There is a lot of debate about the use of bear bells on ourselves or our pets. The old joke “What's in grizzly bear scat that isn't in black bear scat? Bear bells." Funny or not, the idea behind bells is to warn any predator of your presence. Dogs, being natural predators themselves, can spook wild animals if you aren’t careful. Bells are an easy way to ward off a potential ambush. Personally, I prefer to enjoy the sounds of nature and hearing a bell constantly as my pet is gallivanting through the forest isn’t my favorite option. In these instances, I rely on a few items to keep us safe: bear spray, my voice, and a couple of rocks.
Bear spray shouldn’t be used until the threat of an attack is imminent. While hiking, I frequently clear my throat and communicate in a deeper-than-normal voice with my dog who remains in close proximity and has excellent recall. (If your pet does not come easily when called, keep them on a leash until they have learned this essential skill.) Additionally, I find rocks that fit in the palm of my hand and occasionally smack them together to create a loud echo. This technique, coupled with my voice, has served me well over the years.
In the case of hunters, they too will appreciate your less intrusive presence but also need to see you! Adding a fluorescent color to you and your pet is crucial to remaining safe when hunting season begins. For a pet, I don’t recommend handkerchiefs or collars that tend to be too difficult to see. A cape or vest that covers a larger portion of their body is a better option. Most are lightweight and some are even made with a cooling section for the belly if the extra coverage causes concern about overheating.
The Ultra Paws Safety Vest is a lightweight option providing high visibility
The key to staying safe boils down to being heard and being seen. Be smart out there by being prepared!
]]>Most of the time, this is nothing to worry about. During intense summer heat, pets often have a lack of appetite. Here are some suggestions that can help you determine if this is simply a response to the heat.
Food Temperatures
Foods have different “energies.” Some foods can warm up a pet’s system. Warm foods include chicken, turkey, trout, and lamb. Think of this as you would a jalapeño. When you eat it, it heats up your system and you sweat. On a smaller scale, the same happens with these animal proteins.
Similarly, sweet potato, basil, rosemary, thyme, sage, cinnamon, turmeric, and ginger are all sources of “hot” foods and spices. Recently, I was out on a hike with my dog and, absent mindedly, fed her a piece of chicken jerky that had turmeric and sage in it. She ate it but was instantly panting excessively and looking for every fresh and cooling blade of grass she could find to cool her system down.
Fatty Proteins
Salmon is a very fatty fish, no matter which part of the fish you feed. The same goes for sardines, herring, and mackerel. While these can be incredibly healthy proteins in many ways, it is best to reserve them for cooler months. Eggs are also a high fat source of protein. If your pet has a desire to eat and eats foods high in fat, he may end up with digestive upset in warmer weather.
Energy Level and Loss of Appetite
Pets tend to follow food intake based on energy spent. If the hotter days are preventing you from going out on big hikes or your pet isn’t playing as hard or as often as usual, their food intake will in most cases be reduced. Unlike the Labrador, who usually continue to consume whatever is put in front of them, there are many animals that are more in tune with their bodies and will fast if they haven’t had the exercise to justify the intake. It is completely normal to skip a breakfast if hot weather has been around for a few days.
Consider fasting your pet once a week or simply give them a raw meaty bone in the late evening for dinner. Just be sure to provide a size appropriate for the size of the dog.
Choose cooler proteins such as beef, rabbit, duck, whitefish, carp, tripe, liver, kidney, or yogurt. For a quick treat or cooling mix-ins, try fruits and veggies like blueberries, broccoli, cranberries, kale, kelp, lettuce, raspberries, seaweed, and watermelon.
Making these simple adjustments and viewing your pet’s behavior through a different lens may make the difference in your approach to this common shift during the summer and keep you both seeking fun in the water or the shade!
]]>To squash a myth associated with dogs with thick coats, also called double coats, shaving these dogs will NOT keep them cooler. The soft undercoat is designed to naturally shed as temperatures rise, leaving only the top guard hairs which protect your dog from sunburn and insulate him against the heat. Air can then circulate through the guard hairs to cool the skin. Consequently, shaving a dog with a double coat causes the undercoat to grow back first, its purpose being to keep your dog warm in the winter by absorbing the sun’s rays. Ask your groomer to only bathe and blow/comb out the undercoat but not to shave them.
For other dogs, consider a cooling mat or vest. Cooling mats are activated by the pressure of your dog’s body. Active dogs may prefer a vest soaked in cold water that they wear against their chest.
For all dogs, be sure to:
1. Always carry water. –Water bottles with attached cups are helpful to keep your dog hydrated.
2. Let them rest. – Highly active dogs often don’t know when to stop. Monitor them during long periods of activity. Years ago, our 90lb lab collapsed from overheating and we not only had to douse him with all the water we had but also carry him down the hill. It was scary, dangerous, and a lesson learned the hard way.
3. Get them wet. – Either in fresh water or a kiddie pool in the backyard.
4. Our favorite. - Provide an immune boosting, joint enhancing ice cream made especially by Happy Hounds. These highly nutritious treats are made with goats milk and bone broth or fruit that dogs and cats go crazy over, especially during the hottest days of the year. We make these in house year round so that pets always have a healthy affordable treat.
Following these tips can make all the difference to your pet’s well-being. Enjoy the hot days but keep a cool head for the sake of you and your pet.
]]>Like many pet owners, my dogs are family and we want to share our lives with them as much as possible. This means they recreate with us any chance we have the opportunity to do so. One of my favorite pastimes is on the water.Living in the Flathead, who couldn’t say that?
When you bring along Fido, consider their abilities to navigate different types of water and add the safety of a life vest. While there are dogs that are practically born in the water and one would never think this was a necessary accessory, unexpected things can happen and you need a way to handle them when they arise. Each scenario may differ greatly, but your ability to control the situation can make all the difference. Consider for example, an area of swift moving water. I had a Labrador that wasn’t a strong swimmer. A life vest gave her the opportunity to stay buoyant enough to keep her above water when rapids would toss her around. I’ve also had dogs who don’t love water and have fallen overboard after spotting other dogs or wildlife. A life vest gives you both peace of mind as well as a grab handle to easily and quickly pull them back on board. Lastly, and maybe most importantly is the aging dog. While I’ve had dogs who could swim across the lake in their prime, as they age and strength begins to wane, it becomes increasingly more difficult for them to keep their heads fully above water. This can be a dangerous situation if your dog is gasping for air and constantly gulping water as a result.
It is worth every penny to invest in a life vest for every member of your family, furry and non. If it keeps the life you love safe, you can enjoy the extra time on the water that it affords you without worry. Have fun and stay safe!
]]>It is distressing to see our pets biting at and licking themselves constantly in hope of some relief from their itchy skin. Is it yeast that is causing this problem? Let's take a deeper look into the common symptoms of yeast and what we can do about it.
If yeast is the problem, these are some telltale signs:
• Skin redness or itching
• Sticky or yellow/green discharge
• Sores
• Hair loss
• Bad smell (could smell like baked bread or corn flakes) and greasy hair (seborrhea)
• Thickening skin
• Crusty, flaky skin
• Recurring ear infections and head shaking
• Chewing or licking the feet
• Dark rusty-red hair between the toes
• Black skin (often with hair loss)
• Speckles on the underbelly
• Hair loss on the tail and upper back
• Grayish or rust color around the genitals
• Diarrhea
Whether or not your pet has any of the above symptoms, we recommend a Glacier Peak Wellness Life Stress Scan to determine the root cause of the issue. Whether it is digestive, itching, lethargy, depression, or something else, this test can help you narrow down what is going on in your pet's body. Simply switching foods can resolve a lot of problems when you know what to avoid.
IF YEAST SYMPTOMS ARE PRESENT:
Adored Beast's Yeasty Beast Protocol can be an effective way to eliminate stubborn itching caused by yeast. The effectiveness of the Protocol depends on how severe the yeast overgrowth is. The worse or higher number of symptoms, the more work will need to be done to remove the yeast. Adored Beast recommends in cases where itching continues after the protocol has been completed (and yeast has been determined as the culprit) that you repeat the protocol again. If you used up some of the products in the protocol, you can always purchase them individually.
After the second round of the protocol, yeast issues should be cleared up. Keep the gut strong by rotating probiotics. For example, if you choose Adored Beast’s probiotics, my recommendation would be to start with Gut Soothe and then Healthy Gut, moving on to Love Bugs, then the Wolf, and finally Fido’s Flora. Finish each bottle before starting the next one. Once this cycle of probiotics is complete, you can opt to rotate between Healthy Gut, Love Bugs, the Wolf, and Fido’s Flora. This is just an example of a probiotic supplement regimen that happens to be all Adored Beast products. We find their products are superior to many on the market today. If you find there is another pet probiotic brand that works well, add it into the rotation.
MY DOG IS STILL ITCHY, NOW WHAT?
If, after a second round, your dog is still itchy, the situation could be leaky gut. The intestinal cell wall is like a cheese cloth. Yeast adheres to the cell walls and begins to penetrate, breaking down the cellular structure and moving deeper into the cells until it finds its way through, ultimately causing leaky gut. This allows other forms of bad bacteria to disperse into the system rather than moving out through elimination.
Here is an illustration of a normal intestinal cell wall and a leaky gut cell wall (photo credit: VCAHospitals.com)
In the most severe cases of yeast, we recommend Adored Beast's Relief Protocol. This would involve a ten-week process as follows:
2 Weeks
Yeast Beast Protocol
2 Weeks
Fido's Flora
2 Weeks
Leaky Gut Protocol (powders at ½ dose)
2 Weeks
Fido's Flora
2 Weeks
Yeasty Beast Protocol
Maintain Liver Tonic & Phyto Synergy daily throughout the entire process. Repeat the protocol as necessary until symptoms have alleviated.
IF NO YEAST SYMPTOMS EXIST:
If you aren’t seeing any of the symptoms listed above, yeast is probably not the cause of the itching. You could simply add a high dose immune booster for 10 days (Glacier Peak’s Peak Immune or Adored Beast’s Phyto Synergy are excellent options), add a fish oil supplement if you haven’t already, and give your pet a deep external wash with any shampoo for allergy relief to help them through the issue. Also give your pet a good brushing to help stimulate the hair follicles so that they help promote natural oils from the skin.
Ideally, once the itching is resolved, continuing with a raw or lightly cooked high quality pet food should prevent any future yeast developments. Reduce the number of starches – a starch is what makes dry kibble and treats stick together into their forms (i.e., bone shaped biscuits, dry kibble diets, jerky treats made with rice, pea, or potato). And no, dogs do NOT need kibble or crunchy biscuits to help with their teeth. If starch is present, it will actually CAUSE plaque buildup. See our article Dry Dog Food and The Myth of Cleaner Teeth.
My Plott Hound, Bisou, has been to the vet three times in her seven years: her initial spaying, a foxtail seed in her ear canal, and a torn toenail. She has been raw fed since we adopted her and rarely gets an itch that isn't easily resolved with an extra raw egg, boost of fish oil or some peak immune in the spring when the pollen flies. Her teeth are beautifully white, her coat is shiny and as soft as velvet and her joints are as flexible as the day we got her at 1 year of age.
Our newest addition, Stewie, is now 9 months old and came to us with a host of problems, including itchy skin. A Glacier Peak Wellness test was performed to rule out his food sensitivities and then he was switched to a raw diet. All of his symptoms have disappeared and he is now a happy and vibrant husky/lab mix.
If only we gave our own bodies the level of care and concern we want for our pets....what a happy and healthy world this would be!
]]>(Click here for a link to all tick products we have to offer)
Herbal tick spray – Choose a spray that contains essential oils like
cedarwood, peppermint or Neem. Apply over the entire body,
concentrating on the groin and pit areas while avoiding the face. Brush
into your pet’s coat and wipe the ears with a few sprays on a cloth or
paper towel. Reapply if your pet has been in the water.
Tick Shampoo – If your pet has existing ticks, there are several
varieties of tick shampoos on the market. Those with herbs and
essential oils are very effective. Let the suds sit on your pet for twenty
minutes before rinsing. This should kill any existing ticks and help
ward off new ones.
Tick removal tools - These small and easily packable wonders are
uniquely shaped, getting underneath a tick’s mouth to quickly and
painlessly remove an embedded tick. You can add a dab of petroleum
jelly to the tail end of the tick to cut off its oxygen and help it release.
We don’t recommend removing a tick with tweezers as they often
leave the head of the tick behind on your pet. This can be painful and
become infected.
Topical drops – Similar to the chemical variety, but without the harsh
synthetics and chemicals, there are natural drops that you administer
once every month between the shoulder blades to protect your pet
from unwanted bites.
Collars - If the constant smell of herbs and essential oils on your pet is
a concern, try a flea and tick collar that your pet only needs to wear
when pests are a concern. For maximum effectiveness, replace the
collar every three months. These tend to be waterproof so do not
worry if they get wet.
Internal Powders - The nutrients, vitamins and minerals in a powder
form that you feed to your dog or cat can naturally support their
immune functions and change their odor so that fleas, ticks,
mosquitoes and other parasites are repelled by their scent or the taste
of their blood. The scent is undetectable to humans, making this a
fantastic option for those with sensitive noses.
For your pet’s health, make it a priority to choose a natural product
made without DEET, synthetic chemicals, phthalates, pesticides or
herbicides. It’s an easy and affordable choice when it comes to finding
a results oriented solution to ticks and their pesky counterparts. As a
result, you will enjoy the outdoors with fewer things to worry about.
Story by Julie Johannes, owner of Happy Hounds Pet Supply
]]>Chemical tick treatments can have negative side effects on a pet’s digestive tract, internal organs and overall health, both short and long term. Thankfully, there are natural home remedies for both animals and humans to ward off these pesky pests that are both safe and effective.
Herbal flea and tick topicals– Mix equal parts Yarrow Powder, Diatomaceous Earth and Neem Powder in a shaker jar. (Replace the Yarrow with Catnip if using for a cat.) Apply as necessary, avoiding the face and brush into your pet’s coat.
Tick Shampoo – If your pet has existing ticks, mix several drops of Cedarwood oil with your favorite cat/dog safe lavender shampoo. Let the suds sit on your pet for twenty minutes before rinsing. This should kill any existing ticks or prevent new ones. (You may wish to spot treat a cat’s coat considering they are quite challenging to bathe!)
Citrus repellent – Cut a lemon into quarters and put into a pint jar. Cover with boiling water and let steep overnight. Put the solution in a spray bottle and spray your pet behind the ears, the head, avoiding the eyes and mouth, the hind end, and under each leg. For additional protection, a few drops of clove oil can be added to the mixture.
Make-at-home repellants aren’t for everyone. If this is the case for you, drop by our store or click here to inquire about and purchase safe and effective options for your pet that are safe for you as well.
Here’s to happy, tick free hiking ahead!
]]>First, you have beef which would be fine except that you need to know where this is sourced. This is a cheap bag of treats, so the sourcing is probably awful. (When I say “sourcing”, I mean where does this meat come from. Cheaper meats usually come from what are considered 4D sources: dead, diseased, decaying or dying animals, or even locations like China. This can include animals that have been euthanized. Hello phenobarbital!)
Meat byproducts – an UNNAMED protein - that is scary....again think about roadkill, euthanized animals, sick/diseased animals...
Soy grits - that's just GMO and soy is not that easy for dogs to digest so I try to avoid it in my dog’s diet at any cost.
Liver - well again, where is it sourced and from what animal?
Sugar – SUGAR? They add this to make it addictive and taste better. Dogs should not eat sugar. In a dog’s body, this can quickly lead to diabetes.
Then we have bacon - again, where is that pork sourced from?
Salt. - Another craving additive.
Propylene glycol - that is a water absorber. Dogs need more water not less water! (I cannot stress this point enough, especially if you feed a dry dog food.) I looked up propylene glycol and the internet shows images of huge tubs of this chemical stuff. I was disgusted.
Garlic powder, potassium sorbate, and caramel color - Do you think your dog cares what color his treat is? The Red 40 colorant in this is linked to studies done on cancer. It is one of the three most common colorant culprits linked to cancers.
Then there’s natural smoke flavor, onion extract (raw onion is toxic to dogs) and...
BHA - again a preservative that is linked to cancer. BHA found in foods has been known to be carcinogenic.
I cannot in good conscience donate this to the shelter.
When considering dog treats, there are some incredibly healthy and still inexpensive treats out there with named and well-sourced ingredients. Choose them over something like this – your dog will thank you for looking out for his health.
Thanks!
*Disclaimer: The above statements are my opinions based on research I have done and my own experience. It is always recommended that you do your own research to determine what is best for your pets.
]]>I was fortunate enough to work with a very skilled holistic vet in my area on what I now call Life Stew. When my second lab, Ouzo, developed hind leg weakness at an early age, I wanted to know why. At the time, I was feeding her Taste of the Wild, thinking this was one of the best foods on the market. Never once did it occur to me that feeding a dry food would be a concern. It was complete and balanced after all: Didn't this mean it was good for her? When discussing the symptoms with my vet, she mentioned that my dog could be chronically dehydrated and that her cells were not delivering enough lubrication to her joints, hence the hind leg weakness. So began the long road of learning about animal nutrition and the evolution of the Life Stew recipe.
This concoction has helped many animals over the years with ailments like arthritis, hind leg weakness, and dry skin, in addition to different types of cancers. This is not a cure all, nor a complete and balanced meal so I recommend adding a vitamin and mineral supplement for home cookers such as Carna4 or Canine Everyday Essentials to be sure their pet is getting everything they need in their diet. However, it is my recommendation that one always work with a vet skilled in nutrition that can modify the recipe based on an individual pet's needs. Each pet will be different in how they react to the recipe. Some may go through what is called a "healing crisis" when switched over to this food, especially if the pet has been fed a dry diet its entire life. (A healing crisis is the body's initial purge of toxins which makes one feel worse for a brief period before getting better.) This can take on the form of general malaise, diarrhea, upset stomach, excess dandruff, or gummy ears. In most cases, a healing crisis goes away after a few days to a week, depending on how ill the animal was to begin with. Then the real magic should begin. You may start to notice that your pet is hungrier or climbs the stairs with renewed vigor. Perhaps they simply look better. If you get any signs that lead you to believe your pet is feeling better, keep it up! If, however, after the healing crisis period has passed, you are not seeing any positive results, then this might not be the right recipe. At that point, it will be up to you and your vet to either modify the recipe or go another route.
I am always happy to share this recipe and encourage people to alter it however works best with your lifestyle, availability, and budget. A friend of mine, whose chihuahua mix, Kaia, was diagnosed with cancer and given a prognosis of five months, began making this recipe but only made the slow cooker section without the add ins or the Budwig mix. Happily, her dog lived another four years! Who is to say it was the food or a misdiagnosis? However, her dog was not only eating again, but eating with excitement and even regained some of the energy she had lost over the years.
If you decide to embark on this recipe, please do not stress about every detail. The goal is not to add more anxiety into you or your pet's life. Through trial and error, you will find what works for you and your pet. My only hope is that it keeps the family happy and as healthy as possible. With that, relax and enjoy every minute you have with your beloved pet!
Interested in learning more about pet nutrition? Watch the Pet Fooled documentary here: PET FOOLED
DELICIOUS LIFE SAVER STEW
This recipe is for dogs that have been diagnosed with cancer or any other type of illness that makes them feel under the weather for extended periods of time. It will give your dog a renewed sense of vigor and supports their immune system. To make this a complete and balanced diet for any dog, healthy or not, please add a vitamin & mineral supplement like one of these: home prepared meal supplements
RULE TO REMEMBER: IT’S ABOUT LOW OR NO CARBS AND IMMUNE BOOSTING SO DO NOT MAKE SUBSTITUTES THAT COMPROMISE THIS RULE (IE CARROTS OR PEAS).
INGREDIENTS:
5 lbs BONE IN, SKIN ON chicken* or turkey thighs or use 2-3 whole birds (There will be less meat and more bone to contend with for a whole bird. Watch out for the very small thoracic bones of the spine. They are difficult to see)
16oz (minimum) cottage cheese - if you can find it - use goat cottage cheese;
4 eggs whisked
1/4 cup olive oil or coconut oil
2 cups vegetables (fresh or frozen)- green beans, brussel sprouts or combo (broccoli will increase gas)
2 cups fruit (fresh or frozen) - Apples, cherries, berries or combo
16 oz fresh or frozen chopped spinach or kale
½ cup Ground Flax seeds OR whole Chia seeds (Note: Flax seed must be ground, Chia seeds (whole or ground)
1/4 cup basil – dry or fresh chopped
1/4 cup rosemary – dry or fresh chopped
1/8 cup turmeric/pepper blend (lightly cook this combo to activate the turmeric - 1/8c turmeric to ½ TBS pepper) - especially important for cancer diagnosis.
1/4 cup sage – dry or fresh chopped;
STEPS:
Step 1 – Add meat to pot or slow cooker
Step 2 – Add just enough water or starter broth to cover the meat – might be 6-8 cups
Step 3 – Simmer on lowest possible heat until fully cooked or slow cook in a crock pot. (Cooking meat above 200 degrees Fahrenheit increases the amount of carcinogenic chemicals that form when meat is cooked at high temperatures.); Should be at least a six hour process.
Step 4 – Remove a portion of the “broth” (or hopefully gelatin - 2-3 cups) to use as starter for next batch
Step 5 – Remove skin (save for a delicious treat for later!) and discard all bones (they splinter after cooked)
Step 6 – Return boneless skinless meat to pot and add remaining ingredients
Step 7 – Cook for an additional hour on simmer
Step 8 – Add all ingredients to a food processor (if stew still seems too liquid, you can remove more to add for your next batch before processing)
Step 9 – Store in the refrigerator or freeze as desired
Step 10 – Add toppings at mealtime as directed at the end of the recipe below under WHEN YOU ARE READY TO FEED.
WHEN YOU ARE READY TO FEED
Do NOT add these into the cooking batch above:
Sprinkle/add/mix the following on top of the food when ready to serve in bowl
- A small piece of fatty fish such as sardine OR use Answers Fermented fish stock (Please note this has been out of stock for quite some time unfortunately and the closest thing we can find is Green Pastures Fermented Cod Liver Oil). If you use the fermented fish stock (or cod liver oil), you can omit everything highlighted in RED (including what is in the cooked portion above).
- 1/2 tsp dry, powdered eggshell– just grind in a coffee bean grinder (it adds vital calcium)
- Nutritional brewer’s yeast (not baker’s yeast) - 1 tsp for every 30 pounds of body weight
- A ground vitamin C tablet(500mg – like Ester C - we have this here) AT EACH MEAL. Use 1/4 tablet for pets under 15lbs and a 1/2 tablet for pets 15 - 30lbs. Excess Vitamin C can cause loose stools so adjust accordingly if this continues after a week of feeding.
- A tablespoon of any supportive organ or glandular meat (ie if your animal has organ issues, choose organ. If glandular, like adrenal, thyroid, lymph, choose glands) We are currently working with Glacier Grown to provide organ meats in their freshest form.
- Unpasteurized fermented raw goat’s milk – packed full of good belly bacteria that aids in digestion & builds immunity 1-8 TBS, depending on weight.
-Budwig Diet supplement (see recipe below or google “Budwig Diet Truth about Pet Food”)
AMOUNT TO FEED:
DOGS 15 lbs and under – ½ cup per meal; 15-30 lbs – 1 cup per meal; 30 – 50lbs – 1.5 cups per meal; 50 – 80lbs – 2 cups per meal; 80 – 100lbs: 2.5 cups per meal; 100+ lbs – 3 cups per meal
FOOTNOTES:
THE LARGER THE DOG, THE MORE YOU WILL HAVE TO MAKE THE FOOD FROM SCRATCH. IF YOU HAVE THE FREEZER SPACE, CONSIDER DOUBLING OR EVEN TRIPLING THE RECIPE.
*Chicken tends to be a known allergen for many dogs. If you find that your dog has itchy skin, paws or ears and/or rashes and/or diarrhea before you start the recipe, this could be a sign of allergy. Use turkey instead.
Budwig Recipe for animals with cancer - this helps produce an oxygen rich environment for the cells:
USE A 2:1 RATIO of Cottage Cheese to Flaxseed
2 parts cottage cheese to one part flaxseed oil (i.e. 4 Tablespoons Cottage Cheese to 2 Tablespoons flaxseed oil)
EMULSIFY so that the cottage cheese is no longer oily. If it is still oily, add more cottage cheese.
Feed this mixture to your pet two or three times a day every day on an empty stomach. Wait one hour to feed a regular meal.
AMOUNT: Feed 1-2 teaspoons for cats, up to ½ cup twice a day for large breed dogs.
Make mixture just before feeding if possible. Flax seeds can be used but should be ground fresh then mixed into cottage cheese.
]]>Whatever trigger in life causes your pet to become less than her usual happy go lucky self, there are a few natural supplements and methods to calm your furry friend that will be safer and just as effective as any chemical or prescription medication.
]]>by Julie Johannes, Owner of Happy Hounds Pet Supply in Bigfork
In a pet owner’s life, what can be better than watching your pet when she gets the zoomies and zips back and forth with a ridiculous grin on her face? It is that boundless joy we wish for them at every moment in their far-too-short lives. However, there are sometimes unfortunate instances when they experience some form of anxiety, prompting us to find solutions that will swiftly return them to their happy state of being. Indications when your pet is anxious may be obvious. The most common are excessive chewing, panting, or licking, destructive behavior, barking, whining, restlessness, pacing, aggression, appetite loss, and trembling.
Some of the most common triggers of anxiety are:
● Separation anxiety
● Past trauma – accident, dog fight, starvation, illness
● Abuse
● Moved to/from many homes
● The loss of a companion
● Loud noises
● Car rides
● Going to the vet or groomer
Whatever trigger causes your pet to become less than her usual happy go lucky self, there are a few natural supplements and methods to calm your furry friend that will be safer and just as effective as any chemical or prescription medication.
(Click here for a link to remedies Happy Hounds offers)
Desensitizing
Use the process of distraction by giving your pet a treat or toy, performing tricks, or simply move her away from the situation. Calming music and weighted blankets can also help. If your pet has separation anxiety, do the activities you normally do before you leave but do not actually leave. Then, slowly introduce departing in short periods, increasing the time gone as your pet reacts positively to the change.
Counter Conditioning
This involves training your pet to associate her triggers with something good. If your dog is afraid of loud noises, provide treats and pet her when the noise occurs. She will start to associate loud noises with a good feeling. We had a lab that was terrified of fireworks. Every time a firework went off, we would give him his favorite stuffed animal, a couple of treats, and tell him “good job” when he did not cower and shake in fear.
CBD
If given by mouth, it takes about 5 to 20 minutes to see results. When given over time, the benefits will become more apparent. CBD can also help regulate mood, social behavior, digestion, sleep, appetite, seizures, pain, and allergies. Who knew so many benefits could come from a single plant!
Herbs – Use as a tea and add to food/water, as a tincture, or a capsule.
Chamomile – Especially useful if your pet gets nervous or sick in the car
Valerian - For stressful events like visits to the vet or if your pet gets overly hyper
St John’s Wort – For pets with fear-based (thunderstorms/fireworks) or separation anxiety
Homeopathic Remedies - typically in the form of a small pillule that can be put directly in the mouth or added to food.
Pinpointing what is causing the fear can sometimes be tricky but if the correct remedy is found, it can have fast relief and lasting benefits. The most common are Aconite, Phosphorus, Pulsatilla nigricans, Borax, or Gelsemium in a 30C strength.
Bach Flower Essences
A range of 38 flower essences for your pet’s specific anxiety. The most familiar, Rescue Remedy, is a combination of the five most common flower essences. Stop into Happy Hounds where we can sample out different varieties on treat samples based on your pet’s concerns.
Hydrosols – Use as a mist on your dog.
Essential oils can sometimes be too strong for many dogs (and all cats). As a result, Hydrosols are a better option. Left over from the essential oil-making process and therefore far less concentrated, look for hydrosols with neroli, chamomile and lavender. We do not recommend any form of essential oils on cats due to their strong negative reactions.
If your pet has any form of anxiety, it can impact her quality of life (and your own). These natural solutions may help her get some relief so you can get back to enjoying the zoomies.
]]>
Pet chews are constantly evolving as companies find innovative ways to bring these popular boredom busters to market. At Happy Hounds, we frequently get requests for long lasting chews that divert their pet’s attention from table legs or provide the pet owner guilt-free time away. Here are a few considerations.
Size
Choking is the biggest concern with any chew. Some dogs know how to safely gnaw on a bone, but some will be tempted to gulp down large chunks. Get to know your dog’s habits and treat appropriately. Bones should be big enough to avoid getting stuck in the throat. If you purchase a large bone for your small or sensitive dog, take it away periodically to be sure he does not over-indulge. Consider a smaller treat, like an ox tail slice, that can be consumed in one sitting.
Type
Avoid chemically processed chews like many branded as “rawhide.” They are bleached or processed in other ways that make them difficult for your pet to digest. A better choice is an all-natural sun-dried hide roll. This is similar in texture to a rawhide but contains only the hide itself without alterations that your pet’s body cannot understand. If you are hesitant to try hides, consider a cheek roll or a No-Hide chew.
Benebones come in shapes that prevent choking but are not meant to be consumed. Mentally satisfying and durable, these chews are made of nylon and designed for extremely aggressive chewers.
Antlers, horns and hooves are durable alternatives. If your pet has never had an antler before, start with a split antler to give them easier access to the flavorful bone marrow. Soaking it in bone broth can inspire a disinterested dog into chewing on it. Horns and hooves can be stuffed with yogurt or cottage cheese and then frozen for added enjoyment.
A frozen raw marrow bone or turkey neck is highly satisfying for most dogs. For a cleaner option, choose an air dried or slow roasted bone, but avoid bones cooked at high temperatures (like your turkey dinner), as they can splinter.
Helpful accessories
If you are still concerned about chew safety, an accessory which makes it tougher for a chew to be inhaled or quickly consumed may be best. The Himalayan Blockhead clamps down on a treat and prevents ingestion of the last chunk. In a pinch, vise grips work too! Puzzle toys come in many different shapes and sizes and can provide a form of exercise. This may be a better option for overweight pets.
Experimenting with different chews may be the only way to know which suits your individual pet. As with any new treat or toy, monitor your pet’s behavior and adjust accordingly.
The above is not a complete list of chews by any means. At Happy Hounds, we have a diverse selection of long lasting chews to suit every pet. Please browse our website or stop in to learn more about the many benefits and wide selection of chews we have in store.
]]>But dogs need to know that they are a wanted and loved member of the family. A lack of mental stimulation and loving attention will often lead to boredom and, eventually, misbehavior. The same goes for humans. Getting out on a hike or in the water with your dog is an easy and beneficial remedy for all involved. Seek out new areas for them to sniff around; offer them different tastes and textures of treats & food; play mind & body stimulating games with puzzle toys, “hide the yummy”, and, of course, the intergenerational favorite: Fetch! You can also use these games as training opportunities to reinforce basic commands such as “sit", "stay” and “come”.
If you are short on time, consider dropping them off at a daycare a couple of times a week to play with other buddies. The key is to provide a variety of experiences to keep our pets happy and engaged. It is often quality over quantity when it comes to how satisfied our pets feel at the end of the day. If you provide an attentive heart in all that you do for and with them, they will reciprocate with good behaviors.
If you have a pet, remember to give them the love and attention they desire and deserve by following some of these suggestions. If you do not have a pet, I hope you will visit one of the local shelters to be introduced to the wonderful animals there in need of a loving home. You (and they) will be happy you did!
]]>This issue arose most recently due to the emergence of a heart ailment in dogs called Dilated Cardio Myopathy (DCM). In early 2019 the FDA issued a warning that Grain-Free dog foods may lead to this disease. The preliminary studies pointed to legume-based foods (pea, chickpea, lentil) as potentially limiting taurine uptake in dogs. Since then, numerous studies have been done and, while questions remain, many of the conclusions of the original report have been repudiated. The FDA criticized “boutique” brands even though 49% of the cases were from the largest food companies. They blamed “exotic” proteins but 76% of the cases originated in dogs fed common proteins. Although they specified grain free, some whole grain diets showed decreased taurine concentrations. Other studies showed no decrease, even in diets with up to 45% legume concentrations. Confusing, right?
Oxfords’ Journal of Animal Science from June 2020 reviewed 150 studies and found that “DCM is a multifactorial medical condition with many proven etiologies and potential causes… (more studies are needed) …based on this review…there is no definitive relationship [between] these implicated diet characteristics and DCM.” (academic.oup.com/jas/article/98/6/skaa155/5857674)
So why do some veterinarians advise customers that “dogs need grains”? Most Hills, Purina, and Royal Canin feeds are 50-60% carbohydrate, derived primarily from grains such as corn, wheat, and soy. Perhaps this misinformation originates from these companies?
Adding carbohydrates such as grains to a dog’s diet can provide a cheap protein source as well as vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. However, there are vast differences in carbohydrate and sugar levels as well as digestibility between the various grains used in pet foods and consumers should be mindful of this when selecting their next bag of food.
To be clear, grains do not provide taurine. Taurine, as well as other beneficial amino acids, is easily assimilable from fresh animal sources. Grains, and many “grain-free” substitutes, provide carbohydrates that the body uses as a glucose source for energy when metabolized. However, glucose is a sugar which is a major contributor to both cancer and obesity. Cancer cells need glucose to grow. Additionally, grains like corn, wheat, soy, and rice are prone to Aspergillus fungal infections that produce aflatoxins which can further lead to cancer or liver damage. Adding insult to injury, agricultural crops are often genetically modified and sprayed with chemicals that remain in the finished product.
Ninety-five percent of the dogs in the original FDA report were fed a dry kibble diet only. Many of these dry foods were carbohydrate laden, cooked at high temperatures (denaturing fats, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids such as taurine) and some contained meat by-products that violate the FDA definition of “food”!
The focus should not be on fillers such as carbohydrate rich grains, whose main job is to assist in the formation of each piece of kibble, but on providing dogs and cats a variable diet high in quality proteins and fats. Several gently cooked dry “kibble” foods use more digestible starches, such as millet, but a simple and carefully sourced raw diet will provide your furry companions with all the nutrition they need without the addition of carbohydrates and synthesized, processed additives or supplements. Ultimately, we all thrive on whole foods we can identify and digest and our pets are no different.
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The Essentials
COLLAR, ID, LEASH, HARNESS, LONG LINE
A collar is a pet's first source of identification. While some use it to attach a leash, this is not recommended due to the strain it puts on a dog's windpipe. A harness will provide better control and pup will be safer. A lightweight, strong, extra-long leash (10 to 50 feet) is an ideal tool to help your dog learn to come to you regardless of where you are or what other distractions are present.
QUALITY FOOD
Check the ingredient label of the food your puppy was being fed prior to arrival. If you see unspecified meats, like "meat meal", byproducts, or fillers, such as wheat or corn, choose another product. It is essential that a growing dog receive a diet that builds strong bones, muscles and neurological systems. A named meat protein (such as beef, beef meal, etc.) should always be the first ingredient. Do not compromise on this one. Feeding a complete and balanced raw diet is strongly encouraged. A puppy that begins its life on raw food tends to be the healthiest and strongest of the bunch.
TREATS
Most dogs are motivated by food and will happily stand at attention for it. Choose small, low calorie treats during training to maintain pup's healthy weight. For boredom busters, lamb or cow ears, gullets, pizzles, or tendons are easy to digest options. Avoid antlers or very hard chews until adult teeth are present.
BALLS, INTERACTIVE, FETCH, AND TEETHING TOYS
Play activities that keep pup engaged will prevent unwanted behaviors like barking or chewing. Consider a teething toy that helps soothe the gums as adult teeth start to emerge around three months of age.
GROOMING TOOLS
Choose brushes appropriate for your dog’s coat (ask a groomer), pet specific shampoos, scissors, nail clippers, toothbrushes and toothpastes. Start using these tools on your puppy early, pairing the experience with tasty treats so she forms a positive association with the task.
SEAT BELT RESTRAINT
Use a restraint that fastens to your car’s seat belt and your dog’s harness (never a collar) to keep her and driver safe.
Recommended
CRATE
A crate facilitates housetraining and prevents misbehavior by providing a safe confinement while you are away or sleeping.
CLICKER
Properly used as a reward marker, a clicker significantly enhances communication with your pet and speeds the training process.
HOUSE CLEANING TOOLS
Enzymatic odor eliminating sprays can be a furniture or carpet savior for those times when pup is learning where to relieve herself. Potty pads are useful when you are away from your pet for extended periods.
Optional
DETERRENTS - Bitter apple and pet corrector sprays and/or high value treats deter bad behaviors like barking or chewing.
TETHER - A cord with sturdy snaps at both ends is useful to temporarily restrain a dog for short periods of time. Never use in your absence, for long periods, or as punishment.
EXERCISE PEN - Pens expand the "den" concept of a crate to a slightly larger, confined area. Use a tarp underneath and a potty pad at one end to encourage bathroom behavior and easier cleanup.
Whatever you choose above, there is no replacement for the most essential part of a successful puppy transition: you. The emotional bond you form with your pup at this critical stage is what builds her confidence and desire to be your loyal companion for life. Have fun in the process and enjoy that puppy breath while it lasts!
Life very quickly gets in the way of some of the most mundane tasks. Whether it be COVID, house renovations, a new business startup, or all of them at once, the things that seem so commonplace can take a back seat before you even realize they crawled back there. In my case, what was commonplace was regular exercise and a feeding schedule for my all-too-willing-to-eat Plott Hound mix.
With mounting to-do lists, I realized that I had altogether stopped exercising. For me, a little extra flab is a relatively easy thing to overlook or dismiss. Yet, my dog, who relies on the family for every part of her life, missing out on exercise meant the calories from her food were being stored as fat rather than being burned off through play. Couple this with our guilt of seeing boredom seep out of every one of her hair follicles. Now she is being fed extra treats. Not just the usual biscuit, mind you, but the extra special super delicious and fattening marrow bones. Bisou is all too willing to take any type of treat from me and this eagerness played in her favor when she would polish off a savory goodie just to stare longingly at her treat box for what was next.
To make matters worse, we recently switched her food to a much more nutrient dense brand that suggests a smaller portion for each meal. We would often forget what we had fed her in the morning resulting in her receiving 33% more than the recommended daily amount for an ACTIVE dog. I started to question why I was ever allowed to have a dog and how could I be this irresponsible?
The good news is not too much time had passed since slim dog became fat dog. It is important to address weight gain as quickly as you can. If your dog remains chubby for too long, they become more susceptible to diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, or a host of many other problems.
The first, and easiest, change we made was to her feeding quantities. We feed her one patty in the morning and a half a patty at night. It is safe to assume that while dogs are awake during the daytime, they will be more active than when sleeping at night so providing the larger portion in the morning seemed logical.
Once the food was under control, we switched the amount and type of treats being fed each day. Again, this was an easy change to make that did not take any extra time. Instead of her high fat treats, we purchased treat dispensing puzzle toys that we placed savory, low fat jerky into. Many puzzle toys require your pet to move about while challenging their brains on how to get the cookie out. Our absolute favorite puzzle toy is called The Snoop by Planet Dog. This toy satisfies two problems in one: our desire to get Bisou moving and her desire for stimulation. As a bonus, it was also entertaining to watch her humorously attempt to extract the treats.
Lastly, we had to address our exercise problem. With everything we had going on this summer, exercise was the easiest sacrifice with the most detrimental outcome for all of us. While we knew that hours-long hikes were out of the question, we decided to do multiple shorter hikes that would satisfy our collective need to be out in nature and clear our heads as well as our lungs. This was not an ideal solution, but it gave us the much-needed time together without feeling like tasks were overflowing as a result. Even a stroll down to the end of the driveway to get the mail would be coupled with a diversion onto a trail that led to the backside of the house. I took every opportunity to make the simple, mundane chores a time for interaction and fun with the dog who could care less about the chore so long as it meant being out in the world with one of her favorite people.
Just two weeks after these changes we are starting to see her ideal figure return along with her happiness…and, quite frankly, our own happiness as well. The beauty of this lesson is that no matter how much our chores in life get in the way, our pets reflect how we feel on the inside and on the outside. If your pet is chubby and sluggish or anxious and hyper, sometimes it is only a matter of looking at what is going on in your own life and making the appropriate adjustments to bring everything, and everyone, back into balance.
Be well and stay healthy, if not for you, for the sake of your pet!
]]>In this day and age, conveniences abound. But with the simplicity of grab & go and scoop & serve products comes an unfortunate imbalance of important pre and probiotics. This can be a recipe for dysbiosis, or leaky gut, which exposes the body to disease. It can present itself in acute forms like dry, itchy skin, grimy ears, excessive paw licking or, when left untreated, chronic conditions like diabetes, pancreatitis or cancers.
Feeding a high starch diet (those with corn, wheat, rice, peas, potatoes, etc.) can result in a lack of prebiotics (and consequently probiotics) in the pet's system. Supplements will then be necessary to get gut bacteria into balance.
For prebiotics, one could add whole food ingredients like mushroom, chicory, burdock root, bananas, apples, or dandelion greens into a pet’s meal, but this may not be convenient. As a result, many reputable companies provide an all in one high quality, natural prebiotic mixes that work wonders for the digestive tract. A couple quality examples are In Clover's Optagest or Adored Beast's Love Bugs.
For probiotics, one option to consider is raw goats milk. Among the myriad benefits of raw unpasteurized goats milk, this "mother's milk" has over 200 strains of probiotics and can literally transform an ill feeling pet into a healthy one in a matter of days. Many independent pet stores carry raw goats milk for pets in powder or liquid form.
It is important to remember that probiotics need their prebiotics in order to thrive. No matter which forms you choose, the two together set the stage for a strong immune system and therefore a healthier pet!
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