do not have to have a PayPal account to donate.  Even $5 helps.  Thank you so much.

Clarisse when she was about 2-1/2 years old

 

 

Taegan - Small Paws Senior Canine Sanctuary resident

Tobie - Small Paws Senior Canine Sanctuary Resident

 

Otis - Small Paws Senior Canine Sanctuary Resident

Oh, Good Grief! Dealing With The Death of Your Dog

 

 

In Memory of Clarisse Louise Chaplin

10-3-95 to 8-28-13

 

If you've lived long enough, and most of us have, you have dealt with the loss of a loved one, human and/or companion animal.  Then comes the grieving process - a path we'd rather not trod, but a necessary one.  To deny ourselves this journey is to miss out on an opportunity to become a stronger person, enabling us to be a comfort to someone else in their time of need.

Death is an unfortunate consequence of the 'Fall of Man' in the Garden of Eden as told in the Holy Bible from the Christian faith.  It is not an end, rather an eternal beginning.  I am a firm believer that our canine companions, who most of us consider family, do possess a soul, which is the part of us that lives forever.  From the reading I have done, the word used in the Old Testament Hebrew language of the Holy Bible for 'soul' is the same for humans and animals.  A very good book to read regarding this is 'Cold Noses At The Pearly Gates' by Gary Kurz.  It will give you a clearer understanding and much insight that will provide comfort for your anxiety.

Each situation we face when the time comes for our furry loved ones to pass to the Rainbow Bridge will be unique, as will the emotions that accompany it.  For me, it helps to write, because that is so natural for me.  Sharing with friends and family...a physical shoulder to lean on, is an important part of the healing process.  Shedding tears...whether you're male or female, it doesn't matter.  Crying doesn't mean you're weak...it means you're human.  Don't expect for it to 'go away' in a day or two - healing times are different for each of us.  It is not a time for others to pass judgment on someone because it's taking 'too long'.  It is a time for compassion, tenderness and a listening ear...for how ever long it may be needed.  Eventually, the pain will ease, not go away completely forever, but you'll once again recall the wonderful life you shared, and you'll smile again.

It's been a little over four years since I suffered the loss of a companion animal, she was a foster, and she died while in my care.  Even though she wasn't 'my dog', the loss greatly affected me.  This was a life...a moving, breathing creature.  Sugar had it rough, she was a stray brought into a shelter where most likely her life would have ended because she was a senior.  Thankfully, my friend Julie rescued her, and after that our paths crossed twice, unfortunately the second time ending her life due to illness.

Perhaps I'm more sensitive than most, and I know there are those who don't understand my commitment and connection to dogs.  It is truly a tie that binds.  When my little Clarisse passed away the other day, my prayer was that she would go on her own, but that didn't happen, so it left me to 'make that decision'.  Could I really do that? Nearly eighteen years together...that's a long time...my life without her? Hard to imagine her not in my life.  I'm heartbroken.  Yes, life will go on.  I have other dogs in my care who need me.  I know she is in Heaven.  She is no longer blind from cataracts, she is free from the kidney disease that severely diminished her weight...she is whole.  That being said, I am left to deal with the loss. My faith in God will get me through, I am confident of that, and in time my heart will mend.  That void immediately felt in my heart is now filled with a tiny paw print left there by Clarisse.  Dealing with it will not be easy, getting through it will be rough, but loving her was worth it - she truly changed my life and taught me so much.  I can certainly say it is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.



 

R.I.P. my sweet Clarisse <3

Unconditional Love - An Observation and Application

What is unconditional love? What does it mean to be unconditional? I really don’t perceive it as a human trait…whether we realize it or not, we place conditions on those we chose to love.  Good, bad or indifferent…a person’s appearance has a lot to do with us accepting them to be a part of our life.  We as humans tend to be driven by looks…that is a big part of the attraction equation.  I have had numerous relationships on various levels over my lifetime, as I’m sure you have too.  Most of them, especially those which I thought to be ‘serious’, went by the wayside.  Fourteen years ago, I quit pursuing those kinds of associations.  It’s been less stressful for me, and I’m okay with it – that’s my choice. I no longer need to concern myself with what someone else thinks I should do, be, say or live….ah….no conditions!

 

Over the last five years I have become so involved in small dog rescue that ‘extra’ time is a luxury I do not have – I’m ‘sold out’ and physically spent with those responsibilities.  I’m not complaining, it is a labor of love.  Most people would never take on the magnitude of commitment I have, because it really does not allow for much of a life outside of the continual obligation necessary to try to keep up, which is a daily challenge!  For me, it is an inborn passion….my very heart.  I take it personally and I have very strong opinions regarding the care of dogs.  I do not apologize for it, and I do not back down.  Love me, love my dogs…period! They are family, and if you don’t like that status, don’t come over our house!

 

Most people cannot comprehend the time consumption of tending to multiple dogs, even though they’re all under fifteen pounds.  It is my life.  I rescue senior dogs.  Many of mine are over the age of ten.  If you were to come to our home for the day, especially on a weekend when I’m not working my full-time job, you might think I had ‘saved up’ some chores, but not so.  This is typical ‘day in, day out’.  We go for walks as time, weather and my stamina allows…but certainly not as much as I would like.  I do not go to the State Fair or concerts or ball games or participate in other ‘outside of home’ entertainment.  I rarely watch a movie at home…and a vacation? What’s that? There would certainly be no kenneling of my family members just so I could get away…and I don’t expect someone else to take on the responsibility!

 

There’s always a floor to sweep and/or mop, doggie blankets, beds and pottie pads to wash.  Somepawdy not feeling well….diarrhea, skin issues, nails to trim, an impromptu  bath because somepawdy rolled in poop in the back yard, medications to administer, shots to get at the vet, eyes to clean, teeth to brush, food to prepare (along with the couple dozen dishes to wash later, which I do ‘manually’).  It never ends…if I think I’m done…it’s probably time to wake up in the morning and start all over again!

 

All this brings me to the point of this blog – unconditional love – more of a canine trait than a mortal one.  But in the same sense, my dogs have taught me this over the past many years.  Being so involved with dogs has really brought so much positive aspects to my life – their adoration for me has rubbed off.  There are times I get frustrated and even upset and they are corrected, but never in an abusive or neglectful manner.  I have zero tolerance for that.  My love for them does not have ‘conditions’ attached, just as theirs does toward me.  They may do something they shouldn’t, but I don’t stop loving them because of that.  They are forgiving when they’d like to be ‘the only’ dog, but they’re not…mommy’s attention is very divided…I try to give to everybody, but it doesn’t always happen.  I am spread very thin, and I do the best I can…sometimes when I don’t even physically feel like it.

 

Every domesticated dog deserves a loving home which involves no less than proper nutrition, medical care when needed, a safe, stress-free environment, and to know they are loved.  I understand life can throw a curve ball, and place a person in dire circumstances, sometimes beyond their control, but more often that is not the case and it breaks my heart.  I have picked up a lot of slack of other’s carelessness and irresponsibility.  I will continue to do so as long as God allows, because the need is great and the workers are few.  Dog rescue is a never ending battle.  I know there are many who do more than I.  I am grateful and thankful for each one who is helping on the front lines.  There is no ‘free dog’…there is a constant expense and a lifetime commitment…maybe as long as twenty years.  They are a blessing, their unconditional love for you will never end.  It doesn’t matter what you look like, how much money you make, what kind of dwelling you live in, how old you are or what bad habits you have…they will love you and be loyal to you just the same.  So if you want a true definition of unconditional love, look no further than a dog – they will leave a paw print on your heart fur-ever!

 

The Canine Diet – Naturally: A Starting Point

Feeding your dog is more important than you may realize, especially what you feed.  It is unfortunate that the pet food industry at large has led pet owners to believe ‘their’ foods are ‘complete’, all your dog needs.  The days of when that was my personal practice are a blur, a very distant memory.  I am so glad I have learned better about canine nutrition.  My desire is not only to help my dogs, but everybody’s furry companions.  I love dogs…my goal, daunting as it may be is that every dog is healthy and happy, naturally.

Naturally…something that may seem eccentric or come as ‘news’ to the majority of veterinarians (which is not really their fault), and a concept I’m sure that makes me an antagonist, a thorn in the side so to speak  toward the big pet food manufacturers. Convenience aside…which is what man-made kibble is… raw is best.  Foods which would be consumed in the wild by these domesticated carnivores are truly what is needed in their diet.  Raw, not some overcooked glob with no nutrient value, or even the high-priced prescription diets.  These will not make your dog healthy, as some commercials (falsely) imply.  In fact, quite the contrary, it will most likely bring on unwanted disease and other ill issues.

That being said, my plan is to empower you to take at least some charge of your dog’s diet.  What you do or fail to do can have positive or negative consequences in regard to his or her health over their lifetime.  I know there are those who cannot for physical and/or financial reasons be able to provide the best diet, (which is raw) for their dog.  However, I believe most people can do a few things to enhance the menu.  Really, the savings down the road far outweigh the added expense at present. Most issues dogs encounter are nutritionally related.  Spend the money now by improving the quality of the food, or spend it later when chances are greater that your dog will develop a serious issue that will require medical (aka: veterinarian) intervention.

So, hopefully at this point you’re now thinking, ‘Ok, what can I do?’ Well, vegetables, fruits and herbs are a great starting point.  Vegetables, best used fresh (and organic) or frozen (and organic) are fairly easy to add and reasonably priced.  Using those that are ‘seasonal’ helps balance and support organ function, and in season typically cost less. (Buying watermelon in the winter, especially in the Midwest if you could even find it would be outrageous in price, where apples would be an easier catch).  Most areas across the U.S. have local farmer’s markets – which have a nice variety of home-grown choices.  Just as you would for your own use, wash veges well.  You can lightly steam or chop in a food processor, as this will aid the doggie digestion process (their digestion starts in the stomach, not the mouth like us humans).

 In the book ‘Holistic Guide For A Healthy Dog’ written by Wendy Volhard and Kerry Brown, D.V.M., there is a list of vegetables to use each season.  There are a few year ‘round ones: lettuces, radishes and garlic. (Note: 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder per pound of food 3 to 4 times a week, or one clove fresh garlic per 10 to 30 pounds weight per day is considered safe for your dog).  If your dog is larger or smaller, increase or decrease accordingly.  Garlic is great to boost the immune system and for cancer prevention.  Start with small amounts of these veges to see how your dog’s system will handle them.  If you have any adverse reaction, immediately stop using.

Canine instinct tells our dogs what is needed to balance their system.  They’re smarter than most humans, I think!  This is why they eat grass from time to time (another reason not to spray your yard with chemicals).  A list of all season herbs in the above mentioned book include: alfalfa, garlic, comfrey leaf, watercress, goldenrod, dandelion and rosemary.  You can certainly grow these in your own yard, which can be fun and rewarding, and cut down on expense.  There are many that can even flourish in containers for small areas (apartment balconies, for example).  And dandelions are free of charge…compliments of nature (yet another reason not to spray your yard!).  Of course, you can also mail order those that you cannot grow in your area, and the harder to find ones.  One of my favorite places is Mountain Rose Herbs in California.  They have top quality products, many organic at reasonable prices.   I have ordered from them for many years. You can check out their website at: www.mountainroseherbs.com.  It’s best to combine three to four of these herbs (only use single herbs if using for medicinal purposes)…be creative with the above selections. (Note: use double the amount when using fresh herbs).

I will be blogging a whole lot more on what to use in season to best benefit your pooch.  If you are unsure whether an herb is safe to use for your dog, research it, or email me and ask! (TalkToThePawInIndy@aol.com)  I will be posting more exclusive ‘Chaplin Doggie Diner’ recipes for raw feeding, so stay tuned! I know many of my blogs are lengthy, but there is so much information, and many times it’s hard to condense it without losing necessary data.  The health of your dog, destructive or helpful rests in your decisions – what will you choose?

Canine Obesity - A Growing Problem

It is an unfortunate situation that so many dogs are overweight.  It is truly a growing problem, and one with great concern.  Just as it is unhealthy for humans to be overweight, so it is for our furry companions.  Obesity can bring on disease such as diabetes, skin conditions, digestive problems, arthritis, heart disease and many other issues.  It’s also easier to put on, just like with people, and much harder to take off.  Same concept, less calories, more exercise.  Eating selections for dogs are the responsibility of the pet owner, where for us, we make our choices, and those preferences affect our weight.  Poor choices need to be replaced with better ones.

For dogs, raw is best; home-cooked is good; dry food or kibble, I really don’t recommend as it is too high in carbs (which I am going to discuss more), canned – I do not recommended for weight loss either.  Treats, which I feel should be few can include raw baby carrots and small pieces of apples, both organic preferably. Occasionally dog biscuits, homemade being the preference. If your dog is obese, starting an exercise program can be a challenge.  Progress will be slow, so the need for patience will be great.  Walking is the best choice for exercise, as most people and dogs can do at least a little.  You can also consider water therapy, especially for older dogs or ones with joint issues.  How much and for how long? Well, it depends on the dog’s age and current health status.  If five minutes is a starting point, then five minutes.  As your dog’s weight drops and his/her health improves, you can increase the time and even the intensity.  Always check with your veterinarian if you are not sure, and let them know you are adding an exercise program to their routine.  Below is a canine body condition score chart.  Study this, then take a look at your dog and see where he/she scores.

 

There are those who think an overweight dog is a ‘loved’ dog.  No doubt, you love your pet…I would certainly hope so.  However, an overweight dog is an unhealthy dog, and overfeeding is a poor practice, just as it is for a person.  Overfeeding can cause diarrhea and feeding improperly can produce cancer environments internally.  The main problem in the canine diet is over consumption of carbohydrates.  This type of feeding over a long period of time, usually the lifespan of the dog is the main culprit in the disease issues I have mentioned thus far, not to neglect mentioning that overweight dogs have more difficulty controlling blood glucose levels.  I know most of you out there are feeding your dog dry (or kibble) food, and will probably continue to do so.  I hope you will consider a raw diet, as this is truly the diet dogs need to consume for optimum health.

I believe vets are still focused on the 20^th Century thought process of pharmaceutical treatment, especially when recommending the prescription dog foods.  On the contrary, proper nutrition needs to be considered as a component of treatment in obesity…for it is there that true weight loss will find its cure.  In researching to write this blog, a common practice of mine, I checked out one of the dry foods formulated for weight loss from Hill’s Prescription Diet.  I am including the ingredient list from their ‘Canine Metabolic Advanced Weight Solution’ formula:

Chicken By-Product Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Whole Grain Corn, Corn Gluten Meal, Pea Bran Meal, Soybean Mill Run, Soybean Meal, Dried Tomato Pomace, Chicken Liver Flavor, Dried Beet Pulp, Flaxseed, Coconut Oil, Pork Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid), Lactic Acid, Powdered Cellulose, Pork Liver Flavor, DL-Methionine, L-Lysine, Iodized Salt, Dried Carrots, Dicalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Lipoic Acid, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Choline Chloride, minerals (Manganese Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Taurine, L-Carnitine, Mixed Tocopherols added to retain freshness, Citric Acid added to retain freshness, Beta-Carotene, Phosphoric Acid, Rosemary Extract.

What I see on this ingredient list are numerous known allergens to the canine such as wheat, corn and soy.  Way too many carbs! I have mentioned before on how to calculate the carbohydrate percentage for dry dog food.  By law, manufacturer’s do not have to disclose this information (then you’d be too informed and probably wouldn’t buy their food).  One surprising thing was, Hill’s included it on their nutrient chart, however, I don’t think it’s accurate.  There’s not enough information provided to come to the carb content of 38.7% that it shows.  You will typically see the protein, fat, ash, fiber and moisture percentages listed.  To obtain the carbohydrate percentage, you start with 100(%) and subtract the % of protein, ash, fat and moisture and you will get your percentage of carbohydrates.  With the information supplied I can take 100 minus 29.8 (the protein), 11.6 (the fat) and that’s it (fiber is not calculated).    I come up with 58.6% carbs.  That really sounds like to me what it actually is, as I have found even the high end dry dog foods are around 50-55% carbs.  Hill’s even touts on their website that ‘88% of dogs lost weight in two months at home’.  I really question these kinds of claims, and I don’t apologize for my skepticism.

Don’t assume the pet food industry at large is accurate in their research of what your dog needs, and that these foods are ‘optimum’ diets.  You’re the pet parent….your dog is your responsibility…from pottie breaks, to feeding to vetting. I believe the prescription diets are a lot of hollow hype, and don’t solve a problem, but create further issues down the line.  This is not how dogs were intended to eat.  I don’t buy into it.  My dogs no longer have kibble in their diet.  Any time in the past when an upset stomach or some other issue has risen, the kibble was the first to get eliminated.   Nutrition is a continual learning process, and I have acquired a great deal of insight and information in the last five years when I started home cooking for my dogs.  More recently, in the last 12-18 months, I have discovered that raw is best, and now that I have made that change for them, I am starting to see positive results in just 6 weeks!  It’s your decision, you’ll feed your dog what you choose.  My hope in creating, writing and continuing this blog is to inform and educate pet parents so they can make the best decision for their dog, as they are one family member that will never outgrow their dependence on you.

Proactive Observation

Being a pet parent is quite a responsibility….a long-term one, especially when raising a dog from a puppy to senior canine.  Every dog deserves owners who are dedicated to their health and well-being. We can all play an active role in aiding a long, healthy life by the choices we make for them.  It is unfortunate that so many (myself included in the past) have been brain-washed by the big corporate dog food industry and ill-trained practitioners. Lifespans can be as long as 15 to 20 years, and especially to those who start with a young dog, this time allows a great opportunity to be of most benefit, as it is important to start off on the right paw!  There is a challenge to adopting an older dog, and especially when little or nothing is known of the dog’s past care.  However, that being said, immediate focus to detail such as behaviors and nutrition need to be of utmost consideration because these can communicate a wealth of information to issues that need to be addressed…and some quite quickly.

My (human) nutritional background spans almost three decades.  In that time I have read and been exposed to a lot of health and nutrition information.  Throughout those years, I have learned much by personal application, and a lot through assisting family, friends and co-workers, how to sift through the vast and overwhelming hype to find out what really works.  My conclusion has long been, that which nature provides for us is far superior to what man formulates.  Creation has no need to compete with man, because what is provided is very good, it’s been around a long time.  There is no need to build or add on to it.  There is no greed involved, as monetary compensation means nothing, but to man it will always be about the profit possibilities. Once you can rid yourself of that mindset, the sooner you can reap the benefits of natural remedies not only for yourself, but for your dog as well. It is necessary to take charge of this area, and not leave it to someone else who feels you are not capable of knowing how to feed your dog.  Personally, that ruffles my feathers to think they believe I’m not smart enough! It’s not the rocket science propaganda that is so prevalent in the public eye.

There are two things specifically I have been reading about lately, and I am very excited to learn more and really delve into so I can share this information with my blog readers.  I have said before that you need to monitor your dog.  Know what is normal so when something isn’t, you recognize it.  It doesn’t pay to be passive.  Realizing an issue promptly can be a literal life-saver to your dog.  The sooner a problem is realized, the better prognosis for true healing.  I recall many years ago reading a couple articles about Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).  At that time it just wasn’t something I felt I needed to pursue.  Now, with my continuing studies on canine nutrition, I am reading more about holistic alternatives.  This is an area I have long felt is the right direction.  There are times when ‘western medicine’, such as antibiotics and surgery are necessary.  This should not and does not have to be the norm.  Simply treating symptoms does not get to the origin of the problem; in fact, many times it makes it worse, not mentioning numerous and sometimes life-threatening side effects.  Prescription drugs contain ingredients that man has formulated; elements that are toxic to our bodies.  This in turn causes other issues and thus a viscous cycle of more and more intruders invading us that our systems view as harmful, setting in motion an overwhelming response which triggers more and so on and so on.  It can get to a point of no return…the body becomes so overcome, it shuts down.

Herbs and natural remedies are more gentle and compatible with the biological rhythms of our bodies.  In this area, our canine companions are no different than we are.  They too require this approach, as this is what they would experience in the wild.  Yes, we have domesticated these creatures and brought them into our toxic world, and they simply cannot survive under these extreme, unnatural conditions. Don’t let anyone tell you any different, because it’s simply not possible.  Our unhealthy practices are causing them to develop diseases that they should never have to deal with.  It is our responsibility to bring them back into balance by doing what is right.  TCM, along with implementing the five element theory and kinesiology to detect allergies, will greatly enhance their lives.  Our pets for most of us are family, we need to be proactive proponents for them.  Watch your dog…he’s trying to tell you something.  Are you listening?

 

Bring Fido

Dogs have sure come a long way from the days of 'farm hands'.  Now majority of dog owners consider these furry companions to be family.  I know I do, and I'm sure most of my blog readers would agree.  It's becoming more and more common that since they have reached this status, that we want them to go places with us.  Due to this, businesses are becoming more 'pet friendly'.  You'd probably be surprised to find exactly where all you can take Fido these days!

Here is a wonderful website to find out just where your adventures can begin! Bring Fido (http://www.bringfido.com/) has quite an extensive listing.  You can browse pet friendly destinations worldwide!  Enter a 'quick search' on a city and go!  There are pet friendly accommodations such as hotels, bed and breakfast, camping....dog air travel, pet services, dog friendly attractions such as beaches, hiking, tours and shopping.

With the warmth of summer under our toes, there are listings of outdoor restaurants and dog events.  The little extras on the website include dog pictures (you can even send a free dog e-postcard!), a dog forum and free stuff for pets.  And if you find a place or know of a place that isn't listed, you can add it yourself!  It's a very useful resource for pet parents.  Need some human assistance? You can even speak to a pet friendly travel expert.  What's not to love about all this?

Please remember, never leave your dog in a vehicle on a hot day...even just 75 degrees outside can be 120 degrees inside in just a half hour! Leave your dog at home...safe in a climate controlled environment.  I've taken my dog with me to the drive-up at the bank, into Home Depot and Lowe's...and pet stores are always, of course, pet friendly.  There's no reason to put their life at risk for you to go off an do something and leave them.  Enjoy this summer with your loyal friend and be safe.  Being able to spend quality time with this special family member is a great bonding experience that every dog lover should partake of.

Going Raw For Your ‘Little Wolf’

Really, I knew it would happen…it was just a matter of when.  When would I take that leap and ‘go raw’ on feeding my dogs? Right around the time I started my Advanced Canine Nutrition Course, I began reading a book written by Lew Olson, PhD titled ‘Raw & Natural Nutrition for Dogs'.  It was really a hard book to put down.  I’ve high-lighted, doggie-eared (no pun intended), and post-it marked so many of the pages.  Then as my canine nutrition lessons progressed, I began realizing how important feeding this way is to the health of the dog.

I already home-cooked for my dogs, adding about 25% kibble (dry dog food) to their meals.  The more I read and learn about this dry dog food, the less of it I want to feed to my dogs.  You see, in nature, wild dogs and wolves hunt their prey and eat it…which consists of protein found in the meat, fats, organs, bones and any ‘vegetation’ present in the stomach and intestines at the time of the kill.  So, it only seems reasonable that even though our dogs are domesticated, that this would be a proper diet for them as well.

So, where does one start? I began looking on the Internet and found some suppliers, but they were so far away, and the shipping costs made it rather pricey.  Then you have to know something about the reputation and quality of the product being offered.  You certainly don’t want in your zeal to purchase meat that isn’t quality, as that could have detrimental consequences.  You want to feed raw to help your dog be healthy, not to make him/her sick.  Recently, I was very blessed to hear about a raw food supplier in my area from a friend of mine. 

When you consider, which you probably didn’t know, in the wild dogs and wolves obtain about 14% of their diet from carbohydrates.  Since dog food manufacturers don’t put the carbohydrate content on the bag, unless you know how to derive at that number, you don’t have a clue as to what percentage this food your dog(s) eats provides.  Here’s how to figure it out: 100 minus % protein, minus % fat, minus % ash, minus % moisture = % carbs (ash may not be on there, and fiber is not calculated/considered in the final number).  Example: 100 – 27% protein – 18% fat – 12% moisture = 43% carbs.  I found the high end food I was feeding contained about 50-55% carbs! Yeah, I was a little taken aback.  It was then I started feeding less of the kibble and more meat, realizing this was what my dogs truly needed.  Dogs do not require lots of carbs in their diet; in fact it can cause health problems.  When over-fed carbs too long it can stimulate an internal environment susceptible to disease.

The company in my area is My Pet Carnivore (www.mypetcarnivore.com).  Their website is very informative.  It has a very good article about ‘The Hidden Dangers of Denatured Meat’.  I have read before about 3-D and 4-D meats…which is mentioned in this reading.  These are animals that are diseased, dying, down (non-ambulatory) or dead.  The 4^th ‘D’ is animals already dead upon arrival to whatever processor they are sent to.  Sounds wonderful, doesn’t it?  The article goes on to define denaturing.  ‘Beef leaving a USDA plant not intended for human consumption must be denatured.  The denaturing agents can vary a great deal from simple charcoal additives to a cocktail of different chemicals and dyes.’  See, charcoal can still be classified as ‘all natural’.  (Gotta watch out for that!)  The fact that it’s even there, as stated in this article should cause alarm.  My Pet Carnivore (MPC) does not use meats that have undergone this process.

MPC has a wide variety of meats, mainly packaged (frozen) in 1-2 lb. plastic containers.  Beaver, beef, chicken, duck, goat, lamb, muskrat, mutton, ostrich, emu, pork, rabbit, turkey, tripe and a variety of raw treats.  In case you are not familiar with tripe, this is a very beneficial addition to your dog’s diet.  It is the stomach of ruminating animals.  I’ve seen tripe in stores (the local Walmart sells it), however, this type has been bleached and processed to a point where it is of little value…do not feed this kind of tripe to your dog!  The type MPC carries is green tripe (not because it is green in color, but rather referring to its truly ‘natural’ state).  These raw meats, which can be purchased in chunks, coarse ground, or fine ground contain bone and organs as well.  MPC delivers locally (I’m close enough I can pick up from the warehouse in Indianapolis).  They also ship throughout the continental U.S.  Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, Chicagoland, Chicago suburbs, Wisconsin, Michigan and Michiana, Kentuckiana and Ohio are all on their list via their delivery truck.  You can also sign up for their newsletter.

I know there are many dog owners out there who feed just kibble to their canine companions.  Any addition of home-cooked or raw supplementation will greatly benefit your furry friend, and provide a more suitable diet.  This is how they are designed to eat.  My dogs have now made that transition, and they are bonkers over it!  It is actually less expensive for me to feed my dogs this way than purchasing and cooking meats from the store as I had been doing for so long.  I want to do everything I can to safe-guard my dog’s health and well-being.  This is a first step in that direction.  Granted, there are no 100% guarantees, but knowing I am feeding them properly is one more way I can give them an advantage against disease.  I will definitely be blogging more about the raw meat canine diet, and adding raw recipes as well.  I hope you will check out MPC’s website and give it a try.  I believe you will see positive results, and have happier, healthier dogs…the way nature intended.

Nutrition and Environment - The Link To Disease?

Have you ever considered your environment, internal and external to be a factor in disease? What about the water you drink, the food you eat? Even personal habits.  All these can lead to issues down the road, many of which could be prevented.  Then you walk out the door of your house, and you enter other surroundings  that are just as bad if not worse.  That 'little corner of the world' you occupy could be the catalyst to disease...and you're not even there all the time, but your dog spends the majority of his/her time there!  And also, most dogs are smaller in size than a human, and age quicker; so conditions such as these can set up sometimes rather quickly.

Inside your home, you can totally control what you use to clean with.  There is simply no reason to use harsh cleaners.  There are many reasonably priced 'green', 'natural' and 'herbal' cleaners for just about every purpose under the sun.  Green Works, which is a Clorox brand (www.greenworkscleaners.com), has a non-chlorine bleach.  BioKleen (www.biokleenhome.com), Seventh Generation (www.seventhgeneration.com), Watkins (www.jrwatkins.com) all carry safer products to clean with.  If you live in a good sized city, many of the larger grocery store chains carry their own 'generic type' of organic/natural cleaners.  You can also make your own...fairly simple and cost-saving.

In your yard, if you just absolutely have to spray with something, use organic products.  Gardens Alive (www.gardensalive.com) and Planet Natural (www.planetnatural.com) carry products that are safe, not just for your pets, but for you too!  Your pets walk around the yard, and these chemicals get on their paws, and when they groom themselves, they ingest some of that.  Over a period of time this along with poor nutrition can cause problems, and allergies might just be the first symptom you notice.  (By the way, dandelions are not weeds, they're herbs.  The flower, the greens and the roots are all usable product.  You're better off eating them and using them in tea, than eradicating them.)

I put a lot of thought into these blogs and research before I write them, but I also put these things into practice, and most times have applied them to my own life, because I want you to have not only useful, but accurate information.  When I began my canine nutrition studies, I did not realize how much disease affects our pets.  By the time I finished, I had determined I wanted to zero in on cancer and obesity in dogs.  Those are two areas that are quite troublesome.

It is very important that you have the earliest diagnosis possible and be very pro-active in treatment.  I most certainly believe nutrition is the first line of defense for successful outcomes, although there are no 100% guarantees.  Many times there are no symptoms, or ones that would not be alarming until it's too late, or later than necessary to turn it around or slow the progress.  Different cancers have different symptoms.  One new thing I've learned is the connection between people and their pets both having cancer.  It does not surprise me however, because both are in the same environment, and chances are, if the pet parent isn't eating right, they are not feeding their dog properly either, so this is the first issue that needs to be dealt with.  I will definitely be blogging about this more.

I am very excited about a new pet cancer trial that is available through Ketopet.  They will be testing the effectiveness of ketogenic diets and metabolic therapeutics to treat pet cancer.  This is something that is right up my alley for sure! I will be one of the advisers on this open research and be looking at how to use the data.  This is very exciting!  I strongly urge you if you have a dog (or cat) that has cancer, or know of someone who does, to check into getting involved in this.  Go to www.ketopet.com.  Let's get this going and truly find a CURE for cancer in our canine companions! And be looking for more blogs from me regarding this ever-growing disease.

Canine Cancer - A Closer Look -- Can It Be Prevented?

Cancer is a disease that your dog can get, much in the same way humans do. Bladder, kidney, breast, nose...it can happen.  And probably more often than most people would think.  There are many factors that enter in.  Genetics does play a role sometimes, environment is a big factor, but I believe diet...what dogs eat is the first area where it can be prevented, delayed, slowed (once in progress) or even reversed if caught early. The majority of dog owners don't realize how big a deal it is what they feed their furry companions.  They go to the grocery (please don't buy that 'commercial' stuff there! -- or anywhere for that matter), pick up a 15 or 40 pound bag, and as long as it says 'dog food' on it, they buy it...usually the cheaper the better.

I believe in majority of cases, canine cancer can be prevented.  There are challenges, especially in rescue where a dog's background is unknown.  So much of what we eat is deficient in some way, and then we think we are supposed to feed our dogs this food that crowds the shelves in the supermarkets, and never question what this special creature really needs.  This isn't what dogs need, and this is just the beginning of setting up a potential problem down the line, some sooner than later. Oxidation, a process that causes a cut apple to turn brown or metal to rust, causes free radical damage in the human and canine body alike, setting up an internal environment that is more susceptible to disease. 

According to Alice Villalobos, DVM, "more than half of the senior dogs in a veterinary practice will die of cancer such as cutaneous, soft tissue sarcoma, lymphatic, mammary, skeletal, oral, nasal and visceral and neuro-endocrine tumors."  How sad. This should not be or become what our precious furry family members succumb to in their golden years.  Cancer, any kind can be very complex, and treating it through nutrition along with herbs (and hopefully little conventional intervention and only when absolutely necessary) can be quite successful.  When you consider radiation is one of the predisposing factors of cancer, and is often used in Western medicine to 'treat' cancer, it seems like perhaps that's not the best option.

Even though the United States is 'the land of plenty', most people and their pets suffer from mal-nutrition...it's not that we don't eat enough...it's that we don't eat properly.  The possibility of cancer to form increases when our bodies become unbalanced or weakened.  This can occur in many ways.  Stress is a factor, and dogs do experience stresses on their bodies, emotionally, physically and mentally.  Most pet owners think that just taking their dog to have a blood test will ease the worry, if nothing shows up, all is fine.  Typically, once a blood test shows cancer, it's been there for awhile.  Fur mineral analysis is a much better and earlier indicator for cancer and other ills.  Since a blood test only shows what is happening in the body right now,  it's not the most accurate.  A fur mineral analysis can show what's been going on for several months, and this allows opportunity to hopefully catch it early, allowing for a better outcome.

If your dog should develop cancer, and you've been feeding it a commercial kibble...stop using it, and switch to a raw or home-cooked diet, also adding proper whole food supplements.  If you don't know where to start, contact a certified canine nutritionist or a holistic veterinarian to get an accurate diagnosis (from the vet), and then build a food regimen that will best suit the type of cancer you are dealing with.  Writing about cancer is never a short article, and this one simply sets the ground work for what yet lies ahead, and the need to tackle it in a manner that will benefit and heal, not tear down.  I want to specialize in treating cancer naturally/nutritionally in dogs, so I will be writing many blogs in regards to this disease.  I want my readers to know there is more treatment options than just conventional medicine would lead you to believe.  This is unfortunately a disease that is being seen more and more in veterinary practice, and thus one that needs to be addressed.

Pup-Sauce! (Homemade Doggie Applesauce)

Another Chaplin Doggie Diner exclusive recipe! Easy to make and your doggies will love it! <3

2-medium organic apples - Gala or Fuji
1-Tablespoon organic Coconut Oil
1-Tablespoon (local) raw honey
1/2 teaspoon organic ground cinnamon

Peel, core and slice apples and place in a small pan.  Cover with water.  Cook until apples are soft.  Use a potato masher to mash cooked apples in pan.  Cook apples down (do not drain any water off), add cinnamon, stir.  Add coconut oil and raw honey.  Cook for about another 10 minutes.  Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Be sure to cool (can be served warm or cold)