3 Nutritional Supplements For All Stages of Your Dog's Life

Feeding your dog good quality food along with ample opportunity for socialization and exercise is the basis for good health. Adding supplements to their daily meals can help ensure optimal health at each stage of their life and protect against health issues that could arise along the way. From puppyhood through their senior years, here are 3 wonderful types of supplements that can help keep your dog happy and healthy:

Daily Vitamin

Some dogs are better eaters than others. This can mean your dog is choosy about what they eat and eat too little or they eat anything and everything they can resulting in filling up on "doggy junk food". Either way they may not be getting all the nutrition they should. Supplementing your dog's diet with a good quality daily vitamin can help. Be sure the daily vitamin you choose is filled with natural ingredients and does not contain artificial colors, flavors, or chemical additives.

Supplement The Health of Their Skin and Coat

Outside elements like sun, wind, and cold can be very damaging to your dogs skin and coat. The result will be flaky, irritated skin and rough, dull coat. Supplements that contain Omega-3 Fatty Acids, and Vitamins C and E will help to keep your pup looking and feeling great. Fish Oil supplements are a wonderful source of nutrients and besides being great for the skin and coat it also helps to maintain a healthy immune system and overall health.

Joint Formula

As your dog ages joint issues may arise. Vitamin formulas rich in Glucosamine can aid in the maintenance of healthy bones and joints. Keeping your dog's joints healthy will help ensure that they can live an active life free of joint pain and stiffness.

Do you supplement your dog's diet with vitamins?

Visit http://www.eatwagpurr.com for more information and a selection of supplement formulas for
your pets. Be sure to check with your veterinarian before starting your pet on any new vitamin program.

It's Time To Allow Dogs To Be True Members Of Society

What are some of your dog's favorite place to visit? Dogs are very social and benefit from interactions with both humans and other dogs. But sadly, misconceptions about dogs and the countless myths about their behavior has lead to an over abundance of these:

For dogs to be upstanding canine citizens they first need to be social and accepted as members of the community. This includes park trails for dogs to walk on-leash. On-leash walking trails give dogs to opportunity to meet and greet other dogs and humans while maintaining their own controlled space.  In addition, with the help of the leash, they have the opportunity to learn boundaries, get exercise to release energy, and experience the world around them in a controlled environment.

Dog parks allow dogs to run off leash is a safe area as they learn to interact with other dogs of a variety of personalities and temperaments. They allow dogs to find companionship and learn life lessons that they can only learn from other dogs.

Experience eliminates fear - Dogs who are involved and accepted in the community are better behaved.  Through social events they learn and understand what is expected of them in society.

It's not only the dogs need to learn. Humans need to learn how to properly interact with their canine companions. Quite often, this requires the willingness and ability to think like a dog. It's important to respect a dog's space, treat them with respect, and understand that a dog can't respond with words. When bullied or intentionally, or unintentionally, provoked they may react with a growl or a nip. It's important to know that these reactions do not make the dog viscous, they are simply be communicating pain or fear.

It's time to let "man's best friend" be given every opportunity to to be part of the community and bring the joy and companionship that will enhance the lives of all they meet.

Don't Let Your Pet's Treats Sabotage Their Healthy Diet

Treats play and important part in your pet's life. They are used for training, for dental care, to aid digestion, and for stress relief. But many treats can be doing as much harm as good if they are filled with unhealthy and toxic ingredients. Unknowingly, you may be sabotaging your pet's healthy diet.

Beware of these toxic ingredients lurking in your pet's favorite treats

Propylene Glycol: This petroleum based chemical preservative is a main ingredient in antifreeze. Although it is toxic to dogs you will find it on the ingredient list of many dog treats.

BHA/BHT: Chemical preservatives and possible carcinogens.

Artificial colors: Including yellow #6, an artificial coloring, often found in cat treats, that can cause feline kidney tumors.


When fed daily, over your pet's lifetime treats play a major role in their daily nutritional intake.  Poor ingredients can have a negative impact on your pet's health, the complete opposite of the benefits they are supposed to achieve.

Read labels carefully and choose treats that have wholesome ingredients free of chemical and artificial additives. Beware of harmful ingredients that could cause allergic reactions in your pet or be toxic over time. Life's Abundance has wonderful, healthy treats for your dog and cat that help, not harm.

The Joy of the Bully Stick

I have always heard how much dogs love bully sticks but I had never gave them to my dog Dallas. When I learned that Life's Abundance had new "Buffalo Bully Sticks for Dogs" I knew it was time to treat Dallas to the experience.

All I had to do was open the package and she came running! Although she never had one, she knew it was something good. When I first gave it to her she paraded around with it in her mouth like a trophy. Then she settled down and has been chewing happily ever since!

Dogs just love these new bully sticks! I brought a package with me to one of the pups I enjoy daily walk with. As soon as I walked in the door I could see the excitement on his face. He knew I had a treat for him - a really good treat! Reluctantly, he agreed to walk first and have the treat upon our return but I could tell he was anticipating his reward that was left at home.

He was not disappointed!

Bully Sticks are a wonderful treat because they promote chewing which is not only a fun and calming experience for the dog it is also good for their dental health. Life's Abundance Buffalo Bully Sticks, which contain no additives or preservatives and are made from free-range, grass-fed buffalo, are a healthier alternative to beef chews or rawhide.

Do your dogs love Bully Sticks? Click here to Visit My Life's Abundance Rep Site  and learn more about these and other dental chews for dogs.

Cold Weather Care For Your Dog

The winter and extreme cold temperatures bring some unique challenges to our pets. Just because our furry friends are...furry, doesn't mean we don't need to protect them from frigid weather conditions. When the temperature drops we need to be aware of signs that they may be suffering the effects of the change in temperature.

Chapped skin: Even with fur, there are parts of your dog's body that can get chapped from the wind and cold. A common area is the top of their nose. A wet nose out in the cold wind will become dry and flaky over time.  Protect your dog's nose with a layer of petroleum jelly when venturing out in cold or daily as a preventative measure.

Cracked Paw Pads: Walking on frozen streets and chemical ice melt can irritate your pup's paw pads and cause soreness and cracking. A thin layer of petroleum jelly before going out in the cold will protect the bottom of your dog's feet. If you notice cracking and bleeding on the pads The American Red Cross recommends washing the affected paw with a saline wash (1 teaspoon of salt to 1 quart of warm water). If severely cracked and bleeding, bandage and consult your veterinarian.

Hypothermia: Limit your dog's outdoor time during extreme cold temperatures.  Extended exposure to frigid conditions could lead to hypothermia. Hypothermia occurs when your dog's body temperature drops to dangerously low levels. Symptoms include: disorientation, uncontrolled shivering, and dilated pupils. If you suspect your dog is suffering from hypothermia take your dog to a warm place, wrap in a warm blanket, and call your veterinarian immediately.

Frostbite: Frostbite is the freezing of body tissue. Especially vulnerable areas on your dog are ears, tail, and paw pads. When temperatures drop below 0 degrees, frostbite can occur in less than 10 minutes. After a period of time outdoors in below freezing temperatures be sure to check your dog's skin for signs of frostbite. Skin that appears blue or pale skin could be affected. If you suspect frostbite, get your dog to a inside area, wrap the affected area in a warm (not hot) compress and call your veterinarian.

Prevention is the best to avoid injury from the cold. When the temperature outside drops to dangerously low levels, limit the time your dog stays outside. Make more frequent short walks to outdoor play times to limit extreme cold exposure. Puppies, short haired, and elderly dogs would benefit from a sweater or jacket. Dog clothing is not only for fashion but can be functional as well.

What Should NOT Be In Your Pet's Food?

Have you ever read the ingredient label on the pet food you are feeding your dog or cat? Many are comprised of a long list of items you cannot pronounce or would not want to see on your dinner plate.  You may also see some ingredients listed in several different forms. Instead of just dismissing it as "well that's what dogs/cats eat" take a minute to see what these harmful ingredients are and the damage they can cause to the health of your furry friends.

There are many questionable ingredients in pet food, but in my opinion one of the most harmful is corn. Why corn? Because to a dog or cat, corn has not nutritional value, yet  it is used in abundance as a filler ingredient in many brands of food. Corn is not easily digestible, puts stress on the kidneys and is seen as a contributing factor for diabetes and obesity.  If that wasn't enough to worry about, much of the corn grown in the US is from genetically modified (GMO) crops, which bring additional chemicals into the food bowl.

Corn, like other ingredients in pets foods, comes in multiple forms including corn meal and corn gluten. Same for wheat, another grain used as filler, that has the potential for allergic reactions and can cause skin conditions in dogs.

Another unnecessary additive found in pet foods is artificial colors. Does the food seem healthier because some of the kibbles are red, orange and green resembling vegetables? In fact, there are no vegetables to be found in these brightly colored pieces, only artificial coloring. The coloring is added to make the food look more appealing to the human eye and give the false impression that the food in healthier. Our pets are not fooled! Their sense of smell tells them that what is in their food and it is not necessary for it to be "visually appealing".

Animal by-products. See this on your pet's food label and you are feeding them food that is "not fit for human consumption" including animal intestines, stomach, and internal organs. These by-products can be from any animal and their origins are unknown. To produce by-product meal, these animal parts are dried and then processed into a powdered substance. It carries the risk of disease and allergic reactions for our precious pets.

Other harmful ingredients found in many pet foods are chemical preservatives including BHA/BHT and propylene glycol, which have the potential for adverse health problems over time, are possible carcinogens, and can be toxic in large doses.

When deciding on what to feed your pets always check the label. You will be surprised to learn that even the products labeled as "premium" and have a higher price tag still contain many questionable ingredients. Don't forget to check your pet's "treats" as well. Most pet treats are laden with a multitude of fillers, chemicals, and other harmful additives.

What products do you use for your pets? After learning first hand the ill effects of bad food, I  now use and highly recommend, Life's Abundance pet food and products. No fillers, artificial colors or preservatives and only the best organic ingredients. To learn more about how these wonderful products can help all your furry friends live happy, healthy lives please Click Here to visit my Replicator site www.eatwagpurr.com.

What To Do If Your Dog Gets Frostbite

Winter this year in my area has been particularly harsh. We have had many days of single digit temperatures and sub zero wind chills. Conditions like these put your dog at risk for frostbite.

Some snowy days are nice but others can be dangerous
when the temperature drops

Frostbite is the freezing of the tissue of parts of the body. Most susceptible are the extremities, for a dog that would be the ears, tail, and paw pads. When the windchill drops below 0 degrees, frostbite could occur in less than 10 minutes of exposure.

Dogs need to go out to "do what they got to do" even on the coldest days, so when you bundle up make sure your furry friend is protected as well.

How do I help prevent frostbite:

• Elderly dogs, those with very short or thin fur, and puppies should wear a sweater or jacket.
• Take short "potty breaks" outdoors in the early morning and nighttime when there is no sun.
• Schedule longer walks for midday when the temperature is the warmest.
• Wipe feet if ice and snow accumulate, especially between paw pads.
• Upon return to indoors, thoroughly dry your pup

How do you know if your dog has frostbite?

The most noticeable sign is discoloration of the skin. If your dog has been outdoors in extreme cold for an extended period of time check the tips of their ears, tail, and feel for pale or blue skin. In advanced stages of frostbite the skin will be black. Since frostbite caused numbness and pain your pup may limp, lick their paws, or rub their ears. 

What to do?

If you suspect frostbite:

• Take your dog inside where it is warm.
• Lightly spray the affected area with warm water.
• Apply warm (not hot) compresses to the area.
• Take your pup to their veterinarian to check for tissue damage. 

I highly recommend everyone have a first aid manual and kit on hand. The American Red Cross is an excellent resource for information on how to care for an injured pet. 

7 Reasons To Walk Your Dog

There are lots of reasons to leash up your pup and "hit the road", "pound the pavement" or "take a stroll in the park". Running free in a fenced yard or playtime at a dog park are great but neither has as many health benefits as an old fashioned walk. I have compiled a list of my top seven reasons why you should walk your dog. Some of these reasons may surprise you.  Although the list is in no particular order, the first reason I am listing is my favorite.


1) A daily walk is a wonderful opportunity for bonding time with your pooch: There is nothing like experience long walks together in beautiful weather.  Although there will be days of rain, snow, or other inclement weather you need to take the bad with the good - together.

2) Walking is not only great exercise: Starting the day with an invigorating walk is a wonderful stress reliever.

3) Outdoor walking is great for your dog's feet: Walking on hard pavement will help file your dog's nails.

4) Dog's that get out and walk are better socialized: Running around in a fenced yard is very isolating. If your dog doesn't see people, other dogs and animals they will not learn proper behavior.

5) It helps them learn their neighborhood: As you walk with your dog they will learn the sounds and
smells of their neighborhood/ They will also mark their territory, leaving their scent along the way. This serves as a guide for them to find their way home in the event they wander away alone.

6) Walking is good for all ages: Puppies and young dogs need an outlet for their energy; adult dogs will benefit greatly from the daily exercise. Walking helps older dogs stay active in their senior years.

7) It helps prevent dogs from becoming fearful: Locked behind a high fence, dogs hear noises they don't understand and they have no way to investigate them. When out for a walk these noises surround them, they can see what they hear.  They take clues from you, their walker, that tells them if these noises are cause for alarm.

Nothing makes my dog, Dallas, happier than her daily walk. Even if it is just a short walk around the block I can tell she enjoys every minute...and so do I.

Keeping Your Dog Happy, Healthy, and Well Groomed

Without proper grooming, my Sheltie, Dallas, becomes a matted mess. Frequent brushing helps but a visit to her favorite groomer is a must to keep her looking and feeling great. Dallas is always happy to go to "the spa", however, I am sure she doesn't realize the health benefits.  All she knows is that it is a nice place to visit.

Dallas is ready for her "Day at the Spa"

Dallas' day at the groomer includes:

Bath, Trim & Style  If her skin is dry, or a flea is found, she will have a soak with the proper special shampoo. She will be completely dried, brushed, trimmed, and styled. All very important to prevent matted fur which can be painful and cause skin damage and irritation. 

Nail Trim  Keeping nails trimmed is important for proper foot position when walking. It also prevents long nails from catching on carpets or other surfaces that could cause injury.

Teeth Brushing Helps to prevent tarter build-up that could lead to painful teeth and tooth loss. Unhealthy teeth and gums can lead to poor nutrition and weight loss. Brushing teeth also helps to keep breath smelling fresh.

Ear Cleaning  Keeping ears clean, and trimming long hairs around ears, helps prevent painful infections.

Care needs to be taken when choosing the right groomer for your dog. You will know when you have found the right fit when your dog is happy and willing to go. If your pup refuses to enter the shop it is probably time to go elsewhere.

Before taking your dog for the first time it is best to visit the salon and speak to the groomer.  Let them know your dog's breed and temperament. Don't keep any secrets. If your pup doesn't like to have their feet touched let them know. Does your usually sweet natured pooch suddenly growl when their face is touched? Definitely give the heads up.

Take a look around. Is the shop neat and clean? Do the other dogs there seem happy and content? Take note of the overall vibe of the salon.

When Dallas is done she always comes out with her tail wagging. I can tell she is happy and proud of her new look. Of course, no look is complete without a bandanna and bow!