Riley - photo by Tim Coffey Photography
Usually, I spend my time talking about nutrition for humans. But we’re not the only ones who can benefit from a healthy diet. Our pets deserve to be as healthy as possible, and just like for their humans, that means eating right. Let’s take a look at my favorite example: my dog Riley.
Riley started life as the littlest guy in the litter. Small for his age, he suffered from a chronic case of roundworm and endured endless deworming treatments. He was really happy, just not very healthy.
When he moved in with us, the first thing I did was find a holistic vet practice that focuses on wellness and nutrition. And I found a great one in Smith Ridge Veterinary. They do all of the normal vaccines and medications, but when it’s safe for the pet, they will suggest alternatives such as blood tests to determine vaccine needs and supplements in place of medication.
The next step was figuring out the best diet for Riley. He seemed to have allergic reactions to most food brands we tried: his skin itched and his GI tract staged an uprising. As much as I wanted to be the owner who cooks for her dog, that just wasn’t realistic. It took some trial & error, but we finally figured it all out. Here’s what he eats daily (your pet may thrive on a different mix of products, so this is not a specific recommendation):
- California Naturals brand food (Lamb & Rice)
- Rx Biotic by Rx Vitamins for Pets: a blend of probiotics
- Acetylator by Vetri-Science: digestive enzymes and probiotics
- Pure Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil by Bravo!
- Daily Health Nuggets by Dr. Bob Goldstein: a blend of fruits, vegetables, vitamins and minerals
Now Riley is as healthy as he is happy, with a shiny coat that makes him look like a Breck girl. And a healthy dog makes for a happy human.
I’d love to hear what you do to make your pets healthy. Leave a comment below.
And check out Prevention Not Prescriptions for more ideas on how to take your health into your own hands.
Tags: dogs, pets, smith ridge vet
I have been feeding one of my dogs California Naturals brand in the Herring/Sweet Potato formula and he is doing great. Before his allergies were out of control, eyes weeping and crusty – just awful. Since I changed his food we don’t have that problem any more. And I do give him the Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil and his coat is much improved, no more flaky skin. It also has done wonders for my cats – they are much older and one of them now is able to get up the stairs and definitely has more spring in her step.
I am going to try the other supplements that you suggest, thank you for the great information!