The Dog Bowl Pet Supply and BARF Raw Food Blog

Real Food.... If the label says so is it true?

2009-06-27T08:51:00.000-07:00

Being in the forefront of a concept that request consumers to consciously "think" about what they are buying we are constantly bombarded by the fact that there are marketing falsities on an astounding amount of available products.

Here is an example: Take "Natural Greenies" or "Smart Greenies" for instance, the packaging alone labels the purchaser as smart and aware of healthy options. But what IS this item? When we break down the chemistry of the "natural" item the findings are in fact quite contrary to the labeling. It is as if the manufacturer is telling you, the consumer, one thing and selling you another.

"Low fat", "low carbs", "all natural", and of course, the newly popular "organic" wording is practically on everything marketed from toilet paper and shoes, to food items.

As a consumer and a smart one at that, all we simply have to do is take a second and think about the item in question. Ignore all the beautiful packaging and labels and think about what it took to put that item on the shelf. At the very least, question what it takes to sustain that item in it's container or bag.

The conclusion of your thoughts will no doubt be in conflict with the "wonder ingredients" that is formulated as natural and true. Yes - they were real at one point & then they were changed to what you see now, and of course processed. Hmmmmm

So getting back to "real and basic" it seems that if it were in fact "natural and real" it would rot and break down - real items do. For example, if you leave an apple out on the table over the course of a month it starts to deteriorate. Well of course it does! It is a fresh, real item. And as a smart consumer we don't need a label to tell us that!

Smart consumers and marketing truth... Oh how easy we believe!

2009-06-17T12:21:00.000-07:00

We had a funny thought while at the grocery store & thought we would share it with you.... As we walked down the chip & cereal isle we wondered.... Would you think that any number of these crunchy items as a tooth cleaner? Of course not! That would be outrageous!

We don't eat crackers or cereal and think "my mouth is so clean"; in fact, consuming dry crunchy crackers results in anything but clean - a sticky pasty mess in our mouth is more like it. Oh and REALLY thirsty to say the least! (Try it out for yourself and see!)

So why OH why do we as consumers "buy" into the crunchy dog or cat food as cleaning agent for teeth? Aw... the power of marketing - the ole' give them a crunch to clean marketing slogan.

As humans we CAN move our bottom jaw left and right in order to chew, but our cat & dog's anatomy is up & down (ONLY). Yes ladies and gentlemen our dogs and cats both consume their food in a pull and tear motion, there is NO chewing.

Just a little marketing "food for thought"!

Does your dog LOVE balls?

2009-06-12T20:27:00.000-07:00

The Dog Bowl has found the perfect ball!

We love it so much we put our name on it!

This dog ball floats, it squeaks!

It is the perfect size: 2 5/8" (65mm) (Size of a tennis ball but it doesn't come apart at the seams.)

This dog ball is made specifically for "ball loving dogs" - if your pup qualifies for this title this ball toy is a must have!

The Dog Bowl rubber ball now comes in three colors: Lemonade Yellow (shown), Blueberry Blue, or Cherry Apple Red. *The Lemonade Yellow is the most popular!

Looking for a present for someone who just got a new pup? This rubber ball makes the perfect gift for any new pup owner too!

Because we love this ball so much & you will too - The Dog Bowl is now offering FREE shipping for this item to all U.S. destinations!

Would you eat dog food? This person did!

2009-06-06T11:07:00.000-07:00

“NO WONDER THEY CALL ME A BITCH” by ANN HODGMAN

Ann Hodgman is a food critic for Eating Well magazine. Besides playing goalie on a women's hockey team, she is the author of more than forty children's books, including My Babysitter Is a Vampire, and several cookbooks. For reasons soon to be apparent, however, the following "tasteless" essay did not appear in Hodgman's food column, "Sweet and Sour," but in the satiric magazine Spy, for which Hodgman was a contributing editor. A spoof on taste testing, it takes a blue ribbon for disgusting description that appeals to the grosser senses.
______________________________________________________________________________

I've always wondered about dog food. Is a Gaines-burger really like a hamburger? Can you fry it? Does dog food "cheese" taste like real cheese? Does Gravy Train actually make gravy in the dog's bowl, or is that brown liquid just dissolved crumbs? And exactly what are byproducts?
Having spent the better part of a week eating dog food, I'm sorry to say that I now know the answers to these questions. While my dachshund, Shortie, watched in agonies of yearning, I gagged my way through can after can of stinky, white-flecked mush and bag after bag of stinky, fat-drenched nuggets. And now I understand exactly why Shortie's breath is so bad.

Of course, Gaines-burgers are neither mush nor nuggets. They are, rather, a miracle of beauty and packaging-or at least that's what I thought when I was little. I used to beg my mother to get them for our dogs, but she always said they were too expensive. When I finally bought a box of cheese—flavored Gaines-burgers-after twenty years of longing—I felt deliciously wicked.

"Dogs love real beef," the back of the box proclaimed proudly. "That's why Gaines—burgers is the only beef burger for dogs with real beef and no meat by-products!" The copy was accurate: meat byproducts did not appear in the list of ingredients. Poultry by-products did, though—right there next to preserved animal fat.

One Purina spokesman told me that poultry by-products consist of necks, intestines, undeveloped eggs and other "carcass remnants," but not feathers, heads, or feet. When I told him 1'd been eating dog food, he said, "Oh, you're kidding! Oh, no!" (I came to share his alarm when, weeks later, a second Purina spokesman said that Gaines-burgers do contain poultry heads and feet-but not undeveloped eggs.)

Up close my Gaines-burger didn't much resemble chopped beef. Rather, it looked-and felt-like a single long, extruded piece of redness that had been chopped into segments and formed into a patty. You could make one at home if you had a Play-Doh Fun Factory.

I turned on the skillet. While I waited for it to heat up I pulled out a shred of cheese-colored material and palpated it. Again, like Play-Doh, it was quite malleable. I made a little cheese bird out of it; then I counted to three and ate the bird.

There was a horrifying rush of cheddar taste, followed immediately by the dull tang of soybean flour-the main ingredient in Gainesburgers. Next I tried a piece of red extrusion. The main difference between the meat-flavored and cheese-flavored extrusions is one of texture. The "cheese" chews like fresh Play-Doh, whereas the "meat" chews like Play-Doh that's been sitting out on a rug for a couple of hours.

Frying only turned the Gaines-burger black. There was no melting, no sizzling, no warm meat smells. A cherished childhood illusion was gone. I flipped the patty into the sink, where it immediately began leaking rivulets of red dye.

As alarming as the Gaines-burgers were, their soy meal began to seem like an old friend when the time came to try some canned dog foods. I decided to try the Cycle foods first. When I opened them, I thought about how rarely I use can openers these days, and I was suddenly visited by a long-forgotten sensation of can-opener distaste. This is the kind of unsavory place can openers spend their time when you're not watching! Every time you open a can of, say, Italian plum tomatoes, you infect them with invisible particles of by-product.

I had been expecting to see the usual homogeneous scrapple inside, but each can of Cycle was packed with smooth, round, oily nuggets. As if someone at Gaines had been tipped off that a human would be tasting the stuff, the four Cycles really were different from one another. Cycle1, for puppies, is wet and soyish. Cycle-2, for adults, glistens nastily with fat, but it's passably edible-a lot like some canned Swedish meatballs I once got in a Care package at college. Cycle-3, the "lite" one, for fatties, had no specific flavor; it just tasted like dog food. But at least it didn't make me fat.

Cycle-4, for senior dogs, had the smallest nuggets. Maybe old dogs can't open their mouths as wide. This kind was far sweeter than the other three Cycles-almost like baked beans. It was also the only one to contain "dried beef digest," a mysterious substance that the Purina spokesman defined as "enzymes" and my dictionary defined as "the products of digestion."

Next on the menu was a can of Kal Kan Pedigree with Chunky Chicken. Chunky chicken? There were chunks in the can, certainly-big, purplish-brown chunks. I forked one chunk out (by now I was becoming more callous) and found that while it had no discernible chicken flavor, it wasn't bad except for its texture-like meat loaf with ground-up chicken bones.

In the world of canned dog food, a smooth consistency is a sign of low quality-lots of cereal. A lumpy, frightening, bloody, stringy horror is a sign of high quality-lots of meat. Nowhere in the world of wet dog foods was this demonstrated better than in the fanciest I tried-Kal Kan's Pedigree Select Dinners. These came not in a can but in a tiny foil packet with a picture of an imperious Yorkie. When I pulled open the container, juice spurted all over my hand, and the first chunk I speared was trailing a long gray vein. I shrieked and went instead for a plain chunk, which I was able to swallow only after taking a break to read some suddenly fascinating office equipment catalogues. Once again, though, it tasted no more alarming than, say, canned hash.
Still, how pleasant it was to turn to dry dog food! Gravy Train was the first I tried, and I'm happy to report that it really does make a "thick, rich, real beef gravy" when you mix it with water. Thick and rich, anyway. Except for a lingering rancid-fat flavor, the gravy wasn't beefy, but since it tasted primarily like tap water, it wasn't nauseating either.

My poor dachshund just gets plain old Purina Dog Chow, but Purina also makes a dry food called Butcher's Blend that comes in Beef, Bacon & Chicken flavor. Here we see dog food's arcane semiotics at its best: a red triangle with a T stamped into it is -supposed to suggest beef; a tan curl, chicken; and a brown S, a piece of bacon. Only dogs understand these messages. But Butcher's Blend does have an endearing slogan: "Great Meaty Tastes-without bothering the Butcher!" You know, I wanted to buy some meat, but I just couldn't bring myself to bother the butcher. . .

Purina O.N.E. ("Optimum Nutritional Effectiveness") is targeted at people who are unlikely ever to worry about bothering a tradesperson. "We chose chicken as a primary ingredient in Purina O.N.E. for several reasonings," the long, long essay on the back of the bag announces. Chief among these reasonings, I'd guess, is the fact that chicken appeals to people who are-you know-like us. Although our dogs do nothing but spend eighteen-hour days alone in the apartment, we still want them to be premium dogs. We want them to cut down on red meat, too. We also want dog food that comes in a bag with an attractive design, a subtle typeface, and no kitschy pictures of slobbering golden retrievers.

Besides that, we want a list of the Nutritional Benefits of our dog food-and we get it on O.N.E. One thing I especially like about this list is its constant references to a dog's "hair coat," as in "Beef tallow is good for the dog's skin and hair coat." (On the other hand, beef tallow merely provides palatability, while the dried beef digest in Cycle provides palatability enhancement.)
I hate to say it, but O.N.E. was pretty palatable. Maybe that's because it has about 100 percent more fat than, say, Butcher's Blend. Or maybe I'd been duped by the packaging; that's been known to happen before.

As with people food, dog snacks taste much better than dog meals. They're better looking too. Take Milk-Bone Flavor Snacks. The lovinghands-at-home prose describing each flavor is colorful; the w_iters practically choke on their own exuberance. Of bacon they say, "It's so good, your dog will think it's hot off the frying pan." Of liver: "The only taste your dog wants more than liver-is even more liver!" Of poultry: "All those farm fresh flavors deliciously mixed in one biscuit. Your dog will bark with delight!" And of vegetable: "Gardens of taste! Specially blended to give your dog that vegetable flavor he wants-but can rarely get!”

Well, I may be a sucker, but advertising this emphatic just doesn't convince me. I lined up all seven flavors of Milk-Bone Flavor Snacks on the floor. Unless my dog's palate is a lot more sensitive than mine-and considering that she steals dirty diapers out of the trash and eats them, I'm loath to think it is-she doesn't detect any more difference in the seven flavors than I did when I tried them.

I much preferred Bonz, the hard-baked, bone-shaped snack stuffed with simulated marrow. I liked the bone part, that is; it tasted almost exactly like the cornmeal it was made of. The mock marrow inside was a bit more problematic: in addition to looking like the sludge that collects in the treads of my running shoes, it was bursting with tiny hairs.

I'm sure you have a few dog food questions of your own. To save us time, I've answered them in advance.

Q. Are those little cans of Mighty Dog actually branded with the sizzling word BEEF, the way they show in the commercials?

A. You should know by now that that kind of thing never happens.

Q. Does chicken-flavored dog food taste like chicken-flavored cat food?

A. To my surprise, chicken cat food was actually a little better
more chickeny. It tasted like inferior canned pate.

Q. Was there any dog food that you just couldn't bring yourself to try?

A. Alas, it was a can of Mighty Dog called Prime Entree with Bone Marrow. The meat was dark, dark brown, and it was surrounded by gelatin that was almost black. I knew I would die if I tasted it, so I put it outside for the raccoons.
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Source Reference: Author: Hodgman, Ann. "No Wonder They Call Me a Bitch." The Norton Sampler, 6th Edition. Ed. Thomas Cooley. New York, NY: W. W. Norton and Company, 2003. 47-51.

BARF product rumor.....

2009-05-13T07:45:00.000-07:00

From The Dog Bowl to BARF: "Dear BARF, at The Dog Bowl we feed our pets & highly recommend the BARF Diet to our customers. This statement from one of our clients & we found this to be incorrect comparison of products, as you know we do offer the Nature's Variety as well. From our client: 'The frozen raw natures variety is one of the only truest non artificial food ever, I used to feed BARF raw but found that it has two artificial ingredients that are actually bleachers as well as not being complete once I studied it more so now nature's variety is my favorite...' There is an unfounded rumor regarding the BARF diet that it has "synthetic vitamins" and bleach in the BARF diet foods.... We have NEVER heard such a thing and have been feeding BARF for years! The Dog Bowl's question to you, BARF: How can we educate consumers regarding these unfounded rumors? And does BARF contain any of these items?"

Official statement from BARF to The Dog Bowl: This is indeed a rumor! "What ingredients is the customer referring to? The only thing that I can think that the claims might refer to is the Vitamin E, Manganous Oxide and Zinc Oxide. These are added to the diet in very small amounts. It is not our desire to have these ingredients added to the diet but it is what AAFCO is dictating to us and making us put this in our diets in order to comply with their requirements for a complete and balanced food. If Natures Variety IS NOT REQUIRED TO ADD THIS TO THEIR DIET THEN THEY ARE NOT COMPLYING TO THE REQUIREMENTS AS LAID OUT BY AAFCO. We are being proactive and complying to their request in staying legal and able to defend our claim of being complete and balanced." Regards, BARF World, inc.

Having problems walking 2 dogs at the same time?

2009-04-24T08:59:00.000-07:00

The Dog Bowl has two wonderful solutions if you have to walk two dogs at one time! We offer a nylon rolled double dog leash and also a leash coupler (coupler works with your current leash).

The Double Dog Leash (shown to the left) is our most popular leash for walking two dogs.

The patented SlideLok Coupler creates the distance you desire between both dogs. It also allows one dog to have a shorter or longer leash that the other - this is great for the one that like to walk faster or slower!

The Dog Bowl is now offering free shipping for the Double Dog Leash (shown top left). This makes a great gift for anyone who struggles with walking two dogs! It also is a great way to train a dog along side a dog that walks well - adjust the SlideLok down to keep both dogs close to each other. They will begin to work and walk as a team and the SlideLok will take all the pressure and tension of their battle!

This double dog leash is available in seven different colors and a handy key ring (shown) which allows a quick exit from your house with the pups! Oh... and we almost forgot to mention the Double Dog Leash also comes with a cushy grip handle (shown) - which makes walking two dogs even more comfortable for you!

The second option we offer at The Dog Bowl is the Leash Coupler (second photo, bottom left). This option comes in seven colors and works with your leash. It simply allows you to modify your one leash.

The coupler is an easy addition to any leash because the leash coupler allows you add a dog anytime you want - this is a great option if you are a foster home for a second dog.

Professional dog walkers also love this option - it is a handy addition for adding a second dog to your walk! Ordering two couplers will also allow you to walk four dogs at once and you will only have to have one (or two) leashes. (Please note: Choosing the number of leashes to use with the coupler is up to you of course & depends on your dog walking skill level, but most people have no problems once they work with their dogs for a little while.)

Both dog leashes mentioned are made of rolled nylon material (not cotton) so they will last & do not stretch out or fade. These leashes are proudly made in the U.S.A.!

Leba III Dog Teeth Cleaner - Free shipping & ON SALE!

2009-04-23T15:11:00.000-07:00

The Dog Bowl offers the Leba III dog dental spray - now on sale & offering free shipping (for U.S. destinations)!

Leba III Spray is considered the "miracle formula dental spray" in the pet industry. Use the Leba Dental Spray for home pet periodontal cleaning. The Leba Spray actually turns your dog's teeth white in a matter of weeks in a all-natural way!

LEBA III is a “miraculous" herbal product that will not damage enamel and has no side-effects. Mist spray application formula makes daily use easy and safe. No more anesthesia for your pet or outrageous teeth cleaning bills. LEBA III is a dog teeth cleaning system that will save your dog from the most common health problem in dogs, periodontal disease.

Leba III should not be used with any other dental product such as toothpaste during the treatment cycle. This will dilute and possibly negate the effectiveness of the formula. But don't worry The Dog Bowl will send an instructional sheet that clearly outlines the directions for using the Leba III spray.

Testimonials tell the story best: “Leba III works by stimulating the enzymes in the saliva and gradually cleaning away the plaque buildup that can lead to periodontal disease. The product not only does away with home brushing but also helps protect your pet from the trauma of undergoing anesthesia for a professional cleaning.” - Tim Hockley, President of Animal Wellness Magazine

Just Got A New Puppy? Having Puppy Training Issues?

2009-04-13T13:42:00.000-07:00

The Dog Bowl offer our new Interactive Puppy Training DVD - Start things right with your new puppy.

This Puppy Training Video DVD trains humans to teach their puppies the basics. (Which is really the key to helping your puppy succeed in understanding what you need from him/her!)

Renowned Canine Behaviorist, Shannon Holstein gets you started on the right paw with basics like:

Puppy Proof your home
Crate Training
Housebreaking

Using a Dog Training Video DVD is the easiest way to train your puppy! Pop in the Puppy Training DVD - Watch our expert dog trainer Shannon Holstien in action - hit pause - work with your puppy! It's that simple!!

Shannon Holstein, canine behavior consultant, has been working with and training dogs for over ten years. Shannon received her initial training at Sirius Puppy Training in Hawaii and now owns Kokopelli Dog and Puppy Training in Mesa, Arizona. Conducting many classes a week, Shannon works diligently at bringing her gentle and non-physical philosophy to the public.

Shannon is a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, the Professional Association of humane Educators, and is an AKC CGC evaluator. With such credentials it is no wonder local veterinarians often seek her advice and routinely refer their canine clients to her.

Have you ever wondered how shelters euthanize pets?

2009-04-12T14:30:00.000-07:00

As of 2009, The American Humane Association says about 7 million animals end up in shelters every year.

Seven million was such a shocking number we started to wonder what happens when the shelter pets are not adopted? In doing some research on the subject we came upon this truthfully disturbing article by: Sica, Nicole J.., Titled: “Gassing the Conscience of Texas.” We have posted this article below:

Kimberley Intino, director of the Shelter Services Program for the Humane Society of the United States, advises there are currently seven states that have legislation pending on proposals to ban carbon monoxide gas chamber use in animal shelters as a means of euthanasia; Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, North Carolina, New York, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. Intino says that in her six years at the HSUS, this is the first time multiple states have introduced such legislation. Unfortunately, Texas is not one of them.

New Mexico’s bill, however, met with resounding success, to say the least. Becoming the 18th state in the nation prohibiting the destruction of animals via gas chamber, New Mexico Governor, Bill Richardson, signed legislation into law on Monday, April 6th, banning forever the use of carbon monoxide gas chambers for the purpose of killing pets at animal shelters. “There is a more humane way to euthanize pets and we have to enforce this,” Richardson said at a news conference on the outskirts of Santa Fe. And he is, most assuredly, right. As one of the states still allowing gas chambers to be used as means of execution for our homeless cats and dogs, Texas is lagging behind when it comes to humane euthanasia. And this has to change. Approved, but Not Preferred The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) approves CO gassing as a method of euthanasia, yet in the same report acknowledging its approval; they also state it is not the “preferred” method.

Listing enough serious drawbacks to give one pause, their 2007 Guidelines on Euthanasia strongly cautions that although acceptable, “humane” CO gassing also: May be distressing to animals because the gas dissolves in moisture on the nasal mucosa. The resulting product, carbonic acid, may stimulate nociceptors, a sensory receptor responsible for the perception of pain. Because CO is heavier than air, incomplete filling of a chamber may permit animals to climb or raise their heads above the higher concentrations, avoiding exposure, thereby prolonging their deaths.

Strongly not recommended for nursing kittens, puppies, pregnant animals, many types of wildlife, and large or medium sized dogs. Therefore, only small dogs and cats fit into these guidelines; making the use of CO gassing for a widely varied animal population, as is typically found in animal facilities, an inconvenient and impractical solution. May produce painful pulmonary and upper respiratory tract lesions prior to loss of consciousness. Even if used correctly, may take longer than euthanasia by other means. Animals may experience distress vocalization (this includes barking, crying, howling and screeching), struggling, frantic attempts to escape, defensive or redirected aggression, salivation, urination, defecation, evacuation of anal sacs, tachycardia, sweating, and reflex skeletal muscle contractions such as shivering, tremors, or other muscular spasms. Now I ask you, just how “humane” does any of that sound?

Human Toll The animal welfare group, American Humane, considers euthanasia by injection, or EBI, of sodium pentobarbital to be the only compassionate vehicle of death for dogs and cats in animal shelters–and not just for the animal’s sake, either. Says American Humane: "Shelter workers overwhelmingly wish to hold and comfort a frightened animal in its final moments of life. That act may be the only kindness the animal has ever known. In contrast, even with vigilant oversight, euthanizing any animal by means of a … carbon monoxide gas system … is both severely inhumane and harmful to the emotional and physical health of people and animals. Such acts of euthanasia also create public outcry regarding the outdated practices and demean the purpose of an animal shelter.”

The use of gas chambers in our Texas shelters causes immense emotional and psychological damage to countless animal shelter workers. In naked biological terms, animals do not lose consciousness or die until there is a buildup of the CO gas in their lungs, and shelter workers have documented that until that buildup happens, sometimes as much as 30-40 minutes later, they are an unwilling witness to the piercing cries, howling, retching, scratching and sheer, blind helpless panic of the animals locked inside. It is also not uncommon to have to gas some animals twice. Many workers endure it in either subdued silence or quiet weeping. Every. Single. Day.

A few of you may remember the sad and somewhat sickening Craigslist posting that was circulated back in 2006. It was entitled “I put dogs in the gas chamber,” and offered a chilling view of the psychological suffering one person may have endured while employed at a gassing facility. No claims to its authenticity are offered here; however the words of the unknown author are powerfully vivid and compelling. But for all that, it’s not just the emotional toll workers need to worry about.

Fatal Practices In March 2000, 39-yearold animal control worker, Vernon Dove, asphyxiated to death while operating a homemade concrete block chamber in a Chattanooga, Tennessee shelter. After working at the shelter for 10 years, he was familiar with the procedure, and while routinely euthanizing a batch of animals, CO-a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas-leaked from the faulty chamber. Mr. Dove never knew what hit him. Minutes later, he was found dead at the scene by two coworkers.

Sadly, death by Carbon Monoxide Asphyxiation (CMA) is not the peaceful death we have been led to believe. The Hollywood images of the forlorn widow sticking her head in the oven in search of a painless reprieve couldn’t be farther from the truth. Says one Dade County pathologist, “After observing several dozen CMA victims in autopsy, I can tell you that the body left behind is useless for organ donation, discolored to the point where extreme make-up is required to prepare it for any burial viewing, and is treated as a toxic waste product by professionals. None of the CMA bodies I saw had that “classic” peaceful facial appearance, similar to being asleep. Rather, some had their eyes open wide, while others had a horrific grimace, swollen tongues protruding out from stretched lips and most had suffered some degree of nasal haemorrhaging. All but a few had vomitus spray on their clothing and most had experienced trauma related bowel release syndrome, (T.B.R.S. also called ‘timber syndrome’ by industry professionals).”

Information was not available on the condition of Mr. Dove’s corpse, but what is overwhelmingly clear is that because he worked for an animal facility still engaged in killing animals by CO procedures, Mr. Dove paid the ultimate price for entrusting his safety to his employers. As part of the investigation into this fatality, the Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administration (TOSHA) determined that the animal control officer was exposed to CO levels high enough to be rapidly fatal.

TOSHA later fined the Humane Educational Society of Chattanooga $22,800, citing several “serious” violations of workplace safety law. Said Jan Cothran, manager of health compliance for TOSHA, “[The safety inspectors said the Humane Society] failed to provide proper ventilation, failed to provide a respiratory protection program, failed to warn workers about safety hazards [and] failed to provide material safety data sheets for toxic chemicals.” Terri Mabry, Dove’s sister, discussed legal options with two lawyers, but was astonished by both of their responses.

Apparently, Tennessee law forbade Dove’s family from taking action against the Humane Society because a company that has worker’s compensation insurance and has not intentionally killed an employee may not be sued. “It’s the responsibility of the employer to train the employees in proper use of equipment and procedures,” said Mabry contemptuously. “As a result of his employer’s decision not to protect their employees, my brother is dead.” Texas, however, has no such law. If an employee could prove harm had occurred caused either directly or indirectly from a CO gas chamber; you can bet that the city (or county) will pay dearly. There are far too many “Texas Hammer” lawyer-types to pass up such a prime cut.

As a direct result of Vernon Dove’s death, the state of Tennessee enacted a ban on gas chamber killings. At Least You’ve Got Your Health But the concerns raised by the Tennessee incident reach well beyond the state line. In February 2004, the City of Liberal, Kansas, asked the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) for help in evaluating CO exposures of employees that operated two euthanasia chambers at the city-run animal shelter. The results of NIOSH’s findings were clearly damning. The NIOSH investigator concluded that the use of homemade CO chambers, such as the one investigated, presented an unacceptable health risk to animal shelter employees. When CO was introduced into the chamber, CO concentrations near the chamber rapidly exceed the NIOSH ceiling limit of 200 parts per million (ppm).

The NIOSH Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health value of 1,200 ppm was exceeded in one instance. But just in case you’re thinking the dangers that were present in Tennessee were entirely due to their gas chamber being “homemade”–think again. Stokes County, North Carolina Fire Marshal, Bradley Cheek, inspected a gas chamber at Stokes County Animal Control in January 2007. A letter from the Marshal to shelter supervisor, Sarah Shumate, documented high levels of gas at the supply tank as well as the gas chamber door. Cheek warned: “During the euthanasia process, levels of carbon monoxide in excess of 1000 ppm were detected on the exterior of the chamber loading door. It is not known what the exact readings were; this is due to the monitor having a maximum reading of 1000 ppm….Carbon monoxide is immediately dangerous to life and health at 1200 ppm.” Inexplicably, this very same gas chamber is still in use today.

Here is a small sampling of what animal control personnel working in shelters utilizing gas chambers must take into consideration every morning when reporting for duty: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says, “Perhaps the most insidious effect of CP poisoning is the development of delayed neuropsychiatric impairment within 2 - 28 days after poisoning and the slow resolution of neurobehavioral consequences.” In his published CO Toxicity study, Dr. Samara Soghoian, MD, Medical Toxicology Fellow, New York University School of Medicine, reports that CO toxicity in humans causes “…memory disturbances, including both anterograde and retrograde amnesia, are the most common neurologic abnormalities. Other signs include lethargy, stupor, coma, gait disturbance, movement disorders, apraxia, agnosia, tics, vestibular dysfunction, hearing and visual loss, rigidity, brisk reflexes, emotional lability, frank psychosis, and impaired judgment and cognitive function.

According to an article from the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2006, “Researchers discover a link between severe carbon monoxide poisoning and death years later from heart disease.” A study of patients poisoned by carbon monoxide, from LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah in 1999 concluded, “Ninety-three per cent of the patients exhibited a variety of cognitive impairments, including impaired attention, memory, executive function, and mental processing speed. Ninety-five per cent of the patients experienced affective changes including depression and anxiety.” The US Department of Health and Human Services, Center for Disease Control and Prevention says, “Red blood cells pick up CO quicker than they pick up oxygen. If there is a lot of CO in the air, the body may replace oxygen in blood with CO. This blocks oxygen from getting into the body, which can damage tissues and result in death.”

In a study funded by the National Institute of Health, Penn State researchers stated that “Brain damage occurs - days to weeks later - in half of the patients with a serious case of CO poisoning.” A 1983 Archives of Neurology article by Dr. Il Saing Choi, MD, detailed delayed neurologic effects of CO: “The most frequent symptoms were mental deterioration, urinary or fecal incontinence, gait disturbance, and mutism.” It is believed that in North Carolina alone, at least four county employees operating gas chambers have died in recent years from heart and lung-related disorders. It is believed those health issues were directly related to long term CO exposure.

But there’s a much more immediate danger than CO poisoning that puts our Texas animal shelter employees at risk. Booming Business In July, 2008, animal control workers at an animal services facility in Statesville, NC, loaded their gas chamber full of animals, and flipped the switch to start the deadly process rolling. While there are conflicting reports as to whether or not the killings were being attended by a worker, no one can dispute the remarkable fortune granted to every employee 30 minutes later. On the fateful day of July 22nd, the Iredell County Animal Services gas chamber exploded. Because the office and the euthanasia area were separated by several rooms with block walls, according to Tracy Jackson, the assistant county manager, no one even heard the boom. Although widely reported that the chamber blast was due to a broken light bulb being exposed to CO, the cause of the detonation is still unclear. However, the situation was quickly put under control by local firefighters, and no injuries were reported. Except, of course, for the ten dogs inside the chamber at the time.

The AVMA is clear about the human health risks associated with CO life-termination procedure; they state that gas chambers are “…hazardous to personnel because of the risk of explosions …or health effects resulting from chronic exposure.” And warn too, that “…carbon monoxide gas is cumulative in the bodies of shelter workers and long-term effects may include cancers and cardiovascular diseases”. And if that weren’t enough to convince you the laws need to change in Texas, chew on this; sometimes gas chambers don’t always work, either.

The grateful dead? Unfortunately, death is not a guarantee when using CO. A single cycle of gassing can take anywhere from 20-40 minutes to complete–one would assume a veritable eternity when defecating and urinating uncontrollably, choking for breath, and helplessly vomiting. But what happens when one cycle isn’t enough? “It’s hard enough to have to put them through it once,” says a Texas gassing facility worker who wished to remain anonymous. “…I’ve heard of places where it happens all the time, but thankfully animals surviving a first round gassing only happens maybe once a month or so with us. I’ve been lucky–it’s not happened yet when I’m on duty. Honest to God, I don’t know what I’ll do when it does.”

Well, here is what some other people did when it happened to them: July 21st, 2006, Hinesville, GA: After 30 minutes in the gas chamber, it was only by the Grace of God that a little hound-mix survived. But the horrors she encountered in that 30 minutes, live on in more than just her memory. “It will never leave me,” Says Deborah Palpal-Latoc, an employee with the Liberty County Animal Control. “I have had nightmares and don’t think I’ll ever forget this as long as I live.” Palpal-Latoc was one of the first to witness the painful miracle. It haunts her to this day. “…the dog above her — its bodily fluids were dripping all over her,” recalls Palpal-Latoc eyes filled with tears. “And she was cowering and scared and foaming at the mouth and trying to get out.” Pulling her from the tangled pile of corpses, Palpal-Latoc rushed her to the vet.

This furry, unlikely hero with the incredible will to survive is now named “Amazing Grace,” in honor of the Divine Intervention accomplished on her behalf that day. Serving as the catalyst, it was Amazing Grace’s story that inspired the Macon City Council to unanimously pass an ordinance to switch from killing by gas to lethal injection on or before July 1, 2009.

Later, Georgia’s House Bill 606, motivated by Amazing Grace, too, aims to put an end to the use of gas chambers in the entire state. Rep. Tom Knox is the bill’s primary sponsor, and it will be heard next year.

April, 2005, Mocksville, NC: While dropping off construction materials at a dumpsite one morning, Jeff and Susan Armsworthy were about to have an encounter that would change their lives forever. “I had backed my truck up, and was just finishing throwing the trash into the dumpster when we heard this noise,” Armsworthy said. “I thought it was a toy at first.” Armsworthy said he looked into the dumpster and saw a load of black garbage bags under the trash he had just deposited. A few seconds later, he heard the sound again. “I thought the second time it was a puppy,” Armsworthy said. “I thought, ‘Lord, who could do something like that?’” Along with his wife and a county employee, Armsworthy jumped into the dumpster and started digging through the trash, searching for the source of the noise.

When they reached the bottom of the dumpster they found two large plastic bags. Thinking he had found the source, Armsworthy tore one open, only to have the carcass of a female Rottweiler mix fall out. They almost abandoned their search right then and there, when the noise reached their ears yet again. “I tore open the second bag, and there they were. Three dead puppies and one still wiggling,” Armsworthy said. “It was all matted and nasty, but it was alive.” Susan, who works at a veterinary hospital nearby, brought the puppy to her job to be checked out by Dr. Beth Eubanks. With the exception of worms, Eubanks gave the puppy a clean bill of health.

The puppy had been dumped by employees of the Davie County Animal Shelter. Animal Control Officer Robert Cook said he was heartbroken about the incident. The puppies, which had been abandoned at the shelter the week before, were supposedly killed that morning when their time was up. Apparently though, one of the puppies was rendered unconscious by the CO gas, and as a result didn’t inhale enough to be fatal. He later became conscious while in the dumpster. His name is now Davie, and it’s his name that graces North Carolina HB #6; Davie’s Law. Sponsored by Rep. Cary Allred; if enacted, Davie’s Law would end the use of gas chambers in the state of North Carolina–guaranteeing that no more Davie’s will have to suffer such horrors again.

August, 2003, St Louis, MI: An eleventh hour Governor’s pardon is more than most deathrow inmates can bear to hope for; but at the St Louis Animal Regulation Center, a reprieve from an even Higher Authority gave shelter workers quite a shocking surprise. On the morning of August 4th, Cain, a year-old Besenji mix, who had been turned in by his owner just a few days before, was sedated and placed with seven other dogs inside the facility’s gas chamber. Fifteen minutes later, Bill Dobbs, who has the undesirable job of removing the cadavers, unlocked the chamber. “I saw this dog in the right corner of the cage,” he said, “staring at me and wagging its tail.”

The theory to Cain’s survival was that the sedation had slowed his breathing, thereby lessening his carbon monoxide intake. But once out, Cain, who had acquired a surly reputation in his stay at the pound, “gave me a dirty look,” says center supervisor Rosemary Ficken, “like he had it out for me.” After monitoring the dog for neurological damage, Ficken called Stray Rescue of St. Louis. “She told me, ‘Please, take him. I don’t have the heart to put him back in there and re-gas him,’” said Randy Grim, founder of the non-profit shelter.

When Grim arrived, he renamed the dog Quentin–after San Quentin, the infamous prison with the ghoulish gas chamber. As the story of Quentin grew, Randy began to think the dog had survived for a reason. “He should have died. But not only did he not die… he was completely alert and standing on top of dead dogs. No dog had ever done that before. It’s the closest thing to an animal miracle I’d ever heard about,” exclaimed Grim.

Grim received over 700 calls to adopt Quentin, “but then I brought Quentin to my house,” he said. “I have a dog named Hannah, who hates all other dogs. I always have to separate her from any dogs I’m fostering because she always beats them up. When she met Quentin she lay down and rolled over on her back and went real passive. She treated him like a mom. They slept together and played together…That’s when I started thinking that maybe I should just keep him.” Quentin has a “sissy-like” bark and gets along great with the other dogs. “It’s like he’s always been a part of the family,” laughs Grim.

Quentin’s amazing story was memorialized in a book entitled Miracle Dog: How Quentin Survived the Gas Chamber to Speak for Animals on Death Row, and together–with Grim, of course–started a campaign against gas chamber use and to support no-kill animal shelters. Soon afterwards, Quentin went Hollywood and was featured in a National Geographic article about animal gassing. And because of Quentin and his remarkable story, the St. Louis animal shelter stopped using the gas chamber in January 2005; switching to the more humane method of euthanasia by injection. “To me, it’s a miracle or divine intervention,” said Grim. ”I can’t help but think he’s here to serve a higher purpose.” We think so, too.

"Gassing the Conscience of Texas, Part II" is coming soon - This upcoming article will explore the real costs of EBI vs. CO gassing, the debate from people who support or oppose the use of gas chambers, meet the shelter workers forced to kill by gas chamber, and much, much more. Poocini Special Report freely gives permission to cross-post or quote this article if proper credit is given!

Article Source: Sica, Nicole J. “Gassing the Conscience of Texas.” 11 Aprily 2009. Poocini.com 12 April 2009.

Why breed or buy while shelter pet's die?

2009-04-09T15:00:00.000-07:00

This is very heartbreaking but very true and I believe that EVERYONE should adopt a pet. I adopted mine and he is the best friend I will ever have!

A Letter from a Shelter Manager: "I think our society needs a huge 'Wake-up' call. As a shelter manager, I am going to share a little insight with you all...a view from the inside if you will.

First off, all of you breeders/sellers should be made to work in the 'back' of an animal shelter for just one day. Maybe if you saw the life drain from a few sad, lost, confused eyes, you would change your mind about breeding and selling to people you don't even know. That puppy you just sold will most likely end up in my shelter when it's not a cute little puppy anymore. So how would you feel if you knew that there's about a 90% chance that dog will never walk out of the shelter it is going to be dumped at? Purebred or not! About 50% of all of the dogs that are "owner surrenders" or "strays" that come into my shelter are purebred dogs.

The most common excuses are:

'We are moving and we can't take our dog (or cat).' "Really? Where are you moving to that doesn't allow pets and why did you choose that place instead of a pet friendly home?"
Or they say 'The dog got bigger than we thought it would.' How big did you think a German Shepherd would get?"
'We don't have time for her.' "Really? I work a 10- 12 hour day and still have time for my 6 dogs!"
'She' s tearing up our yard'. "How about making her a part of your family?"
They always tell me: 'We just don't want to have to stress about finding a place for her we know she'll get adopted, she's a good dog.'

"Odds are your pet won't get adopted & how stressful do you think being in a shelter is? Well, let me tell you, your pet has 72 hours to find a new family from the moment you drop it off. Sometimes a little longer if the shelter isn't full and your dog manages to stay completely healthy. If it sniffles, it dies. Your pet will be confined to a small run/kennel in a room with about 25 other barking or crying animals. It will have to relieve itself where it eats and sleeps. It will be depressed and it will cry constantly for the family that abandoned it. If your pet is lucky, I will have enough volunteers in that day to take him/her for a walk. If I don't, your pet won't get any attention besides having a bowl of food slid under the kennel door and the waste sprayed out of its pen with a high-powered hose."

"If your dog is big, black or any of the 'Bully' breeds (pit bull, rottie, mastiff, etc) it was pretty much dead when you walked it through the front door. Those dogs just don't get adopted. It doesn't matter how 'sweet' or 'well behaved' they are. If your dog doesn't get adopted within its 72 hours and the shelter is full, it will be destroyed. If the shelter isn't full and your dog is good enough, and of a desirable enough breed it may get a stay of execution, but not for long. Most dogs get very kennel protective after about a week and are destroyed for showing aggression. Even the sweetest dogs will turn in this environment."

"If your pet makes it over all of those hurdles chances are it will get kennel cough or an upper respiratory infection and will be destroyed because shelters just don't have the funds to pay for even a $100 treatment." "Here's a little euthanasia 101 for those of you that have never witnessed a perfectly healthy, scared animal being 'put-down'.... First, your pet will be taken from its kennel on a leash. They always look like they think they are going for a walk - happy, wagging their tails. Until, they get to 'The Room', every one of them freak out and put the brakes on when we get to the door. It must smell like death or they can feel the sad souls that are left in there, it's strange, but it happens with every one of them. Your dog or cat will be restrained, held down by 1 or 2 vet techs depending on the size and how freaked out they are. Then a euthanasia tech or a vet will start the process. They will find a vein in the front leg and inject a lethal dose of the 'pink stuff'. Hopefully your pet doesn't panic from being restrained and jerk. I've seen the needles tear out of a leg and been covered with the resulting blood and been deafened by the yelps and screams. They all don't just 'go to sleep', sometimes they spasm for a while, gasp for air and defecate on themselves. When it all ends, your pet's corpse will be stacked like firewood in a large freezer in the back with all of the other animals that were killed waiting to be picked up like garbage. What happens next? Cremated? Taken to the dump? Rendered into pet food? You'll never know and it probably won't even cross your mind. It was just an animal and you can always buy another one, right?"

"I hope that those of you that have read this are bawling your eyes out and can't get the pictures out of your head I deal with everyday on the way home from work."

"I hate my job (as a shelter manager), I hate that it exists & I hate that it will always be there unless you people make some changes and realize that the lives you are affecting go much further than the pets you dump at a shelter."

"Between 9 and 11 MILLION animals die every year in shelters and only you can stop it. I do my best to save every life I can but rescues are always full, and there are more animals coming in everyday than there are homes."

My point to all of this: DON'T BREED OR BUY WHILE SHELTER PETS DIE!

Hate me if you want to. The truth hurts and reality is what it is. I just hope I maybe changed one person's mind about breeding their dog, taking their loving pet to a shelter, or buying a dog.

I hope that someone will walk into my shelter and say 'I saw this and it made me want to adopt.' THAT WOULD MAKE IT WORTH IT!"

Customers helps each other with raw pet diet questions:

2009-04-06T08:10:00.000-07:00

New Customer: "Does anyone know of any studies done on raw diets? These studies need to be published! Thanks, we're doing a project on raw vs kibble."

The Dog Bowl's Long Time Customer: "The question of research on raw feeding is extremely important and very frustrating. As I suspect you know, veterinary research on nutrition is entirely funded, and thereby controlled, by the giant pet food manufacturers. They also conduct the ridiculously unscientific AAFCO trials that are used to support absurd claims about the nutritional value of fractionated, manufactured "foods". The huge pet food companies control veterinary nutrition teaching and research through funding vet schools, backing conferences and professional meetings, and providing instructors for veterinary school nutrition courses.

Not surprisingly, the pet food manufacturers do not support research that compares their kibbles and canned mush to raw feeding. They know, and we know, what the likely results of honest research on this comparison would be.

I have not found government agencies or private foundations that fund honest nutritional research for animals. If you can conduct such a study, please do it in a scientifically credible way, because the results could be extremely important for pet feeding. I hope you will have good advice about sampling research subjects, controlling for extraneous variables, blinding evaluators to the feeding status of research subjects, appropriate data collection and analysis, and much more.

My very best wishes for the success of your study."

The Dog Bowl is blogging our customer's conversation today to let you know other people are also beginning to question.... What really is in those produced pet foods?

Fight Animal Cruelty!

2009-04-03T08:10:00.000-07:00

If you think animal cruelty is someone else’s problem, think again. And if you think being a responsible pet owner to your dog or cat is important, you’re so right. What’s also important, however, is fighting animal cruelty when others commit heinous acts including negligence and being aware of your surroundings so you can help speak up for animals which otherwise have no voice.

The first step in combating animal cruelty is being aware. For instance if you notice a neighbor horribly beating his or her pet, it’s time to call the ASPCA or even the local police. If you witness animal abuse and don’t report it, essentially you’re contributing to the problem.

Just because you may not witness an act of animal abuse doesn’t mean it’s not happening. You may notice the following symptoms such as extremely thin, starving animals; limping; patches of missing hair; dogs who are repeatedly left alone without food and water; dogs who are outside in extreme weather conditions; animals who express fear or act aggressively when their owner approaches them.

Since every state has different animal cruelty regulations as it relates to investigating and arresting perpetrators, you may need to simply report the problem to the police and let them handle it. The more information you provide, the better. Put on a reporter’s hat and write down the where, when, who, and what. Document the type of animal cruelty that you observed, who was involved, where it occurred, and when.

Another way to get involved to fight animal cruelty is to explain to children in your home to look out for warning signs in neighbor’s dogs and cats. Another way to help diminish animal abuse is by setting good examples to your children (if applicable) as well as friends and neighbors. Provide your pet with the food, shelter, and water it needs, along with love and affection.
To take it one step further with stopping animal cruelty and abuse, adamant owners who cherish pets which aren’t even their own have fought to pass stronger anti-cruelty laws. After all, stronger laws equate to more stringent penalties for perpetrators.

At The Dog Bowl, nothing is more important than your pets’ health and well being. For more information about fighting animal cruelty ask your local veterinarian or rescue organization.

Food... What is real? What is fake?

2009-03-26T10:08:00.000-07:00

In this ever changing environment and world of developing technology, do you ever wonder where the production of "food" categorically falls into?

New developments in computers, internet, cell phones, music, etc... It seems every day brings new and exciting things to help improve our lives and keep us in touch. But what about our food? The average consumer doesn't give food sources a second thought, much less the technology it takes to stock those grocery store shelves!

With the onset of the economic crunch now is the time to step back and think about what we are spending our hard earned money on; and ultimately, the industry and production we are supporting. When we start thinking about spending money to purchase things of "value" we notice that these items ultimately are perishable, fresh items, or "real food". We came up with the conclusion that when you mix technology and real food the result is high profit, more chemicals and less real food.

Next time you go shopping in the grocery store we want you to think about a few things:

Is the food item a produced item or is it fresh? (i.e. produced item would be Cheetos, a fresh item would be carrots, etc)

Isn't it common sense that the best things for you are fresh foods? So why is that section only taking up 1/4 or less of the grocery store retail space?

What percentage of your cart items contain preservatives to extend shelf life? (This question pertains to deli and raw meat items as well, i.e. chicken broth is a preservative and a chemical.)

Are the items from local vendors or are they imported items?

How many grocery bags do you think that store gives out in the time it takes you to shop?

What is that store's impact on the community and the environment? Are they a local store or is this a big chain or conglomerate that doesn't give back to your town or city?

The answers you may come up with may surprise you... At the very least give you some free "food" for thought!

Our Favorite Dog Leashes AND Free Shipping!

2009-03-25T11:08:00.000-07:00

For a limited time The Dog Bowl is now offering free shipping on our best selling dog leashes! We are proud to say ALL made in the U.S.A. and wonderful quality!

We are offering free shipping for the following dog leashes:

The American Dog Leash
Quick Hitch Dog Leash (shown) - (#1 training leash and no collar needed)!
Sequoia Dog Leash
The Alpine Dog Leash - Single
The Alpine Dog Leash - Double (walk 2 dogs at once)!

Free shipping for all US destinations. **FREE SHIPPING for these items when you order ONLINE NOW! (U.S.A. - Ground/UPS Shipping only) (Canada - Ground/UP Postal svc and will be charged $6.00 handling fee at the time of order processing.)

Please double check your order selections when making your order (since we are offering free shipping these items will not be returnable).

Dog Dental Care - How are your pet's teeth?

2009-03-11T09:47:00.000-07:00

How are your pet's teeth? Let's face it.... Your pet cannot brush their teeth, so they probably have the worst breath!

Pet dental care is probably the last thing on our minds with these challenging times!

I once went to a dentist who had a little sticker on his exam light that you were forced to look at while he did his work. The sticker read, "Prevention Pays - Neglect Costs". The phrase stuck with me and is a constant reminder. If you let your pets teeth go, sooner or later it will have tooth loss or worse... "Prevention Pays - Neglect Costs"

Dental damage is permanent. There is no second chance. Your pet can't tell you when it has a toothache - You need to lift that lip and look!

The Dog Bowl offers a number of solutions for your pet's tooth and gum care needs: dental sprays (Leba III), dental tooth brushes, and dental tooth paste to ready to brush dental kits for your pet.

Does your dog drink a lot of water? Is Your Dog Dehydrated?

2009-03-10T06:38:00.000-07:00

If you think about it.... If you are feeling kibble your pet isn't getting anything moist. Kibble is dry, and of course your pet needs hydration. Vets have told us that 90% of dogs and cats die of liver and kidney failure! So is the dry food leading to constant dehydration?

Let’s talk common sense here and see if we can’t agree that a dog that is being fed a heat processed, grain based diet is in a constant state of dehydration - Why?

Have you observed your dog or cat, after consuming the kibble based diet, going to the water bowl and drinking water voraciously. One needn’t wonder why when you learn that the water content of dry kibble is approximately 10%. To understand the advantages of feeding a water based diet you first have to be convinced that consuming your water in your nutrients is better than drinking water separately.

In order for water to be utilized properly to rehydrate the cells it needs to be tied to electrolytes or to the nutrients in order to hydrate about 90% of the cell. Water that is not tied this way to the nutrient is only able to hydrate approximately 10% of the cell. Consequently, about 90% of the water is thrown into the blood stream and ends up diluting the blood. The result is an extra hard strain on the heart to circulate the blood volume and on the kidney that functions to cleanse the toxins.

If the water is only able to rehydrate 10% of the cells then the result is a constant state of dehydration. Adding water from an external source only pretends to function properly to eliminate the dehydration. This constant dehydration state causes many problems. In cats it may lead to serious urinary problems (FUS)- FELINE URINARY SYNDROME.

I’m most concerned about the ability to properly flush out the toxins in the body and the additional strain that the excess volume of blood has on the long term functions of the various organs. Can this possibly be why dogs and cats fed a water based diet gain extended longevity?
We all know that water is the one nutrient that we can’t live without. We can go without food for a long time but without water the systems shut down and death results. Therefore- isn’t it logical that to gain the best advantage for long term health and wellness for ourselves and our dogs that we consume a nutrient that is of a high water concentration - The Barf Diet.

The BARF diet contains approximately 70% water that is adequately tied to the nutrients to properly rehydrate the internal cells.

To see the difference for yourself, feed your dog kibble for a week and then switch to the raw meat diet, watch your dog after eating, and compare the amount of water they drink after eating the BARF DIET. Hopefully you will see the advantage of hydrating the cells in a proper way.

Dog tag noise making you crazy?

2009-03-09T07:48:00.000-07:00

Does the tingle and jingle of your pet’s tags drive you mad?

Are you tired of hearing jingle bells year round?

The Dog Bowl has the perfect solution for you! The pet tag silencer is a perfect solution for that abrasive jingling noise caused by the tags on your pet’s collar moving about.

This nifty gadget (shown) wraps around your pet’s tags and has a Velcro closure for a quick, easy solution to the jingle.

The pet tag silencer also avoids the tarnishing and rust of your pet’s tags.

It also prevents the tarnish from staining your pet’s fur!

The pet tag silencer has been used and recommended by runners, light sleepers, show dogs, groomers, you name it!

The pet tag silencer comes in various colors, and is made out of soft, flexible weather resistant material.

The pet tag silencer is durable and totally washable as well.

It also has a reflective logo on the front for your pet’s safety at night! This wonderful item is available from The Dog Bowl - shop online (click here).

Now you can enjoy your pet without the annoying tag noises, no more jingling!

The Secret To Cancer, Take Away Its Fuel!

2009-03-08T06:04:00.000-07:00

What is the fuel for cancer? We know of two fuels: glucose (sugar) and fat!

What if there was one life saving piece of advice that could be given to people or animals that were suffering from cancer or could be used as a prevention tool? Certainly, the one suffering from the disease would welcome this advice with open arms. What if there was one suggestion that would significantly reduce the exposure to this deadly disease? In order to understand the logical reasons behind the advice, and why it should work you first have to understand and agree upon the way the body reacts to a cancer tumor.

In order to suggest that one simple change might alter the course of this disease, we must find the weakest link in the chain. There are several phases that the cancer cell goes through to form a tumor. The first phase happens when the DNA a normal cell mutates or changes. This happens to millions of cells in the body every day and fortunately nothing happens with most of them. The immune system is responsible to wipe them out. You can see the importance of maintaining a strong immune system before, during and after contracting this disease. Some of these cells are strong enough to survive and grow. These are the ones that turn into tumors if left unchecked. HERE LIES THE KEY!!! They grow IF they get the right fuel.

The the cancer grows into a tumor that is large enough to detect but not large enough to cause severe problems. It is at this stage that supplements can be effective against the cancer growth. Then the third stage is when the cancer is diagnosed. At this stage the cells have created their own blood supply and builds a mucous coating around the cells that protect them from the immune system. This is another reason why only depending on the immune system as the body’s defense mechanism is not enough to fight the cancer.

The 4th and final phase is when the cancer changes from a localized tumor to an invasive tumor. The increased inflammation cause new blood vessels to form and the cancer spreads through these vessels to other areas. Once it gets to this stage the cancer is hard to fight. So if you want to aggressively stop the spread of cancer we must attack it early. This is the point when it is most vulnerable.

I reported earlier that the cancer cells need fuel to grow. So the secret to preventing cancer is to take away its fuel. Without fuel it simply can’t survive. There are only two types of fuel. They burn either glucose (sugar) or fat. Nobel prize winner, Otto Warburg proved that cancer cells live entirely on glucose. Improving fat metabolism actually inhibits the growth of cancer. To prevent cancer you must keep the body from shifting to a glucose-burning metabolism. If cancer has already formed then make sure the cells are primarily burning fat instead of glucose. The best way to do this is to avoid foods that significantly increase the amount of sugar in the bloodstream. That means elimination of sugars, starches and other refined carbs. Focus on low-glycemic vegetables, as well as meats, fish and poultry.

Can you now see the advantage gained by switching your dogs diet to a low-glycemic diet (the BARF DIET) eliminating the high carbohydrate laden food offered by a heat processed kibble diet? Information Source: by Rob Mueller of B.A.R.F.

Looking for a high fashon dog carrier?

2009-03-07T07:51:00.000-08:00

Friends of Babydoll, by Donald J. Pliner, carrier in limited edition Salsa Britto Carrier.

Patent leather handles and accents. Salsa Britto pattern print exterior. This pet carrier has removable bottom insert for warmth, which is removable for easy cleaning.

Only available in Small size. (Other sizes are sold out & this carrier is a collector item as it is no longer in production.)

Small: 15"l x 9"h x 9"w (Please consider this measurement before placing an order.)

*This item is on sale - all sales are final, no returns.
Click here to order now - quantities are limited!

The Dog Bowl has a Sonic Toothbrush for Pets!

2009-02-19T08:00:00.000-08:00

A first in the pet world! Now your dog can have the same great dental care you can receive with the introduction of the sonic toothbrush for pets.

Battery-powered, the Sonic Canine toothbrush provides superior teeth cleaning on each side of the teeth and gums using Silent Power Technology™and a patented dual brush head.

A light, slimline handle and non-slip grip make brushing a breeze.
This toothbrush bristles are made of DuPont .007 Tynex to ensure the safety or your pet’s gum line.

This dental care brush set for use with any size pet (5 lbs. & up).

Sonic Canine Premium Pet Toothbrush Kit includes:

Sonic Canine Premium Pet Toothbrush (1) - Sonic Canine Toothbrush Dimensions: 8”
AAA battery (1),
hypo-allergenic, enzymatic toothpaste, Filet Mignon Toothpaste (1),
Petite Toothbrush (1),
Finger brush (1).

Travel case shown (1) is dishwasher safe.

All products are packaged a dishwasher-safe travel case (shown).

Smart idea: If you have a second or third pet add a spare or extra toothbrush or extra toothbrush head to this order! Assign each pet their own brush. And having a spare will help save time with replaceing a worn out brush.

Please note: We encourage you to use only one toothbrush for per pet to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Pet's passing: Life celebration & remembrance is important!

2009-02-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

Losing a pet is often the hardest part of sharing our lives with one. After the shared joy and unconditional love, the passing of a dog, cat, or other pet can leave an owner feeling empty and alone.

Sometimes the bond we have with our pets and the immense value they add to our lives is underestimated.

Often we feel our bereavement is not taken as seriously as other losses in life.

This Remembrance Kit (shown) is a gift specially designed to address the needs of the grieving pet owner and provide a loving gift of support and caring for someone close to you. A gentle way to help them heal and keep their pet's spirit close to their heart, always and forever.

This remembrance kit contains the following:

Keepsake sachet made of iridescent satin with a lovingly hand-embroidered floral pattern, this keepsake bag provides a safe resting place for a collar, ID tag, small toy and other precious mementos.

Healing memorial candle blessing for dog owner. Light this comforting candle made of pure essential oils in remembrance of your pet. Hand poured and scented gently with healing lavender and tangerine, this soothing candle is graced with a pet blessing.

Companion remembrance cards. This set of 3 note cards is a meaningful part to the healing process and serves as a record of some of your pet's favorite things. Keep one in remembrance and share the rest with those closest to you.

Remembrance gift enclosure card. A simple heartfelt card expresses thoughts in a loving way.

Keepsake photo frame. Printed on high quality card stock, this memorial photo frame holds up to a 3x3 photo of your pet.

The Dog Bowl has Remembrance Kits in-stock - click here to order your's now.

Does your dog have skin problems?

2009-02-13T10:35:00.001-08:00

Let's face it a lot of people are hesitant to change their dog's diet... even though your pet may have skin problems. The Dog Bowl has a wonderful supplement that can be added to your pet's current food - kelp!

The Winning Ingredient You Cannot Afford To Leave Out! If you give your dog any supplement, this should be the one - this is the “secret” ingredient.

Kelp Health is a 100% natural plant, harvested from the cold blue seas of Norway. It is grown far away from cities, so it is unpolluted and undisturbed by people.

An abundance of sunlight and cool water provide the best growing conditions for this Norwegian kelp. Once the kelp achieves an optimal size and nutrition level, it is harvested by native Norwegians and tested to ensure it is chock-full of revitalizing nutrients.

Kelp Health contains hundreds of vitamins and minerals that your dog needs to remain active, energetic, healthy and vibrant. Without these essential ingredients, training your dog and winning in any dog show are virtually impossible.

No dog food can give your beloved friend - your dog - all of the nutrients they need to keep their body healthy and energetic.

You can spend heaps of money on countless man-made supplements that don’t come close to providing your dog with the same level of nutrients that Kelp Health does...

OR...

You can save a lot of money, save hours of training time, and balloon your chances of winning in any dog show with Kelp Health.

Your Dog’s Longevity and Health Are Vital! You want your dog to be energetic and healthy. You also want your dog and best friend to be around as long as possible.

Give them what they need to live a happy, successful, and comfortable life. Kelp Health will benefit your dog by:

Restoring their natural pigmentation
Brining out the vibrancy in their coat color
Reducing excessive shedding
Alleviating excruciating arthritis pain and reducing joint inflammation
Boosting its immune system to fight off nasty diseases
Aiding with digestion and increasing metabolism
Maintaining their thyroid to keep them at a healthy weight
Replenishing moisture in their skin to prevent flaking
Increasing their stamina and endurance
Helping them to fight allergies

Would You Drive A Car Without Oil?

Just as a car needs preventative maintenance, so does your dog. Don’t wait until your beloved dog has incurable health problems... Give them all the vitamins and minerals they need to keep their body lively and energized for years to come.

Besides increasing their likelihood of winning in a dog show, you can enjoy the companionship of your dog for much, much longer than if you didn’t feed them all natural dry Norwegian Kelp.
All it takes is a one or two teaspoons a day, mixed with their food, to make your dog much healthier and happier. Comes in a plastic, resealable container, and is powdered granule consistency.

Currently in stock in one size, shown: 2.8lbs.

Did you know your dog collar can harbor germs?

2009-02-06T12:02:00.000-08:00

Think about it.... You and I don't wear the same, fabric item day after day. Why would you want to? Plus, imagine how dirty that fabric item would be IF we did wear it day after day & never took it off?

We would never wear something ALL the time and never clean it, so why would we do that to our beloved pets?

This brings us to the question... How long has your dog been wearing that fabric nylon collar? On average a typical dog owner leaves the dog's collar on for a minimum of 2 years. Yikes! Can you imagine what types of germs and microorganisms have taken home in your pet's two year+ old collar?

Your pet's collar is the first thing YOU grab to attach your leash. Not to mention, if you have kids, they always seem to grab your pet's collar whether to get your dog's attention, or just to give some love.

Certainly we haven't thought about "the dog collar" of all things, as "dirty", but no one would consciously want their kids touching something dirty!

Yep - that innocent looking dog collar could be the home of viruses, colds, bacteria, infections, and an assortment of microorganisms we never dreamed of wanting within our reach, much less our pet's neck!

We know what you are thinking... Your collar looks clean? But we cannot see germs. Don't even think about smelling your pet's collar! BUT if you do and there is an odor we suggest you trash that collar immediately!

Replace it with new dog collar technology! The Dog Bowl offers a variety of collars that are a wonderful upgrade to the typical nylon dog collar, such as the collar shown (in berry blue color) on the boxer above! You will never buy a nylon or fabric collar ever again!

The FYDO action dog collar shown is a top quality, modern dog collar. It is made of TPR (100% recyclable thermo plastic rubber). Fittings and ID plaque made of PP (100% recyclable polypropylene plastic). Fydo Action Collar is a new era in dog accessories – never worry about fraying nylon or splitting leather collars again. In addition, unlike leather and nylon, our Fydo collar is waterproof, easy to clean, protects your dog (and family) from unsafe bacteria and you from unwanted odors.

The FYDO collar is a wonderful collar if your dog loves to swim!

The Dog Bowl offers over 14 different color variations of the FYDO collar - click here to select your new, clean dog collar now! (This makes a great gift for any new pet owner as well!)

An innovative collar that is techno-trendy AND environmentally friendly!

2009-02-05T10:15:00.000-08:00

Searching for a fun and sporty yet safe and functional collar for your pet?

Try Fydo on for size! Perfect for pets on the go, the Fydo Action Collar is durable, ultra flexible and will never come loose or slip off. There are no sharp studs or uncomfortable buckles here – the Fydo Action Collar is innovatively designed to be smooth, sleek and secure. Complemented by a clever double locking system, there are no ends for dogs to chew on or for cats to be caught on when they are exploring outdoors.

Fydo collars come complete with a smooth profile nametag that you can personalize with your pet’s name, license details and contact information.

Fydo Action Collar is a new era in dog accessories – never worry about fraying nylon or splitting leather collars again. In addition, unlike leather and nylon, our Fydo collar is waterproof, easy to clean, protects your dog from unsafe bacteria and you from unwanted odors.

Your pampered pet will be seen on any scene, from the beach to the park, in your choice of 13 attention-grabbing colors. The Fydo collar is this season’s must have accessory for pets of all kinds. Suitable for dogs, cats, ferrets and even rabbits, the Fydo Action Collar comes in several sizes, and size is adjustable to fit a wide range of pets. Guaranteed to fit and made from the most advanced materials.

The result of extensive research and testing, the Fydo Action Collection has finally been released.

Your pet deserves the best – Make it FYDO

Detailed Product Information:

* Made to Last – Superior Materials, Durable Design

* Quality made of TPR (100% recyclable thermo plastic rubber). Fittings and ID plaque made of PP (100% recyclable polypropylene plastic)

* 100% water resistant, perfect for active and sporty pets

* Easy to clean – Just rinse with water

* Pliable, non-slip material that locks securely and stays put

* Solid metal d-ring allows old ID tags and all leashes to be attached securely

* Superior to leather or nylon collars, Fydo is made from a revolutionary non-porous rubber that will remain free from foul odors and harmful bacteria!

Click here to see more collars from The Dog Bowl made "just for water loving dogs"!

Pup Buggy on wheels - finally your pet can travel too!

2009-02-04T09:41:00.000-08:00

It does not get more innovative than this! A high quality wheeled pet trolley carrier for larger pets, which also becomes a crate during car, train and overnight hotel travel. Pup Buggy offers a rugged, sleek design that is fashioned after the beloved VW Bug. If you travel frequently, and need a secure haven for your beloved dog or cat, Pup Buggy is the ideal solution.

If you fly often with your pet, the Pup Buggy can be checked as luggage with the airline and is ready to hit the ground running when you (and your pet) get off the airplane. During long road trips, lay the Pup Buggy flat and it becomes a comfortable and well-ventilated bed for your pet in the car or in hotel rooms during travel.
Pup Buggy features a lightweight design that is easy to move and pull with its strong retractable aluminum handle; perfectly angled for ergonomic benefit. The trolley features a strong but ultra quiet 4-wheel system that reduces vibrations and offers increased balance and stability. Made of quality ballistic nylon fabric, Pup Buggy is a fun and sporty pet carrier.

Larger pets are just too heavy to carry around and traditional wheeled carriers are cumbersome to pull around, causing fatigue and back pain. Pup Buggy is light, convenient, secure and very trendy!

Detailed Product Information:

Quality made from ultra strong ballistic nylon fabric
Water resistant base that features removable padding for quick clean up during travel
3 large dual layer mesh windows (both sides) for ventilation and security
Quick Access - Large front entrance
Durable aluminum wheels that pivot smoothly and quietly
Easy to clean – Just rinse with water
Large rear storage compartment for dog treats and travel necessities

Actual Carrier Measurements: 26” L x 14” W x 18” H (Please consider these measurements before placing your order - click here to place an order or shop for more carriers from The Dog Bowl.)
Available in color shown: Black with grey accents.
Roller carrier net weight: 11.68 lbs.