Dog Food Advisor Forums Jenn H

Jenn H

Forum Replies Created

Viewing 50 posts - 51 through 100 (of 212 total)
  • Author
    Posts
  • Jenn H
    Member

    There’s a few brands that add pre & probiotics to their food after it’s processed. Wysong is 1. I think Orijen & Acana do also.

    Either way I prefer to add it. My preferred brands are Wysong pet inoculant and Purina Fortiflora. The Purina you have to get at the vet or online.
    (I can’t even believe I use and recommend a Purina product. But it really has been great for my dog with IBD.)

    in reply to: Dogs Diagnosed with IBD #89647 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    My dog has been dealing with idiopathic IBD for more than a year and a half.
    She went 7 months without a flare up and I thought maybe we were over it.
    2 emergency visits within 1 month proved otherwise.
    She’s back on i/d and added boiled organic chicken until I can figure out what food to try next.
    This vet gave us Purina Fortiflora probiotics to take daily. She said it’s fine to give it for the rest of her life.
    Recently one of my other dogs was vomiting & regurgitating and had diarrhea for a couple days. She never has belly issues. On the bland diet she went and I added THK Perfect Form. After the first meal with it she was much better. After the 2nd meal she’s good as new. I’m considering adding it to the meals for my girl with IBD from now on.
    Another thing that makes a huge difference is exercise. Even if it’s just walking a few minutes a couple times/day. It helps with gut motility. (Obviously you don’t want them doing any exercise 30 min-1 hr before or after meals.)

    in reply to: Heart worm Treatment for 8 yr old? #89391 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Follow the usual protocol.
    For whatever reason these past couple yrs I have known so many dogs with HW. Until then never knew any.
    They followed the advice of their vets and all dog are back to normal. It’s a long treatment that can cause discomfort, but it’s a situation where you have to weight the risk/reward. Suffering with the disease will be much more uncomfortable.
    Personally I would go with what is known to work and ask the vet how to alleviate any discomfort from side effects.

    As for future prevention ask your vet about NOT giving a monthly preventative and opting for fecal testing every 3-4 months. That way your senior dog isn’t being fed pesticides/antiparacitics when she doesn’t need it.

    You are great for adopting an older dog. And one with an illness not less. I wish you many years of health & joy with her.

    in reply to: Large and Giant Breed Puppy Nutrition #89390 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    When I am trying to decide what brands to feed my large breeds I always contact the company and ask them the MAX calcium & phosphorus is on a dry matter basis.
    Companies are required to label the min. That’s not helpful when you have to know the upper limit of certain nutrients.
    Even if I have fed that food before. If it’s been a while I contact them again to find out about any changes.
    Many foods say they are formulated for large breeds yet have calcium amounts at or beyond the max. You must find out the exact percentage.

    in reply to: Large and Giant Breed Puppy Nutrition #89389 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    If Orijen is not budget friendly try Acana. Same company.
    I have been happy with Acana and find that I don’t spend more per meal than I did with less expensive brands. With other foods I had to feed more and had dogs that still seemed hungry. Now they seem satiated being fed less.
    It’s a dense food so transition slowly to avoid stomach upset.

    Jenn H
    Member

    2 of my dogs get Acana. They didn’t have any trouble with the switch.
    My only complaint with it is that the singles don’t come in chicken anymore. They replaced it with mackerel. Other formulas have also been replaced.
    Luckily my boy was on duck & pear. They still make that and he has adjusted without incident. But I had a heads up when the Canadian bags were dwindling so I was able to slowly transition them.
    My girls were on the singles chicken. One of them I switched to the Heritage free-run poultry. She did fine. But she’s also a Lab that can eat anything without problems. My other girl has been dealing with a GI issue so she’s back on the Rx food.
    I still believe in this food. But wish they kept production in Canada. I know there’s going to be kinks in the new plant, but I still prefer food made in Canada, Thailand, New Zealand, Australia. Just seems like they have higher standards and less problems.

    • This reply was modified 7 years, 6 months ago by Jenn H.
    in reply to: Which brand of dog food for a dog that is 18? #89386 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    18!!!! I hope I’m that lucky.
    Solid Gold isn’t a bad food. Just make sure to choose cans that don’t contain carrageenan. I noticed their tripe does.

    You’re dog must have very good genes. That and whatever you’re doing is obviously good enough.

    in reply to: Keeping kibbles fresh #88074 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    1 option is to buy the big bags and separate it into Ziploc freezer bags and freeze it until you’re ready to use it.
    Also be sure to wash the bin you store food in often. The fats from the food can leave a little residue that will become rancid. You may not notice it unless it’s really bad. The residue can cause stomach issue. I wash treat jars too everytime they empty.

    in reply to: Can't suggest a review d/t its web address #87634 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    It worked!
    I’m a stickler for detail. Can’t believe I omitted something so obvious.
    Thanks.

    in reply to: Thoughts on Vegan dogs #86475 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Christopher E, I do read a lot. I read things contrary to what I believe because I think that I get a better understanding of the opposing side. Sometimes it changes my thoughts, sometimes it just makes me more patient.
    Dogs are not obligate carnivores. They are also not meant to be obligate vegans.
    They do in fact know what is nutritional better for them. We just don’t get to see that because they are fed by us everyday so they will choose taste over quality. They don’t have to survive in the world. They don’t have to make careful choices based on what it available.
    Do not insult my intelligence go bolster your agenda. I look at everything from all sides and dig for science based evidence. I research everything to death before making conclusions. I even sometimes find those conclusions incorrect. Almost never. But it happens.
    I do not try to insult people. I do not try to make anyone feel bad for what they believe. I do not try to debase others so I feel better about myself. That seems unethical.

    in reply to: Thoughts on Vegan dogs #86474 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Richard W, there is work being done regarding vegan diets for dogs & cats so that people will have scientific evidence of its pros & cons and long term effects.
    Anecdotal evidence is not hard to find. It means nothing.
    If being vegan makes a person a sanctimonious **** that you have come off as then I definitely don’t want to be vegan. I certainly don’t want my happy sweet animals to be like that.
    Maybe you are just hungry and it’s making you grumpy. Maybe your chemicals and/or hormones are out of whack from a nutritional deficiency. Maybe you need to go eat a cheeseburger and wash it down with a milkshake.

    in reply to: Thoughts on Vegan dogs #86472 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    June M my dog actually does eat rodents. She grew up on the farm and is the best little hunter. Birds, voles, mice, frogs, you name it are all part of her diet. I think it’s disgusting, but she’s a predator doing what predators do. When I stopped bringing her to the farm because of a boarder she hasn’t been the same since healthwise.
    Dogs have instincts. When allowed to just act like dogs from puppyhood and freely run around and act on instincts they can & will survive on what is available (obviously she has manners and is loved by all but 1 person). I’ve seen the dogs eat turkey eggs from a nest. They’ve eaten rabbits. They’ve eaten a little grass when it first comes in at springtime. They drink from the horses’ water troughs.
    Dogs that come which have never been anything more than a pet that sits around the house, plays in the yard or dog park have to learn (or relearn) these behaviors.
    My anecdote is just that. There’s not controlled experience done. But it is obvious to me every day that dogs are opportunists and survivalists. They have an endless source of apples & carrots they can easily get yet they prefer to chase a rabbit and eat it. If no animal is to be found or they fail in the hunt they come back and steal the fruits & vegetables. They know what they need, what is good for them and what foods are more nutrient dense and are of higher quality.
    NO free roaming dog will choose to a vegan diet. They will choose a diet as close to whole food as possible.

    in reply to: Large and Giant Breed Puppy Nutrition #84957 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Wow your story & life is so parallel to mine. My husband is a firefighter. And my pup is also an inutero rescue. Seems desperate animals & people always find their way to fire stations.
    My friend adopted a very young GSD and was told she wasn’t pregnant. We ended up basically hand raising the pups as mom had no interest in anything other than playing. She had absolutely zero maternal instinct. And was very jealous of the babies getting so much attention.
    Anyway, Crazy4cats advice is exactly what I would suggest. First make sure there is nothing wrong health wise. Then try a probiotics. Either what she suggested or Wysong Pet Innoculant.
    It has been my experience that dogs weaned too soon tend to have very sensitive bellies. Transitioning to new foods (and even situations) can cause upset easily. When trying a new food go even slower than the usual 2 wks. Sometimes it can take a month or more for them to adjust.
    While doing so try adding:
    *pure pumpkin (not pie filling)
    *white rice, including the water it’s boiled in
    *letting kibble soak in warmish water for a few minutes
    *adding digestive enzymes-preferably animal sourced w/ pancreatin otherwise plant based w/ protase, amylase, lipase, cellulose
    If possible feed 1-2 hrs after meals.
    A limited ingredient food may also help him.
    I haven’t looked up the protein amts for all the foods you’ve tried but I can tell you I recently tried switching my pup to a food with higher protein (Orijen from Solid Gold) and it did not go well. I chose another (Acana) with less and it’s much easier on him. Eventually we’ll try Orijen again. It was just too much if a leap at the time.
    As you can see there is much you can do to help your guy. Most importantly be very patient and take things very slowly with him.

    in reply to: Does anyone have a dog with Pancreatitis.. #84771 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    I realize this post is a few months old but I figured I’d add my 2¢ anyway.
    If your dog inhales his food and has reflux you should definitely get a slow feeder bowl. I would also not feed from a bowl raised higher than a couple inches from the floor. If that doesn’t help give him Pepcid.
    Not sure what kind of dog you have, but these are all mistakes I made with 1 of my GSDs only to learn later that the reflux could’ve been prevented by not using a raised feeder. And that reflux is often a problem with dogs that eventually get bloat/gastric torsion. Sadly he died from that despite surviving long enough to get into surgery. (There’s a whole awful story that comes before that.)
    While the jury still seems to be out in raised feeders and causes of GVD, these changes have made a difference in my other dogs. So take this as anecdotal evidence.

    in reply to: Confused about which dog food to feed. #84382 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Other things that have helped all my dogs transition or ease GI flare ups:
    *pure pumpkin NOT pie filling
    *probiotics with FOS and bifidobacterium (sp?)
    *WHITE rice including the water it’s boiled in

    in reply to: Bravecto (chewable flea and tick) #84356 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Stephen S thanks for sharing your experience.
    I’m trying to find an effective way of keeping ticks & mosquitoes from making my dogs sick again.
    This product sounds great in theory, but also scary. I’m wondering if it maybe isn’t good for dogs that are immunocompromised and/or older. I keep looking for a trend in he negative reviews. I will chalk yours up to older dog.
    I hope she completely rebounds. Please do let us know how she does as it wears off.

    Jenn H
    Member

    Anyway the answer to your original question is NO.
    1.5% is not too much. It’s at the higher end though. 1.7% is the absolute max. I try to stay as far under 1.5 as possible.

    Jenn H
    Member

    Wellness Core GF puppy (not the large breed) says on bag Calcium “not more than” 1.5% Phosphorus “not more than” 1%.
    Don’t see where it says as fed, ME or DM. That can also change the #s.

    Jenn H
    Member

    I have a LBP and fed him this until 6 months. By that age he was so big he need a lot. It was getting too expensive and causing loose stool. Plus he just wasn’t satisfied after eating.
    The reason I chose it was because the calcium amount was right. If you search for Hounddogmom she has a list posted that has 4-5 star brands that are safe for LBP.
    My guy is 9 months now and I’m in the process of transitioning him to Orijen from Solid Gold Wolf Cub. I didn’t want to have get something so expensive, but after doing the math I think it’ll end up being about the same price per cup if not a little less.
    The reason for switching was because he hasn’t been gaining weigt. In order to get him to where he should be I have to feed him 6-7 cups. That’s just too much kibble.
    With that comes a lot of cleaning up.
    With Orijen he won’t need more than 3 cups and I expect he won’t poop out as much given it’s nutrient rich. It’s just a more dense food.

    There’s quite a few good choices for LBPs. Just do your research and be prepared to pay more up front for the quality stuff. It doesn’t end up being more expensive when they aren’t getting rid of the extras and you have to feed less.
    I also contact the foods before switching to ask what the max calcium is in their food. They’re always just putting min. It makes me crazy. (Orijen does list min & max. Practically like it for that reason alone.)

    in reply to: Confused about which dog food to feed. #84306 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Here’s what I might do…
    If the d/d is agreeing with him, then keep him on it until you find a new vet and/or food you think might work for him. Should you find a food that seems OK, transition veeeerrrryyyy slowly.
    Some of his bout with diarrhea can be stress related. That can last a day or 2. Since he is such a mess at the vet I wouldn’t be surprised if that at least exasterbates his symptoms.
    One of my girls has been having GI issues off & on for a yr. I’m only now trying to offer something different. Until now she’s been getting Wysong Anergen and i/d cans.
    Wysong is a good food. Not terribly expensive and they have a couple options for GI problems. Angeren and Synergon.
    I’ve been introducing her to Zignature turkey formula canned for a few days. I think she is doing OK. I’d like to get her off all prescription food and find other options for her to be able to rotate again. When I know for sure she isn’t going to get sick again after trying that I will probably try her on Wysong Anergen canned. I probably should’ve done it the other way around, but whatever.
    Hang in there. The summer will be here & gone in no time. While you wait to move start looking into vets around that area.

    in reply to: Confused about which dog food to feed. #84257 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    I know I’m very spoiled living in an area where I do have a lot of options. Being near Boston I can go right to Tufts (one of the best vet schools) in an emergency.
    There’s so many different vets and emergency animal hospitals. I guess I assume it’s common.

    Believe me I know phone consults can be very expensive. As if vet care isn’t expensive enough already.

    Personally I wouldn’t change foods w/o slow transition, but you know your dog better than anyone. Even the vet. Follow your own instinct.
    Remember you are your dog’s advocate. He needs you to be his voice. Make it heard. I’m not a confrontational person, but eventually I ran out of patience. I told them that I was done seeing my girl sick and they needed to stop blaming everything on Lyme and find the solution. Doctors don’t like to think they are wrong. Sometimes they need to be humbled.
    While I still ended up with an umbrella diagnosis at least I got them to successfully treat the symptoms without pushing their agenda.

    in reply to: Confused about which dog food to feed. #84241 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Completely understandable that you would be overwhelmed by all the info and the situation.
    Try telling your vet how you feel about his approach. Remind him that you tried his food and didn’t feel they helped enough.
    If he still won’t help you find a solution perhaps threaten to go elsewhere. He is still running a business and should care about keeping yours.
    Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes and a vet with different experience can make a huge difference. Even if you only have 1 visit.
    I love my vets, but after almost a yr of dealing w/ stomach issues I had to try someone else. My family has gone to this place since they opened about 30 yrs ago. I’m glad I did. They had different ideas and were willing to try a different approach. She is sooo much better.
    Both vets have kept each other in the loop (which is great for me) and I think the original vet got a new perspective they hadn’t considered.
    Every once in a while they still try selling me Hill’s. I just yes them to death and leave w/o buying it.
    Luckily the owner is on the board of Hills now so I hope he’ll be able to make them improve things.
    As long as your dog is willing to fight you should too. Keep looking until you find your answer.

    in reply to: Confused about which dog food to feed. #84235 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    You definitely want to find out exactly what his allergens are.
    Until then (and even after if needed) continue the probiotic/enzymes if that helped.
    For long term probiotic use I switch the brands every once in a while.

    If you have such little faith in the vet get a copy of all records and look for a 2nd opinion or see a specialist.

    in reply to: Merrick #84234 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Well my other thought is to feed him Orijen and something else. I don’t mind combo feeding 2 different brands. I’ll look at chewy and see if that’s the way to go.
    Thanks again.

    in reply to: Merrick #84229 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Thanks Pitlove.
    I had to get him something today since he was all out of the Wolf Cub I figured if I get a small bag of that and small bag of something else I can begin transitioning right away.
    I ended up settling on Orijen Puppy. They didn’t have the 5# bag of Orijen Puppy Large though. But Orijen being so good they have the min AND max calcium listed!
    It is 1.6% max which is still in the safe margin. Not as low as I would like, but at least we can start getting used to the richer, denser food and see how it goes.
    I will certainly keep your suggestions handy. Just in case this doesn’t work out or as additions to his rotation. I keep my pups on puppy food until about 18 months.
    It’s a pain because so many of the really good foods I’d have to order online. Like Dr Tim’s.
    We’ll see how this goes…

    in reply to: LBP Stopped Gaining Weight #84193 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    I have figured out the reason for his sudden lack of weight gain. He should be getting about 2500 calories/day. Feeding the suggested amount he’s only getting 1550.
    Any suggestions on high calorie puppy food that doesn’t exceed 1.5% calcium on dry matter basis?

    in reply to: Merrick #84192 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Wow. I really appreciate that all the leg work you’ve both done. This just complicates things even more.
    I have a few free samples of THK and will probably use them at some point, but will certainly take them off my list of foods to try.

    What would you recommend for a LBP? I have to switch my pup again. The food he’s on now has been great, but it doesn’t have enough calories for him anymore and he isn’t gaining weight. (No medical issues or other problems.) I will not feed him 7 cups of kibble.
    Do you have any suggestions? I like to keep the max calcium as far below 1.5% as possible to allow room for other treats & stuff.

    in reply to: Merrick #84175 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    This is sort of off topic, but I’m coming to you Pitlove.
    My GSD is 9 months. I think he needs more calories.
    He’s on Solid Gold Wolf Cub right now. I’m going to change it. I’ll have to feed him 7+ cups of kibble to meet his caloric needs.
    I don’t care if it’s wet, dehydrated, kibble. I just don’t want to go over 1.5% calcium. He needs at least 2500 cal/day.

    in reply to: Merrick #84156 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Thanks for the reply. I have more to add to my arsenal when looking into foods. I never thought to look to the NRC. Would you agree that they are probably the best source for nutrient values and needs? It appears they break down life stages and gestation/lactation into smaller/more specific needs. They also seem to be trying to get everyone on the same page regarding requirements.
    I truly appreciate your advice.

    I did get a reply from Nulo. Since I have so many questions the CSR asked me to call. She even gave me her cell if it’s more convenient for me to call after their business hours. I thought that was a good sign.
    I will definitely make that call. Anything you would like me to ask beside the manufacturing?

    And I feel your aggravation when you go thru all the trouble of a detailed reply only to lose because you closed the wrong tab/hit the wrong something. I’m sure there’s an easy way to find it, but I’m barely capable of turning things on & off.

    in reply to: Mast Cell Tumor #84154 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    My heart breaks for you. I too lost a guy fairly recently to HSA on the right aorta. He was what I called a better behaved 8 month old. He was actually a very young, funny, happy, mischievous at times 8 y/o. He was diagnosed 2 wks after turning 8.
    That dog never had a bad day. He was never sick either. He was so perfect in so many ways.
    Luckily I had vets who knew what it was we were dealing with and advised against surgery. It may have bought him more time, but it likely would not have had the quality that managing it gave him.
    HSA is an incredibly sneaky disease. 1 of his vets said it’s usually the tumor rupturing and bleeding out that ends their life as opposed to the cancer cells.
    Usually by the time really noticeable/worrisome symptoms show the tumor is already at a size where removal is likely too risky.

    I hope soon you will be able to enjoy the memories of your time together. That is his gift to you.
    Take the lesson you have learned and forgive yourself for being merely human without all the answers. You did exactly what you believed to be in his best interest then made the hardest decision anyone ever has to make. Your actions were selfless and kind. I’m sure he wouldn’t want you beating yourself up. If it happens again you now know the subtle signs of the disease.
    Be as kind to yourself as you were to him.

    in reply to: Merrick #84152 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Pitlove and CD4 I appreciate the explanations. I was really looking forward to trying Zeal for 1 of my girls. I can’t afford to feed this brand for all meals, but figured I’d give it 1x/day.
    They were so good answering all million questions I had for them. They were prompt too.

    Forums like this show their importance when people have a civil dialogue. I now have more info to make better choices for my dogs. I would much prefer to have to sift through loads of info than not enough.

    Do either have an opinion on Nulo? It’s also a fairly new brand.

    in reply to: Merrick #84125 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Pitlove you don’t like THK!!!??? Please tell me. I’m considering the Zeal for my girl who has had issues w/ GI stuff.
    I often take your advice into consideration. What’s up w/ them?

    in reply to: Merrick #84110 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    I loved it too. It was a good food at a reasonable price that was easy to get.
    Means nothing to me if they say they won’t change ingredients. That’s only half the problem. You can have the best ingredients and use the crappiest sources.
    Not to mention the inferior quality control, possibility of cross contamination, etc.

    in reply to: Should I be worried about Merrick dog food #84101 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Now that Merrick sold out RUN!
    It’s just a matter of time before they have a recall. I wouldn’t trust that the ingredients in the food is going to be of the same quality.

    Jenn H
    Member

    Jamie H I agree with your thoughts as well. Because the humans buy the food, companies market to them. They will try to make foods that follow their fads. If you notice dogs don’t fall for fads. It’s not them putting stupid dresses on themselves or trying the latest diet (not per their request anyway) or watching TV and asking for what they see in commercials.
    Unless your animal has a medical reason for needing supplements, all of their nutritional needs should be met with the food they eat. Just like people.

    in reply to: Thoughts on Vegan dogs #83976 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Iaconrad I hate to break it to ya, but veganism DOES harm other animals.
    In fact, (this is going to seem backasswards) it’s more harmful to other creatures than a diet that’s meat inclusive.
    Let me try to explain quickly. Pesticide by definition is the killing of pests. While vegans say they only eat organic plants, fruits, vegs, nuts, etc organic farming still uses pesticides. (Often the same pesticides just a natural version.) Even if the pesticide isn’t toxic to humans it is toxic to pests. If no pesticides were used the organic farmers would produce even less than they do now. Thus making their crops unprofitable.
    ALL pesticides kill aphids, insects, butterflies, mice, rabbits, birds and/or any other living thing that tries to eat that plant. That’s the point.
    You wouldn’t use pesticides in a pasture where cows graze because the milk/meat would be potentially harmful to the animal that gets nourishment from it. Pigs are the best at turning “waste” into a useable meat. So they don’t need pesticides either.
    That’s an example of 2 food sources that would be unacceptable to vegans that could yield a ton more food and cause less harm to other living things. The only thing that dies is the cow and pig.
    And you won’t have to supplement B12, calcium, Vitamin A. Unless you have a medical condition you shouldn’t have to take vitamins & minerals. A truly healthy diet will provide what you need.
    I’m thrilled your animals are healthy and live long lives. But your examples are nothing more than anecdotal.
    As an aside multiplying dog ages ×7 is an inaccurate way of figuring their true age.

    in reply to: Bravecto (chewable flea and tick) #83864 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Just because they don’t show symptoms of Lyme doesn’t mean they aren’t having issues with it or any other tick borne disease.
    When my girl was very young she was asymptomatic to Ehrlichia.
    She has had Lyme twice. Also asymptomatic.
    They don’t treat it unless it’s above 34.
    There’s still so much that isn’t known about it. For now we can only do the best we can with what little scientific evidence we have.

    in reply to: Severe Acid Reflux #83738 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    When my girl was having GI issues her specialist said to stop giving her raw anything. He says the bacteria in the raw aggregates the intestines. She hasn’t had any raw food or goat milk in 3 months and is doing the best she’s been in more than a yr.
    My dogs aren’t on a 100% raw diet. They get some raw fairly regularly. But they are all on commercial foods.

    in reply to: pancreatitis #83736 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    The Honest Kitchen Zeal is also what was recommended to my girl with pancreatitis/IBD.
    Because she seemed to improve after her last bout and my bank account didn’t, I’m trying something else to transition to instead.
    She’s also been on a Rx diet. I don’t care for the ingredients, but it’s kept her belly from getting angry. Hoping this new food works. If/when I find the right food I will likely feed Zeal at least part time.
    Zeal is supposed to be the best choice because it’s potato & grain-free and doesn’t use chicken as the protein.
    Hope your dog feels well & stays well.

    in reply to: Thoughts on Vegan dogs #83735 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    First of all dogs & foxes are not the same animal.
    Secondly, I’m very sure if given the choice between canned food and lentils the wild canines will choose the can. And given their longer canine teeth will have no problem opening it.
    They will choose that because it will be what they instinctively know to be the more nutritious food. A smaller amount of meat is better than a bunch of beans & vegetables. (Granted they’ll probably eat that after. Dogs always eat the best part first.)
    If it were possible and reasonable for me to do homemade I would, but I promise you it wouldn’t be vegetarian/vegan. Despite my disgust w/ raw meat.
    I am more careful about what goes into my dogs’ bodies than anything else in my life. They eat far better than I. And when I have to choose between me eating and them getting less quality you bet your ass I don’t eat. Not even a thought.
    (Thankfully those times haven’t come along in a good while.)
    I have as many yrs in this world as you and don’t listen to the latest & greatest. I do what I know to be right. When something proves to be better than that I go with it.

    With a lot of time, research, interrogation I know exactly where and how my dogs’ food is sourced and made.
    Human food gets recalled too.
    Unless I raised & grew the ingredients myself there would be no way to avoid all risk 100%. That’s just a fact of life. Like feeding meat protein to dogs.

    in reply to: Puppy (9 months) with regular soft stool #83690 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    To finally finish answering your question from yesterday…
    When my pup had continued soft stool/diarrhea the probios, pumpkin helped a lot. I was also giving him about 4 oz of goat milk/day. Raw or Meyenburg. Whatever I had.
    Sometimes he got soft stool from excitement. If he had a particularly busy or fun day. Sometimes he got too many treats. If he ate someone else’s food he would really get it.
    Once he checked out clean I began transitioning his food. No problems since!

    I would first try either a digestive enzyme or grain free food.

    If neither works consider a food with a little less protein or fat. Puppies need these nutrients so try not to take them down too much. Continue with the enzyme/probio until transitioned. Then see what happens when you cut back on those supplements.

    Cooked WHITE rice that can also be helpful. Save the water it was cooked in and add to food or water as well.

    Some people like bone broth. I haven’t tried that. I think The Honest Kitchen also has that.

    in reply to: Puppy (9 months) with regular soft stool #83684 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    That’s great news! Maybe his belly can only handle digesting small amounts at a time.
    I would leave the water though. Understandable that you would think that could be a cause/worsen diarrhea. Actually they need it more than normal when they have the runs. They can be dehydrated. Pups and smaller dogs especially. Also water flushes out the system.
    In fact I would go so far as to adding a little warm water to kibble. Rarely do I feed that dry. Any dry food will absorb fluid in the body. If the dog doesn’t drink enough that’s not good.

    in reply to: Puppy (9 months) with regular soft stool #83650 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    I’m actually at work so I can’t get into much right now. Just saw email so figured I’d give a quick answer.
    For long term diarrhea/loose still I usually use Wysong Pet Innoculant. I have had great success with it. It’s very expensive tho. About $25 for 4 oz. That’s why I use it on an as needed basis.
    I’ll get back to you later.

    in reply to: Need food advice for 13 month old labrador #83631 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    I don’t know a whole lot about that particular problem. I do know there is a couple of drugs that can be helpful. It seems like you have are managing it well. Maybe ask your vet to give you an anti-vomiting med (maropitant is one) just to have on hand in case you ever need it.
    You just want to keep that bile down otherwise it may cause pain. Sounds like something more akin to bile reflux ( some drs don’t know about that or believe it exists, but it does).
    1 of my girls has been dealing w/ the general diagnosis of inflammed bowel for more than a yr off & on. I am just now transitioning her off the i/d cans. It’s been 3 months since her last problem. After 1 wk I have only worked up to 1/2 can of the new food. That’s how slow I’m going w/ her.
    She also has a limited ingredient kibble. She gets very little of that though. I think the canned has been better for her. (More expensive, but I’d rather spend it on food than vets.)

    The torsion with my dogs happened 1st to a 2 y/o pup during the night. I was a teenager, but it has always been a huge worry for me.
    My other guy was very anxious and he was pacing right after eating. I had fallen asleep due to pain meds I just took for a tooth infection. I will always feel guilty about losing him. I did get him to a vet in time for surgery. But it’s a long story.
    Anyway I will not let my dogs move anymore after they eat. And they get little sips of water after exercise.
    I also have horses so these rules always applied to them. I guess I wasn’t too worried when it came to dogs until that first one.

    in reply to: Puppy (9 months) with regular soft stool #83614 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    All.good suggestions.
    Intestinal issues are such pain to try to figure out.

    Assuming there’s no parasites or other underlying condition you could try a different protein source. Chicken can be a problem for a lot of dogs. Try turkey, fish or lamb.

    It may be that she can’t handle rich foods. Like someone else said too much protein and/or fat.

    It can’t hurt to try the pumpkin again. Maybe give a little more than before and w/ every meal.

    When my guy was having soft stool probios & pumpkin help a lot.
    Once I changed his food he hasn’t had any problems. I’ve even fed him the same protein source just a different brand.
    He still gets pumpkin every day. 2-3 tbsp. He’s about 70 lbs.

    in reply to: Need food advice for 13 month old labrador #83613 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Ah now I see your problem.
    Adjusting feeding times can be tremendously helpful.
    If you ever go to feeding him only twice/day try giving his last meal as close to bed time as possible. (Although I would probably do it 1/2 before bed. I personally like to see my dogs after they eat. Losing 2 dogs to torsion will make you crazy lol that.)
    Immediately after he does his business in the morning feed him his first meal.

    Is he on anything to increase frequency of sm intestine contractions like metoclopramide? And an anti-vomiting drug?

    in reply to: Need food advice for 13 month old labrador #83608 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    I also keep my pups on LBP food until 18 mon. Another option is a food for all life stages. Just be sure to continue keeping calcium levels to 1.5% max.

    After your dog has a meal try to make him chill out for about 1/2 hr. I have trained my dogs to chew on a marrow bones or Nylabone type chew toy. This allows the food time to digest (which prevents reflux), helps prevent torsion and cleans teeth.

    If your Lab is anything like mine (and I guess all Labs) he probably inhales his food. Try a slow feeder. And add warmish water to kibble.

    in reply to: Thoughts on Vegan dogs #83580 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Duane P, I appreciate that. Very much. I try not to get defensive and I certainly never want to be offensive or condescending to anyone. Many have helped me see things differently and raise great dogs. It’s only right to try to help someone else.
    Dogs are truly amazing creatures. And as much as we think of them as special family members, do we really want them to be like us??? They’re way to good for that.

    in reply to: Never had a dog grow quite like this! #83563 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    As always I agree with Pitlove.
    I too am growing a monster GSD right now. He’s expected to be 100+. His mother is 90. Much too big for the breed, but that’s a long story…
    My boy has gained a fairly steady 2 lbs/wk pretty much since he was born.
    The most important things to remember:
    -keep calcium 1.5% max
    -make sure she gets plenty of protein
    -steady growth, not fast growth
    I had a GSD that topped out at 85/90 lbs and it took him 3 yrs to get there. He had 1 last little growth spurt to really fill out.
    -thinner puppy is better than chubby puppy

    I feed my guy 3x/day totalling 4 cups. He also gets 2 Tbsp pumpkin in morning. The food he’s on now seems to satisfy him. Pretty soon he’ll be getting a little more. The food he was on until 6 months required 6+ cups. He was still hungry.
    He’s 8 mon 70+ lbs. Tall, long, lanky, skinny. Healthy as can be.
    I’m sure your dog will be fine. Feed her LBP/all life stages food and watch the calcium.

    in reply to: Thoughts on Vegan dogs #83545 Report Abuse
    Jenn H
    Member

    Veronika what proof do you have that all meat based diets were studied by meat eaters?
    Why do you suppose they study meat diets? Could it be that dogs are meat eaters? There has always been a high demand for quality meat based protein dog food. This vegan bs is a new fad. If the demand for a scientific study seems worth it someone will do it. They may not all be vegan though. Will that make it less accurate?

Viewing 50 posts - 51 through 100 (of 212 total)