Showing posts with label Dr. Jane Bicks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dr. Jane Bicks. Show all posts

Saturday, March 14, 2015

Top 10 Reasons Why Your Pets Should Take Fish Oil




Fish oil supplements are an ideal complement to your pet’s diet because they supply omega-3 fatty acids, which your dog or cat’s body cannot sufficiently produce on its own. Still in doubt? Here are the top 10 reasons why it’s important to supplement your dog or cat’s daily intake with a quality fish oil supplement.

1. Your Pet Will Burn Fat More Efficiently

The Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil supplements help improve the metabolism of a dog and cat’s body in a natural way and cause body fat to burn more quickly. (2,10)

2. Improved Development of Puppies & Kittens During Pregnancy

During a pregnancy, supply your canine or feline mama omega-3 needs with a pure, safe fish oil supplement. The reason is because the omega-3 fatty acid DHA helps improve brain development, concentration, immunity and eyesight, among other things. (1,5)

3. Slow Down Your Pet’s Aging Process

We all want to age more slowly, right? EPA and DHA found in fish oil help slow down the aging process by reducing inflammation and extending the longevity of cells. In this way, omega-3s help keep your pet kids feeling younger for longer. (3)

4. Improved Flexibility

Because of the anti-inflammatory properties of EPA from fish oil supplements, the discomfort in your pet’s joints and muscles may actually decrease. What you will notice is that over time, fish oil supplements can help with stiffness to rise and help your pet be more active and enjoy walks and games with you. (4)

5. Improved Performance in Canine Athletes

Omega-3s in fish oil supplements improve the functioning of the lungs. For our active agility dogs, runners, Frisbee dogs, swimmers and mountain hiker companions, fish oil will help your dog keep up with you. (14)

6. Better Concentration & Limiting Brain Cell Deterioration

Thanks to EPA and DHA from fish oil, your pet’s brain may age more slowly and perform optimally. The essential fatty acids in the omega-3s contribute to sounder sleep, an essential element in keeping concentration sharp. (6)

7. Optimized Immune System Functioning

A daily supplement of omega-3s from fish oil supplements help the white blood cells perform their anti-inflammatory function optimally. This helps your pet’s defense against diseases and other ailments by strengthening the immune system. (15)

8. Better Heart Health

The omega-3s in fish oil supplements help keep cholesterol levels at a healthy level and help keep this vital muscle healthy. (8,9)

9. No More Grumpy Cat

Fish oil supplements are proven to improve mood in humans, and studies are forthcoming about their benefits in pets! (12, 13)

10. Healthy Skin & Shiny Coat

The benefits of omega-3s in fish oil supplements for skin health are well documented, but did you know that omega-3s also help protect against sunburn? (6,7)


Adding health-promoting fish oil to your pet’s diet can be one of the best decisions you make for your companion animal. If you want to learn more, visit our website!



References:

1. Zicker SC1, Jewell DE, Yamka RM, Milgram NW. Evaluation of cognitive learning, memory, psychomotor, immunologic, and retinal functions in healthy puppies fed foods fortified with docosahexaenoic acid-rich fish oil from 8 to 52 weeks of age. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2012 Sep 1;241(5):583-94. doi: 10.2460/javma.241.5.583.

2. Xenoulis PG1, Steiner JM. Lipid metabolism and hyperlipidemia in dogs.Vet J. 2010 Jan;183(1):12-21. doi: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2008.10.011. Epub 2009 Jan 23.

3. Figueras M, Olivan M, Busquets S, López-Soriano FJ, Argilés JM. Effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) treatment on insulin sensitivity in an animal model of diabetes: improvement of the inflammatory status. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2011 Feb;19(2):362-9. doi: 10.1038/oby.2010.194. Epub 2010 Sep 30.

4. Moreau M, Troncy E, Del Castillo JR, Bédard C, Gauvin D, Lussier B. Effects of feeding a high omega-3 fatty acids diet in dogs with naturally occurring osteoarthritis. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl). 2012 Jul 14. doi: 10.1111/j.1439-0396.2012.01325.x

5. Bauer JE, Heinemann KM, Lees GE, Waldron MK. Retinal functions of young dogs are improved and maternal plasma phospholipids are altered with diets containing long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids during gestation, lactation, and after weaning. J Nutr. 2006 Jul;136(7 Suppl):1991S-1994S.

6. Bauer JE. Therapeutic use of fish oils in companion animals. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2011 Dec 1;239(11):1441-51. doi: 10.2460/javma.239.11.1441. Review.

7. Popa I, Pin D, Remoué N, Osta B, Callejon S, Videmont E, Gatto H, Portoukalian J, Haftek M. Analysis of epidermal lipids in normal and atopic dogs, before and after administration of an oral omega-6/omega-3 fatty acid feed supplement. A pilot study. Vet Res Commun. 2011 Dec;35(8):501-9. doi: 10.1007/s11259-011-9493-7. Epub 2011 Jul 23. Erratum in: Vet Res Commun. 2012 Mar;36(1):91

8. Smith CE, Freeman LM, Rush JE, Cunningham SM, Biourge V. Omega-3 fatty acids in Boxer dogs with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. J Vet Intern Med. 2007 Mar-Apr;21(2):265-73.

9. Freeman LM, Rush JE, Markwell PJ.Effects of dietary modification in dogs with early chronic valvular disease. J Vet Intern Med. 2006 Sep-Oct;20(5):1116-26.

10. Laflamme DP. Understanding and managing obesity in dogs and cats. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2006 Nov;36(6):1283-95, vii. Review.

11. Brown SA, Brown CA, Crowell WA, Barsanti JA, Allen T, Cowell C, Finco DR. Beneficial effects of chronic administration of dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in dogs with renal insufficiency. J Lab Clin Med. 1998 May;131(5):447-55.

12. Hegarty B, Parker G. Fish oil as a management component for mood disorders - an evolving signal. Curr Opin Psychiatry. 2013 Jan;26(1):33-40. doi: 10.1097/YCO.0b013e32835ab4a7

13. Hegarty BD, Parker GB. Marine omega-3 fatty acids and mood disorders--linking the sea and the soul. 'Food for Thought' I. Acta Psychiatr Scand. 2011 Jul;124(1):42-51. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0447.2011.01703.x. Epub 2011 Apr 11. Review.

14. Wakshlag J, Shmalberg J. Nutrition for working and service dogs. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2014 Jul;44(4):719-40, vi. doi: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2014.03.008. Review.


15. Hall JA, Henry LR, Jha S, Skinner MM, Jewell DE, Wander RC. Dietary (n-3) fatty acids alter plasma fatty acids and leukotriene B synthesis by stimulated neutrophils from healthy geriatric Beagles. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2005 Nov;73(5):335-41.




Monday, January 26, 2015

J.J. Fuds, Inc. Issues Recall of Pet Food Because of Possible Health Risk from Listeria




Recall -- Firm Press Release


FDA posts press releases and other notices of recalls and market withdrawals from the firms involved as a service to consumers, the media, and other interested parties. FDA does not endorse either the product or the company.

J.J. Fuds, Inc. Issues Recall of Pet Food Because of Possible Health Risk

Contact:
Consumer:
888-435-5873
jjfuds.comdisclaimer icon

Media:
Karl Gottschlich
(888) 432-5873

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – January 20, 2015 – Valparaiso, IN – J.J. Fuds in Valparaiso, IN is recalling a select lot and product of J.J. Fuds Chicken Tender Chunks Pet Food because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women. Animals' ill with Listeria will display symptoms similar to the ones listed above for humans. People who have concerns about whether their pet has Listeria should contact their veterinarian.

The recalled product was distributed regionally in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana and Illinois to wholesale and retail customers. The product can be identified by the batch ID code (manufactured date) and UPC code printed on the back of the individual plastic bag or on the master case label. This product is a frozen raw poultry product (see Safe Handling Instructions on package) and has a shelf life of one year if kept frozen.

The recalled product is as follows:

J. J. Fuds Premium Natural Blends, Chicken Tender Chunks
All 5 lb. bags with:
Product UPC Number: 654592-345935
Manufacture/Lot Code Date: 5/5/14
The recall was a result of a routine sampling program by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development resulting in a positive test for Listeria monocytogenes. The company has not received any reports of dogs experiencing nausea and diarrhea that may be associated with these specific products. The company has received no reports of human illness as a result of these products.
J.J. Fuds, Inc. will immediately start working with distributors and retailers to properly dispose of any affected product left on freezer shelves. The company will also be working with distributors and retailers to recall this product from pet owners to ensure the proper disposal of any affected product that has been purchased.
J.J.Fuds is issuing this action out of an abundance of caution and sincerely regrets any inconvenience to pet owners as a result of this announcement.
The recalled product should not be sold or fed to pets. Pet owners who have the affected product at home should return to retailer for a refund and proper disposal.
For further information or questions regarding this recall, please contact us at jjfuds.com or by phone at 888-435-5873 Monday-Friday 8AM-4PM CST.


TIRED OF PET FOOD RECALLS?
Choose Life's Abundance Dog and Cat Food! They have NEVER been recalled and the food is shipped fresh to your door within 4-6 weeks of being made. They have been in business since 1999! Choose a pet food you can trust! This food is only sold online to ensure you receive the freshest food possible. Click Here to order.


Healthypet1
www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com


Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Life's Abundance Looks Like Brand "X" ~ The Meatloaf Story




Dr. Jane Bicks, DVM, is the nationally known holistic veterinarian who formulates pet products for Life's Abundance.  Dr. Jane tells “The Meatloaf Story.” You're probably wondering why the product formulator for Life's Abundance pet products is talking about meatloaf. Read on and you'll find out . . . . 

The Story

Betty and Bill are two singles who’ve each been asked to bring a meatloaf to their social group’s get-together on Saturday. Bill has never made a meatloaf, but he knows Betty makes a good one, so he asks her for her recipe. Betty is happy to share her recipe and sends this to Bill.

Ingredients:

    2 pounds ground beef
    1/2 cup bread crumbs
    1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
    2 eggs, beaten
    1/4 cup finely chopped onion
    2 tablespoons finely chopped green bell pepper
    1 teaspoon salt
    1/4 teaspoon ground thyme
    1/4 teaspoon ground marjoram
    1/4 cup ketchup
    2 tablespoons light corn syrup

Directions:

1. Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Combine ground beef, cracker crumbs, tomato sauce, eggs, onion, bell pepper, salt, thyme, and marjoram in a large bowl and mix well. Shape beef mixture into a loaf. Place loaf in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. Meanwhile, mix ketchup and corn syrup in a small bowl to make a glaze.
3. Remove baking dish from the oven and remove foil. Brush glaze onto the loaf. Return baking dish to the oven uncovered, and continue baking until loaf is no longer pink in the center, 15 to 20 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 160 degrees F (70 degrees C).

Friday night, Bill suddenly remembers the meatloaf he’s supposed to make. He wants to play golf on Saturday, so he decides he better make his meatloaf tonight. Fortunately for Bill, he had picked up some ground beef when he was at the store last week because it was on sale. As far as he can tell, it’s still good ~ that gray color doesn’t really matter, does it?

Bill begins to go through the ingredient list. He’s got the beef, and the bread crumbs are easy. He doesn’t know why he was saving all those bread heels in his fridge. He just didn’t like throwing out things he had paid for, and now he can use them. The fact that they are stale and hard as rocks just makes them easier to turn into crumbs.

He has to dig around but finally finds an old can of tomato sauce. The “best by” date is two years past, but it’s in a can! It can’t go bad, right?

Darn! He’s out of eggs ~ but then he remembers. He’s got some leftover powdered egg from that hiking trip he went on last summer ~ that’ll do.

Hmm, 1/4 cup finely chopped onion ~ no fresh onion, but luckily, his mom bought him a spice rack when he went off to college (ten years ago) and he remembers a bottle labeled “Onion Powder.” It looks like about a ¼ cup.

Then 2 tablespoons of finely chopped green bell pepper—no bell pepper either. But not to fear! Bill is the luckiest man alive. It just so happens that he ordered pizza last night, or was it the night before? It had bell peppers on it and he has half a pizza left in the fridge. He manages to pick off just enough bell pepper for this recipe.

Salt is not a problem ~ but where’s that teaspoon measure? Oh well, a few dashes ought to do.

He’s got the 1/4 teaspoon ground thyme and 1/4 teaspoon ground marjoram covered ~ thanks, Mom! In go a few dashes of each.

Ketchup he has. Bill loves ketchup. Can’t have too much ketchup!

And finally corn syrup. He doesn’t quite have two tablespoons left ~ but corn oil is about the same thing, right?

Bill mixes all the ingredients together, including the ketchup, which he likes a lot, and the corn syrup/oil. He puts it in the pan and then into the oven, which he forgot to preheat. No biggie! Just turn it up a little extra.

Then Bill goes to watch the ball game. It’s a sleeper; and sleep he does ~ until he smells something burning. Bill runs to the kitchen and grabs the meatloaf from the oven. Had he remembered to cover it as the instructions said, it might not have been so black on top. Well, the glaze will cover it! Oops! The ingredients for the glaze are in the meatloaf ~ but not to worry; Bill has plenty of ketchup and corn oil.

He makes more glaze and then puts the meatloaf in the refrigerator to keep until tomorrow.

Saturday morning, Betty gets up early and goes to the butcher. She picks the choicest cuts of sirloin and has the butcher trim it and turn it into ground beef. On the way home she stops by the bakery for fresh bread crumbs and the grocery store because she’s out of corn syrup and needs a fresh onion.
When Betty gets home, she goes through her normal Saturday routine until about three hours before the get-together. She makes her own tomato sauce from the tomatoes she picked this afternoon from her vegetable garden. Then she turns on the oven to precisely 350° to preheat and gathers her ingredients. The bell pepper, thyme, and marjoram also come from her garden. The eggs she bought this morning from her neighbor who keeps a few laying hens. She combines the ingredients according to the instructions, places the loaf in the pan, covers with foil, places it in the oven, and sets the timer. Then she makes the glaze and goes to put on her makeup.

One hour later she puts on the glaze, returns the meatloaf to the oven, uncovered, and sets the timer for another 20 minutes. She goes and gets dressed. When the timer goes off, she checks the meatloaf with her instant-read thermometer ~ it reads 167 degrees. Done! She’s off to the party.

Bill’s golf game lasts longer than he expected, so he’s running late. He gets home, jumps in the shower, throws on some clean clothes, and rushes out the door. Five minutes later he’s back ~ he forgot his meatloaf. He knows he can’t take a cold meatloaf, but he doesn’t want to be too late either. He quickly puts the meatloaf in the oven and turns it up as high as it will go, all the way on broil, and sets the timer for ten minutes. As soon as the timer goes off, he grabs the meatloaf and heads out the door.

Now imagine that you are at this gathering of friends, and you have the choice of the two meatloaves. Both were made from the same recipe. If the ingredients were labeled (as on a bag of cat or dog food), the ingredient lists would be identical. Even considering the corn oil substitute in Bill’s meatloaf, the FDA allows a “temporary” substitution (up to six months) without changing a label.

So which meatloaf would you choose? Which meatloaf represents “quality”? Which one represents “freshness”? Would you know the difference between the two if all you had to go on were the ingredients listed on labels?


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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