Understanding Grief and the Importance of Mourning Pet Loss

As we take this journey together in understanding pet loss and the grief process, it’s important that we understand some of the basics of these emotions. We’ll cover topics from the definitions of grief and mourning to why pet loss is considered a “disenfranchised grief” for many suffering the loss of a beloved pet.

Definitions

Grief is what we feel on the inside. It’s the intense feeling that sits within our heart, our stomach and our entire being that says we hurt from this loss. The loss can be death, divorce, a child moving away, illness, loss of a job or a variety of other things that represent someone no longer having something.

Mourning is what we show when we lose something. In other words, it’s grief gone public. It can look like crying, screaming, yelling, throwing things, or a variety of other physical actions that one might do to show their emotions.

One of the most important parts of a grief journey is to actively mourn. “He who mourns, mends.” A grieving heart needs to be active with their mourning, to show their grief through mourning, to physically do things to get to a point that the death and the loss has been reconciled into one’s life.

Companioning with a grieving heart is walking the grief journey with them. It’s not leading them, guiding them, or taking the journey for them. It’s merely being there as a companion to listen and to provide the permission that a grieving heart needs to do their active mourning.

As a companion, it’s incredibly important to “honor the story” with the grieving heart. To be patient with their broken heart so that they can actively mourn through the use of telling their story, telling about the life they shared with their beloved pet. Companions should provide that safe place that one needs to know that they can share their deepest emotions, their innermost thoughts, and to know that they will not be shamed nor made to feel “crazy” for the hurt they are experiencing with this loss.

The Death of a Pet and Disenfranchised Grief

When we lose a human family member, most people have a built-in support system. Or, if nothing else, people will most always empathize with the expression of loss of a human family member with “I’m so sorry to hear about your dad.” However, with sixty-two percent of our population having a pet, that means that 38% does not. Therefore, if a person’s entire support system is comprised of those that represent 38%, a person who’s experiencing grief over the death of a pet might not receive the empathy and support that would organically be expressed with the loss of a human family member.

Help for Sick and / or Dying Pets

Should you have a sick or dying pet, we can provide your pet some comfort with our energy healing known as Animal Reiki.  Learn more here ~ Animal Reiki

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *

Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her online specialty pet boutique (http://www.TheGiftedPet.com), and premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/TheGiftedPet), or email her at Raven@TheGiftedPet.com

Spotlight on Feline Illness ~ FeLV and FIV

Cats Outdoors

The great thing about cats is that they are superb at being independent and social companions. Most cats enjoy spending time outside playing with other felines. As a pet parent, it is very important that you are aware of some possible dangers associated with having your cat freely roaming outdoors. Since the 1960s, Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) have been spreading amongst the feline population worldwide. While these two diseases are preventable, they are contagious and potentially fatal if they are not detected early enough. The good news is that vaccines are available to decrease the chances that your feline will catch FeLV or FIV.

FeLV is commonly referred to as the ‘friendly cat disease’ since it’s transferred via saliva. Your cat can catch FeLV through sharing water bowls or even grooming an infected cat. On the other hand, FIV is transmitted through bite wounds and cat fights. Since males tend to be more involved in territorial fighting they are at an even higher risk of catching FIV. It is imperative to note that these viruses cannot be passed on to humans, dogs or other pets.

Feline immunodeficiency virus closely resembles HIV in humans. The virus attacks your cat’s immune system and may not show any signs until several years later. Another sinister aspect of FIV is that the symptoms can mimic other common illnesses, making it even harder to detect.

FeLV is somewhat different in its plan of attack. Feline leukemia virus goes after your cat’s genetic coding. This maneuver allows the virus to continue to reproduce infected cells at an alarming rate. Some cats are able to eliminate the infection before becoming sick. Other cats will carry and spread the disease despite never getting sick themselves. This virus can hide in bone marrow until it eventually surfaces in the form of many general symptoms.

There are several warning signs associated with FeLV and FIV; however, not every infected cat will exhibit the same red flags. Your cat may initially develop a fever or become suddenly and extremely fatigued, important indicators that something may be wrong. Other chronic issues include respiratory infections, dental and gum infections, bone marrow issues and certain cancers. Also, if your kitty starts losing weight, having chronic diarrhea, or develops chronic infections of the skin and eyes, make an appointment to see your vet immediately.

Cat with Vet

Your vet will perform a SNAP test to accurately determine if your cat is infected with FeLV or FIV. The test is quick and requires only a small blood sample. FIV is predominantly diagnosed through this blood sample alone. A bone marrow sample, in addition to the initial blood sample, may be required to successfully determine a positive FeLV result.

Since FeLV and FIV are so complex, re-testing may be necessary. For example, if a kitten’s mother is infected with FIV or FeLV, the kitten may test positive at a young age. However, over time, their immune systems may be able to fight and overcome the infection, eventually resulting in a disease-free kitty. In contrast, if the FeLV virus is in the early stages and has not fully developed, it may not show up in the initial results. Later tests, further into the virus’ progression, will ultimately lead to a clear diagnostic result.

Early detection, treatment, and proper nutrition are essential for your cat to live as long and comfortably as possible. If your feline does test positive for FeLV or FIV, then they will require premium nutritional support since their bodies will be stressed and weakened from the virus. Make sure that the food you feed provides an optimal balance of vitamins, proteins, and antioxidants, to give your feline the best chance at maintaining strength and general well being. In cases like these, pet parents should strongly consider augmenting meals with nutritional supplements to further boost health and vitality.

If your cat tests positive for FeLV or FIV, I recommend that they make the transition to strictly indoor living. When immune systems are compromised, going outdoors could increase their risk for catching other viruses, parasites, or infections. Your cat will also be in harm’s way if they sustain any wounds from cat fighting or other traumatic events. Resulting injuries may not heal properly and might even become infected. You should isolate any infected cats or kittens from other cats to avoid further contamination. It is essential to test any new cats or kittens that you may be bringing home for FeLV and FIV.

As a feline pet parent it is great to provide your cat with the independence that they crave. However, you should pay close attention to any changes in the overall health or physical appearance of your outdoor cat. Early detection could be the key to saving your cat’s life. 

For more great articles like this, subscribe to this blog, or join our Life's Abundance Newsletter!  

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  * 

Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her online specialty pet boutique (http://www.TheGiftedPet.com), and premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/TheGiftedPet), or email her at Raven@TheGiftedPet.com

Dogs 101 ~ Common Behavioral Issues ~ Destructive Behaviors (Chewing, Digging)

Dog Digging In Yard

Boredom, loneliness, hot weather, or escape artistry can lead your dog to misbehave or engage in destructive behaviors like chewing and digging; the following are some suggestions for keeping your canine friends entertained!

Buster Cube

Buster® Cube (available from Bark Busters): This award-winning dog toy is a great distraction. Fill the toy with dry kibble. As your dog rolls it around on the ground, the kibble falls out from multiple compartments. This motivates your dog work for his food, keeping a brain-active dog busy for hours.

Scatter feeding: Turn feeding into a treasure hunt. Scatter a variety of foods (such as whole carrots, celery, peas, broccoli, beans, apples, healthy baked treats, etc.) around the yard when you put your dog outside. This gives your dog something to forage for as well as some nutritious food to chew on (rather than your wooden lawn furniture). You can also scatter his dry food around the yard. 

KONG Stuffable Toy

KONG® toys (available at most better pet retailers, or by request through The Gifted Pet): The durable rubber toys made by KONG® have a hollow center that can be stuffed with delicious treats. Seal the ends with biscuits to make it harder for your dog to get the goodies inside, or fill one with food and then freeze it to make your dog a “KONG-sicle” to enjoy. KONG® also produces the Wobbler, which is similar to the Buster® Cube. Place treats or kibble inside, and your dog has to figure out how to release them by maneuvering the toy around.

If your dog seems to prefer your yard or household items over his toys to chew, one way to discourage him is to have the item itself give the correction by applying a foul-tasting product such as Grannick's Bitter Apple spray, citronella or hot chili sauce to it. Never give your dog old shoes or clothing items to chew, as he may not distinguish between these old items and new ones.

Digging is a normal behavior for dogs. They dig in search of food, to investigate sounds and smells, to improve their shelter, or to escape. This behavior can be triggered by boredom, separation anxiety, chasing rodents or bugs, and/or a nutritional deficiency.

Let him have a designated digging area. Some dogs, such as terriers and hunting dogs, have a very strong instinct to dig. Perhaps there is one part of your yard that you will permit digging. Alternatively you could make him a sand pit. The dog will have to be trained to dig in the designated area, not in the geraniums.

The reason for the digging must be determined before a possible training solution can be tried. Contact a local Dog Behavioral Therapist to help you with this tricky behavioral issue. ♥

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *

Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her online specialty pet boutique (http://www.TheGiftedPet.com), and premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/TheGiftedPet), or email her at Raven@TheGiftedPet.com

Reason #1,487 Not to Trust Big Corporate Brands . . . . >:(

Did You Know . . . . ???

Del Monte's former pet products division has picked up a new moniker after selling off the ubiquitous Del Monte canned food.  San Francisco-based Big Heart Pet Brands' product menu includes Meow Mix, Milk-Bone dog treats, Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance, 9Lives, Pup-Peroni, Milo's Kitchen, Nature's Recipe, Gravy Train, and Kibble 'n Bits, among others.

Per their "press release" in the San Francisco Business Times, this is purely a profit driven decision . . . . not a decision due to their "Big Hearts" wanting to help pets live healthier, longer lives. “As a standalone pet products company, Big Heart Pet Brands will be singularly focused on capturing growth opportunities in the expanding $21 billion pet products category,” said Dave West, president and CEO of Big Heart Pet Brands.

Just SOME of the questionable ingredients used in Big Heart brands:

* Meat and bone meal ~ Milk-Bone. Ingredient determined by FDA to be likely to contain a euthanized animal.
* Animal Fat ~ Meow Mix. Ingredient determined by FDA to be likely to contain a euthanized animal.
* BHA ~ Kibbles n’ Bits. An unnatural chemical preservative associated with serious illness.
* Meat By-Products ~ 9 Lives. Ingredient that could be sourced from rejected for use in human food meats.
* Dyes ~ various products. Of no nutritional benefit to the pet, some dyes have links to illness, including cancer, or even death.

The list goes on . . . and, many of the supplements used in Big Heart brands are sourced from “international suppliers” including China.

Why would you feed your pets things that can harm their health?! We prefer feeding food and treats from a company whose primary concern is the health of your pets . . . .not their bottom line, or their shareholders.

Learn more about our products and a company you can trust here:

Premium Pet Food Store

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *

Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her online specialty pet boutique (http://www.TheGiftedPet.com), and premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/TheGiftedPet), or email her at Raven@TheGiftedPet.com

Tips for the First 30 Days of Dog Adoption ♥

The first few days in your home are special and critical for a pet. Your new dog will be confused about where he is and what to expect from you. Setting up some clear structure with your family for your dog will be paramount in making as smooth a transition as possible.

Before You Bring Your Dog Home:

* Determine where your dog will be spending most of his time. Because he will be under a lot of stress with the change of environment (from shelter or foster home to your house), he may forget any housebreaking (if any) he's learned. Often a kitchen will work best for easy clean-up.

* Dog-proof the area where your pooch will spend most of his time during the first few months. This may mean taping loose electrical cords to baseboards; storing household chemicals on high shelves; removing plants, rugs, and breakables; and installing baby gates.

* Training your dog will start the first moment you have him. Take time to create a vocabulary list everyone will use when giving your dog directions. This will help prevent confusion and help your dog learn his commands more quickly.

* Bring an ID tag with your phone number on it with you when you pick up your dog so that he has an extra measure of safety for the ride home and the first few uneasy days. If he is microchipped, be sure to register your contact information with the chip's company, if the rescue or shelter did not already do so.

First Day:

* We know moving is stressful . . . and your new dog feels the same way! Give him time to acclimate to your home and family before introducing him to strangers. Make sure children know how to approach the dog without overwhelming him.

* When you pick up your dog, remember to ask what and when he was fed. Replicate that schedule for at least the first few days to avoid gastric distress. If you wish to switch to a different brand, do so over a period of about a week by adding one part new food to three parts of the old for several days; then switch to half new food, half old, and then one part old to three parts new.

* On the way home, your dog should be safely secured, preferably in a crate. Some dogs find car trips stressful, so having him in a safe place will make the trip home easier on him and you.

* Once home, take him to his toileting area immediately and spend a good amount of time with him so he will get used to the area and relieve himself. Even if your dog does relieve himself during this time, be prepared for accidents. Coming into a new home with new people, new smells and new sounds will throw even the most housebroken dog off-track, so be ready just in case.

* If you plan on crate training your dog, leave the crate open so that he can go in whenever he feels like it in case he gets overwhelmed. (Although we don't advocate crates in general, they are useful in certain situations . . . and, many dogs prefer the den-like qualities of a crate).

* From there, start your schedule of feeding, toileting and play/exercise. From Day One, your dog will need family time and brief periods of solitary confinement. Don't give in and comfort him if he whines when left alone. Instead, give him attention for good behavior, such as chewing on a toy or resting quietly.

* For the first few days, remain calm and quiet around your dog, limiting too much excitement (such as the dog park or neighborhood children). Not only will this allow your dog to settle in easier, it will give you more one-on-one time to get to know him and his likes/dislikes.

* If he came from another home, objects like leashes, hands, rolled up newspapers and magazines, feet, chairs and sticks are just some of the pieces of "training equipment" that may have been used on this dog. Words like "come here" and "lie down" may bring forth a reaction other than the one you expect.

* Or maybe he led a sheltered life and was never socialized to children or sidewalk activity. This dog may be the product of a never-ending series of scrambled communications and unreal expectations that will require patience on your part.

Following Weeks:

People often say they don't see their dog's true personality until several weeks after adoption. Your dog will be a bit uneasy at first as he gets to know you. Be patient and understanding while also keeping to the schedule you intend to maintain for feeding, walks, etc. This schedule will show your dog what is expected of him as well as what he can expect from you.

* After discussing it with your veterinarian to ensure your dog has all the necessary vaccines, you may wish to take your dog to group training classes or the dog park. Pay close attention to your dog's body language to be sure he's having a good time . . . and is not fearful or a dog park bully. If you're unsure of what signs to watch for, look online for signs of dog behavior, or email us directly for more information.

* To have a long and happy life together with your dog, stick to the original schedule you created, ensuring your dog always has the food, potty time and attention he needs. You'll be bonded together in no time!

* If you encounter behavior issues you are unfamiliar with, ask your veterinarian for a trainer recommendation. Select a trainer who uses positive-reinforcement techniques to help you and your dog overcome these behavior obstacles.

Congratulations! If you follow these tips, you'll be on your way to having a well-adjusted canine family member. ♥

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *

Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her online specialty pet boutique (http://www.TheGiftedPet.com), and premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/TheGiftedPet), or email her at Raven@TheGiftedPet.com

Dangerous Foods Your Cat Should Never Eat!!

Because they're such picky eaters, we sometimes think cats know what’s best for them when it's time to eat. But the fact they'll walk away from a piece of bad meat doesn't mean they'll bypass an open can of tuna. And that can of tuna can be just as dangerous. In fact, you may be surprised to learn some of the common foods your cats should never eat.

Tuna ~ Cats can be addicted to tuna, whether it's packed for cats or for humans. Some tuna now and then probably won't hurt. But a steady diet of tuna prepared for humans can lead to malnutrition because it won't have all the nutrients a cat needs. And, too much tuna can cause mercury poisoning. Remember the saying, "Honest as a cat when the meat's out of reach." Your cat will see an open can of tuna next to the sink as a dinner invitation.

Onions, Garlic, Chives ~ Onion in all forms ~ powdered, raw, cooked, or dehydrated ~ can break down a cat's red blood cells, leading to anemia. That's true even for the onion powder that's found in some baby foods. An occasional small dose probably won't hurt. But eating a large quantity once or eating smaller amounts regularly can cause onion poisoning. Along with onions, garlic and chives can cause gastrointestinal upset.

Milk and Other Dairy Products ~ What could be wrong with offering your cat a saucer of milk or a piece of cheese? Although kittens are able to tolerate milk, most adult cats cannot. Their digestive system cannot process dairy foods, and the result can be digestive upset with diarrhea.

Alcohol ~ Beer, liquor, wine, foods containing alcohol -- none of it is good for your cat. That's because alcohol has the same effect on a cat's liver and brain that it has on humans. But it takes far less to do its damage. Just two teaspoons of whiskey can cause a coma in a 5-pound cat, and one more teaspoon could kill it. The higher the proof, the worse the symptoms.

Grapes and Raisins ~ Grapes and raisins have often been used as treats for pets. But it's not a good idea. Although it isn't clear why, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in cats. And, a small amount can make a cat ill. Repeated vomiting and hyperactivity are early signs. Although some cats show no ill effects, it's best not to give your cat any grapes and to keep grapes and raisins off countertops and other places accessible to your cat.


Caffeine ~ Caffeine in large enough quantities can be fatal for a cat. And there is no antidote. Symptoms of caffeine poisoning include restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors, and fits. In addition to tea and coffee ~ including beans and grounds ~ caffeine can be found in cocoa, chocolate, colas, and stimulant drinks such as Red Bull. It's also in some cold medicines and painkillers.




Chocolate ~ Chocolate can be lethal for cats. Although most cats won't eat it on their own, they can be coaxed to eat it by owners and others who think they are giving the cat a treat. The toxic agent in chocolate is theobromine. It's in all kinds of chocolate, even white chocolate. The most dangerous kinds, though, are dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate. Eating chocolate can cause abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures, and death.


Candy and Gum ~ Candy, gum, toothpaste, baked goods, and some diet foods are sweetened with xylitol. Xylitol can cause an increase in the insulin circulating through your cat's body, which will cause the cat's blood sugar to drop. Xylitol can also lead to liver failure. Initial symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, and loss of coordination. The cat may have seizures soon after ingesting the xylitol, and liver failure can occur within just a few days.



Fat Trimmings and Bones ~ Table scraps often contain fat trimmed off of meat and bones. Both fat and bones may be dangerous for cats. Fat, both cooked and uncooked, can cause intestinal upset, with vomiting and diarrhea. And a cat can choke on a bone. Bones can also splinter and cause an obstruction or lacerations of your cat's digestive system.

Raw Eggs ~ There are two problems with giving your cat raw eggs. The first is the possibility of food poisoning from bacteria like salmonella or E. coli. The second is that a protein in raw egg whites, called avidin, interferes with the absorption of the B vitamin biotin. This can cause skin problems as well as problems with your cat's coat.

Raw Meat and Fish ~ Raw meat and raw fish, like raw eggs, can contain bacteria that cause food poisoning. In addition, an enzyme in raw fish destroys thiamine, which is an essential B vitamin for your cat. A lack of thiamine can cause serious neurological problems and lead to convulsions and coma.


Dog Food ~ An occasional bite of dog food won't hurt your cat. But dog food is not a substitute for cat food. They do have many of the same ingredients. But cat food is specially formulated for a cat's needs, which include more protein as well as certain vitamins and fatty acids. A steady diet of dog food can cause your cat to be severely malnourished.




Liver ~ Small amounts of liver are OK, but eating too much liver can cause vitamin A toxicity. This is a serious condition that can affect your cat's bones. Symptoms include deformed bones, bone growths on the elbows and spine, and osteoporosis. Vitamin A toxicity can also cause death.

Too Many Treats ~ Eating too much too often can do the same thing to cats that it does to humans. It can lead to obesity and even diabetes.

Yeast Dough ~ Before it's baked, bread dough needs to rise. And, that's exactly what it would do in your cat's stomach if your cat ate it. As it swells inside, the dough can stretch the abdomen and cause severe pain. In addition, when the yeast ferments the dough to make it rise, it produces alcohol that can lead to alcohol poisoning.



Your Medicine ~ Ingesting a drug prescribed for humans is one of the most common causes of poisoning in cats. Just as you would do for your children, put all medicines where your cat can't get to them. And never give your cat any over-the-counter medicine unless advised to do so by your vet. Ingredients such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen are common in pain relievers and cold medicine. And they can be deadly for your cat.



Kitchen Pantry: No Cats Allowed ~ Many other items commonly found on kitchen shelves can harm your cat. Keeping food items where your cat can't get to them and keeping pantry and cupboard doors closed will help protect your cat from serious food-related illness.

If Your Cat Eats What It Shouldn't ~ No matter how cautious you are, it's possible your cat can find and swallow what it shouldn't. It's a smart idea to always keep the number of your local vet, the closest emergency clinic, and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center ~ (888) 426-4435 ~ where you know you can find it in an emergency. And if you think your cat has consumed something that's toxic, call for emergency help at once.

What Cats CAN Eat!!   

Cats are carnivores and need meat. An occasional taste of cooked meat or brown rice can be an OK treat. But it's best to keep it small and infrequent.

What We Recommend:

Our cats are special and, here at Life's Abundance, we are committed to providing our soulful friends with high-quality health foods, effective nutritional solutions and supplements, treats with a healthy purpose and luxurious pet care products created to beautify and pamper your feline.

Life's Abundance Wet Food ~  Instinctive Choice Premium Canned Food is formulated to provide your cat with a meal that is similar in nutrition and moisture to how a feline would feed in the wild. Instinct is king with cats and they will purr over this protein rich food, which contains organic chicken, turkey, chicken liver and shrimp. Why should you choose Instinctive Choice for your cat? It’s not only what’s in Instinctive Choice that makes it the ultimate canned cat food, it’s what is not in it. 

What's NOT in Instinctive Choice. Instinctive Choice does not contain fruits like apples, vegetables like carrots or grains like corn. Although carbohydrates like these are used in dry foods to form the nuggets, they are not necessary in canned foods. Instinctive Choice gives you the ability to feed your cat closer to how a feline would feed in the wild.

Instinctive Choice does NOT contain corn or corn gluten, wheat or wheat gluten, artificial colors or artificial preservatives.

What IS in Instinctive Choice. Because modern house cats evolved from desert felines who acquired fluids primarily from prey, they naturally have a weak thirst drive. Adequate water intake is necessary for a healthy urinary tract and other biological processes. To suit their needs, Instinctive Choice contains chicken broth along with high-quality proteins from organic chicken, turkey, chicken liver and shrimp. We added omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, taurine, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Taken all together, these ingredients satisfy your cat’s instinctive and nutritional requirements. To top it off, this succulent meal has a savory flavor that your kitten or cat will love. With Instinctive Choice, you can finally give your cat what she truly craves, with the water content and nutrition she needs to thrive.


Life's Abundance Dry Food ~  Life’s Abundance Premium Health Food is made with select ingredients, including a delectable blend of high-quality chicken, catfish and turkey meals, wholesome grains, omega fatty acids and much more. We never use corn or wheat products, and we never use artificial flavors or colors. With Life’s Abundance, you can be confident that you are feeding your cat advanced nutrition.

Life's Abundance Gourmet Cat Treats  Most cats spend a good portion of their waking hours grooming themselves and often loose hair is swallowed, which can lead to an accumulation in the stomach. Dr. Jane believes that healthy skin and a strong, resilient coat begin on the inside and that is why she formulated Life’s Abundance Gourmet Cat Treats For Healthy Skin & Coat. These savory nuggets are feline-friendly, and they feature a deliciously appetizing flavor that will delight even the most finicky of cats. Try our veterinarian-formulated Life’s Abundance Gourmet Cat Treats For Healthy Skin & Coat today.

Life's Abundance Wellness Supplement for Cats provides a wide variety of nutritious ingredients in a formula that enhances your cat’s daily diet, to help promote optimal health and wellness. The shape, size and savory flavor of the nuggets in this supplement are appealing to even the most finicky of cats.

To request samples of our pet food, treats, or supplements, please contact us via the Contact Us! form on this blog or via email at Raven@TheGiftedPet.com!



*  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *



Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her online specialty pet boutique (http://www.TheGiftedPet.com), and premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)


For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/TheGiftedPet), or email her at Raven@TheGiftedPet.com

Life's Abundance Announces NEW Dental Products And Buffalo Chew Treats For Dogs!!

Exciting news!!  We are so pleased to announce five brand new products are on sale now! In recognition of National Pet Dental Month, all of our dental products (including our super tasty Dental Treats For Dogs) are on sale through the month of February! Stock up now!!!

Dental Wipes For Dogs (100 Presoaked Textured Wipes)  ~ Dental care is a big concern for pet parents. Now you can offer your customers and prospects a quick and easy way to clean their dog’s teeth and gums with our new Dental Wipes. This great product fights plaque and tartar buildup and freshens breath.  15% off in February!

Dental Wipes for Dogs

Foam Breath Freshener For Dogs (5 Fluid Ounces) ~ Doggie breath is a common problem, but now we can offer you a simple solution. Our new Foam Breath Freshener will eliminate bad breath instantly and turn unpleasant doggie odors into minty-fresh kisses!  15% off in February!

Foam Breath Freshener for Dogs

Unlike typical dental products on the shelves today, our Dental Wipes and Foam Breath Freshener are completely free from harsh ingredients like parabens and polysorbates, as well as artificial colors and flavors. Effective and safe … it doesn’t get better than that!

Shop for All Dental Products!

Buffalo Bully Sticks For Dogs (Four 9" Sticks) ~ Dogs love to chew, and our new Buffalo Bully Sticks are an all-natural way to satisfy this instinctive desire. Plus they'll help reduce tartar and maintain dental health, all at the same time.  15% off in February!

Buffalo Bully Sticks for Dogs

Buffalo Meat Strips For Dogs (3.5 Ounces) ~ All canines large and small crave savory treats, and our Buffalo Meat Strips will please any size pup. These meaty morsels are completely nourishing and oh so healthy. In fact, we predict that they will be a real crowd pleaser!

Buffalo Meat Strips for Dogs

Buffalo Lung Fillets For Dogs (8 Ounces) ~ Our Buffalo Lung Fillets may not sound appetizing to you, but we guarantee dogs will find them simply irresistible. These savory snacks provide pups with a rewarding and fulfilling chewing experience.

Buffalo Lung Fillets for Dogs

All of our wholesome buffalo chew treats are made from free-range, grass-fed buffalo. They are all-natural and contain no additives or preservatives. In addition, buffalo meat is a leaner alternative to beef, and it is suitable for dogs with food sensitivities.  All in all, we think you will say buffalo is better!

Shop All Chew Treats! 

 ♥  SPECIAL FEBRUARY 15% OFF SALE  ♥

In recognition of National Pet Dental Month, we are offering special discounts on four of our dental health products for dogs.  This sale is for the month of February only, so be sure to place your order today!

http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com

Thank you for being our customer, and for supporting small business!

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *

Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her online specialty pet boutique (http://www.TheGiftedPet.com), and premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/TheGiftedPet), or email her at Raven@TheGiftedPet.com

The Gifted Pet Guide to a Pet-Friendly Valentine’s Day

Valentine Pup

Valentine’s Day can be as much fun for pets as it is for humans if dangerous foods, flora and other items are kept out of paws’ reach. Each year , the ASPCA poison control experts see a rise in cases around February 14, many involving chocolate and lilies, a flower that is potentially fatal to cats. So please heed their experts’ advice . . . . don’t leave the goodies lying around on Valentine's Day.





Pet-Safe Bouquets 

Many pet owners are still unaware that all species of lily are potentially fatal to cats. When sending a floral arrangement, specify that it contain no lilies if the recipient has a cat ~ and when receiving an arrangement, sift through and remove all dangerous flora. If your pet is suffering from symptoms such as stomach upset, vomiting or diarrhea, he may have ingested an offending flower or plant. Use this online toxic and nontoxic plant library as visual guides of what and what not should be in your bouquets. 


Forbidden Chocolate 

Seasoned pet lovers know the potentially life-threatening dangers of chocolate, including baker’s, semi sweet, milk and dark. In darker chocolates, methylxanthines ~ caffeine-like stimulants that affect gastrointestinal, neurologic and cardiac function ~ can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, seizures and an abnormally elevated heart rate. The high-fat content in lighter chocolates can potentially lead to a life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas. Go ahead and indulge, but don’t leave chocolate out for chowhounds to find. 


Careful with Cocktails 

Spilled wine, half a glass of champagne, some leftover liquor are nothing to cry over until a curious pet laps them up. Because animals are smaller than humans, a little bit of alcohol can do a lot of harm, causing vomiting, diarrhea, lack of coordination, central nervous system depression, tremors, difficulty breathing, metabolic disturbances and even coma. Potentially fatal respiratory failure can also occur if a large enough amount is ingested. 


Life Is Sweet 

Take care not to let pets near treats sweetened with xylitol. If ingested, gum, candy and other treats that include this sweetener can result in a sudden drop in blood sugar known as hypoglycemia. This can cause your pet to suffer depression, loss of coordination and seizures. 

Best Furrends!

Every Rose Has Its Thorn 

Don’t let pets near roses or other thorny stemmed flowers. Biting, stepping on or swallowing their sharp, woody spines can cause serious infection if a puncture occurs. It’s all too easy for pets to step on thorns that fall to the ground as a flower arrangement is being created.  De-thorn your roses far away from pets. 


Playing with Fire 

It’s nice to set your evening a-glow with candlelight, but put out the fire when you leave the room. Pawing kittens and nosy pooches can burn themselves or cause a fire by knocking over unattended candles, and their fur can catch fire should they sweep the flame with their tail. 


Wrap it Up 

Gather up tape, ribbons, bows, wrapping paper, cellophane and balloons after presents have been opened ~ if swallowed, these long, stringy and “fun-to-chew” items can get lodged in your pet’s throat or digestive tract, causing her to choke or vomit.


The Furry Gift of Life? 

Giving a cuddly puppy or kitten may seem a fitting Valentine’s Day gift ~ however, returning a pet you hadn’t planned on is anything but romantic. Companion animals bring with them a lifelong commitment, and choosing a pet for someone else doesn’t always turn out right. Why not let your loved one choose their own pet with a gift certificate to adopt from a rescue or shelter in your area?  Check with your local animal care facilities or take a romantic trip to the shelter together. 

Kiss Me

Healthy Treats!

Be sure to keep healthy treats around for your pets, so they don't feel left out . . . on Valentine's Day, or any other day.  Not sure where to find healthy, safe, never recalled treats?   Look no further!  We have what you need in our premium pet food store!!  Every purchase you make benefits our foundation for rescues and shelters, thank you for shopping where your purchase matters!  ♥

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *

Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her online specialty pet boutique (http://www.TheGiftedPet.com), and premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/TheGiftedPet), or email her at Raven@TheGiftedPet.com