Webvet Diet and Exercise Feed

Webvet Diet and Exercise Feed http://www.webvet.com/main/showArticles/page/14 This feed contains articles about Diet and Exercise en-us Copyright 2009 Webvet, LLC 2009-11-07T07:20-05:00 advertise@webvet.com advertise@webvet.com Diet and Exercise hourly Should your pet's diet go 'natural?' http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2110 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2110">Should your pet's diet go 'natural?'</a><br /><p>As you scan the choices in your market's pet food aisle, you've no doubt noticed the labels promoting "natural" foods for dogs and cats. Natural pet foods are popular, according to a survey of 1,090 respondents conducted by Hill's Pet Nutrition, which makes Hill's Nature's Best, a natural product. But the pollsters also found confusion about what the term means.  To complicate your shopping and feeding tasks, veterinarians don't all agree that pets need "natural" formulas.</p><p>First, the survey findings:</p><ul><li>A third of respondents say they feed their pet a natural food, the majority for health reasons, and about half choose the natural food based on ingredients.</li><li>More than half of respondents believe natural pet food is the best option for their pet's health.</li><li>More than half say they <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1582" target="_blank">read the label</a> before buying a pet food, but understanding the label or all of it is difficult for most who do.</li></ul><p>The survey answers trigger several other important questions, such as what constitutes a "natural" pet food and whether it beats out other types.</p><h4>What is a natural pet food?</h4><p>Guidelines for natural pet foods are made by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), says Kurt Gallagher, a spokesperson for the Pet Food Institute in Washington, D.C.  Among other requirements, the use of the term natural in reference to the food product as a whole is acceptable only when all of the ingredients meet the definition. Natural means none of the ingredients are chemically synthesized.</p><p>The association does, however, make an exception when chemically synthesized vitamins, minerals or other trace nutrients are present in an otherwise natural food product if a disclaimer is used that these parts of the food aren't natural. In this case, the label would probably say: "Natural with added vitamins and minerals."</p><p>If only some of the ingredients are natural, look for such labels as "natural cheese flavor."</p><h4>Is natural food a necessity? Three views</h4><p>There's no official policy or advice about natural pet food from the American Veterinary Medical Association, according to spokesperson David Kirkpatrick. Individual vets do have their opinions, however.</p><p>"Natural" means different things to different pet owners, finds Tony Buffington, DVM, PhD, professor of veterinary clinical sciences at the Ohio State University Veterinary Hospital, Columbus, and diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition.  "If they mean raw food, I want to see the recipe," he says. If pet owners are asking about feeding their pets a diet labeled as natural from a commercial manufacturer that has years of experience making pet foods, he says: "Have at it."</p><p>But he adds a caveat: Don't expect health miracles just because your pet is eating "natural" foods. "Natural pet foods are just another kind of pet food made available for people who are interested in those kinds of food," he says. "There's no evidence I am aware of [that] they are any different from the point of view of the health of the animals or that they are any worse."</p><p>However, Heidi Hulon, DVM, a consultant for Hill's Pet Nutrition and a small animal practitioner in Louisville, Ky., sees benefit to natural foods--assuming the food lives up to its label claims as natural.</p><p>If so, she says, "it provides complete and balanced nutrition, and it helps maintain ideal body weight when fed appropriately." Some kinds of natural foods include high levels of antioxidants, which help maintain cellular health, she says, by protecting cells from damage done by unstable molecules known as free radicals.</p><p>In a nutshell: "The natural products are good, provided you know who the manufacturer is and they can confirm that the food follows the AAFCO guidelines," Hulon says.</p><br />By Kathleen Doheny for WebVet By Kathleen Doheny for WebVet Diet and Exercise Healthy Dog Sports 101 http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2251 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2251">Healthy Dog Sports 101</a><br />  <p>If you want to give your dog some exercise, but walking or jogging seems "old school," think outside the sidewalk. With the explosion of individual and organized dog sporting events, there's a canine activity or two that's sure to perk your enthusiasm. <strong>The American Kennel Club</strong> sponsors many competitive events for dogs. </p> <p>You and your four-footed friend can even vacation at a <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1398" target="_blank" title="Summer camp for dogs">dog camp</a> to enjoy new dog activities. "Spending quality time exercising with your dog is a great way to build a bond, manage weight, and maintain muscle tone," said Jeanne Richter, owner of Camp Gone For the Dogs in Marlboro, Vt. </p> <h4>Prepare for workouts</h4> <p>Before heading out to training classes for the doggy sport you're interested in, check out what's involved. See which ones fit into your schedule and lifestyle, and what you think your dog might like and can physically handle.</p> <p>It's also a good idea to take your dog to the veterinarian for a checkup to make sure it's in shape for whatever activity you have in mind. Take along plenty of water for your dog and avoid extreme cold or hot weather, especially if you have a flat-faced breed with breathing difficulties. Condition your dog slowly and don't do too much too soon. It also helps to socialize your dog around people and other dogs so it's not overwhelmed later on. </p> <p>"The first time you go to a class or expose your dog to a new activity shouldn't be the first time it sees 17 other dogs," said Terry Simons, an agility instructor and owner of Flying Dog Agility in Northridge, Calif.</p> <h4>Organized group sports</h4> <p>For the hustle and bustle of structured outings, consider these athletics:</p> <ul class="unIndentedList"><li> <strong>Agility:</strong> A timed race over 12 or 13 obstacles, agility is divided into classes based on a dog's height and experience. "The one thing that agility does more than anything else is build a dog's confidence," said Simons. "It helps a shy dog come out of its shell and feel comfortable around other dogs and people."</li><li> <strong>Canine Musical Freestyle, or Dancing with your dog:</strong> Here's a great way to show off your dog to a crowd and dance to a musical routine at the same time. According to the <strong>World Canine Freestyle Organization</strong>, musical freestyle incorporates music, timing, costuming, routine development, and showmanship. </li><li> <strong>Flyball:</strong> <strong>The North American Flyball Association (NAFA)</strong> sponsors a lightening-fast team sport in which dogs in a relay jump over hurdles and press a spring-loaded box. The box releases a tennis ball the dog catches and hightails it back to the owner.</li><li> <strong>Tracking:</strong> A dog can sniff out odors nearly 100 million times better than people can. Tracking dogs find an article, such as a leather glove, left by someone on a trail. The dog follows the scent and alerts the owner.</li></ul> <h4>Breed-specific events</h4> <ul class="unIndentedList"><li> <strong>Earthdog</strong>: This is a timed event requiring a dog to enter a tunnel and locate a caged rat by barking, growling, whining, or lunging at the cage. If you have a <a href="http://www.webvet.com/breeds/list/type/Dog/breedgroup/Terrier" target="_blank" title="Terrier breed information">Terrier</a> or a <a href="http://www.webvet.com/breeds/show/id/489" target="_blank" title="Dachshund breed information">Dachshund</a> with a strong prey drive who loves to dig, this fun event is right down its alley. </li><li> <strong>Field Trials</strong>: <a href="http://www.webvet.com/breeds/list/type/Dog/breedgroup/Sporting" target="_blank" title="Sporting dog breed information">Sporting dogs</a> such as <a href="http://www.webvet.com/breeds/show/id/177" target="_blank" title="Beagle breed information">Beagles</a>, <a href="http://www.webvet.com/breeds/show/id/489" target="_blank" title="Dachshund breed information">Dachshunds</a>, <a href="http://www.webvet.com/breeds/list/type/Dog/breedgroup/Sporting" target="_blank" title="Retriever breed information">Retrievers</a> and <a href="http://www.webvet.com/breeds/list/type/Dog/breedgroup/Sporting" target="_blank" title="Pointers dog breed information">Pointing Breeds</a> use their noses to follow the scents of small game to locate and alert their owners. </li><li> <strong>Herding</strong>: <a href="http://www.webvet.com/breeds/list/type/Dog/breedgroup/Herding" target="_blank" title="Herding breed information">Herding breeds</a> move flocks of animals by following instructions from their owners.</li></ul> <h4>Individual Activities</h4> <p>If you prefer to work independently, there's a wide range of outdoor pursuits to choose from:</p> <ul class="unIndentedList"><li> Paddling a canoe. While this may not increase your dog's heart rate and burn many calories, it's a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors. Make sure your dog wears a properly fitted flotation device.</li><li> <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1968" target="_blank" title="Dog swimming">Swimming</a>. Any dog can learn to swim. It just takes time, patience and a pool or lake. Make sure you take all necessary precautions and let your dog move at its own pace. </li><li> Skijoring. Large breeds and energetic dogs wear a sled dog harness and pull a skier across trails for long-distance travel or short sprints.</li></ul> <p>No matter what activity you choose for your dog, getting out and active helps mental ability and alleviates boredom, Richter said. "You never know what your dog will be good at until you try everything." Whether your dog is large or small, a purebred or a mixed breed, there's a fun, healthy outing for everyone - including you.  </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <br />By Elaine Waldorf Gewirtz for WebVet By Elaine Waldorf Gewirtz for WebVet Diet and Exercise How to spice up your dog's exercise routine http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1432 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1432">How to spice up your dog's exercise routine</a><br /><p>A varied <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1446/med/0" target="_blank">exercise routine</a> will help your dog stay in shape, and save it from boredom. “Being stuck in a yard or crate is an incredibly boring existence for a dog,” said Chicago-based veterinarian Dr. Tony Kremer, citing boredom as one reason for incessant barking. According to Kremer, a bored dog can also be destructive, out-of-shape, and rife with behavior problems.</p><p>To prevent these problems, he recommends giving dogs what they need to explore and interact with the world and keep “life exciting.” That includes a spiced-up <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1446" target="_blank" title="Workouts to help your dog lose weight">exercise regimen to maintain their weight</a> and stave off monotony. Following are a few suggestions.</p><h4>Walking</h4><p>While a walk may not seem like much for people, it can be a stimulating experience for a dog, said Kremer, especially if it’s not used to getting out.</p><p>“The same way we check our e-mail, dogs use a walk and their heightened sense of smell to check their ‘pee-mail’,” he said. “That’s what keeps their lives interesting.”</p><p>But is a walk always enough? It depends, he said, on a dog’s breed, age, and energy level. For example, sporting and herding breeds like retrievers and collies may need more than toy breeds like pugs and poodles.</p><h4>High-energy activities</h4><p>If you know your dog is high energy, there’s much you can do to keep them busy. That includes, for example:</p><ul><li>Competitive events like fly ball, a relay for dogs, and agility training, in which dogs navigate an obstacle course.</li><li>Running, or, if your dog has hip and joint issues, the more gentle activity of <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1968" target="_blank" title="Teach your pooch to paddle">swimming.</a></li><li>Bicycling with a <a type="amzn">dog bike leash</a> that attaches to your bike. </li><li>Fetch with a tennis ball, Frisbee, lure, or <a type="amzn">Dog Kong</a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002AR0II/102-3190317-6986502?ie=UTF8&tag=webvet-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=1789&creativeASIN=B0002AR0II" target="_blank"></a>. </li><li>A trip to the dog park, where dogs can play and interact with others. </li><li>Lunge-whip, in which you throw a buggy whip (from a farm supply store) with a ball or toy attached, and twirl it in a big circle for the dog to chase. </li></ul><p>These activities are not only fun for your dog, but also good for your relationship. “Telling your dog to go to the hoop or A-frame during agility enhances your shared vocabulary and strengthens your overall connection,” Kremer said.</p><h4>In the house</h4><p>Finally, if you think inclement weather has to put the kibosh on exercise, think again, said Andrea Metcalf, a fitness expert in Chicago. She recommends:</p><ul><li>Creating an obstacle course indoors and making use of boxes for jumping, balls for chasing, and stairs for climbing. </li><li>Playing hide-and-seek with your dog. “One of my sons holds the dog while the other hides the ball and then we run around together trying to find it,” she said.</li><li><a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1447/med/0" target="_blank">Yoga</a> for smaller dogs. Simply lie on your back and hold the dog above you, using your hands and bent knees to support the dog’s underarms and legs. Then, pull its front legs and drop your knees to extend its back legs alternately for a good stretch. </li></ul><p>No matter what you do, experts agree, spicing things up a bit can make a difference in your dog’s overall health and disposition, Kremer said. After all, “a well-exercised and engaged dog is a content dog.” And that, he adds, is good for everyone.</p><br />By Jill Sherer Murray for WebVet By Jill Sherer Murray for WebVet Diet and Exercise Dog and cat obesity is on the rise http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1436 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1436">Dog and cat obesity is on the rise</a><br /><p>Some small studies have hinted that about 40 percent of America’s dogs and cats were <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=76&med=1" target="_blank">overweight and obese</a>. But a large-scale study conducted in October 2008 shows that things are even worse than had been suspected, according to Ernie Ward, DVM, founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention.</p><p>The second annual study found that <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1467/med/0" target="_blank" title="Fighting obesity in dogs">44 percent of dogs were overweight,</a> including 10 percent that were obese. Things were worse for cats. “That is what we were fearful of,” Ward said. He said <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1396/med/0" target="_blank" title="Obesity in cats, the ">57 percent of cats were overweight</a>, including 17 percent falling into the obese category. The results come from a study using data collected by 95 U.S. vet clinics in which weight data was collected on 870 animals.   </p><p>Ward, who practices in Calabash, N.C., said the population was representative of the veterinary patient population: two-thirds dogs and one-third cats. The pets’ weight was ranked based on ideal ranges. “We now have the most accurate and up-to-date snapshot of the <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1445" target="_blank" title="Help your dog lose weight">pet obesity problem</a> in this country,” said Ward. </p><p>Ward said many vets have been hesitant to bring up obesity. “They thought their clients would be offended – that they didn’t perceive there was a problem,” he said. He said his research shows that clients correctly perceive that their dogs and cats are obese. “The reality is that the clients get it,” he said. “And they’re looking for help. Unfortunately sometimes, their veterinarian is not giving them that assistance.”</p><p>For more on obesity in pets, visit the <a href="http://www.petobesityprevention.com" target="_blank" title="Association for Pet Obesity Prevention">Web site</a> for the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention.</p><p> </p><br />By Howard Wolinsky for WebVet By Howard Wolinsky for WebVet Diet and Exercise Dog workouts for weight loss and control http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1446 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1446">Dog workouts for weight loss and control</a><br /><p>Dog obesity is a serious problem -- that's why <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1432/med/0" target="_blank">exercise</a> needs to be part of your dog's life. Consider this:</p><p>Chopper is a nine-year-old boxer/American Staffordshire terrier mix. He has led an active lifestyle, even working out on a treadmill during the cold Chicago winters. He pretty much maintained a weight of 59 pounds.</p><p>Then there is Mojo, a five-year-old Akita/Rottweiler mix, who topped the scales at 145 pounds and didn't enjoy exercising. </p><p>More Americans' dogs are more like Mojo than Chopper. A soon-to-be-released study by the Association of <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1467/med/0" target="_blank" title="Pet Obesity">Pet Obesity</a> Prevention shows that 45 percent of dogs are overweight, including 9 percent who are obese, according to Ernie Ward, DVM, president of the association.</p><h4>Reflecting the owner's lifestyle</h4><p>Chopper's owner is Esther Jacobson, 45, a private personal trainer. Jacobson said Chopper does not have a regimented <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1463/med/0" target="_blank" title="exercise program">exercise program</a>.</p><p>"Since I am very active physically, my dog has taken up my lifestyle. As a puppy he always joined me in my gym with my clients. One day, for kicks, I decided to put him on my treadmill,'' she said. Chopper took to the treadmill like a champ.</p><p>In the warmer months, Jacobson and Chopper walk a lot. "That is one of the ways I like to get exercise. Why would I leave my dog at home? In the winter, it's either the treadmill or playing chase in the house. I have a big enough space that we can do that.''</p><p>She said Chopper has developed <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2135" target="_blank">arthritis</a> in his hind legs so she goes easy on him. "When I do exercise him a little too hard, though, he limps and then I allow him the proper rest time to recover,'' she said.</p><p>Chopper has maintained his weight. "I don't give him any treats other than an occasional rawhide and some chicken or turkey in his food,'' Jacobson said. "He is pretty funny, though, in that he like vegetables and I give them to him once in a while.''</p><p>Mojo, who lives in Palo Alto, Calif., isn't a big exercise fan. In fact, he's a bit of a couch potato, said his owner, Sherrie Rose Maleson.</p><p>With Maleson's help, Mojo is working on his weight problem and has largely succeeded through <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1445/med/0" target="_blank" title="diet and exercise">diet and exercise</a>. He has dropped 30 pounds and has another five to eight to go. He also has been taking thyroid medicine to control his thyroid levels, which can play a role in overweight dogs.</p><p>Maleson worked with a dog trainer to learn how to persuade Mojo to go for walks. She said she now takes the reluctant exerciser on hour-long walks every day. "It was a problem. But he seems to enjoy it now,'' she said.</p><h4>Exercise walking vs. 'social walking'</h4><p>Ward said dogs and their owners need to learn how to separate walking for exercise from "social walking.''</p><p>"When people take their dogs out for social walks, we find they typically do about an 18-22 minute per mile pace,'' he said. "That is slower than you can walk because you're stopping. The dog is checking the urine from another dog. A twig gets his attention. </p><p>"Walking for weight loss is different. We really need to get them into that aerobic heart rate zone. We don't really tell people to measure heart rates on their dog, but we can tell them if it's anything more than a 15-a-minute-per-mile pace, they're probably not walking (for weight loss). A 15-minute-per-mile walk for a person feels like a good, brisk, steady walk.''</p><p>He said dogs should learn that the first half of a walk is focused on exercise and the dog can wander and do his own thing on the second half of the walk on the way home. "If people would start to train their dogs this way, they will find the dog will get very focused,'' Ward said. "They will get out there and briskly walk, and they will know when it's time to turn around. And when they turn around, they start to head back to the house, they start to check all those interesting smells and sights and sounds.''</p><h4>Gearing up for a walk</h4><p>Ward offers the following tips:</p><ul><li>Get the right gear. Forget about the traditional leash and collar. Collars can compress the windpipe when pulled, causing difficulty breathing or even injury. He said choke collars are especially dangerous. He recommends a head halter or walking harness with wide, soft, padded straps and breathable materials. He recommends a retractable leash no longer than 12 feet to keep the dog close and maintain a steady pace. Save the long leash for those casual strolls around the neighborhood "when Daisy wants to catch up on her latest pee-mail,'' he said.</li><li>Head halters are a great way to train dogs to heel during a brisk walk and pay attention. If your pet sits or refuses to walk, you may have to return home, crate him or put him in a quiet space without your attention, and try again another time. </li><li>For winter walks in cold climates, <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2108" target="_blank">booties</a> make sense. In temperatures above 80 to 85 degrees, or on walks longer than 30 minutes, bring along a portable water bottle for dogs.</li><li>Draw your dog close on his leash, generally within two to four feet on the side away from the street, and set off at a pace you feel comfortable sustaining. It should feel brisk and you should break a light sweat. The key is to keep it up. Don't look down when your pooch inevitably wants to stop and smell something or mark a hydrant. Continue looking straight ahead, tighten the leash (don't jerk), and give a command such as "No stop,'' "Come,'' or "Here.'' </li><li>Ward recommends half hour walks seven days a week. He suggests that dogs be weighed monthly to be sure they are at their ideal weight and have the vet check their paw pads and nails.</li></ul><p>Jacobson thinks that the exercise helps Chopper "continue having fun and maintain a happy demeanor, and I believe this will help him live longer... a happy owner creates a happy dog.'' </p><br />By Howard Wolinsky for WebVet By Howard Wolinsky for WebVet Diet and Exercise Organic pet food overview http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1561 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1561">Organic pet food overview</a><br /><p>Just as <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/2124/med/0" target="_blank">organic food</a> is touted as beneficial to the human diet, organic food can greatly improve the health of your pet. No longer relegated to the aisles of musty health food stores, <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2110" target="_blank">organic and natural foods</a>, both fresh and packaged, have now gone mainstream and are easily found -- and often prominently displayed -- in the aisles of most supermarkets around the country. Concern over the health effects of pesticides, chemical fertilizers, preservatives, and other food additives has fueled the boom in organic and natural food sales nationwide. </p><p>More recently, the same safety concerns that led to this trend in human food have brought about a significant increase in the sale of natural and organic pet foods as well. These concerns were heightened by the recent recall of pet foods that had been tainted with melamine, a plastics additive. Many pet owners who had not yet gone organic were driven by their doubts over the safety of conventional pet foods to consider switching to organic or natural products. </p><h4>The numbers tell the story</h4><p>According to the market research firm Packaged Facts, sales of natural pet foods increased by 50 percent from 2006 to 2007. From 2003 through 2007, U.S. sales of natural pet foods have gone from under $500 million to more than $1 billion. Although still constituting a minority of pet food purchases, organic pet foods clearly represent an increasingly attractive choice for millions of pet owners concerned about their pets' health.</p><h4>'Natural' vs. 'organic'</h4><p>The terms "natural'' and "organic,'' though often used interchangeably, are not synonyms. To further complicate matters, the use of the two terms, as applied to pet foods, is a legal issue that is complicated enough to make a lawyer's head spin. Interested pet owners should keep the following points in mind:</p><h4>'Natural' pet foods</h4><p>According to the <a href="http://www.aafco.org/" target="_blank" title="Association of American Feed Control Officials">Association of American Feed Control Officials</a> (AAFCO'), the organization responsible for formulating many of the regulations adopted by the states concerning pet foods and pet food labeling, an ingredient is "natural" if it is derived from plant, animal, or mineral sources and does not have any chemically synthetic additives;</p><p>"Natural'' does not mean unprocessed or unrefined. Basically, as long as it comes from nature and not a chemical plant, an ingredient is considered "natural.'' </p><p>If a pet food is labeled "natural,'' it cannot contain artificial colors, artificial flavors, artificial preservatives, artificial fats, or any other artificial ingredient.</p><h4>'Organic' pet foods</h4><p>Organic foods are a subgroup of natural foods. In other words, all organic foods are natural, but not all natural foods are organic. The term "organic'' has no separate definition as applied to pet foods, as distinct from human foods. To be considered organic, a food must comply with standards established by federal law that are overseen by the National Organic Program of the United States Department of Agriculture.</p><ul><li>Organic foods cannot contain synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), hormones, or antibiotics.</li><li>Some foods are labeled "Certified Organic;'' this means that the ingredients have been verified as organic by an independent certifying organization.</li><li>A food labeled "organic'' may contain up to 5 percent non-organic ingredients; if the label doesn't say "100% organic,'' you can assume that it isn't.</li><li>A food labeled "Made With Organic Ingredients'' may contain up to 30 percent non-organic ingredients.</li></ul><h4>Are natural and organic foods healthier for my pet?</h4><p>Although the advocates of natural and organic diets swear by them, whether such diets are actually healthier or safer for pets is debatable. The American Veterinary Medical Association has issued the following <a href="http://www.avma.org/issues/policy/organic_foods.asp" target="_blank" title="American Veterinary Medical Association">position</a>: "An organic label in no circumstances implies any assurance of increased food safety.'' </p><p>Dr. Rebecca Remillard, DVM, staff nutritionist at the Angell Animal Medical Center-Boston, is even more emphatic: "Foods labeled natural or organic do not offer any nutritional advantage.'' She points out that no controlled studies have been carried out comparing the long-term health effects of conventional vs. natural/organic pet foods and that the issue is more a lifestyle issue than a nutritional one.</p><h4>How to decide</h4><p>If the lifestyle choice is important to you, don't forget to read the nutritional information on natural or organic pet food labels as carefully as you would that on a conventional pet food. Finally, before making any significant change in your pet's diet, it's best to check with your veterinarian.</p><br />By Peter Lopatin for WebVet By Peter Lopatin for WebVet Diet and Exercise Should you feed your pet a raw meat diet? http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1571 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1571">Should you feed your pet a raw meat diet?</a><br /><p>Some advocates of homemade pet foods insist that raw meat should form the basis of dog and cat diets. These pet owners believe strongly that a raw meat diet comes closest to the diet that the ancestors of our pets ate in the wild and that such a diet is, therefore, more "<a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=2110" target="_blank">natural''</a> than conventional, commercially prepared foods. </p><h4>Assessing the risk</h4><p>All of the nutritional caveats about <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1562/med/0" target="_blank">homemade pet diets</a> using cooked ingredients apply to those made from raw meat. But the use of raw meat poses the additional risk of contamination with bacteria and parasites. A study reported in the February 2006 issue of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that 53 percent of the commercial, raw meat dog food samples tested were contaminated with Salmonella, a bacteria that can cause serious, sometimes fatal, intestinal tract infections. In addition to the risk of infection to pets, the owners who handle these foods on a daily basis may be placing themselves and their families at risk of cross-contamination by tainted meats.</p><h4>Veterinarians say to be careful</h4><p>The risks of raw meat diets have led the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association to take a strong position against raw meat diets. Their <a href="http://canadianveterinarians.net/ShowText.aspx?ResourceID=554" target="_blank" title="Position statement">Position Statement</a> is unequivocal: "To date, no scientific evidence to support the efficacy or safety of these diets have been published. There are now multiple peer-reviewed studies documenting potential risks from bacterial pathogens present in raw meats for both pets fed these diets and for in-contact humans.'' </p><h4>Dissenting voices</h4><p>Nevertheless, in spite of the disapproval of the veterinary establishment, a significant and growing number of pet owners are resorting to raw meat diets without apparent harm to their pets. In addition, some veterinarians -- while advising caution -- maintain that the dangers of such diets have been overstated.</p><h4>The bottom line: Play it safe</h4><p>If you are considering the raw meat option, do your research first. Make sure that you understand the risks and make the switch only if you are confident that the benefits justify the change. Finally, always check with your veterinarian before making a significant change to your pet's diet.</p><br />By Peter Lopatin for WebVet By Peter Lopatin for WebVet Diet and Exercise Exercising with your dog: Common mistakes http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1411 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1411">Exercising with your dog: Common mistakes</a><br /><p>When <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1432/med/0" target="_blank">exercising with your dog</a>, it's important to take it slow and not push yourself -- or your dog. Consider this scenario: You’re in the park tossing a Frisbee to your previously sedentary and sadly out-of-shape dog when it leaps into the air and drops down on the grass with a shriek. Uh oh. Now the dog’s got a <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=116&med=1" target="_blank" title="Torn ACL">torn ACL</a> in the knee that needs surgery, and you’re wondering how you could’ve avoided it. </p><p>Not uncommon, said Dr. Tony Kremer, a veterinarian in Chicago. “We see tears, sprains, and regret all the time, all the result of a 'weekend warrior' mentality.” </p><p>The good news is you can prevent these and other injuries by <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article/id/1446/med/0" target="_blank">exercising your dog properly</a> – and staying away from the following mistakes other pet owners make in keeping their dogs active.</p><h4>Mistake #1: Too much too soon</h4><p>Just as we shouldn’t go from lying on the sofa to running a marathon, neither should our animals. Instead, consider the dog’s age, health and exercise history before exercise – and then, think progression, said Andrea Metcalf, a fitness expert in Chicago.</p><p>“If your dog isn’t used to moving, walk for 10 minutes a few times a day and build gradually,” she said.</p><p>It’s an approach that’s not only best for your dog, but also the most organic, said Dr. Marcella Ridgway, a vet at the University of Illinois in Urbana. “Large amounts of repetitive, physically demanding exercise are not natural for dogs,” she said, adding that they’re more suited to walking in short intervals, stopping frequently to sniff. </p><h4>Mistake #2: Assuming you're both fit</h4><p>Even if you work out with your dog, you may not be equals in terms of fitness. If you’re more active than your dog, you may not want to run several miles with it. If your dog is more active, toss it a ball and then go for a short walk. That way, it’ll already be tired before you set off and a few short blocks will be just enough. </p><h4>Mistake #3: Ignoring the effects of climate </h4><p>Exercising your dog in extreme cold or heat requires vigilance in preventing things like frostbite and heat illness. You can do that by:</p><ul><li>Watching your dog's paw pads for tears and other injuries caused by hot concrete and asphalt, or by snow, ice, and salt. </li><li>Knowing your dog’s tolerance for the outdoors. For example, some breeds, like pugs and Pekingnese, are especially prone to breathing problems.</li><li>Making water available to keep your dog hydrated.</li><li>Recognizing the signs of <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=140&med=1" target="_blank">heat stroke </a>– heavy panting and salivating, fatigue, muscle tremors, staggered walking – so you can take action if necessary. </li></ul><p>Most importantly, pay attention to what your dogs are telling you while exercising, said James H. Sokolowski, DVM, in Vernon, Calif., in an issue of American Fitness. “If they reject the idea of exercise on a hot day that means their bodies aren’t up to it.” </p><h4>Mistake #4: Multitasking </h4><p>How many times have you seen somebody with their dog’s leash in one hand and a cell phone in the other? Too many, said Metcalf, who cautions against it. </p><p>Instead, leave the earplugs and cell phone at home. “Take that time to unwind and connect with your pet,” she said. “They’ll be happier and you will too.”</p><h4>Mistake #5: Not exercising at all</h4><p>Finally, know that the benefits of exercise usually far outweigh the risks, said Kremer, especially when it comes to keeping your dog – and your relationship – healthy. </p><br />By Jill Sherer Murray for WebVet By Jill Sherer Murray for WebVet Diet and Exercise Nutritional requirements for your pet http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1583 <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=1583">Nutritional requirements for your pet</a><br /><p>Proper <a href="http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=75&med=1" target="_blank">pet nutrition </a>requires the owner's attention.  Knowing how to read a pet food label is the first step in assuring that your pet is being adequately and properly nourished. Taking that step means that you know how to find out the answer to the question "What's in this stuff?'' The second - and crucial - step is to answer the question "Is this what my dog/cat needs?''</p><p>In order to answer that all-important question, you need some basic knowledge of the requirements of dogs and cats. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) - the same organization whose regulations govern the labeling of pet foods - has established "Nutrient Profiles'' for dogs and cats. Dog and cat foods that are labeled as "complete and balanced'' based on the AAFCO profiles must meet certain specified nutrient levels. These Profiles are available as tables to "<a href="http://www.fda.gov/cvm/petfood.htm" target="_blank" title="Selecting Nutritious Pet Foods">Selecting Nutritious Pet Foods</a>,'' a publication of the Center for Veterinary Medicine of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).</p><p>The AAFCO Profiles state the minimum requirements for all of the essential nutrients. However, they go beyond this by distinguishing between the "Growth and Reproduction Minimum'' and the "Adult Maintenance Minimum.'' This is an important distinction because the nutritional requirements of dogs and cats do not remain constant through all life stages.</p><p>In addition, the Profiles give maximum levels for those nutrients that are potentially dangerous to pets if consumed in excess. The FDA publication states that maximums are now listed "because of concern that overnutrition, rather than undernutrition, is a bigger problem with many pet foods today.''</p><p>When using the Profiles to assess your pet's needs, keep in mind that nutrient requirement levels are stated on a "dry matter basis''. Since the nutrient amounts on pet food labels (usually stated as the "guaranteed analysis'') are stated on an "as fed'' basis, it is necessary to convert those amounts to a dry matter basis. The FDA publication explains the simple calculation used to do this.</p><p>Since new research into pet nutrition may result in revised recommendations, it is a good idea to review your pet's nutritional needs periodically with your veterinarian.</p><br />By Peter Lopatin for WebVet By Peter Lopatin for WebVet Diet and Exercise