| NUTRITION |
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| Selecting healthy treats There has been growing concern by Pet Parents and many animal experts over the presence of colorings, additives, preservatives, and artificial flavors in commercial foods for dogs. The negative effects of these chemicals have been blamed for a range of disorders including nausea, dizziness, blocked arteries, allergic reactions, loss of appetite, weakened immune systems, and tumors of the bladder, thyroid, and kidneys. Recently, much controversy has been generated over the use of preservatives in dog foods, especially BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin. Although studies have failed to show conclusive evidence that these chemical preservatives are harmful to dogs, it's better to be on the safe side and avoid them if possible. Pet Parents also might do well to pass up any dog treats that contain such artificial flavor enhancers as sodium nitrite, MSG (monosodium glutamate), and benzaldehyde, formerly used as a pesticide and a solvent, and now sometimes added to give dog treats a cherry or almond flavor. Even some vitamins and minerals can harm your dog if taken in excess amounts. Try not to offer too many treats loaded with extra nutrients--unless, of course, your veterinarian recommends them. Remember, your pet's nutritional requirements should be met through his regular dog food. Before you buy any treats, carefully read the labels on the packages for the list of ingredients. Fresh is the best Although many of today's doggie treats are low-fat, low-calorie foods made of wholesome ingredients, Stephanie Chalmers is not a fan of commercial dog snacks. "I discourage people from feeding their pets processed treats," says Chalmers, a Santa Rosa, California veterinarian who provides holistic animal care and nutritional counseling. "You'd never feed your child only processed food, so why would you feed your dog that?" she says. "And why pay for expensive commercial treats when you can offer your dog fresh fruits and vegetables, which are not only cheaper but more healthy for them?" Being an omnivore, dogs thrive on variety in their diet, explains Chalmers. That means they need to eat not only meats and grains, but also fresh fruits and vegetables--ingredients no commercial dog treats can provide. "Ripe fruit is a great treat because it's not found in commercial products and most dogs love it," she says. "Many vegetables make great snacks, too. A crunchy carrot, for instance, is just as beneficial for a dog's teeth as any of those processed dog biscuits, but it has the advantage of also providing a good source of fiber and beta-carotene." Nutritious fruits and veggies to offer your dog as snacks include: broccoli, carrots, squash (cooked), zucchini (cooked), potatoes (cooked), peeled apples, seedless grapes, melons and berries. Still, the ease and convenience of commercial dog treats make them irresistible to most Pet Parents--not to mention their pets! If you do decide to give your dog store-bought snacks, keep in mind that many experts recommend that treats should never exceed 10 percent of your dog's daily intake, or decrease his appetite for the dog food that makes up his primary source of nutrition. Your dog deserves a treat now and then just as much as you do, but he'll be happier and healthier if the snacks you give him supplement rather than sabotage his diet. |
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| TIP OF THE PAGE |
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| the food you choose must also taste good, be nutritious, and hopefully, be affordable too. |
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| Picky pooches "If you stick to well-known brands that offer complete, balanced nutrition and that have been tested by feeding trials, it's hard to go wrong," suggest the editors of Rodale Press in their book, "Dogs: The Ultimate Care Guide." They comment that, "Whether you buy canned, semi-moist, or dry dog food is a matter of preference--yours and your dog's. Each has advantages and disadvantages." It is important to emphasize that a canine's nutritional needs change as he grows. A five-month old pup will need different dog food than a three-year old pooch. Your veterinarian can tell you what nutritional requirements are necessary for your puppy or dog during the different stages of his life span. Kibble, anyone? There are actually several versions of dry and wet dog food. Many experts recommend combining the two for a mixed meal or alternating between the two. Dry food is good for a dog to eat because it helps promote healthy gums and teeth. Wet, canned food is more of a treat for your pooch, but isn't recommended as the only food to feed your dog. Always read the labels on your dog food bags and cans to make sure they are full of nutrients instead of empty calorie fillers. If you can't settle on a particular dog food, your veterinarian will always be glad to pick out the perfect type for your canine's particular age and activity level. Today's choices are wide and varied, with flavors ranging from beef to chicken to pork. There are special foods for dogs with weight problems, as well as for a host of other problems that have special dietary needs. Square meals or smorgasbords? There are two options when considering when to feed you dog. Some people prefer to leave food out twenty-four hours a day so their dog can nibble any time he feels hungry. Other people, however, fear their canines will become overweight if allowed free access to food all the time, so they feed their pooch on a schedule. If you're unsure, discuss which solution is best for your particular pup with your veterinarian. Finally, no matter what age or size your puppy or dog is, fresh cool water should be available at all times. Even if it appears your dog is not drinking any water, it should still be available. Water is an essential part of any animal's diet. If you are not sure about the chemicals in your tap water, bottled natural spring water, found at any grocery store, department store, or convenience store, is recommended. Plan your pooch's menu with love! Proper canine feeding for sound nutrition should be on your list of top priorities in taking care of your dog. Therefore, be sure to spend some time figuring out how to meet your best friend's needs. If you do, you can be confident that he'll thrive indeed! |
| Dog Diet Do's |
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