What causes the yellow spots in your Lawn?

 We take pride in our homes. But sometimes the two things don’t always go together as well as we might hope.

Summer is here and there’s nothing more appealing about our homes than a beautiful well-kept lawn. We take pride in our shrubbery and landscaping. After all, it’s the outside of our homes that give people their first impression. But when you have dogs, you sometimes get discolored yellow spots in your beautiful green lawn like the photo below.



What causes the yellow spots?

When the pH of your dog’s urine is higher than normal it can “burn” discolored patches in your lawn wherever the urine touches. The unusually high pH can be the result of a urinary tract infection or other metabolic issues.

Our dogs must go outdoors to urinate, and sometimes our lawns must pay the price. But if you’d like to have your beautiful green lawn back again, there is something you can do to help.

 A combination of B-Complex vitamins and amino acids that help lower your dog’s urine pH to a normal range may solve the problem.

Our holistic veterinarian and product formulator, Dr. Jane Bicks, has never met a dog she didn’t love. It’s that same love, coupled with her devotion to her profession, that fueled her creative drive to make a new and improved formulation to replace our already popular daily supplement for dogs. 60 Chewable Tablets Your Price: $27.50 *Autoship Price: $21.95 What is Autoship? 30 Chewable Tablets Your Price: $16.95 *Autoship Price: $13.50 What is Autoship? “The more we learn about the way bodies function, the more amazing they seem to us. There is a growing amount of anecdotal evidence that suggests a mammal’s body has a highly complex, natural intelligence. As a holistic veterinarian, I review such evidence, interpreting it within the context of established scientific knowledge. Based upon these observations, it seems that a dog’s body “prefers” nutrients as they exist in real foods, in their more natural state. On a cellular level, their bodies are familiar with the nutrient components and therefore the body knows to absorb and assimilate exactly what it needs. That is why I believe that small amounts of nutrients in real foods can have a profound affect on a dog’s body. In light of this information, I formulated a new approach to add to the overall nutrient intake, creating Life’s Abundance Wellness Food Supplement for Dogs.” -Dr. Jane Bicks, DVM Life's Abundance Product Formulator Supplementing your dog’s diet can play a crucial role in maintaining overall health. We know that some dogs require additional nutritional intake to help them maintain a healthy body, due to age, breed, environment and other factors. Based on this premise, our holistic veterinarian has formulated a brand new formula to enhance your dog’s daily diet. The perfect complement to a healthy diet, Life’s Abundance Wellness Food Supplement for Dogs is formulated with a broad array of naturally nutritious ingredients from real food to help maintain overall health. The nutrients contained in this superior supplement are sourced from foods, like poultry liver, cranberries, carrots, eggs, pineapples and many others.

In this chewable tablet, Dr. Jane has included the following nutritious ingredients: Poultry liver, which is rich in vitamin A and D, protein and selenium. Natural vitamin E, which is an antioxidant. Taurine, which is an essential amino acid. Stabilized rice bran, which is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. Cranberries, a rich source of vitamin C, dietary fiber and manganese. Carrots, a rich source of beta-carotene (vitamin A), vitamins C, D, and E, riboflavin, niacin, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, sodium and iron. Dried egg, one of nature's most nutrient-dense foods, plays an important role in a balanced diet. Eggs are considered a complete protein source, providing essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals (vitamins A, B, E, biotin, and sulfur). Eggs also provide healthy fats, such as omega-6 for healthy skin and a glossy coat. Flaxseed meal is a rich plant source of antioxidant lignans and omega-3 fatty. Flaxseed meal also has a very high level of protein and essential amino acids. In addition, flaxseed meal contains significant amounts of fiber, vitamin E, folic acid, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6 and is extremely rich in the minerals potassium, calcium and phosphorus. Direct-fed microbials, ingredients similar to those found in supermarket yogurts. Ester-C*, a unique and patented form of vitamin C (calcium ascorbate). Tomato pomace, a good source of lycopene and vitamin C. Alfalfa meal, which is a good source of protein, vitamin A, niacin and calcium, and a very good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, thiamin, riboflavin, folate, pantothenic acid, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, copper and manganese. Pineapple, which is a good source of enzymes, vitamins, minerals and fiber. Like all of our superior-quality canine supplements, these delicious compressed tablets are scored in-half for easy splitting. And with a tantalizing liver flavor, your dog will be doing the happy dance when it comes time for his or her supplement!

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Cat Claws? Feline Info From Champ!

Cat Crazy Newsletter

The Controversy Over Declawing: Illegal or Not?

Today I’d like to talk about a subject that has caused quite a controversy within the pet lovers’ community. It’s the process of declawing and I know a lot of my readers feel very strongly about it in one way or another. Do you know what declawing is? In short, declawing (also called an onychectomy) is an elective surgical procedure in which the nail and last bone are removed from all of the toes of a cat's front feet, and occasionally the rear feet as well. It is performed to make your cat unable to scratch furniture, people or other animals. There are no known health benefits other than convenience to humans. Because cats seldom use their rear claws to scratch furniture, these bones are usually left intact if a cat is declawed in the front. This way they can still climb trees, protect themselves, and escape more quickly if threatened while still not being able to scratch inappropriately. There are many veterinarians that won't do declawing at all. They simply refuse on both medical and moral grounds. The procedure itself can be tricky to perform and complications can arise as a result. Many vets also consider the procedure to be similar to cosmetic surgery and an inhumane practice. Do you think it’s fair to declaw a cat? Should declawing be illegal? Please take our poll. I'm interested in your thoughts.  When you are done sharing your opinion, take a look at these interesting comments on declawing. Here’s another procedure that causes controversy: pet ear piercing. What do you think about THAT? Share your opinion in our poll Until next time, Dr. Jon P.S.: Most owners who opt for declawing do so because they can’t control their cat’s scratching. If you are wondering what to do, take a look at our guide:http://www.petplace.com/cat-scratching-a-guide-to-declawing P.P.S.: A scratching post can solve a lot of behavioral problems and make your cat really happy. Do you know how to choose a good one? Learn how at:http://www.petplace.com/selecting-a-scratching-post-for-your-cat

Summer Traveling for Dogs

	Must Read! AAA Dog Vehicle Safety Report - What You Need to Know

Champ Says this is Important Information so Pay ATTENTION!

Summer is your dog's favorite time for road trips! But is it  safe to take your dog in the car without a safety restraint? Studies say no.

We would never put our children in the car without a seatbelt. Why should our dogs be any different?

I've seen trauma cases where dogs sustained serious injuries in a crash. The most tragic case was a little Jack Russell Terrier named Maxi. After the crash she jumped out of the car window and was hit by on-coming traffic. Maxi died and her parents blamed themselves. They never thought a safety restraint was necessary – until it was too late.

Safety restraints can save your dog's life in a crash… but 84% of pet owners don't use them.

Today I'm going to give you the facts so you will take the necessary steps to protect your dog.

According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, looking away from the road for only two seconds doubles your risk of being in a car crash. And a recent AAA study shows pets are definitely a distraction. This study of dog owners found:

• 65% were distracted at least once while driving with a dog
• 31% became distracted by a dog climbing into their lap
• 23% used their arms to restrain dogs while applying the brake
• 20% let their dog sit on their lap while driving
• 19% took one hand off the wheel to prevent pets from climbing into the front seat

One of the main reasons people don't think about using pet safety restraints is that they don't understand the dangers. Here's why you should never give your dog free reign of the car.

• Airbags are designed to protect people, not pets. Never allow your dog to ride in the front seat. A dog sitting on the driver's lap could be stuck between the driver and the airbag if it deploys. And front airbags can be deadly to a dog – even if the dog is restrained.
• Unrestrained pets become forceful projectiles. If you crash at 30mph your unrestrained 10-lb dog becomes a flying projectile exerting 300 pounds of force. At 50mph, your dog will fly forward with 833 pounds of force. And at only 30mph an 80-lb dog can hit passengers or the windshield with over a ton of force!
• Threats to emergency responders. After a crash, frightened, injured or protective dogs may bite anyone that comes near.
  
  
• Running from the car. Frightened by the crash, your dog may instinctively run from the car to be hit by oncoming traffic or cause another accident.

This is a serious safety issue. In fact, soon pet safety restraints may not be a “choice” – they may be the law.

Many states already have pet vehicle safety laws and others are following suit. States like Arizona, Florida, California, Connecticut, Maine and New Jersey issue fines of $250-$1,000 for driving with a pet on your lap. In Hawaii, driving with unrestrained pets is forbidden. If your state has no pet vehicle safety law, it could be coming soon. But don't wait for legislation to start using a pet safety restraint. Now that you understand the dangers, act now. The risks are simply too great.

It's our job to keep our pets safe – and that includes vehicle safety. I believe this issue is so critical that I'm giving you a special incentive to get your pet safety restraint right now.

Click through this email and you'll save 10% off the Solvit Dog Vehicle Harness at 1-800-PetMeds. I'll also send you a $20 gift card for PetProductAdvisor.com good for any product. Your $20 Gift Card will be sent within 7 days of your Solvit Dog Vehicle Harness purchase.

The Solvit Dog Vehicle Harness quickly connects to your car's seatbelt to restrain your dog during sudden stops and to limit your dog's movements. The Solvit Dog Vehicle Harness fits dogs from 6 to 120 pounds. It's easy to use and works in any vehicle. Please take advantage of this special offer to buy the Solvit Dog Vehicle Harness. It could save your dog's life – and yours.

	TODAY'S PET TIP Summer Traveling for Dogs
Summer months see more Americans hitting the road for weekend trips and extended vacations. More and more pets are now joining their owners on these trips. When traveling with your pet in the car, it's import to follow these tips: Use Proper Restraint: When traveling in your vehicle, your pet should always be properly restrained for both your and their safety. In the case of an accident, a dog can weigh up 30 times its weight upon impact while traveling at 35 mph. Today, many companies create seatbelt systems and crates to keep animals safely secured while on the road. Never Leave Your Pet In the Car: In 70-degree weather and above, it takes only minutes for the temperatures in your car to escalate to triple digits. Leaving the window open an inch does not provide adequate ventilation. Many states are passing laws that prohibit leaving your pet alone in your automobile. So if your car is parked, please make sure to remove your pet from the car. Bring Water: Car travel can make your pets feel anxious and result in nervous panting. Be sure to take frequent breaks during your trip to allow your pet the opportunity to re-hydrate.

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Rawhide Treats: Are They Safe?

Rawhide Treats: Are They Safe?

It seems like rawhide treats have been around forever. These familiar chews come in lots of fun shapes and flavors, and dogs generally enjoy them. They're also very affordable and they last for a long time. But there are also some health dangers associated with rawhide treats, so make sure you understand the risks before giving your dog this kind of item.

Rawhide is made from animal hide, which is not digestible. If your dog swallows a piece of rawhide whole, it can become a choking hazard. Swallowed rawhide cannot be digested. That means it must travel through your dog's digestive tract where the sharp edges of the undigested rawhide can cause internal damage. It is not uncommon for veterinarians like myself to examine an x-ray only to find obstructions from rawhide. In some cases they even require a surgery.

Many owners find that rawhide treats don't fit into their lifestyle of reduced chemicals. Rawhide goes through a lot of processing before it is ready for sale, including a chemical process where it is washed with degreasers and detergents then sterilized in hydrogen peroxide. With these things in mind, you might want to reconsider the use of rawhide as treats.

Few things bring your dog more enjoyment that chewing on a tasty treat. And yet, every year, untold numbers of dogs suffer from a variety of digestive issues as a result of consuming rawhide. Not only that, but frequently rawhide is preserved with harmful chemicals. That’s why we developed a line of chew treats made using pork products, which are much easier on your dog’s entire digestive system and are free from potentially harmful chemicals. Our pork treats are guaranteed to be not only safe, but incomparably appetizing to your sweet pup as well. Whether you have a Chihuahua or a Great Dane, there’s a pork treat made just for their size. So, say “goodbye” to traditional chew products, and give your dog something he or she can really enjoy – safely! Demand Life's Abundance Pork Treats!
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Recalls Natura Pet Food Recall Posted by Susan Thixton

Recalls

Natura Pet Food Recall

Posted by Susan Thixton on June 18, 2013 at 12:18 pm

From a press release issued by Natura Pet Food, the company is recalling all lot codes, all sizes, all UPC’s of Innova, Evo, California Natural, Healthwise, Karma, and Mother Nature pet foods and treats.
Natura Press Release:
Natura Pet Issues Voluntary Recall of Specialized Dry Pet Foods Due to Possible Health Risk
FREMONT, NEBRASKA, June 18, 2013
Natura Pet Products is voluntarily recalling specific lots of dry pet food because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
Salmonella can affect animals eating the products and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surfaces exposed to these products.
Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.
Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.
These products were packaged in a single production facility. During routine FDA testing, a single lot tested positive for the presence of Salmonella. There have been no reports of pet or human illness associated with this product. In an abundance of caution, Natura is voluntarily recalling all products with expiration dates prior to June 10, 2014.
The affected products are sold in bags through veterinary clinics, select pet specialty retailers, and online in the United States and Canada. No canned wet food is affected by this announcement.
The affected products are:
Innova Dry dog and cat food and biscuits/bars/treats
All Lot Codes, All UPC’s, All package sizes
All expiration dates prior to 6-10-2014
EVO dry dog, cat and ferret food and biscuits/bars/treats
All Lot Codes, All UPC’s, All package sizes
All expiration dates prior to 6-10-2014
California Natural dry dog and cat foods and biscuits/bars/treats
All Lot Codes, All UPC’s, All package sizes
All expiration dates prior to 6-10-2014
Healthwise dry dog and cat foods
All Lot Codes, All UPC’s, All package sizes
All expiration dates prior to 6-10-2014
Karma dry dog foods
All Lot Codes, All UPC’s, All package sizes
All expiration dates prior to 6-10-2014
Mother Nature biscuits/bars/treats
All Lot Codes, All UPC’s, All package sizes
All expiration dates prior to 6-10-2014
Consumers who have purchased the specific dry pet foods listed should discard them.
For further information or a product replacement or refund call Natura toll-free at 800-224-6123. (Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM CST

Itchy, Dirty or Smelly Dog Ears? What You Need To Know

Dirty ears are a problem for everyone now and then… for dogs and humans alike. But when those dirty ears get so bad that they start to smell, you need immediate cleaning and perhaps even medical treatment.

You see, smelly ears area sign of infection. Ear infections are very common in floppy-eared dogs and dogs with long ear canals, as well as those with hair inside the ears.

However, ear infections can affect any dog. They range from bacterial, yeast tofungal infections and can be very difficult to get rid of.

What's even worse is how your dog feels with an ear infection: itchy … uncomfortable … restless … and then there's that rancid smell! Yuck!

Just ask one of my pet parents, Dan.

Dan has a six-year-old red basset hound named Ruby Tuesday who has been plagued with chronic ear infections throughout her life. He told me he always knows when she has an infection because Ruby starts shaking her head, pawing at her ears and rattling her collar. And the smell from her ears can knock you out. Dan told me the icky brown and black stuff that builds up inside her ears has about the worst smell he can imagine.

Ruby's infections have cost Dan and his family thousands in vet bills and medicines over the years. And just think about how terrible poor Ruby must feel!

After Ruby’s last infection cleared up, Dan started cleaning Ruby's ears regularly with a special ear cleansing solution that has finally put an end to the costly ear-infection routines of the past.

Ear infections are one of the most common reasons for visiting a veterinarian. I see a lot of dogs like Ruby every week. And if your dog gets a yeast infection (Candidiasis) in her ears, she could harbor it forever. Yeast is extremely difficult to clear up.

The thing is, dogs can't clean their own ears – and they can’t tell you when their ears hurt. That’s why having a regular ear cleaning regimen is so important. Left untreated, chronic infections can lead to other problems including possible deafness.

If your dog has a lot of hair inside the ears, keep it well trimmed. If your dog swims, dry out the ears every week and after swimming (or more frequently as necessary). I also recommend using an ear cleaning solution on a regular basis.

Keeping your pet’s ears clean is a necessary part of keeping your pet healthy. Ear Care Formula Really Works! Cleans ears and eliminates odor. Dissolves ear wax. Removes dirt and debris. Soothes like only aloe vera can. Contains no alcohol and will not sting. Leaves ears dry, which keeps nasty ear debris at bay. Safe and gentle enough for puppies and kittens. Ear Care Formula contains a special botanical blend and gentle cleansers specifically developed to keep your pet’s ear's healthy. Item Size: 4 fl. oz.

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Bad Hair Day? How to Reduce Dog Shedding

When a dog has a bright shiny coat, it's a sign of good health.

But when your dog's coat is not healthy, that shine will fade away. You could also notice dandruff, scratching (from dry irritated skin) and a lot more shedding in your home (and on your clothes).

There are many reasons for shedding and skin problems. First and foremost, some degree of shedding is normal for all dogs. It's a natural process that occurs as old hair falls out and healthy new hair grows in to replace it. Many factors influence how much your dog will shed including breed, diet, sunlight, temperature, age and illness.

All dogs shed, but shedding can be significantly reduced with the right care. Here's what you can do to cut down on problem shedding and restore your dog's shiny coat:

• Regular Brushing and Grooming – In the wild when dogs run through trees and bushes, brushing against the limbs helps to naturally remove the old hairs in the dog's coat. Our pets spend most of their time indoors, which is why regular grooming is needed to remove that old hair from your dog's coat. The more you brush your dogs, the less loose hair will build up in their coat to then be shed in your house, on your clothes and on your furniture. Your dogs' coats will look shinier and healthier and regular brushing will help keep mats from forming. We definitely don't want dog hair on our clothes, furniture, bed• 

• Healthy Diet – A balanced healthy diet with the proper balance of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals is essential to a healthy skin and coat.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids – A good Omega-3 fatty acid supplement will help maintain healthy skin and coat and reduce shedding. ding and floors. And we certainly don't want our dogs to suffer from dry itchy skin and dandruff. Regular brushing and grooming is important to remove 

loose hair from the coat, and this healthy natural supplement will cut down on shedding and greatly improve the condition of your dog's skin and coat. 

How would you rate your companion animal’s skin and coat health? Does your pet have …

• Dry, flaky skin or a dull, brittle coat
• Oily, foul smelling skin or a matted coat
• Thin coat, excessive hair loss or red, blotchy skin
• Excessive scratching (especially, seasonally)

Keeping your companion animal’s skin healthy and coat shiny can prove very challenging. There’s more to skin-and-coat health than regular shampooing and daily brushing.
Even though the skin is the body’s largest organ, it takes a backseat to other organs when it comes to nutrition. In fact, the nutrients eaten by your pet go directly to the other vital organs first (such as the brain, heart, lungs and liver); as a consequence, the skin often suffers. Even if you are already feeding your companion animal a high-quality, nutritionally dense food, sometimes it’s just not enough to ensure skin and coat health. In fact, problems relating to the skin and coat are much more common than you might think as they account for a significant percentage of trips to the vet.

Skin & Coat Formula Can Help!
A comprehensive nutritional supplement, Skin & Coat Formula for Dogs and Cats addresses skin and coat health in a holistic way. Unlike ordinary skin and coat supplements that contain fatty acids and a few other ingredients, this formula supplies a whole host of additional nutrients that work together to address the complex factors that play a role in supporting skin and coat health. The nutrients featured in this formula can yield several health-promoting benefits. Here are just some of the highlights of how this supplement works …

In addition to skin-nourishing omega-3 fatty acids, this formula contains vitamin E and zinc, which help increase the effectiveness of the fatty acids. The vitamin A in this formula helps cells to grow and supports the naturally-occurring layer of oil on the skin, helping to keep it healthy and supple. This formula also contains vitamin C, which supports healthy collagen development. And to top it off, our new and improved Skin & Coat now contains seven different B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, d-pantothenic acid, niacin, pyridoxine, B12 and biotin), all of which work with the other nutrients in this formula to aid in the many complex chemical reactions required for healthy skin and coat.

If your companion animal’s skin or coat is less than perfect, try a bottle of Skin & Coat Formula with a comprehensive line-up of nutrients that work together to help support healthy skin and a shiny coat. 60 chewable tablets Your Price: $31.15 *Autoship Price: $23.85 Click Here To Order 120 chewable tablets Your Price: $54.94 *Autoship Price: $42.95 Click Here To Order