Dog Care 101

With recent pet food recalls many pet owners are opting to make their own dog food to gain peace of mind & save on cost. Contrary to popular belief gathering up last night dinner leftovers and throwing them in your dogs dish is not the same as making nutritional homemade dog food. Remember that not all human food is good for your dog to devour.

Although recycling your dinner leftovers sounds like a tempting, easy, quick & simple solution it can be hazardous to your dogs health. So for your pets safety & overall well-being here is a better solution for all you Suzy homemakers, health conscious pups & dog loving DIYer's.  Into the kitchen we go! Making dry dog food from scratch is a simple process using fresh & healthy ingredients. With so many wonderful recipes to choose this is sure to please any finicky or fussy canine of all breeds, shapes & sizes. Making homemade dry dog food puts you in control over what your loyal companion consumes. You can feel good knowing you feed your dog preservative-free, nutritional food.

So what are the benefits of homemade dog food?

1. Prevent or reduce the risk of a number of health problems that result from eating potentially toxic or contaminated commercially prepared items. While providing your dog with essential nutrients & minerals for healthy life.

2. With the current state of the economy it can also be easier on your pockets & reduce overall cost of each meal. You can save big by buying whole grains & staples in bulk.

3. Feeding a dog freshly prepared food instead of commercial products filled with additives and preservatives may also give them more energy and reduce the risk of obesity.

4.  Homemade dog foods usually cause fewer allergic reactions than commercial dog foods. Easier to manage a dogs diet who have food allergies & sensitivities.

So, whats the scoop on homemade dog food ingredients?

1. Pet owners need to use fresh and natural ingredients, and ensure that every meal is nutritionally balanced. Your dogs diet should consist of protein & carbohydrates.

Protein ingredients include: skinless roasted chicken breast , ground beef, lamb chop, Atlantic salmon,  hard boiled whole egg, cottage cheese & tofu

Carbohydrates ingredients include: long-grained brown or white rice, pasta, white potatoes, sweet potatoes,  oats, pearled barley, couscous, dry tapioca

2. Remember not all vegetables are good for your canine & their digestion. Choose asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale and zucchini. Cook vegetables with hard rinds prior to feeding. Select darker vegetables, because they are typically higher in nutritional value.

3. Process all vegetables before adding them into the dog food, as many are hard to digest. Use the puree setting on your blender to guarantee that the mixture is as smooth as possible.

4. Avoid meats that are more prone to carry parasites such as Trichinosis, as dogs are sensitive to contracting the disease from eating raw, unclean or ill-prepared meats. Cook all meats thoroughly and dice into small pieces before feeding them to your dog or adding them to a mixture.

5. Select lean protein sources such as chicken, tuna, venison, beef and small amounts of organ meats. Too much liver, for example, can cause bloating and diarrhea.

6. Eggs are a safe, strong source of lean protein. Add them to dog food mixtures or simply drop a well cooked, scrambled egg or two into the dog bowl as a treat. Don't feed them to your dog raw or undercooked.

7. Follow the general proportion of 1 part lean protein to 2 parts vegetables when making dog food at home.

8. Because homemade dog food doesn't have preservatives and additives, the pet owner will need to monitor the food regularly to make sure it does not spoil.

9.  If you are going to make your dogs food be sure to consult with your vet or nutritional pet expert for advice to help you develop a well-balanced, nutritionally complete diet for your dog to meet his or her specific needs.

What foods should your dog avoid?

There are several foods that are toxic to pets and can cause your dog to get deathly ill. Here are a few things you should avoid putting into your homemade dog food. Grapes, raisins, chocolate, artificial sweeteners, raw meat, onions, garlic and artificial fats should not be on your pets grocery list.

Droolworthy Homemade Dry Dog Food Recipe

Here's a wonderful delicious, easy & healthy homemade dry dog food recipe that Fido will love.

Ingredients:

2 ½-cups of whole wheat flour
1 ½-cups of brewer's yeast
½-cup of nonfat, dry powdered milk
½-cup of cornmeal
4 ½-cups of water
3 medium eggs
2-tsp. of flaxseed oil
2-tbsp. of natural peanut butter
½-cup of pureed cauliflower
½-cup of pureed zucchini
½-cup of pureed green beans

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. Wash cauliflower, zucchini and green beans. Combine vegetables in food processor with ½-cup of water and puree until completely smooth.
3. Combine dry ingredients in mixing bowl. Add 3 medium eggs and blend thoroughly.
4. Add wet vegetable puree, remaining 4 cups of water, flaxseed oil and peanut butter. Mix together until consistency is homogenous and resembles a thin pancake batter.
5. Pour mixture onto cookie sheet and bake in preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes.
6. Let the hard sheet of kibble dry, break into bite size pieces, and store refrigerated in freezer bags or plastic containers. The food will stay fresh for up to five weeks. Freezing is also an option if you want to make your dog food in bulk.

Servings:

This recipe yields 30 cups of dry dog food.

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Are you lucky enough to work for a pet-friendly company or own your own business? Then as a pet owner bringing  your dog to work is a quite a perk.  Well, before you pack of your dogs briefcase, lunchbox and head to the office here are some pet etiquette tips for a working dog.

1. Take only well-behaved socialized pets who are comfortable around strangers. If your pet shows any sign of  aggressive towards people & other pets, especially co-workers leave at home.

2. Your dog should have basic obedience training and understand commands, such as SIT, STAY, No and DOWN.

3. Make sure pet vaccinations are up to date and that you have a current vaccination records on hand. Also, remember your dog will most likely come in contact with other dogs so it is best if your pet is spayed or neutered.

4. Fight the war on fleas by taking the proper precaution. Use flea preventive before taking your pet to work.

5.  Groom your dog to put his or her best paw forward. Bathe, brush and clip nails before office visits. Remember smelly and dirty pets don't make good co-workers resulting in a filled up complaint box.

6. Proper work accommodations is important for your pets safety. Make sure your cubicle or office can comfortably accommodate your dog.

7. Don't forget to pack your dogs lunch bag & other basic necessities. Make a list of items to bring, so you don't forget. Bring bowls, food, treats, chews, leash, collars w/tags,  pet carrier, toys, poop bags, clean up supplies (in case of an accident).

8. You are your pets top dog & supervisor.  With such a great privilege comes much responsibility. Dogs must be kept on leash, and/or in a closed office or cubicle, or in a crate. You can even create a sturdy cubicle barrier or put up a folding fence. If you have an office then postage notes will become your best friend. Post a note on your door to alert other co-workers & delivery people that you have a pet in your office.

9. Reward your dog with treats & praise for good behavior.

10. Be sensitive respectful of people with allergies and fear of dogs.

11. Make sure your dog use his or her library bark. Keep the dog quiet, especially during conference calls.

12. Avoid taking dogs to company meetings which can be a major distraction.

13. Some areas of the work-place should be office limits. Designate pet-free zones such as conference rooms, restrooms and cafeterias. You don't want your dog begging for co-workers lunch in the cafeteria.

14. Give your dog a potty break & clean up. Plan your day so you can walk your dog outside a few times during the day. With all the excitement of  new surroundings your dog may need more breaks.  Remember to clean up with poop bags in hand.

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Are you looking to support your favorite local animal shelter or rescue but aren't ready for the full commitment of pet ownership permanently. Well, not only can you volunteer your money or  time at your local shelter but maybe you want to become a foster parent.

Fostering a needed pet can be richly rewarding & wonderful experience for you and a deserving shelter animal. There are a large number of pets that need fostering. Animal shelters & rescues are in desperate need of people to open their hearts & homes temporarily to a needy animal.

Although you may not be able to keep the pet permanently, you are providing the best possible environment, along with plenty of love until he is placed in a forever home. Plus, you are alleviating some of the burden on overcrowded shelters. Fostering just one pet helps your community and makes a world of difference for that pet.

What is a foster parent? A foster parent takes care of a needy animal in their home for an agreed upon period of time. Foster care can involve administering medications for sick pets, feeding special foods to animals on strict medical diets, helping an animal to be more sociable with other animals or humans or simply giving a homeless pet a break from the cramped cages and excessive barking and smells at animal shelters.  Now that you have decided to take a big & fulfilling heart leap to help out a furry friend by fostering. Here are some ways to get started as a foster pet parent.

1. Temporary Housing. Consider that fostering a pet is temporary and be prepared for the day when a forever home is found. Make sure you discuss it with your kids and other family members so they know what to expect & to make sure your family is ready to be a foster family.  Hey,  with all this bonding time you might even decide to make your furry foster friend a permanent honorary member of the family. As long as you are providing a loving & nurturing home the animal shelter & rescue will happily oblige!

2. Call your local animal shelter or rescue. If you are interested in fostering a shelter animal contact your local animal rescue or shelter. You can also search local pet publications and online for listings of animal rescue organizations and shelters. Most of them will have foster programs.

3. Duration of Pet Stay. Decide how long you will be able to keep the pet. If it’s a puppy or kitten it will probably only be for a few weeks until they are old enough to be adopted. If it's an adult dog from a rescue group it might take several months until a home is found. Please don't overlook adult dogs when considering adopting or fostering because they are just as in need of a loving home.

5. Budget. Figure out your budget and how much you will be able to allot for food, maintenance and medical attention for the pet. And keep in in mind--if you have love to give and it's only your budget that's standing in the way--many rescue organizations and shelters will cover the cost of veterinary services, and in some cases food for the duration of the pet’s stay. It is normally your responsibility to transport the pet to the vet and to any adoption events.

6. Suits your Lifestyle. At a local animal shelter or rescue you will find dogs of all shapes, sizes, breeds, ages & temperaments. So, chose a foster a pet that fits your lifestyle. For instance, if you live in an apartment, you can request an older dog that is low energy or a dog recuperating from an illness or a cat. If you are an active family or have a house with a big yard, you can foster a pooch that needs plenty of exercise.

Don't wait to give back, make a difference and become a foster parent today! Your heart, animals & local shelter will thank you for it.

We would love to hear your foster pet parent story. Leave a comment below!

GIVEAWAY WORTH BARKING, TWEETING & BLOGGING ABOUT!!!!!

Do you have a favorite dog rescue or shelter? Well we want to know about them & reward them. We are giving 5 lucky dog shelters $600 each of our Fish Stix for dogs. Click banner to ENTER!

Thanks for voting! Tell your friends to vote for their favorite rescue & stay tuned for the final voting round!

Please make sure to check out our growing selection of dog treats, dog chews and of course bully sticks. Also, don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for Best Bully Stick News, New Products & Discounts!! For daily updates follow us on twitter @bestbullysticks

Pet overpopulation, neglect & homelessness is a big issue that impacts not only the lives of animals but your heart & entire community. Whether you are giving your time by stuffing & licking envelopes for the next fundraiser, passing out fliers for the shelter upcoming car & dog wash or donating money, every bit helps pets in need. When our hearts unite to advocate for animals we can save & enrich lives. Here are some ways you can help!

Be Responsible. The first step towards responsible pet ownership by keeping a watchful eye on your pet. To keep your pet from becoming a lost soul, keep current identification on your dog or cat at all times so your pet can be returned home safely. Be part of the solution to pet overpopulation &  homelessness by spaying & neutering your pet. In any event, your dog or cat should be properly supervised. Make sure all doors, windows and fences are securely latched so your pet does not become a runaway in distress. In addition to the basics—food, water, shelter, and veterinary care—give your pet lots of love and attention.

Make a donation to your local animal shelter, charity or rescue. Check with your local shelter to see if they have a wish or needs list. Donate usable pet food, old blankets and towels, or other needed supplies that you may otherwise discard. This is a great way for you to lower carbon paw print. By giving back & donating useable items, not only do you help your local animal charity, rescue or shelter but are helping the planet. You can also contribute to one of your local shelters special programs & help with one of their campaigns.

Lend a Helping Paw. Can't donate money, well don't sweat it. Roll up your sleeves & volunteer your time at your local shelter. One of the perks of hands on volunteering is the free of charge cuddle time with deserving & amazing animals. You can bathe and groom the animals, walk dogs, or play with cats. Stuff envelopes for a mailing or help publicize an event, the skies the limit. Check with your local shelter or their website for a list of  volunteer opportunities available.

Find Your Purr-fect Match. If you are thinking about adding a four legged addition to your family, well look no further then adoption at your local animal shelter or rescue. Your local animal shelter have dogs of all shapes, sizes, ages & breeds who are just waiting for a permanent, loving home. From puppies, adult-dogs, kitties, adult cats to purebreds you will find them at your local animal shelter or rescue.

Help Bark or Meow the Word. Don't be afraid to speak out on behave of animals who can't fight the good fight themselves. You can go door to door and spread the word animal safety & pet owner responsibility. Better yet, tweet all about it. With  blogging, Twitter, Facebook, Myspace & Youtube it easier then ever to promote a bark-worthy cause. Don't underestimate the power of a click. Use your social media power to tell your friends around the globe about your local shelter's services & cause.

Vote for the animals. Support legislation to protect animals. Contact government officials about animal issues and urge them to support pro-animal legislation.

Be a hero. Don't sit in silence. Report animal cruelty and neglect as well as injured or stray animals. You may prevent suffering and even save a life.

Raise caring children. Instruct children in how to care for animals properly and how to treat them with kindness. Set an example by doing the same.

Work in Animal Welfare Sector. You don't have to have to be a veterinarian to help animals! There are plenty of jobs in animal welfare.

Don't wait to give back, make a difference and volunteer today! Your heart, animals & local shelter will thank you for it.

GIVEAWAY WORTH BARKING, TWEETING & BLOGGING ABOUT!!!!!

Do you have a favorite dog rescue or shelter? Well we want to know about them & reward them. We are giving 5 lucky dog shelters $600 each of our Fish Stix for dogs. Click banner to find out more on how to ENTER!

Thanks for voting! Tell your friends to vote for their favorite rescue & stay tuned for the final voting round!

Please make sure to check out our growing selection of dog treats, dog chews and of course bully sticks. Also, don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for Best Bully Stick News, New Products & Discounts!! For daily updates follow us on twitter @bestbullysticks

Canine diabetes, is when a dog's body is unable to make enough blood sugar to survive. Dog diabetes is nearly identical to Type II diabetes in humans. Known as a silent killer, if not detected is a serious disease that strikes both people & dogs and if left untreated can cause serious health complications. The key to prevention is first knowing the symptoms & causes for canine diabetes. So, we are here to help by giving you the facts which can ultimately save your pets life.

Its important for all pet owners to recognize the signs of diabetes so you can seek proper vet care. But do keep in mind to always seek the advice of your vet for a proper diagnoses since many ailments can have similar symptoms.

What are the symptoms of Canine Diabetes? Here are a list of symptoms that are diabetes red flags and if your dog has any multiple of these symptoms seek a vet immediately for proper care.

1. Extreme thirst. This is the body's attempt to rid itself of excess glucose.

2. Frequent urination. The dog may even have accidents in the house because he's unable to hold it long enough to get outside.

3. Shivering or shakiness can be a symptom of low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, which is an emergency. Wrap the pet in a blanket to keep him warm, and take him to the vet right away.

4. Unexplained weight loss, even though the dog is eating ravenously.

5. Weakness and lethargy. The pet is tired all the time, and seems to have lost interest in life.

6. Lowered resistance to infections. Recurring urinary tract infections are common in diabetic dogs because the high sugar content in the urine encourages bacterial growth.

7. Breath smells sweet or fruity. If the dog's breath smells like nail polish remover, this is a symptom of ketoacidosis, which requires immediate veterinary treatment.

8. Abdominal Pain. Some owners notice that the dog will yell when getting up or lying down, or when petted in the abdominal area. Damage to the pancreas is the reason for the pain.

9. Sudden Cataracts. Cataract forms when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy and opaque resulting in blindness, vision loss & impairment. When diabetes strikes, the blood sugar levels rise all over the body. Glucose in the eyeball is absorbed into the lens. In turn, this causes the lens to absorb more water, which causes the cloudiness and vision loss in cataracts.

Pinpointing the causes of diabetes can lower your pets risk of developing this disease.  So what are the causes of canine diabetes?

1. Canine Obesity. Dogs that are overweight have a higher risk of getting diabetes. If your dog is obese, his body will require an increased amount of insulin; when the required amount exceeds the amount your dog's pancreas can produce, the result is diabetes.

Your dog should be eating a high-quality canned food high in fiber and low in fats and carbohydrates. Some dog owners are even going the extra mile by making their own dog food. We know it can be tempting with those puppy eyes, but avoid feeding table scraps and treats, which are very high in sugar.

2. Reproductive Hormones. Fluctuations in your dog's hormonal cycle can disrupt insulin regulation. Therefore, spaying your dog not only curbs the problem of pet overpopulation, but can reduce your dogs risk of being diagnosed with diabetes. Particularly, middle-aged females are 2-3 times more likely to develop diabetes in canines than male dogs are. The hormone estrogen  can interfere with insulin production.

3. Dogs Breed Genetically Predisposed. Although any dog can develop diabetes, there are certain breeds at higher risk for developing diabetes. The list includes: Dachshunds, Miniature pinchers, Golden retrievers, Beagles, Keeshonds, German shepherds, Poodles, Schnauzers, Cairn terriers, Cocker spaniels.

4. Steroids. If your dog is being given regular doses of glucocorticoids or progestagens, he could develop diabetes. Steroids can disrupt pancreas function, causing the under-production of insulin.

5. Illness. Diabetes can be triggered by another illness. If your dog already suffers from certain conditions, such as chronic pancreatitis or Cushing's disease, she is at higher risk for developing diabetes.

What is treatment for diabetes?

Management of your dogs diabetes starts first with a proper diet that consist of  low fat and low sugar meals.  Speak with your vet to determine a strict eating regimin of what your dog should or should not be ingesting. It will be necessary to feed the dog twice a day to avoid dips and spikes in blood sugar levels. You will also have to learn how to monitor the pet's blood glucose levels, and also how to give insulin shots twice a day.

Daily, consistent & low impact excercise such as walking or swimming is a great natural way to regulate your dogs blood sugar levels & trim the waistline. Consult your vet prior to setting up a canine excercise program for your diabetic pup. As always keep a close eye on your dog to make sure your dog does not suffer from hypoglycemia. Sure sign that your dogs blood sugar levels are low is dizziness and shakiness. One trick is to carry  little syrup or honey in a dropper to squirt in the pet's mouth or to rub on the gum's to increase the blood sugar to normal levels.

Here are a list of natural herbs straight from mother nature can be helpful in controlling your dogs diabetes:

1. Fenugreek is high in fiber, which slows down digestion causing glucose to enter  the bloodstream more slowly, preventing spikes in blood sugar after a meal. This herb stimulates the release of insulin. It also slows down the enzymes that break down carbohydrates, which helps to regulate blood glucose levels.

2. Goat's Rue herb helps lower blood glucose levels & reduce the risk of cataracts in dogs

3. Astragulus is a herb that helps regulates blood glucose levels & reduce the risk of cataracts. It also helps supports the immune system reducing your dogs risk of getting urinary tract & infections.

Remember that being diagnosed with diabetes does not mean the end of the world for you & your dog. Good news!! With proper diet, regular vet checkups, and being aware of causes & symptoms your dog can live a long healthy life!

Please make sure to check out our growing selection of dog treats, dog chews and of course bully sticks. Also, don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for Best Bully Stick News, New Products & Discounts!!