1. Does the food boast the label “holistic“? Don’t believe it. There is no legal definition of the term under pet food laws, so anyone can claim that their food is “holistic”.

2. OK, we hear the word “natural” all the time, but what does it actually mean a pet food is considered natural? According to AAFCO, the term “natural” requires a pet food to consist of only natural ingredients that have not been subjected to chemical synthesis. Natural does not mean that a food is also organic.

3. So what is organic? Foods that are labeled “organic” must be certified as organic in accordance with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and AAFCO regulations. In order for a product to carry the USDA organic seal, at least 95 percent of its content must be organic by weight. To be organic, the components of a product must be grown with only animal or vegetable fertilizers, such as manure, bone meal compost. etc.

4. Are by-products bad? Not really! They may actually be the best thing to feed pets because of the nutrition they contain and because they use parts of animals that would otherwise be thrown away when producing human food. By-products include vegetable oils, chicken fat, and pork, chicken and beef liver – the internal organs of animals used for human consumption that would otherwise be trashed. Feeding by-products = green living.

5. ** Formulation method v. feeding trial method: If your patient’s food says something to the effect of “This food is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the Association Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)….” rather than “Animal feeling test using AAFCO procedures substantiate that this food provides complete and balanced nutrition….”, it means that the food did not undergo actual feeding or digestibility trials. The formulation method is quicker and cheaper, but does not document the effect on animals. **

6. Ingredients are listed in descending order by their predominance by weight. However, weight values are not included in the ingredient statement, meaning that the listed ingredients could vary by weight only .1 percent, or by 20 percent.

7. Pet foods that are labeled “dinner”, “platter”, “entrée”, “formula”, etc. are required to include only 25 percent of the main ingredient (chicken dinner, beef entrée, etc.). If you purchase a can of cat food labeled as “seafood entrée”, the manufacturer is required to include only 25 percent seafood in the product.

8. If a label includes the phrase “with ingredient X”, the pet food is required to contain only 3 percent of ingredient X (chicken, beef, seafood, etc.)

9. The only requirement for including the word “flavor” on a pet food package? It must be “recognized by the pet“.

Learn more about pet food label requirements from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

Useful websites with more information:
Association of American Feed Control Officials- www.aafco.org

Food recalls updates- www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/SafetyHealth/RecallsWithdrawals/default.htm

American College of Veterinary Nutrition- www.acvn.org

The above information was obtained and adapted from an article published by the American Animal Hospital Association, http://trends.aahanet.org/NEWStatArticle.aspx?id=NSV9I46&key=de72d48f-beb0-4098-8129-8f2485645fb2.

http://trends.aahanet.org/NEWStatArticle.aspx?id=NSV9I29&key=de7d8a17-78fa-4a7b-bbf8-5386313ae7ce

Partnership Brings Awareness and Prosecution to Animal Cruelty

Animals suffering from abuse, neglect, or abandonment are benefiting from a new partnership among area animal welfare groups and Crime Stoppers. Together, the groups have launched a state-wide anonymous tip and reward program to make it easier for people anywhere in Colorado to report inhumane activities involving dogs, cats or horses.

Anonymous tips can be reported via phone or text. The messages are received at Crime Stoppers through a secure online system that protects a caller’s identity. Crime Stoppers then routes the message to the appropriate agency for action. 

Rewards of up to $2,000 are available if the tip results in a summons or an arrest. Rewards are paid through a third party, thus further assuring anonymity. Funding for the rewards comes from a private donor.

Tips can be reported via phone or text to Crime Stoppers.

 PHONE: 720.913.STOP (7867)
TEXT: 274637 (CRIMES), then title DMCS and enter the message

 Partnering with Crime Stoppers in the program are the Dumb Friends League, the Colorado Humane Society, Boulder Police Department, Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region, Larimer Humane Society, Lakewood Animal Control, Mesa County Animal Services, Rifle Police Department, Westminster Police Department, Wheat Ridge Police Department, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department.

 Animal welfare agents and law enforcement agencies rely largely on tips from the public to investigate activities such as dog fighting or other acts of cruelty or neglect. But many people are reluctant to report what they witness because they fear retaliation. This new program allows people the protection they may require before coming forward.

People in the eight-county metro-Denver area may also report animal cruelty directly to the Dumb Friends League at 303.923.0022 or ddfl.org.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/tailsofseattle/2015591720_veterinary_qa_bloat.html?syndication=rss

Dr. Elizabeth Bradt: Dangers of pet dentistry without anesthesia.Zoom Photos. courtesy.Dr. Elizabeth Bradt. Is this article accurate? By Dr. Elizabeth Bradt/ Vet Connection Salem Gazette Posted May 05, 2011 @ 05:42 PM Salem, Mass. — With more than 85 percent of pets over age 3 suffering from some sort of dental disease, veterinarians are constantly reminding clients to provide at home dental care for their pets. In addition, most veterinarians encourage annual dental exams and cleanings for their patients followed by care at home. Still, pet owners are reluctant to follow these recommendations. Some people are actually leery of anesthetics used for dental procedures. In response to client concerns, some people have developed Anesthesia-Free Pet Dentistry (AFPD) protocols. Marketing brochures show calm dogs sitting on the laps of “pet dental hygienists” who gently scrape tartar off the pet’s teeth. For anyone who has a senior pet or anyone who has lost a pet under anesthetic, this idea might seem to be right on target. In practice, however, there are several negative unintended consequences. While some dogs can be tolerant and will sit patiently, many have to be physically restrained, leading to stress and deep-seated fears. Veterinarians use ultrasonic scalers and sharp dental instruments. This is one reason a general anesthetic is needed. Beyond keeping the patient from moving, heavy sedation or general anesthetic allows a more thorough procedure and proper visualization of the entire mouth and hard to see gingival areas. Dr. Brett Beckman, a fellow in the American Veterinary Dental Society, says “most non-professional dental cleanings are done using some sort of hand curette. These tools cause scarring and micro-pitting of the enamel surface and this can actually accelerate plaque retention and tartar buildup!” In other words, this incomplete “cleaning” actually damages the tooth, causing plaque and tartar development to occur more rapidly in the future. Dr. Beckman goes on to say that “these procedures do much more harm than good. Pets that have had this done actually need to return for more frequent cleanings as a result of this enamel damage. This might be good for the business, but it is certainly not good for the pet.” One elderly poodle patient presented to our practice after a pet store vaccine clinic. The person administering the vaccine and “flicked” the calculus off the teeth and caused the mandible infected with tooth root abscesses to fracture. In a proper veterinary medical setting, dental cleanings are followed by a polishing step that helps remove the microscopic divots from the tooth enamel and creates a smooth healthy surface. Many veterinarians also apply a barrier sealant that helps repel plaque-causing bacteria and has been shown to reduce plaque and tartar accumulation. Once professionally applied, this sealant can be maintained at home for better prevention. Concerns and alternatives Another serious issue with AFPD cleanings is that only visible portions of the teeth can be cleaned — usually only the outside surfaces. Areas under the gum line and on the insides of teeth will still have significant tartar and harbor the harmful bacteria. In time, the underlying bony structure of the jaw can deteriorate and the pet may lose teeth. Under safe anesthetic, veterinarians are able to probe all areas of the mouth and use tools to remove plaque and bacteria from under the gum line. This actually stops the disease process. At the same time, dental x-rays can be done to help find potential problem areas. Even though more than 28 percent of dogs and 42 percent of cats have hidden dental disease, you won’t find x-ray equipment at the anesthesia-free dental facility! Finally, safety is also an issue with these non-professional cleanings. Even though many pets are patient and tolerant, there is the very real danger that the dog or cat will lash out in frustration or pain and bite someone. Lacerations of the pets’ gums, hard pallet and even the lips are also possible If you know your pet needs a proper dental cleaning, but the thought of general anesthesia frightens you, talk with your veterinarian. While no anesthetic protocol is 100 percent safe, anesthetic complications are extremely rare. Allow your veterinarian to show you the monitoring equipment and explain how a well trained staff makes anesthesia as safe as possible. You can also reduce the need for dental cleanings by using dental home care products designed to remove plaque buildup in between the veterinary visits. The gold standard is to brush your pet’s teeth daily. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a special dentifrice product designed for pets. You should never use human toothpaste! Certain diets, like some Hill’s products or Eukanuba Dental Defense, or dental chew products, like Greenies, can also reduce the amount of plaque for problem cases. Look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) Seal when choosing chew products for your pet. Even the barrier sealant used at your veterinarian’s office is available in a home version. Oravet by Merial can be applied on a weekly basis to help reinforce the product used at the time of your pet’s dental cleaning. Anesthesia free dentistry for pets might sound like a good idea, but the truth is the benefits are strictly cosmetic and there are serious medical and behavioral risks.

To learn more about steps you can take to keep your pet’s smile bright, visit the Pet Library at PetDocsOnCall.com.

Dr. Elizabeth Bradt is a graduate of Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. A Salem resident, she is the owner of All Creatures Veterinary Hospital in Salem. She welcomes pet questions and stories sent by e-mail to docliz@creaturehealth.com. Please type “Vet Connection” in the subject field.

Copyright 2011 The Taunton Gazette. Some rights reserved Read more: http://www.wickedlocal.com/salem/news/lifestyle/columnists/x860343689/Dr-Elizabeth-Bradt-Dangers-of-pet-dentistry-without-anesthesia#ixzz1Laq58jRp

The popularity of Internet chat rooms, blogs and personal webpages has brought increased interest in raw pet foods. There are several types of raw diets, all made using uncooked meat, bones and other ingredients. The diets began as homemade recipes, but their popularity has lead to the availability of commercial raw diets.

Proponents of raw pet food focus on the high quality, fresh ingredients used in the food. They also generally reflect on the “natural” diet of wolves and other wild animals that do not cook their meals. Sometimes mention is made of enzymes in raw food that are lost through the cooking process. There is little doubt that most of these diets are adequate to prevent nutritional deficiencies. However, there is considerable doubt about whether these diets represent optimum nutrition. In addition, there is serious concern about the safety of these diets.

Veterinary nutritionists have published libraries of research on the digestive system of dogs and the way they utilize specific nutrients. The profession has also determined optimum requirements for many nutrients in specific breeds, sizes, life stages, and performance levels. For instance, we know precisely the optimum ratio of calcium to phosphorous for joint health in growing large breed dogs. We also know some sources of calcium can be efficiently absorbed by dogs and others cannot.

When you feed your dog a reputable premium food labeled for giant breed growth, your pet will benefit from a century of nutritional advances. If you grind beef bones and mix into a recipe from the Internet, you may not be providing optimal nutrition. Dogs fed raw diet frequently have small pieces of bone visible in their stool. How much calcium was absorbed? How much phosphorous? Will one batch be the same as the next?

The life expectancy of dogs has doubled in the past fifty years in large part due to improved nutrition. Being fed like a wolf may not be an optimal way to eat. Wolves live very different lives and generally die considerably earlier than our pets. The enzymes required for digestion are all produced by the body and do not need to be provided in a raw source. In fact, since enzymes are proteins, most will be simply broken down by the saliva, stomach acid, and other secretions of the digestive tract.

There is also considerable concern for the safety of raw diets. Several recent studies from different sources have cultured potentially pathologic bacteria from thirty to ninety percent of raw dog foods. While most dogs do not get sick from these germs, some do. The bacteria are particularly dangerous for puppies, old dogs, sick pets, or those on certain medications.

Another recent study found thirty percent of dogs fed raw diets have positive fecal cultures for these same dangerous organisms. This study dispels the myth that a dog’s stomach acid kills all the bacteria in the food. It also raises concern for children, elderly people, or immune-compromised individuals who come into contact with dogs that shed these bacteria in their feces.

At a conference I attended in Minnesota, a university nutritionist presented a sad case of a litter of puppies that died of bacterial meningitis. The bacteria cultured from their brain tissue matched the bacteria cultured from their mother’s raw diet. Although well-meaning, this pet owner’s choice of pet food directly led to the death of the puppies. This was certainly not an example of optimum nutrition. However, it probably does accurately reflect what happens in wild wolves from time to time.

Like most veterinarians, I never recommend raw pet food. I advise my clients on ways to provide optimum nutrition. For those who choose to disregard the advice of the overwhelming majority of veterinarians, the FDA has issued guidelines for feeding raw pet foods. The guidelines can be found at http://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/Transparency/Basics/ucm206814.htm.

Top Five Toxins for Cats for 2010

According to Pet Poison Helpline, cats accounted for about 9% of all calls made to their business in 2010. Based on these calls, the top five cat toxins for the year were named.

Kroger issues pet food recall due to aflatoxin risk Dec 20, 2010 DVM NEWSMAGAZINE Washington–Kroger Co. recalled select packages of pet food sold in some of its retail stores because the products may be tainted with aflatoxin. Kroger stores in the following states are included in this recall: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia, according to FDA. The recall also includes Dillons and Gerbes stores in Kansas and Missouri; Baker’s stores in Nebraska; Food 4 Less stores in Nebraska, Illinois and Indiana (Chicago area); and Jay C, Hilander, Owen’s, Pay Less and Scott’s stores in Illinois and Indiana. FDA reports Kroger is recalling the following items:

* Pet Pride Cat Food sold in 3.5 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111088128.

* Pet Pride Cat Food sold in 18 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111071357.

* Pet Pride Tasty Blend Poultry & Seafood Cat Food sold in 3.5 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111088152.

* Pet Pride Tasty Blend Poultry & Seafood Cat Food sold in 18 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111074580.

* Pet Pride Kitten Formula Food sold in 3.5 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111071903.

* Old Yeller Chunk Dog Food sold in 22 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111074566.

* Old Yeller Chunk Dog Food sold in 50 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111074563.

* Kroger Value Cat Food sold in 3 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111000018.

* Kroger Value Chunk Dog Food sold in 15 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111071559.

* Kroger Value Chunk Dog Food sold in 50 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code:1111000108.

Aflatoxin is a toxic byproduct from the growth of the fungus Aspergillus flavus on corn and other crops. Symptoms from aflatoxin poisoning could include sluggishness or lethargy combined with a reluctance to eat, yellowish tint to the eyes and/or gums, and severe or bloody diarrhea. FDA counsels pet owners to consult their veterinarian immediately if their pet is showing these clinical signs.

Can you imagine what your teeth would be like if you didn’t brush them for a year? Talk about bad breath! Considering your pet can’t brush his own teeth, this is kind of what he experiences. February is National Pet Dental Health Month and a great reminder that dental health is more than just teeth; your pet’s oral hygiene affects his overall health. Diseases of the mouth can often be painful and can contribute to additional problems. Having regular dental checkups and having your pet’s teeth cleaned are important to ensuring a positive quality of life.

According to the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS), 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by age three, often indicated by bad breath, a change in eating or chewing habits, pawing at the face and mouth, bleeding gums, and depression. “In the vast majority of cases, however, there are little to no outward clinical signs of the disease process, and therefore, therapy often comes very late in the disease course,” explains Brook A. Neimeic, DVM, DAVDC, FAVD and chief of staff at Southern California Veterinary Dentistry Specialties. “Consequently, periodontal disease is also the most under-treated animal health problem.”

Pet Dental Health Campaign spokesperson Dr. Linda J. DeBowes, veterinarian at Shoreline Veterinary Dental Clinic in Seattle, warns pet owners trying to save money not to skimp on regular veterinary care for their pets. “The expenses associated with professional dental treatment may be significant; however, if this preventative care is not done, the cost to the owner may well be much higher in diagnostics and management of dental disease,” DeBowes said.

“I tell clients that dental care for their pets is like changing the oil in their car,” says Neimeic. “It is an expense, and it’s time-consuming, but it is cheaper than replacing the engine. At least once a week, I am forced to extract half, if not more, of a pet’s teeth due to severe periodontal disease. My record is 38 at one sitting. This can cost up to $6,000, which is less than annual cleanings every year for the life of the dog!”

Your veterinary team is highly trained and a great resource for helping you provide preventative dental care for your pet. Regular dental checkups are a good start to preventative care for your pet. AAHA recommends that you talk to your veterinarian about how often “regular” refers to and develop a dental plan specific to your pet, based on her unique life stage circumstances.

During one of these preventative dental exams, your AAHA-accredited veterinary team will take a thorough history, assess pain, chart any irregularities and determine an overall treatment plan for your pet. They may recommend diagnostic testing, which could include:

• Blood work to determine your pet’s overall health status and ability to metabolize anesthesia
• Radiographs (X-rays), especially if they determine your pet may need extractions
• Recommendations for a dry food diet, special foods, treats, rinses and chew toys
• Prescription for antibiotics and/or pain medications

In addition to professional dental care, DeBowes advises pet owners to make oral home care part of their pet’s routine as a way to prevent tooth decay.

• Learn to brush your pet’s teeth. Ask your veterinarian to teach you the best and safest way to brush your pet’s teeth to avoid being bitten. Although daily tooth brushing is advised for both dogs and cats, only 2% of dog owners follow through. It’s best to start at an early age, but adult dogs and cats can learn to tolerate brushing. Use a specially-formulated toothpaste, because the kind for humans may upset your pet’s stomach.
• Feed your pet a high-quality diet. Ask your veterinarian about foods and treats with proven benefits in plaque and tartar removal.
• Provide chew toys that stimulate gums and help clean teeth.