Copyright 2010 Alvimann

Cute Kitten-Copyright 2010 Alvimann

This is the time of year we gather together with the people we love, to say a blessing over the beautifully prepared meal before us. With all the pies, cakes and all the other sweet treats that are shared around the holiday season we need to make sure we are considering what we are putting into our bodies.

Making sure to not over indulge and choosing healthier foods can help make everyone’s Christmas merrier. As we prepare these special treats, let us not forget to make healthier choices for our furbabies as well. Insuring your pets are enjoying a healthy balanced meal is vital to their health and quality of life.

Dry Foods

A dry kibble is what most people feed their pets. When choosing the pet food, the ingredient list on the back or side of the bag is often overlooked, but it is one of the most important factors in helping our pets stay healthy. A lot of foods contain corn, soy, wheat and dyes that can be harmful. Some dog food contains high percentages of corn, soy and dyes which can cause several issues with your dog or cat including allergies and itching.  A grain free food is the best route to go when deciding on a healthier food. A few companies do produce grain free foods that offer a more complete, balanced diet for your furbaby.

Canned Foods

Wet foods can contain grains such as corn, wheat, and soy as well. It is best to choose one that is grain free and has a meat as one of the first ingredients. Water is usually first on the ingredient list and offers nothing but moisture. Although some pets require a wet diet due to things like age, moist foods do not help with removing tartar from their teeth like a dry kibble does. Adding some type of dental chew or regularly brushing their teeth will help with tartar build up and that despised stinky breath. Not only are unhealthy grains and dyes included in some foods, they are also in many popular treats as well. Being aware of what we are giving our pets to ingest and thrive off of is very important. Switching their diet to a grain free food may be one of the best things you could do for them. Some Pet stores have staff that are knowledgeable enough to help you choose the best fit for your pet. It is also good to review brands on-line before deciding on a food.

Being aware of what we are giving our pets to ingest and thrive off of is very important. Switching their diet to a grain free food may be one of the best things you could do for them. Some pet stores have staff that are knowledgeable enough to help you choose the best fit for your pet. It is also good to review brands on-line before deciding on a food.

Portion Control

Portion control plays  an important role in keeping our furbabies at a healthy weight as well. Most dog foods have a portion chart included on the back or side of each bag. This chart is given as a reference to that particular type of food and should not be used with any other brand or type of food. Feeding your pet based on these guidelines should ensure your pet stays active and fit. So as we enjoy our delicious holiday meal and slip Fido a treat from the table, please make sure the food in his bowl is the healthiest you can find. After all, our beloved pets deserve the very best!

Happy Holidays from Audies Angels
Audrey Lohrey