In the summer of one the most turbulent economic periods in a lifetime, Americans are rediscovering simplicity and frugality. These days, it’s not uncommon to see a small group playing an impromptu game of Frisbee, or a couple enjoying a nature hike through a local park, or an extended family spending an afternoon in the backyard barbecuing.

The summer months provide ample opportunities for outdoor fun, whether your idea of open-air enjoyment is a power-walk with your dog or watching an afternoon storm roll in from the safety of a back porch with your cat. These activities help us brush away the winter cobwebs, shedding new light on our daily life. But sometimes, we make discoveries that are not altogether pleasant. Too often, the thinner, summer coats of our pets can reveal what winter coats have hidden from plain view – reddened skin irritations, possibly the sign of a seasonal or chronic allergy.

That’s right …. just like humans, pets suffer from allergies. Allergens can come from any number of sources, including grasses, trees, molds, dust mites and flea bites. Even their food may contain allergens. With all of these possible culprits, how can a pet parent learn what’s causing their pet’s allergy?

The first step for many of us is to hop online. We know that information is plentiful on the internet, even if not all of it is trustworthy. That inclination, to try and uncover the reasons ourselves, especially when that impulse is coupled with hard economic times, can lead to a scenario where many pet parents will try to diagnose Fido’s or Fluffy’s allergies on their own, without veterinary assistance. But the cause of allergies is notoriously difficult to pin down because it so hard to isolate one possible cause from another.

If you want to determine whether or not your four-footer is truly suffering from an environmental or food-related allergy, you should have your vet do an evaluation. They will use either a blood test or a skin test, or perhaps both, to assess what allergens are producing the symptoms.

When animals experience allergic reactions, their bodies alter normal hormone production. Some of the resultant chemical reactions can lead to cellular inflammation, the process bodies use to remove the allergens. To understand this process, consider the following example: the common flea bite. Commonly, after a flea bite, there may be swelling and possible irritation (usually itchiness). But if your dog or cat has a flea allergy, the reaction is a much larger rash with severe itching. This is the body attempting to eliminate the allergen; in this case, flea saliva.

So, what’s the best way to nip allergies in the bud? Leading holistic practitioners and natural-care veterinarians have long endorsed foods and supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids, especially those coming from fish oil, which help inhibit the body’s inflammatory response. And the amazing properties of omega-3’s don’t end there. When coupled with omega-6’s derived from a source like flaxseed, a balanced blend of these fatty acids are known to provide much-needed support by helping to strengthen the body’s natural response to allergens. They do this by enhancing the functions of the immune system and by fortifying the walls of individual cells in the body. At the same time, omega-3’s also help to protect neurological and blood systems. If you encounter information disparaging the inclusion of fatty acids in the diets of companion animals – either from online sources, friends or even veterinarians – it may be based upon outdated beliefs about these nutrients.

If you are not already feeding your companion a diet rich in omega-3’s like Life’s Abundance, you might consider incorporating into your pet’s diet a supplemental source of omega-3’s, either in chewable tablet form (like Skin and Coat Formula) or in capsule form (many of our customers provide Sealogix for their pets). Dr. Jane advises against feeding omega-3 supplements in the half-hour immediately before and after a meal, as the precise balance of fats can be thrown off, resulting in diminished absorption of those beneficial nutrients. Under no circumstances should you add liquid fish oil to dry food.

If you believe that your favored feline or precious pup suffers from allergies, please schedule time with your trusted veterinarian to determine the appropriate treatment, and consider incorporating essential fatty acids in your pet’s diet. By taking a proactive stance now, your pet might be able to avoid allergic reactions in the future.

“The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced today it was suspending the temporary Emergency Permit issued to Evanger’s Dog & Cat Food Co., Inc.

Evanger’s, operating in Wheeling, Illinois, deviated from the prescribed process, equipment, product shipment, and recordkeeping requirements in the production of the company’s thermally processed low acid canned food (LACF) products.  The deviations in their processes and documentation could result in under-processed pet foods, which can allow the survival and growth of Clostridium botulinum (C. botulinum), a bacterium that causes botulism in some animals as well as in humans.

In April 2008, Evanger’s was issued an “Order of Need for Emergency Permit” after the agency determined that the company had failed to meet the regulatory requirements to process a product that does not present a health risk.   In June, 2008, FDA issued Evanger’s a temporary Emergency Permit.  During inspections conducted between March 2009 and April 2009, FDA determined Evanger’s was not operating in compliance with the mandatory requirements and conditions of the Temporary Emergency Permit. 

“The FDA is stopping Evanger’s ability to ship pet food in interstate commerce,” said Dr. Bernadette Dunham. “Today’s enforcement action sends a strong message to manufacturers of pet food that we will take whatever action necessary to keep unsafe products from reaching consumers.”

In order for Evanger’s to resume shipping in interstate commerce, the company must document that corrective actions and processing procedures have been implemented to ensure that the finished product will not present a health hazard.

Botulism is a powerful toxin that affects the nervous system and can be fatal. The disease has been documented in dogs and cats. Signs of botulism in animals are progressive muscle paralysis, disturbed vision, difficulty in chewing and swallowing, and progressive weakness to the body. Death is usually due to paralysis of the heart or the muscles used in breathing.

While FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition is responsible for regulating all human and animal LACF processing, FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine has authority over animal feed and foods.  The two centers are collaborating on this enforcement action.”

“Stay Proactive with Skin and Coat Care

Everybody knows that the cleaner the hair, the shinier and better looking it is.  Not only that, but bathing removes loose, dying skin cells in the first layer of the skin, allowing healthy, new layers to grow.  If you notice any excessive flaking, that’s an indication that skin cells are dying prematurely and are in need of additional nourishment and support. 

A good shampoo includes conditioners, which moisturize as the shampoo cleans.  Inexpensive shampoos often have harsh chemicals which, while providing a rich lather, frequently do not contain conditioners that contribute to a healthy coat and better skin.   The formula for Revitalizing Shampoo was created specifically to help your pet’s coat be lustrous and healthy, all year long!  I formulated our shampoo with fruit extracts, due to their antioxidant properties.  The base itself is very mild, with a built-in conditioner.  This delightful formula includes organic herbs, to provide your sweet companion with the very finest in care products.  As soon as you apply Revitalizing Shampoo, the rosemary and sage begin to penetrate the hair shaft and rejuvenate the hair at the root.  Used for centuries to care for hair, rosemary is a natural antiseptic that leaves skin feeling tingly and invigorated.  Additionally, these organic herbs also help to stimulate the growth of new skin cells, resulting in healthier hair and a more luxurious and shiny coat. 

There’s a reason for our annual fixation.  Dogs usually begin to lose their winter coats in early spring, when it is gradually replaced by a shorter, lighter coat suited to the summer months.  The amount of shedding varies widely from breed to breed.  For example, the pet parents of German Shepherds will groan about the amount of shedding all year long, while those of us with poodles rarely have to get out the broom or vacuum, even with the arrival of summer.  

While we’ve seen that growth cycles can be affected by mood, hormones, and nutrition, changes primarily occur due to fluctuations in the amount of daylight and temperature.   

The length of daylight hours is believed to have a greater impact on the shedding cycle than temperature, which is why all pets shed during particular times of the year.  Even artificial indoor lighting can have an effect, especially on companion animals who stay primarily indoors. 

And companion animals experience big differences in temperature when leaving and entering your home, which is most extreme in the summer and winter months.  These differences induce a constant state of change, setting up conditions that lead to increased shedding throughout the year.   

And an unhealthy coat can have negative impacts on pet parents, too, in the form of allergies.  Contrary to popular belief, hair is not the culprit of allergies in humans, but rather dander and proteins in the oil produced by glands in the skin.   

For all of the hair support systems to function properly, they require a variety of nutrients, including fatty acids, minerals and vitamins.  Additionally, a healthy coat requires a great deal of protein.  Almost 95% of the protein that’s ingested is used by the body to

Just as it is important to feed a high-quality, nutrient-dense food, it is also advisable to give your companion animals a balanced supplement that provides the additional nutritional

 HealthyPetNet’s Skin & Coat Formula for cats and dogs is a unique formula that provides a perfect balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.  These oils are certified-free of contaminants and are microencapsulated to increase absorption, so your pet receives the full nutritional benefit.  Additionally, Skin & Coat Formula contains vitamins A, D, and E, all of which are necessary for the maintenance of healthy skin and a glossy coat.  To ensure the highest product quality, Skin & Coat is manufactured in a human pharmaceutical plant.  And, it has a delicious roast beef flavor that both cats and dogs love. 

No matter the season, HealthyPetNet’s Skin & Coat Formula can help to make your pet’s coat healthy, glossy and beautiful – and keep it that way, all year long. Dr. Jane Bicks” 

“Nutro Products Announces Voluntary Recall of Limited Range of Dry Cat Food Products

Contact:
Monica Barrett
Nutro Products, Inc.                       
(615) 628-5387
monica.barrett@effem.com 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — Franklin, Tennessee (May 21, 2009) — Today, Nutro Products announced a voluntary recall of select varieties of NUTRO® NATURAL CHOICE® COMPLETE CARE® Dry Cat Foods and NUTRO® MAX® Cat Dry Foods with “Best If Used By Dates” between May 12, 2010 and August 22, 2010. The cat food is being voluntarily recalled in the United States and ten additional countries.  This recall is due to incorrect levels of zinc and potassium in our finished product resulting from a production error by a US-based premix supplier.

Two mineral premixes were affected.  One premix contained excessive levels of zinc and under-supplemented potassium. The second premix under-supplemented potassium.  Both zinc and potassium are essential nutrients for cats and are added as nutritional supplements to NUTRO® dry cat food.

This issue was identified during an audit of our documentation from the supplier.  An extensive review confirmed that only these two premixes were affected. This recall does not affect any NUTRO® dog food products, wet dog or cat food, or dog and cat treats. 

Affected product was distributed to retail customers in all 50 states, as well as to customers in Canada, Mexico, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, New Zealand, and Israel.  We are working with all of our distributors and retail customers, in both the US and internationally, to ensure that the recalled products are not on store shelves. These products should not be sold or distributed further.

Consumers who have purchased affected product should immediately discontinue feeding the product to their cats, and switch to another product with a balanced nutritional profile.  While we have received no consumer complaints related to this issue, cat owners should monitor their cat for symptoms, including a reduction in appetite or refusal of food, weight loss, vomiting or diarrhea.  If your cat is experiencing health issues or is pregnant, please contact your veterinarian.

Consumers who have purchased product affected by this voluntary recall should return it to their retailer for a full refund or exchange for another NUTRO® dry cat food product.  Cat owners who have questions about the recall should call 1-800-833-5330 between the hours 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM CST, or visit www.nutroproducts.com.

Recalled Pet Food

The varieties of NUTRO® NATURAL CHOICE® COMPLETE CARE® Dry Cat Foods and NUTRO® MAX® Cat Dry Foods listed below with “Best If Used By Dates” between May 12, 2010 and August 22, 2010 are affected by this voluntary recall.”  

Nutro Products Recall List – Dry Cat Foods

http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/nutro05_09.html

For photos of product label click here http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/photos/nutro05_09.html

Exercise Your Feline 

Indoor cats, especially those who are the sole companion animal in a home, tend not to get adequate exercise. So what can you do to ensure this necessary component of your cat’s life? Here are just a handful of easy exercise tips: 

Use a laser pointer and shine the light all around the room. Be careful not to point the beam directly in the eyes.  

Purchase a cat-toy fishing pole and attach something fun to tantalize your cat to begin an exciting chase throughout the house.  

Walk or run up and down stairs, dragging a thick rope for your kitty to try and catch (this will get both of your hearts pumping).  

Make your cat work for his or her food. Instead of putting a meal on one plate, put small amounts of food on several plates throughout the house. This will require your cat to get some much needed exercise in order to eat.  

When you first begin an exercise program with your cat, start with only five minutes of activity, and then subsequently add an extra minute or two to the routine. Any of these activities, in combination with a healthy diet that’s low in carbohydrates, will help your cat shed some unwanted pounds.

 Special Message from Dr. Jane Bicks, DVM

 As pet parents, our companion animals depend solely on us to make important decisions for their health and well-being. Choosing the right food is a critical part of our responsibility to provide the best care possible. But just as crucial is the amount of food that we feed our precious pets. 

We know that when dogs and cats are overweight, their health can be jeopardized. Current estimates indicate that more than half of all companion animals are overweight or obese. And health challenges resulting from obesity account for the majority of veterinarian visits. 

An overweight pet carries too many pounds of pressure for a healthy skeletal system to withstand. This excessive pressure is a contributing factor in the development of bone and joint issues, which are believed to afflict nearly 90% of all senior cats. An overweight pet’s heart must work much harder to circulate blood, putting unnecessary stress on this vital organ. And unregulated blood sugar has become much more prevalent in both dogs and cats, and some believe that excess weight is the single most important contributing factor. 

With all of the evidence indicating that good health is much more elusive when animals are overweight, one wonders why more pet parents fail to commit to feeding their sweet companions a healthier diet.  

One reason is that weight gain is usually so gradual that pet parents really don’t realize that their pet has become overweight. And the second major reason? By and large, we are resistant to change our routines.  

Many employ a free-feed method, where food is left out all day for the pet. Rarely is the food measured, and it’s often more than our pets require. Then, after returning from work, we reward our companions with several treats, not keeping track of how many we provide.  

And pets have become more sedentary, just like their pet parents. It is not uncommon to see dogs and cats lounging on the couch, keeping their people company while they watch TV for hours every night. 

So, we have pets being overfed and not getting sufficient exercise. I think we can all agree … this is a classic recipe for excessive weight gain. 

The first step to any successful weight loss program is accepting that your pet is overweight and embracing a willingness to alter established patterns of behavior and consumption. 

For starters, you need to determine whether or not your companion animal is overweight. Most of us don’t weigh our companion animals, excluding vet visits which typically come only once a year. But this is easy to do at home, using your bathroom scale. First, weigh yourself. Then, pick up your pet and step back onto the scale. Subtract the first weight from the second, revealing your pet’s weight. You’ll need to do this periodically, so keep track of the weights in a journal or on a piece of paper that you leave posted on your refrigerator (or another handy spot). 

Don’t worry if your pet is too heavy for you to comfortably lift, because there is another way to check if your pet is overweight. Simply place your hands on the ribcage, with your fingers pointed toward the feet. If you can feel ribs, your dog or cat is probably within the normal (average) weight range. If you can feel approximately one inch of fat between the skin and ribs, or if the ribs are hard to locate, your pet could be packing excessive pounds. If, however, you cannot find the ribs at all, your pet could be obese, and you should make weight reduction an immediate priority.  

Figure out the optimal amount of food you should be feeding. If you have trouble making a determination from the information included on your pet’s bag and or can of food, consult with your veterinarian. The amount shown on the label may not always be suited to your particular pet, and may need to be adjusted depending on how overweight your pet is. You should start with feeding the amount that is on the bag and after two weeks you can adjust the amount. 

If you want to free-feed, check to make sure that you’re not pouring more than the recommended amount into the bowl. Some dogs and cats may cry or pester you, hoping for more food, but after a few days they will adjust to the new portions.  

You should also determine how many treats you give your pet on a daily basis. As long as you are already tracking your pet’s weight, leave space in your journal to record the number of treats you provide. Every time you give them a cookie, make a mark. Within a week, you should have a pretty clear idea of the number of treats you’re providing. If you find that you’re providing more treats than indicated on the label, you might consider using food from your pet’s recommended daily feeding as treats. 

Select and pursue at least one method of exercise that you can do with your pet. For ideas about how to incorporate exercise for your companion animal in your routine, be sure to read both of the articles below (one focuses on dogs and the other on cats). 

To track the progress of your new weight-loss program, weigh your dog or cat at least once per month, and possibly weekly, as metabolisms can change quickly.  

With a little extra effort, you will be able to foster a healthier life for your furry friend. 

Thank you for all that you do to make the world a better place for companion animals. 

Very best regards, 

Dr. Jane Bicks

Recall — Firm Press Release

FDA posts press releases and other notices of recalls and market withdrawals from the firms involved as a service to consumers, the media, and other interested parties. FDA does not endorse either the product or the company.

PetSmart Voluntarily Recalls Grreat Choice® Dog Biscuits

Contact:
PetSmart

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE –

Although PetSmart is not aware of any reported cases of illness related to these products, it has removed these products from its store shelves and website and is conducting the recall as a precautionary measure.

The recalled products include only the following types of Grreat Choice Dog Biscuits sold between Aug. 21, 2008 and Jan. 19, 2009:

Small Assorted 32 oz., UPC 73725702900

Small/Medium Assorted 4 lb., UPC 73725700601

Small/Medium Assorted 8 lb., UPC 73725700605

Small/Medium Assorted 10 lb., UPC 73725702755

Large Assorted 8 lb., UPC 73725700638

Extra Large Assorted 8 lb., UPC 73725700779

Peanut Butter 4 lb., UPC 73725700766

Customers who purchased the recalled dog biscuit products should discontinue use immediately and can return the product to any PetSmart store for a complete refund or exchange. Customers can visit www.petsmartfacts.com for more information or contact PetSmart

No other products or flavors are included in this recall.

If you are looking for healthy and natural treats (and ones with safe peanut butter) please visit http://www.premiumforpets.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 19, 2008  Media Inquiries: Kimberly Rawlings, 301-827-6242

Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA   

“FDA Requests Seizure of Animal Food Products at PETCO

 During an FDA inspection of a PETCO distribution center in April, widespread and active rodent and bird infestation was found. The FDA inspected the facility again in May and found continuing and widespread infestation. 

“We simply will not allow a company to store foods under filthy and unsanitary conditions that occur as a direct result of the company’s failure to adequately control and prevent pests in its facility,” said Margaret O’K. Glavin, associate commissioner for regulatory affairs. “Consumers expect that such safeguards will be in place not only for human food, but for pet food as well.”  

The distribution center in

 FDA has no reports of pet illness or death associated with consumption of animal food distributed by PETCO, and does not have evidence that the food is unsafe for animals. However, the seized products were in permeable packages and held under conditions that could affect the food’s integrity and quality.  

As a precaution, consumers who have handled products originating from the PETCO distribution center should thoroughly wash their hands with hot water and soap. Any surfaces that came in contact with the packages should be washed as well. Consumers are further advised as a precaution to thoroughly wash products sold in cans and glass containers from PETCO in the 16 affected states. 

If a pet has become ill after eating these food products, pet owners should contact their veterinarian and report illnesses to FDA state consumer complaint coordinators. ”

 http://www.fda.gov/opacom/backgrounders/complain.html

“FDA News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 24, 2008

Kimberly Rawlings, 301-827-6242
Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA

FDA Orders Pet Food Maker to Obtain Emergency Operating Permit

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an order requiring that Evanger’s Dog & Cat Food Co., Inc., in Wheeling, Ill., obtain an emergency permit from the FDA before its canned pet food products enter interstate commerce.

A recent inspection revealed significant deviations from prescribed documentation of processes, equipment, and recordkeeping in the production of the company’s thermally processed low acid canned food (LACF) products. These problems could result in under-processed pet foods, which can allow the survival and growth of Clostridium botulinum (C. botulinum), a bacterium that causes botulism in some animals as well as in humans.

“As outlined in the Food Protection Plan, the FDA uses a risk-based approach to locate the areas of greatest risk for foods, and targets preventive controls and inspections to those areas, ” said Dr. Stephen Sundlof, director, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. “The FDA’s authority to issue an order requiring an emergency permit is an enforcement tool designed to prevent unsafe foods from reaching consumers.”

The FDA issues an “Order of Need for Emergency Permit” if the agency determines that a company fails to meet the regulatory requirements to process a product that does not present a health risk. For Evanger’s to resume business, the company must document that corrective actions and processing procedures have been implemented to ensure that the finished product will not present a health hazard.

Botulism is a powerful toxin that affects the nervous system and can be fatal. The disease has been documented in dogs and cats. Signs of botulism in animals are progressive muscle paralysis, disturbed vision, difficulty in chewing and swallowing, and progressive weakness to the body. Death is usually due to paralysis of the heart or the muscles used in breathing.

In light of human botulism illnesses and recalls that occurred due to under-processed hot dog chili sauce, and potentially under-processed canned green beans, FDA has urged all LACF processors to review their operations and the apply scientific principals and regulations that have been established to provide a safe product.

While FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine has authority over animal feed and foods, CFSAN is responsible for regulating all human and animal LACF processing. The two centers are collaborating on this enforcement action.”

FDA posts press releases and other notices of recalls and market withdrawals from the firms involved as a service to consumers, the media, and other interested parties. FDA does not endorse either the product or the company.

The Hartz Mountain Corporation Recalls Vitamin Care for Cats Because of Possible Health Risk

Contact:
Mr. John Mullane
(914) 391-0943

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — March 7, 2008 — The Hartz Mountain Corporation is voluntarily recalling a second specific lot of Hartz Vitamin Care for Cats due to concerns that bottles within the lot may have been potentially contaminated with Salmonella. Hartz is fully cooperating with the US Food and Drug Administration in this voluntary recall. Hartz recalled a specific lot code of Hartz Vitamin Care for Cats last November due to similar concerns. Both lot codes were manufactured for Hartz by UFAC (USA) Inc. in 2007, and were removed from distribution last November. However, bottles from the second lot had been shipped to customers prior to their having been removed from distribution.

Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems, all of whom are at particular risk from exposure and should avoid handling these products.

Salmonella symptoms may include fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea in both cats and humans. Anyone experiencing the symptoms of Salmonella infection should seek immediate medical attention. Owners of cats exhibiting these symptoms should also seek veterinary assistance.

The product involved is 739 bottles of Hartz Vitamin Care for Cats, lot code SZ 22771, UPC number 32700-97701. While normal testing conducted by Hartz and UFAC has not revealed the presence of Salmonella in any Hartz products, recent sampling conducted by the FDA did detect the presence of Salmonella.

Although the company has not received any reports of animals or humans becoming ill as a result of coming into contact with this product, Hartz is taking immediate steps to recover this product from consumers. Cat owners should check the lot code on their bottles, and, if the code is not visible, or if the bottle has lot code SZ 22771 or lot code SZ-16371 imprinted thereon, they should immediately discontinue use of the product and discard it in a proper manner.

Consumers can contact Hartz at 1-800-275-1414 with any questions they may have and to obtain reimbursement for purchased product.

Click here for healthy cat supplements

Indoor pets cannot adjust to the harsh cold just because they are animals. Remember, if it is too cold for you outside then it is too cold for your pet. If your pet is accustomed to being outside during the day, make sure he or she is properly protected. For dogs, a dry dog house with a raised floor and some thick bedding made of straw or blankets will help keep them as comfortable and safe as possible. Check the water bowl to make sure it’s not frozen. Animals should not stay outside for an unlimited amount of time if it is very cold. Young, old and sick animals are particularly vulnerable to the cold and should not be exposed to freezing temperatures for any length of time. Please make sure you consult your veterinarian if you have any questions about this. In the meantime, here are some simple guidelines.

Indoor Tips Fireplaces and space heaters are great to warm up a room, but they also can spell trouble for companion animals. Most pets will try to get close to a heat source and may accidentally get burned or even tip a space heater over. So keep an eye on your dog or cat so everyone stays safe and cozy.