IT'S ON!

Poooh Busters Contest

Have you heard the news?! We know Christmas is coming soon so we have teamed up with our friends at Poooh Busters to bring you a chance to win one of two $50 Gift Certificates for the Pawhaus Pet Boutique!!

What do you have to do? Just go to the Pawhaus Online Shop at http://www.pawhauspetboutique.com/ and browse the site to find the Poooh Busters paw logo. You know the brown and yellow paw in their name? Once you find it, click on it and an email will open up. Type your name in the email message and hit send.

Find The Paw Contest - At The Pawhaus Pet Boutique That’s your official entry into the contest! The location of the paw logo will change every Monday for the entire month of November, so go back each week to find the  new location and get another entry in. You can enter up to four times! Winners will be drawn on Saturday, December 4th. For more info visit the Poooh Busters blog at http://www.pooohbusters.blogspot.com/.

Wet Noses are Happy Noses

We recently have added treats to our store and one of the brands that we have heard great things about is Wet Noses.  Made in the USA with organic ingredients - NO CHEMICALS, PRESERVATIVES, ANIMAL BY PRODUCTS, CORN, WHEAT, SOY OR WEIRD STUFF!!!  We can give our little furry friends something that is tasty and nutritious without having to worry about what is in it.  They have great flavours like, Chedder, Peanut Butter and Pumpkin - but they also have tiny treats that are perfect for small dogs or for training.

And perfect for the Holidays - their Apple Pie and Sweet Potato Pie flavours are back!  An excellent gift for under the tree (although, you may have to have Santa put it there the morning of opening presents, otherwise someone may find it and open it before the big day!) or for those on your list that you know are always looking for something good for their furry friends.

Check out Wet Noses today!

New Beds, Styles and More from Bowsers Pet Products

We at the Pawhaus are very impressed with the Bowsers products that we carry.  We personally have 4 of their beds for the girls - one of which has withstood many, many washings over the past 4 years (yes, FOUR years!) and we aren't talking little washes - we are talking full blown, hot water - sanitize washes and usually at least once a month.  It's a bed the girls use often and that is in the space designated for them when we aren't at home, so it can get a little scudgy.

That's why we are so excited to see the new styles and products that Bowsers has recently released!

Bowsers products are made with the highest quality, furniture-grade, 100% virgin polyester fibre fill for superior loft and resilience.  They wash wonderfully and can blend into or match any decor.  No longer are the dog beds the eye sores in the living room or bed rooms! 

One of the most exciting products that have released this season are the Crate covers!  Your Wired Crate has Never Looked Better! This luxury cover, not only gives your dog privacy and security, but adds a touch of class to unattractive, ordinary wire crates.The finishing touch to our overwhelmingly popular luxury crate mattress! The most practical and stylish crate set on the market. Machine washable and dryable.

So check out what's new at Bowsers and see how their styles can make such a different in your and your pets life!

Make an older dog's life easier with these tips

Your dog may breeze through years of senior citizenship without any significant health issues, but sooner or later, age catches up with even the most resilient of canine companions.

You may one day discover that your dog can’t see or hear anymore, or that he’s developed an irritable streak where he didn’t have one before. In many cases, the first really distressing issue to come up is incontinence — an old dog may dribble urine in his bed or in the house — and suddenly you have a problem.

Any time a new health issue develops, the best course of action is to have it checked out by your dog’s veterinarian. And there’s this good news: Many problems are treatable at any age, including cognitive dysfunction — doggy dementia — which can be eased for many dogs with medication.
Time, of course, will not be denied. But even for those things that cannot be aided by your veterinarian, you can take matters into your own hands and help your dog age gracefully and comfortably.
Remember, this is an animal who adores you, who lives for your approval and affection. As he begins to lose his health, he needs your assurance more than ever.
Some special situations you may deal with:

• Blind dogs: Maintain your blind dog’s environment with minimal change. Dogs actually adapt amazingly well when they lose their eyesight — as long as you don’t start rearranging the furniture. If your dog knows his way around your house and yard and has a walking route that suits him, try to keep these things constant to prevent injuries and put him at ease.

• Deaf dogs: For a dog who lives in a soundless world, sudden contact can be unnerving. It can also be dangerous for the person who delivers the shock, since your dog may nip out of fear. Learn how to let your dog know you’re coming, and teach any children who have contact how to do so, too. Many dogs are hearing-impaired but not completely deaf, and for those a couple of simple hand claps are enough to get his attention. If your dog is completely deaf, step loudly as you approach him — your footfalls will cause a vibration that can be felt even if it’s not heard.

• Leaky dogs: If your dog has overnight incontinence, know that the situation probably upsets him even more than it upsets you. Take him out last thing before bedtime, and then provide a water-absorbent barrier in his bedding. You can use a puppy pad, cut-up pieces of a water-resistant mattress pad, or an upside-down, rubber-backed bath mat. Whatever you use will need to be washed or replaced daily, but the extra loads of laundry are a small price to pay to ensure your senior dog is comfortable.

Once again, be sure to work with your veterinarian on the challenges of age. Be especially keen on the combinations of prescription pain medications and so-called “neutraceuticals” — over-the-counter supplements like glucosamine and omega-3 oils — that can make life comfortable.
Slow down, be patient, be helpful. You’ll both feel better for the time you spend with your sweet older dog.
All information copyright 2010 by Dr. Marty Becker and Gina Spadafori. This information is provided for the personal use of Pet Connection readers and may not be reproduced in any way or in any media without expressed, written permission of Dr. Marty Becker, Gina Spadafori, Honest Dog L.L.C. and the Universal Press Syndicate.

Tips for Surviving the Scariest Night of the Year

By:  Modern Dog Magazine

The spookiest night of the year is almost upon us. For kids and many adults, its a howling good time, but for many dogs... not so much. Superstar behaviourist and MD blogger Colleen Safford shares tips for a happy—& safe—Halloween.

Issue 1: Costumes. I know. I know. How do you NOT dress the Dachshund up as a hotdog? It's just too easy. But, as a trainer, I've seen moms and dads with bitten hands because, well, it wasn't so easy after all. Err on the side of caution. Halloween is supposed to be fun after all, and if your dog is stressed or miserable in his or her costume, well then, it's not so much fun! If you opt to select a costume, be sure it's safe. Some pups like to nibble, and loose parts that dangle or those that can be swallowed are hazardous to your dog. Make sure your dog can still wear his appropriate leash/collar and IDENTIFICATION when wearing his or her costume.

Solution: If your dog is less enthused about dressing up, a cute bandanna or festive collar (or wig?!) is perfect.

Issue 2: Candy. It's well known that chocolate and dogs do not mix. If your dog consumes chocolate, call your vet immediately. He or she will likely want to know the amount consumed and will advise you on the appropriate course of action. Sparkly, crackly oh-so-fun to play with candy wrappers can also pose a threat when consumed. Lastly, Xylitol, a sweetener used in some candies, is poisonous to our four legged family members.

Solution: To avoid treats from becoming tricks, always place all candy up high on shelves or in closed cabinets. If possible, avoid having Xylitol and chocolate in your home on this night when you are going to be a bit distracted.

Issue 3: Revolving door of trick or treaters. Halloween is not without a lot of hustle and bustle. Knocking at the door, a ringing doorbell, an opening and closing door, and a constant stream of strangers arriving to your home—dressed up, no less, and screaming "trick or treat!"—are all just part of the festive evening. If your dog is reactive to strangers coming to your home, or the sounds of the door, he may feel overwhelmed by all of the commotion. The opening and closing door also poses a flight risk for nervous dogs or those who simply lack impulse control and want to race out and join in the fun.

Solution: Keep your pooch safely enclosed behind a closed door or crated during trick-or-treat hours. Give your dog an activity to pass the time, like a food stuffed toy (Kong, Molecuball, Tricky Treat Ball). At the minimum, if your dog is not crated, be sure your dog is wearing a collar with identification, in case he or she gets out the door! If your dog is extremely reactive, stressed, and fearful, honestly, your best course of action is to turn off your lights, stick a bowl of apples on the porch (Ha! Who wants apples!?) and skip the festivities. Your priority is your pooch. He or she will be oh so grateful to not get such a fright on this chaotic night.

For more from Colleen, like "Puppy Parenting Reality Check - Peeing, Pooping and Chewing... Oh MY!" to "No Pulling! Tips for Teaching Your Dog to Walk Nicely on Leash," check out Colleen's blog, Secrets to a Good Dog.

Pre-Holiday Sale 20% Everything in the Store!

Frightfully fun: Avoiding Halloween pet hazards

By Pet Connection Staff

Goblins and ghouls aren’t all that’s scary about Halloween. Like all holidays, it poses its share of threats to dogs and cats, so pet owners need to keep these safety tips in mind. From Gina Spadafori in this week’s Pet Connection newspaper feature:

Like all holidays, Halloween is not without its hazards. The two biggest problems are injuries and poisoning — and animal emergency clinics traditionally see plenty of both. When you’re planning to include your pet in holiday plans, keep pet protection in the mix.

With the increase in activity around the neighborhood, cats and dogs get nervous, and some will take off if they can. That means an increase in the number of animals hit by cars. Other time, animals may be a cause of injury: All those costumed young visitors can trigger territorial instincts or fear responses in some dogs, who may then become a bite risk.

The best solution for nervous pets is to confine them for the evening in a crate or a quiet room far from the front door or any holiday festivities.

Many animal-welfare groups warn that black cats are at special risk around Halloween, claiming that cultists pick up the animals for ritual torture. Such concerns have led many shelters to halt the adoption of black cats in the days before Halloween.

In truth, such cruelties are so poorly documented that they surely happen rarely, if at all. Your black cat is more likely to be killed by a car than a cultist, since it’s difficult to see a black cat in the dark. But the threat of either is more than reason enough to keep him inside.

If you keep your pets confined safely inside the house, you will eliminate one source of risk. Keeping them away from the goodies will take care of the other risk.

Candy is a problem more for dogs than for cats because cats are generally picky about what they eat. Not so for many dogs, who’ll wolf down candy (wrappers and all) if given the opportunity, giving many a serious case of what veterinarians call “garbage gut.” While chocolate really isn’t the deadly threat many believe, a small dog who gets a large amount of dark chocolate does need veterinary intervention. A bigger threat to all pets, though, is from candy and gum sweetened with Xylitol. It’s deadly stuff for pets, so keep it out of their reach. (Read more about Halloween pet safety here…)

MeiMei and Miko take on Halloween 2010

Our girls have had some pretty darn cute costumes for Halloween in the past, and with all the selections that we have available at the Pawhaus this year, it's even more difficult to decide what they should wear!

So, we are going to post some pictures of them in their favorites, between now and the big day and then see which ones you liked the best!

Here is todays choice - it's a good one because it's a team costume

Monkey and Banana!! Let us know what you think!

New Holiday Collars at the Pawhaus

New Pawhaus Brand dog and cat collars are now available at the Pawhaus Pet Boutique!  Check out what is new and hot for Halloween!

Buy Yours Today!

Blanket ID: How it works, for you and your pet.

How blanket ID works from cate hubbard on Vimeo.

Lost Dog in Calgary

LostDog
Originally uploaded by thepawhaus

Please forward this onto anyone who you know in Calgary who could help:

Dude, who doesn't like cake?

We receive a brand spanking new shipment of Fifi's Favorite Carob and Buddy's Best Banana Puppy Cake Mixes today. MeiMei and Miko are huge fans of anything frosted. Okay, so they're huge fans of anything that could vaguely pass for a treat, but they love cake. Like spin-around-on-the-spot-shooting-drool-at-the-walls l-o-v-e.

The cake mixes have a nice spongy texture and a yummy taste. Sure by our human taste tests, it was kind of bland, but unlike cakes for people, Puppy Cakes are healthy and safe for your dogs. Made with whole wheat flour and honey to provide a nutritional snack. Top it with the yogurt frosting mix and you will be enhancing your dogs immune and digestive system.

New Costumes in Stock

We just got some new and some refill costumes for Halloween in stock - check out what we have for your furry ghouls and ghosts this season!

Order them fast - before they are gone!

Did Someone Say the "T" Word?

It's been a long time coming but we are finally carrying treats!!  We have named it our Treats and Supplements category and we hope that you will love what we have in stock and what we will be adding to it over the next while.  If you have any thoughts or suggestions, be sure to throw them our way and we will do our best to bring in what you need.

Recall Alert: Hartz Naturals Real Beef Treats for Dogs

This just in from the FDA this weekend.

The Hartz Mountain Corporation is voluntarily recalling one specific lot of Hartz Naturals Real Beef Treats for Dogs due to concerns that one or more bags within the lot may have been potentially contaminated with Salmonella. Hartz is fully cooperating with the US Food and Drug Administration in this voluntary recall.

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

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

Hartz Mountain Corporation is recalling 74,700 8-oz bags of Hartz Naturals Real Beef Treats for Dogs, lot code BZ0969101E, UPC number 32700-11519, which were imported by Hartz from a Brazilian supplier, Bertin S.A., and which were distributed to a number of customers in the United States. While regular testing conducted by Bertin (prior to shipment to the US) did not detect the presence of Salmonella in any packages of this product, random sample testing conducted by FDA did indicate the presence of Salmonella. Hartz is aggressively investigating the source of the problem.

Although Hartz has not received any reports of animals or humans becoming ill as a result of coming into contact with this product, Hartz is taking immediate steps to remove the product from all retail stores and distribution centers. Dog owners having purchased this product should check the lot code on their bag, and, if the code is not visible, or if the bag has lot code BZ0969101E imprinted thereon, they should immediately discontinue use of the product and discard it in a proper manner.

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

Wild Bites - MeiMei tested, Miko Approved

We recently brought in some new treats to the Pawhaus Pet Boutique and honestly, no one seems more excited than MeiMei and Miko, our two pugs!

Wild Bites are one of the trusted brands that we have been giving the girls for a long time. They are made in Canada and are very high in protein and do not contain any fillers or spices. The Organic Buffalo and Organic Buffalo Minis products are made of organic, free-range, non-medicated ostrich and buffalo trim meat, making our treats extremely healthy, nutritious and delicious.

Here are our tasters:The Wild Bites Buffalo Minis are perfect for small dogs and even better for dogs with allergies, like our Miko. There are no preservatives, fillers. Ingredients:

• organic buffalo lean meat
• heart and liver from buffalo
• collagen
• salt
• natural rosemary extract

First for MeiMei to try and savor:
and then for Miko to inhale
They both loved them so much, they were begging for more!
Currently we have Wild Bites Original Pepperoni, Buffalo Minis and Buffalo Minis with Blueberry in small (perfect to sample) and large packs. Try one with your pups today!

momstown Kitchener-Waterloo: Molly Mutt Dog/Cat Duvet & Stuff Sack

momstown Kitchener-Waterloo: Molly Mutt Dog/Cat Duvet & Stuff Sack: "The Pawhaus Pet Boutique is for the pet owner that wants unique & high quality products for their cats & dogs. We scour the pet industry's ..."

July Newsletter

July Newsletter is live!! Check out what is happening this month, including some great tips for keeping your pet safe in the heat.

Too Hot for Spot: Save Dogs this Summer

From the PETA website:

Be a Dog Defender: Save Dogs This Summer!

Summer is a season for celebrations—the Fourth of July, beach trips, picnics in the park, and barbecues! However, it can be a very dangerous time for dogs. Every year, countless dogs die after overheating inside parked cars. We need you to be a dog defender by looking out for dogs who are locked in hot cars. You can be the difference between life and death for dogs this summer.

Prevent Heatstroke by TakingThese Precautions:Never leave a dog in a parked car.
On a mild 73ºF day, the temperature inside a car can reach 120ºF in 30 minutes.
On a 90ºF day, the interior of a vehicle can reach 160ºF in minutes.

If you see a dog in a car and in distress, take down the car’s color, model, make, and
license-plate number, have the owner paged inside nearby stores, and call local
humane authorities or police. Have someone keep an eye on the dog. If police are
unresponsive or too slow and the dog’s life appears to be in imminent danger,
find a witness (or several) who will back your assessment, take steps to remove
the suffering animal, and then wait for authorities to arrive. Contact PETA for
a supply of fliers on the dangers of heatstroke to leave on windshields.

Don’t carry your dog in the bed of a pickup truck. This is always dangerous, but the heat brings the added danger of burning the dog’s feet on the hot metal.
Don’t take your dog jogging—except on cool mornings or evenings—and don’t force exercise. On long walks, rest often and take plenty of water. Hot pavement can burn dogs’ paws; choose shady, grassy routes.

Trim heavy-coated dogs’ fur, but leave an inch for protection against insects and
sunburn. Keep an eye on areas where hair is thin, like eyelids, ears, and nose
as they can get sunburned. Keep your dog indoors. If he or she must stay
outside for long, avoid the hottest part of the day. Provide shade, water, and a
kiddie pool. Keep drinking water in an anchored bucket or a heavy bowl that
won’t tip over.

Be a watchdog for chained dogs. Make sure that they have food, water, and shelter. If you see a dog in distress, contact humane authorities. Give the dog immediate relief by providing water.

With summer right around the corner, remind people about the dangers of leaving unattended animals inside hot vehicles. Thank you for taking action to save dogs during these dog days!

Antlerz

Our Miko to chew on her Antlez - now small and medium sizes back in stock!

Throw out your bowls

Today on “The Pet Doctor with Marty Becker” on ABC News NOW, our Dr. Becker gave pet owners their marching orders: Throw out the pet food bowls!

Using food puzzles as well as creative — and free! — game strategies, pets can get both mental and physical work-outs along with their meals, more like those their wild ancestors got. Consider that a prescription for today’s epidemic of pet obesity, and the boredom and destructiveness that come along with them.

You can watch the video on the ABC website, or right here!

From the Pet Connection Blog.

Check out what interactive games and food dishes/toys we have at the Pawhaus Pet Boutique.

Check out my @constantcontact newsletter

http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs055/1101924639888/archive/1103447724678.html

New Wooflink in Stock

Cool clothes are not only for people anymore!

Have you ever thought that you are wearing the coolest clothes, but your little buddies are still wearing boring pet clothes? Shouldn’t we dress them better to make them look as good as you are, but still comfortable?

With this in mind, Wooflink brought various fashionable clothes.

We are very proud that we carry the hottest trends with reasonable price. We give all our products the highest standards available. Our lifetime goal is to provide clients the best quality and the hottest trends in very wide ranges. Under Wooflink brand, we are trying to expand our range, not only dog clothing.

Find your pooch a great new outfit today! Start Shopping

Cocotherapy Oil Helps prevent Giardia

Did you know that, in Calgary, vets aren't vaccinating for Giardia anymore.

Cocotherapy Coconut oil may provide an effective defense against many parasites including giardia. Like bacteria and fungi, giardia can't stand up against medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA) found in coconut oil. Research has confirmed the effectiveness of MCFA in... destroying giardia and possibly other protozoa. By using coconut oil every day, you may be able to destroy giardia and prevent or control parasite infestations.

Your Dog Needs more than JUST FAST FOOD to THRIVE!

By Deb Dempsey
Co-owner Mouthful’s Pet Boutique
www.mouthfuls.net

If you’re a regular reader of The American Dog, then you’re probably already feeding a high-quality kibble to your precious four-legged fur baby. But, and there’s always a “but” with me, that’s merely the first step. Your dog needs more than just kibble in his daily diet. Think about it—we don’t feed our two-legged children the same “nutritionally complete” dry cereal at every meal for their entire lifetime. Why do we do that to our dogs and then expect them to thrive?

Oprah’s Veterinarian for her Chicago dogs, Dr. Barbara Royal, is a passionate advocate for species-appropriate nutrition and summed it up this way: “Yes, we feed dry kibble because it’s easy—that’s the bottom line. However, many health issues are due to a diet based on convenience, rather than on what’s essential for an animal’s optimal health.” I couldn’t agree with her more, and I believe that’s the case with all species, including us humans.

Dr. Royal further explains, “When dry food hits the stomach, it is not what the stomach expects. The large, dry lump of material needs a huge influx of water just to break it up and let it pass into the intestines. This means an abnormal amount of water drinking, and possibly mild dehydration as fluid is taken from the body for this task. There are many ramifications for the kidneys, general health, and even incontinence issues.”

Understand your dog’s digestive process

While humans begin the digestive process in our mouths, using digestive enzymes in our saliva, dogs don’t begin to digest their food until it hits their stomach. Many dog owners lament the fact that their dog gulps their food and never seems to chew. Canine teeth, however, were designed to rip the flesh of meat, not chew cud like a cow.

A dog’s stomach is a strong, muscular organ that mixes the food with hydrochloric acid, digestive enzymes, and mucus, which the stomach lining secretes to protect the stomach tissue. The food is held in the stomach until this initial digestion is complete and the food changes to a liquid consistency, similar to potato soup.

This “soup” is then pushed out of the stomach and into the small intestine. Further digestion takes place here with more enzymes added from the pancreas and liver. The absorption of nutrients takes place mainly in the small intestine. From there, the large intestine contains bacteria designed to break down any remaining fiber. If your dogs are clearing the room because of gas, chances are they are not digesting the plant material in their food.

A dog’s large intestine is mainly designed to absorb moisture, forming the stool. If a dog has loose stools, the addition of pureed pumpkin will help to absorb moisture.

Determining a dog’s ideal diet

For years, pet food companies and traditional veterinarians have told us that we should never feed table scraps to our dogs. Many of our clients sheepishly admit to slipping an occasional leftover to their dog and then look to me for forgiveness. Instead, I find myself patting them on the back and encouraging more real food to supplement their basic diet.

Dr. Royal advises that “there is no perfect dog food for every dog. The only way to find a 'perfect fit food' is to follow basic guidelines and see what works best.” She has absolute rules and flexible guidelines for her clients, and was kind enough to share them.

ABSOLUTE: Protein greater than 30% (dry matter basis, canned foods have a different measurement), avoid bad carbs (corn, wheat especially), avoid toxins, bad chemicals, and carcinogens (e.g. onions, chocolate, ethoxyquin, BHA, BHT).

FLEXIBLE: Try to feed foods with normal moisture content (avoid dry kibble), avoid other carbs (e.g. white potato), avoid too many chemicals (unpronounceable names and things you don’t recognize as food) or too many supplements (like garlic, which is a strong herbal medicine, and is best given in measured doses).

“I am always mindful of the financial constraints, preferences and lifestyle of the owner," Dr. Royal says. "After that, I factor in the lifestyle, physical response, and the preferences of the dog (working dog? couch potato?) and their physical reaction to the food (normal stool, healthy coat, good weight…) and then the food plan for a particular animal becomes apparent.”

Incorporate moisture into your dog’s diet

Most pet owners are hesitant to give up their dog’s dry kibble for convenience or financial reasons. I consistently have owners ask me if adding water to their dog’s kibble is a good idea to boost moisture content, so I posed this question to Dr. Royal. “It may help," she says, "but it is not an ideal solution. Canned, pre-prepared raw, or home-cooked foods are still better than dry processed food.”

I feed my own dogs a varied diet and advise our clients to do the same. A high-quality, dry kibble can be a good starting point and a convenient backup for most dog parents. Whenever your schedule and checkbook allow, however, try topping the food with raw or cooked meat, steamed veggies, homemade broth, or grain-free canned food. My canine cooking recipes on pages 24-33 are intended to inspire us to look at our dogs’ nutrition in a new way. Feeding dogs shouldn’t be left up to scientists and chemical labs.

Last thoughts

Just as our two-legged children can survive eating a diet of only fast food, dogs can obviously survive on a wide variety of diets, including those heavy in carbohydrates. The gold standard AAFCO, Inc. (American Association of Feed Control Officials) feeding trials need only prove that a dog can survive for 26 weeks while eating the food. The question that group hasn’t publicly addressed, however, is whether those dogs are thriving to their full potential.

Ideally, a dog’s diet should consist primarily of fresh meat that has lots of moisture. There are many wonderful, meat-based kibble formulas on the market these days, including Canidae, Evangers, Mulligan Stew, and Solid Gold. Dr. Royal especially favors grain-free formulas by Nature’s Variety Instinct, Wellness Core, Innova EVO, and Orijen. Topping those high-quality diets with a dollop of high-quality canned food or raw meat is a good step towards adding necessary moisture and helping the food pass through the stomach’s acid bath more quickly—giving the dog’s digestive system a better chance to utilize those high-quality nutrients.

FYI ...

The less moisture a dog has in his diet, the longer the food will stay in the stomach, mixing with hydrochloric acid and losing valuable nutrients. Therein, even if you’re feeding an incredibly wonderful kibble, many of those nutrients are lost to the stomach acid. Consider this: The total digestion time of raw food is generally 4-6 hours, while dry food may take 10-12 hours to go through a dog’s digestive tract.

Dr. Royal points out, “Animals eating only processed foods (dry kibble) have been shown to have significantly decreased enzyme levels in their intestinal villi. These enzymes are essential for proper nutrient processing. Highly processed foods increase quick absorption and speed motility in a way that is not always healthful. Without proper enzymes and transit time, the GI tract can’t properly prepare and absorb nutrients. The processed food therefore alters the ability of the intestines to be an effective “border patrol,” determining which molecules are allowed to pass from the GI tract into the animal’s bloodstream.”


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Dr. Barbara Royal, DVM, owns and operates The Royal Treatment Veterinary Center, offering general as well as specialty complimentary veterinary services to her clients in the Chicago area. Read more about her practice at www.royaltreatmentveterinarycenter.com

Are CocoTherapy® Coconut Chips Different from Dehydrated Coconut Chips found in Health Food Stores?

Are CocoTherapy® Coconut Chips Different from Dehydrated Coconut Chips found in Health Food Stores?

From the Facebook Page of CocoTherapy®:

We often receive questions on the differences between organic coconut flakes you can buy at health food stores and CocoTherapy® Coconut Chips. While many of the benefits may be similar, CocoTherapy Coconut Chips are made specifically for maximum digestibility, while the traditional dehydrated coconut chips are not. What you see here may surprise you.Dehydrated coconut meat is rich in nutrients and fiber; however it can be difficult to digest for most animals. We produce our CocoTherapy Coconut Chips in a special way to be highly digestible and easily assimilated in the body, while providing all the beneficial nutrients from medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA). Unlike other dehydrated coconut chips or flakes available in your grocery aisles or even health food stores, CocoTherapy coconut chips break down easily and quickly with just water.

Proof is in the Chips

The digestive system of some animals can not tolerate the typical raw dehydrated coconut chips found in grocery stores. Feeding your pets typical dehydrated coconut chips may stress their digestive system and often times the undigested coconut chips are passed either in the animal’s stool or vomit. However, our CocoTherapy Coconut Chips were uniquely developed to be easily digestible for animals. To see how quickly CocoTherapy coconut chips break down, we took a leading dehydrated organic coconut chips brand (purchased from a popular health food store) and CocoTherapy Coconut Chips and placed them in a saucer of water.Here, you can see typical dehydrated organic coconut chips (left) and CocoTherapy Coconut Chips (right), placed in a saucer full of water:
In just a 30 seconds, the CocoTherapy Coconut Chips (right) already began to break down:

In just under a minute, the CocoTherapy Coconut Chips (right) has broken down in the water; while the other organic coconut chips (left) has no changes at all: In just three minutes, the CocoTherapy Coconut Chips (right) have completely absorbed the water and has a smooth, soft texture. The other organic coconut chips (left) have not broken down and still has water in the saucer:
CocoTherapy Coconut Chips are perfect for providing highly digestible fiber for animals with digestive disorders, IBD, colitis, while providing all the nutritional benefits of coconut oil. It is easily digested by dogs, cats, birds, and other small mammals.