Probiotics & Enzymes Effectively Delivered in Pet Foods

More and more pet guardians are discovering the health benefits of probiotics and enzymes for their cats and dogs. In recent years supplements including these natural biologic substances have become very popular. During that same period, many pet food manufacturers began adding probiotics and enzymes directly to their formulas, reducing the need to add separate supplements to a pet’s diet.

Pets Benefit from Probiotics and Enzymes

Probiotics and enzymes are naturally present in our pets. They are normal occupants of the digestive tracts of dogs and cats and support healthy digestion. However, several factors can lead to insufficient natural levels of probiotics and enzymes. These

Nature’s Logic Celebrates 5 Years of Making 100% Natural Pet Food

Nature’s Logic is celebrating five years of making high-quality, 100% natural foods for dogs and cats. Since 2006, the company has introduced canned, dry, and raw formulas, all without chemically-synthesized vitamins or minerals. Over the years, Nature’s Logic has expanded the selection of protein choices, now offering chicken, lamb, duck, venison, beef, rabbit, salmon, and our newest flavor, sardine.

The company’s founder, Scott Freeman, was influenced by a veterinarian who used only whole food supplements in her practice, avoiding the potential toxicities associated with synthetic vitamins and minerals. “This planted the seed in my mind to create a complete line of pet foods without chemically-synthesized nutrients,” says Freeman. “The concept was substantiated the very month our Nature's Logic dry kibble was launched, in March 2006. That same month, a major pet food manufacturer issued a recall because its diets were discovered to contain excessive synthetic Vitamin D3, which was causing hypercalcemia, renal failure, and death in some pets.”

How High-Quality Natural Pet Food Reduces Fido’s Carbon Pawprint

As another Earth Day approaches, many pet guardians are contemplating not only their own carbon footprint, but that of their dogs and cats, too. Just like people, pets have an impact on our environment. It is estimated that the average dog has twice the carbon footprint of an SUV, and the family cat generates the same environmental impact as a Volkswagen Golf sedan.¹ Eco-friendly products, like dog houses made from recycled materials and organic cotton cat toys, are gaining popularity, but did you know that feeding your pet a high-quality, natural food can also reduce his or her carbon footprint?

Confused About Senior Dog Nutrition and Food?

You are not alone! The International Journal of Applied Research in Veterinary Medicine recently published a Survey of Opinions about Nutritional Requirements of Senior Dogs and Analysis of Nutrient Profiles of Commercially Available Diets for Senior Dogs. The authors from the Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine questioned 1309 adults regarding opinions on how to feed senior dogs.

Not surprisingly, researchers found confusion regarding the nutritional requirements of senior pets. The authors also compared 37 commercial senior diets and found a wide variation in the nutrient profiles of the foods.¹ However, there is hope. The research paper does bring up some very good points that will help pet guardians navigate the confusing array of senior pet foods on the market.

Industry Requirements

The authors correctly pointed out that neither the National Research Council nor AAFCO have set nutritional requirements for senior dogs. In its Nutrient Profiles,

Omega-3 Deficiency #1 Reason Pets Develop Flaky Skin

Dry, itchy skin is often seen in dogs and cats. Many pet guardians will try changes in grooming patterns or products with no relief for their pets. When flaky skin persists in pets, dietary factors could be what are keeping your pet from enjoying healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Dietary deficiency is the number one reason that that Dr. Karen Becker sees excessive flaking with pets in her veterinary practice. She recently posted an educational video on the topic, explaining, “Deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids is the specific dietary cause for the flaking to occur. Dogs and cats need an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids.” ¹ Dr. Becker is an integrative wellness veterinarian and was named one of Chicago's Top Ten Vets, according to Chicago Magazine.