Pet Valu Companion - Canadian Winter Issue by Pet Valu Inc.

} Boost Your Pet's Health with Supplements P.7

Why flowers in food? Find out p.19

Pet Valu tm

Your Pet. Your Life. Your Store

Winter I 2012

â?&#x2030; It's All About

Chewing! Learn about stopping unwanted chewing, encouraging food chewing & pet dental in this issue

GorGeous purebred cats Give us somethinG to purr about

Fascinating

Ferrets

Why this small pet is hugely popular

NOW Fresh

Large Breed

Something new for your big dog

Short bald & big earS...

History of Nine Lives Skin & Coat Tips "Flying" Hamsters, p.3

Beautiful Breeds

E D I TO R 'S L ETTER

Pet Valu

Your Pet. Your Life. Your Store

nother year has passed, and this new one is wellunderway. Most New Year’s resolutions are fond memories by February, but that doesn’t mean 2012 has to be the same old thing. There’s never been a better time to try something new for your pet. Resolve, for your pet’s sake, to finally follow through on consistent training or your promise to transition to a natural, holistic food. Maybe you want to spend more time walking your dog? Nothing would make him happier. For most of us, all we really have to do to be happier this year is see the world through the eyes of our pets. This issue might have been called the Chewing issue! While that might be an overstatement, we do have three distinct articles related to chewing. On page 13, you can get tips on how to train your dog to chew her appropriate chew toys, rather than household items. Our annual dental article on page 4, just in time for Dental Month in February, discusses chewing as one of the ways dogs can clean their teeth. And Dr. David Summers, our resident nutritionist, takes an opposite approach on page 8 with tips for pets who don’t chew. This can be a real issue that leads to vomiting. As Dr. Dave says: “If a dog or cat doesn’t chew their food, the chances of seeing the food again increase dramatically!” We also cover different breeds of cat and the fun of ferrets in this issue. It’s important to me that Companion provide well-rounded information about pet care, covering everything from behavior to health products to just plain fun. A balanced, well-planned approach is a good way to tackle all life’s opportunities – but sometimes, it’s just as effective to jump in with both feet. Here’s to a new year, new opportunities and a happy outlook – courtesy of our pets.

Nine Lives

Fascinating Ferrets

Libbi Hood editor

editor deSigN CoNtributorS

Libbi Hood Daniel Cullen Lora Kee David Summers, Ph.D. Candace Eberts

email: companion@petvalu.com

Product availability will vary by store location. Products may not be exactly as shown. Not responsible for typographical errors. Prices listed are in effect until Feb. 29, 2012 and thereafter are subject to change without notice. Please note that the suggested retail prices referenced in Companion magazine are merely suggestions and may differ in stores. ©2012 PET VALU

CaNadiaN editioN

In this issue

New in Store 3 Something for everyone. Even faux snow!

dental Care 4 It'sPetimportant to your pet's overall health.

New Food for big dogs 6 NOW FRESH dog food for large breeds.

Supplemental helpers 7 Healthful extras can give your pet a boost.

of Chewing 8 Dr.theDaveimportance helps you get your pet chewing.

a Cat of a different breed 10 Beautiful and fascinating cat breeds.

Skin & Coat health 12 Follow along for better coat conditioning.

how to Stop unwanted Chewing 13 Chewing is natural, but...

Why Nine lives? 1 4 Some theories about the history behind it.

How to Stop Unwanted Chewing!

healthy in Winter 15 AllKeeping pets are impacted by cold weather.

Ferrets 16 AllFascinating about this popular small pet. Puzzle 18 Crossword All the answers are from p. 10! and More 19 ingredients Tidbits about ingredients, new foods and more.

Franchises available a 〉〉 For more information about joining Canada’s largest pet specialty franchise chain, please email franchiseinfo@petvalu.com

®™ Trademarks used under license.

N Ew I N S TOR E

Brighten-up winter with Something New

I can fly, I can fly!

Skinneez Plush toys Skinneez toys are stuffing-free and super-soft toys that squeak. With three distinct versions, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your dog. Tons-o-Squeakers feature 19 squeakers, for the dog who can never squeak enough. Skinneez Plus has a life-like texture that many dogs will find irresistible, and the Masked Bandits are smaller toys with two squeakers and an adorable look. • 63746-63751 • 63746-63751 › $7.99-$14.99

editor's

picK! New Style for the New year

Four new patterns of adjustable clip collars give you stylish choices for 2012. Each collar is machine washable with a reflective label and nickel-plated hardware. Choose from personalitypacked Maltese Cross, Sailor Tattoo, Modern Damask or Pawprint Camoflauge patterns, in collars and six-foot leashes, all made in Canada!

b.f.f. .f.f.

• 69075-9, 69086-9, 69091, 69104-5, 69130-3, 69106-8, 69134 › $12.99-$17.99

best est Feline Friend Treat your cat to a new, natural canned food that tastes great! Best Feline Friend is made with ingredients fit for humans and perfect for cats, like real chicken, tuna, salmon and shrimp. Each of the eight flavors is grain-free, made with only meat and fish, plus the vitamins and minerals required to make a complete and balanced cat food. Some formulas include vegetables, and all are made with enough real meat to appeal to the carnivore in your cat.

• 74153 › $17.99

Helicopter elicopter Cruiser Your dwarf hamster or pet mouse will be the coolest pet in the house with their very own helicopter! Similar to a Run-About Ball, the helicopter is powered by your pet. It’s a great way to contain your pet during cage cleaning, or simply to increase his exercise while he entertains the whole family in his Helicopter Cruiser. Helicopter Cruiser.

Ideal Winter Fun neWuct r p osdtore in- oW n • 24991, 24995, 25004, 25005, 25033, 25035, 25037, 25039 › $1.19 per can

If you have a sense of humor chew then this is the perfect new chew is toy for your dog! The Snowball is a classic Planet Dog Orbee-tuff toy: durable, buoyant and minty. This non-toxic, recyclable piece of ‘winter’ is made in the U.S.A. › 52936, $11.99

Winter 2012 - Companion 3

P E T D E NTAL CAR E

Dental Month Better oral hygiene is so important for pets that it warrants its own designated month: February! by libbi hood February is Dental Month. Of course, caring for your pet’s teeth and gums needs to be a regular, daily part of your pet care routine. Did you know that gingivitis (gum disease) puts your pet at an increased risk for heart disease? It’s scary, but true. Oral diseases are usually a progression from plaque to tartar to gingivitis, and the bacteria from gum disease can get into the bloodstream and travel to the heart. Terrible teeth and gross gums can lead to personality changes as well. Imagine what a terrible mood you’d be in if your teeth caused you pain every day. I knew a rescue cat named Spice that was quiet and shy, but perfectly nice. Over the years, her personality started to change and her owner couldn’t identify the reason. Spice would scratch and hiss at almost everyone, and the family decided it was the stress of having a new dog in the family. They were completely surprised when their veterinarian told them that Spice had several teeth that needed to be pulled. After her dental care and a short recovery time, Spice was back to being her timid but friendly self. She still didn’t spend much time around the family dog, but she was happy. • Tropiclean Clean Teeth Gel 44903 › $17.99 • EZ Dog Dental Kit 44922 › $13.99

• EZ Dog Fingerbrush 44919 › $5.99 each

What You Should Do A mixture of several dental care products will likely give you the best results. However, it is true that the most labor-intensive tool, brushing your pet’s teeth, will provide your pet with the best results.

 toothbrushing Your best option for pet dental care is actually brushing your dog or cat’s teeth. Pet toothbrushes and pet-friendly toothpaste are designed to make the task easier. For better control, EZ Dog makes a brush that fits over your finger. Always use a pet-specific toothpaste as it’s safe for your pet to swallow. Establishing a regular brushing routine, ideally daily or on alternate days, will help keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy. Start slowly and build up to a full brush of all teeth when your pet is accustomed to the brushing routine. First, massage the outside of your pet’s mouth and let him taste the toothpaste. Second, place a small amount of toothpaste on the brush and brush a couple front teeth, slowly and gently in a circular motion. Finally, increase the number of teeth and the time spent each time your brush. Remember, always stop brushing before your pet becomes irritated. You don’t want to ‘reward’ his bad behavior by stopping. Instead, reward him with praise when the brushing is over.

 Foods Ingredients such as Hexametaphosphate and Sodium Tripolyphosphate are used in pet foods and treats to help reduce tartar build up. These ingredients weaken tartar by replacing the calcium in tartar with another mineral. The most common mineral 4 Companion - Winter 2012

used to replace calcium is phosphorus. Basically, the phosphorus replaces calcium in the structure of the tartar, causing the tartar to weaken and crumble. Combined with these ingredients, the scraping action of hard kibble or treats can help remove tartar from teeth. Without the hard tartar it is easier to remove the plaque, and best of all, the population of bacteria is dramatically reduced.

 Supplements If the bacteria are eliminated from the mouth, less plaque and tartar will form. Most pet dental aids rely on eliminating bacteria by using an ingredient that has antimicrobial activity, such as zinc gluconate or essential oils. Try Tropiclean dental gel, which stays on the teeth longer than liquid, or Tropiclean dental water additive, which benefits your pets each time they drink water. Wysong DentaTreat uses cheeses as a main ingredient, which is unusual, but the fat in the cheese helps it stay in the mouth longer, killing more bacteria.

 Chews – edible and Not With dogs, the chewing action can also be used to create physical abrasion. This works with certain types of chew toys and certain types of edible treats. The treat or toy that results in the most chewing is likely to have the most dental benefit. Rawhide treats can reduce plaque and tartar about 50%. The longer lasting chew treats like Greenies can have up to a 70% reduction. Several non-edible toys or chews also help to scrape your dog’s teeth, but there aren’t many options for cats. With cats, the chewing action is not a viable solution simply because most cats don’t chew.

Happy, HealtHy y pets y teetH need HealtHy Specially formulated to clean teeth, Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care pet food helps ensure that your pet gets both precisely balanced nutrition and enhanced oral care benefits every day. ®

How does Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care pet food work? ®

The patented Hill’s fibre matrix technology holds the kibble together longer to scrub each tooth like a toothbrush. • Larger kibble size ensures that your pets teeth chew through each kibble, to help clean them from the tip, to the gumline. • Contains no mineral abrasives or active chemicals, so you can be sure your pet’s mouth is naturally clean! • The only* pet food brand recognized by the Veterinary Oral Health Council for controlling plaque and tartar in both dogs and cats. • Also freshens your pets breath.

Always look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) Seal of Acceptance on products for dental health. The seal indicates proven efficacy in controlling plaque and tartar.

* Amongst all non-therapeutic products. © 2010 Hill’s Pet Nutrition Canada, Inc. ®/TM Hill’s, Science Diet and the slogan Pets Need Dental Care, Too are trademarks owned by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. The VOHC seal design is a trademark owned by the Veterinary Oral Health Council.

N E w FO OD F O R bIg DOgS

Big Dogs

Get Fresh

NOW FreSh™ premium pet food for dogs is getting a new look, and adding a new option for big dogs: Large Breed foods that are big on freshness and flavor. by lora Kee

NOW Fresh

™

NOW FRESH is a grain free line of pet foods that are made with fresh ingredients. There are no meat meals, which are dehydrated meats, no by-product meals, and no artificial preservatives. To meet the needs of more of the pet population, a Large Breed line of NOW FRESH is being introduced for puppy, adult and senior dogs.

The key differences in the new large breed foods are: • Larger kibble size • Balanced protein, fat, calcium and phosphorus levels to support a large breed dog’s growth, development and long-term health and wellness • DHA/EPA to support brain development in large breed puppies • Green Lipped Mussels (and Glucosamine/ Chondroitin in the Adult and Senior recipes) for hip and joint health • Added L-Carnitine for heart health or fat burning 6 Companion - Winter 2012

any of us are trying to eat better these days, and the trend towards eating fresher, less processed foods is a great way to start building healthier habits. Why not take the same approach with your pets? NOW FRESH wants to help your pets eat better. With foods made using 100% market-fresh turkey, salmon and duck, Omega-3&6 oils from coconuts, canola and vegetables, plus fresh berries, spinach, cranberries, pumpkin and other tasty ingredients, NOW FRESH will have your pet eager to eat healthy! On top of that, NOW FRESH has just expanded their line of products to include a large breed in life-stages (puppy, adult and senior). Many people think that all dogs can eat the same food – big dogs eat more food, small dogs eat less food, and everything just works out nutritionally. This isn’t always the case. Especially for puppies, a food designed specifically for large breed dogs can be very beneficial and even help prevent health problems later in life. To be sold as appropriate for puppies, foods must meet certain conditions. If you’ve ever had a puppy, you know how fast they grow up. The fast growth means they need more calories and nutrition to support their bodies. For this reason, puppy foods are more nutrient-dense and digestible to give growing puppies all the nutrition they need to grow into healthy dogs. Overfeeding smaller breed puppies is difficult to do because their stomachs are small. However, it is much easier to overfeed large breed puppies, which can cause them to grow too fast. For large or giant breed dogs, growing too fast can cause problems. Their young bones and joints may not be able to support the fast-growing weight of a giant dog, which can cause joint problems, especially as the dog ages. Young growing bones have more flexibility, and if too much weight is placed on them they can bend very slightly. This slight bending can alter the angle of the joint, causing wear spots in the cartilage. Damage can occur while the dog is young, but often the effects of the damage are not apparent until later in life. To prevent the damage, it’s important to help the puppy grow at a slower, more controlled pace. The right food can achieve this controlled growth. Large breed puppy foods have a lower calorie density. Larger dogs (and larger puppies) have larger stomachs, which means they can ingest more food than they actually need. You might think that a puppy would simply stop eating when he’s had enough calories, but, as with many people, some will continue to eat and take in more calories than they actually need. With puppies this causes speedy growth. A large breed puppy food is formulated with less calories per cup, so that the dogs are satisfied with the volume of food without overeating in a way causing them to grow faster and weigh more. L kibarge As your large breed puppy transitions to adulthood shoble i r (around 15 months) and then to his senior years a ctuwn s (5 years), he’ll benefit from NOW FRESH RESH foods s ize a l which are designed to support the needs of a big ! dog. The adult and senior formulas include added Glucosamine and Chondroitin to maintain joint health, plus L-Carnitine and Taurine to support heart health. Large breeds are also prone to weight gain, and extra weight can put even more strain on a large dog’s joints, so these foods are designed to keep your dog’s big stomach full without too many calories. Keeping your big dog active and on a healthy food designed to meet his needs, like NOW FRESH Large Breed, will give him the best chance at a lifetime free from pain and joint disorders.

S uP P LE mE N TA L H E L P E R S

Supplementing Your Pet's Health by libbi hood

You can choose a healthy food, holistic treats and provide plenty of exercise and love, but sometimes your pet needs more. There are natural, effective supplements available to support a wide variety of health issues.

Pet Kelp • Kelp, a type of seaweed, is considered to be one of the most

nutrient-rich plants on the Earth. For that reason, dried kelp makes an excellent nutritional supplement. Pet Kelp is available in three formulas: Wellness, Joint & Bone, and Skin & Coat. Each formula is made with kelp that is hand-harvested in Nova Scotia, Canada, and sun-dried to retain the highest possible quality of vitamins and minerals from the kelp. Pet Kelp is safe and effective for dogs and cats.

➔ The Wellness formula has added blueberries, blueberries, a powerful antioxidant source. Antioxidants fight free fight free radicals, helping to repair cellular damage which which in turn helps to fight disease and maintain a strong strong immune system. ➔ The Joint & bone formula includes a full dose of glucosamine (1440 mg) and chondroitin (576 mg), both mg), both well-known and effective supports for healthy joints. joints. Omega-3 and ➔ The Skin & Coat formula uses added Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids in an optimal ratio of 3:1. Pet Kelp Skin & Coat Formula 43839 〉〉 $10.99 Pet Kelp Joint & Bone Supplement 43838 〉〉 $10.99 Pet Kelp Antioxidant Supplement 43822 〉〉 $10.99

Firm Up! • Here’s a supplement that sounds like it belongs at your local gym, but in fact it’s an innovative product to help improve the quality and texture of your dog or cat’s stool. Digestive issues including diarrhea and constipation are no fun for pets or pet parents.

➔ Firm up uses pumpkin, a natural solution that is full of antioxidants and immune-boosting vitamins. Dehydrated pumpkin flakes are re-hydrated (to a volume of more than two cans of pumpkin) and can be used as an occasional supplement to solve the previously mentioned digestive problems, or as a daily supplement to help keep pets regular while providing additional nutrients to daily feedings.

Tripett Tripett supplements are made of pure green tripe, which is the stomach lining of animals. Dogs instinctively love tripe, as they evolved eating it. Stomach and stomach contents are an important and highly nutritious part of the diet of wild dogs. Green Tripe – "green" simply means the tripe is pure and unbleached – contains the partially digested grasses found in an animal’s stomach and is rich in digestive enzymes, gastric juices, taurine, amino acids and essential fatty acids. When you open a can of Tripett pure green tripe as a daily nutritional supplement or topper for dry food, you’ll believe that it’s all natural because it has a strong, natural aroma. This is why your dog will instinctively love it. Tripett is available in four varieties: ➔ beef tripe – made from pure green beef tripe. Beef Tripe contains all the partially digested grasses in a cow’s stomach and is rich in digestive enzymes, Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids and many other nutrients important to your dog’s health. It’s 100% pure meat. ➔ lamb tripe – This pure green lamb tripe is sourced from lamb raised and fed on the grasslands of New Zealand. Lamb tripe is easy for puppies to digest and provides them with the wide variety of beneficial nutrients in green tripe. This formula also includes added glucosamine and chondroitin to promote healthy joint cartilage. ➔ Venison tripe – Also sourced from New Zealand, green venison tripe provides all the benefits of tripe with the added factor of being a unique protein source. This makes green venison tripe a great choice for dogs with allergies or food sensitivities. ➔ beef tripe with duck & Salmon – This “Advanced Skin & Coat Formula” includes added duck, salmon and Menhaden fish oil to promote optimum skin and coat condition. Glucosamine and chondroitin are also added to promote healthy joint cartilage.

➔ A second formula, Firm up Pumpkin & Cranberry, uses the addition of cranberry to support urinary tract health. Cranberries help inhibit the adhesion of bacteria to the urinary tract, which allows them to be eliminated naturally.

Firm Up supplements from Diggin’ Your Dog are grown, processed and packaged in the U.S.A. The pouches are manufactured in California and they are BPA-free. Firm Up supplements are safe and effective for dogs and cats. Firm Up! Pumpkin 43644 〉〉 $8.99 Firm Up! Pumpkin & Cranberry 43645 〉〉 $9.99

Tripett Green Beef Tripe, 14 oz, 26571 〉〉 $2.69 Tripett Green Beef Tripe with Duck & Salmon, 14 oz, 26572 〉〉 $2.89 Tripett Green Lamb Tripe, 14 oz, 26573 〉〉 $2.99 Tripett Green Venison Tripe, 14 oz, 26574 〉〉 $2.99 Winter 2012 - Companion 7

TH E I m PO RTANCE OF CHEwINg

Pets that Don't Chew Their Food Maybe ‘wolfing’ down our meals is unhealthy for pets and people. by david summers, ph.d.

oes your dog or cat throw up whole, undigested food? If so, your pet may have a gorging problem. It’s always a concern when your pets vomit. First, you worry if they’re ill. Immediately after that thought, you act fast to clean up before other pets come to investigate. Then you hope they don’t vomit again for a long time. One of the reasons dogs and cats vomit is they don’t chew their food. The lack of chewing is often because they gorge their food. Gorging can be defined as eating greedily. If your dog or cat throws up a food they have been eating and enjoying for a while, check to see if the food pieces are whole. Pets that eat fast and then throw up whole pieces of food usually are not properly chewing their food. If a dog or cat doesn’t chew their food, the chances of seeing the food again increase dramatically! To solve this problem, what you need to do is slow your pet’s eating pace to help encourage him to chew his food.

 Make a Change

 New Food

One of the simplest ways to slow a pet’s eating pace is to change the feeding bowl. Instead of having a smaller bowl piled high with food, try a larger bowl that allows the food to be spread out, ideally in a single layer of kibble. This makes it more difficult for the dog/cat to gobble a mouthful of food at a time, and hopefully this will encourage a slower pace that allows time for chewing. Raised feeders are reported to help with digestion. The higher bowls allow your dog to eat in a more natural position, rather than bent over to the floor. This should keep him from gulping his food which can also lead to indigestion. If there is an obstacle in your pet’s bowl, it can slow her down. Place a heavy ball or similar heavy object in the feeding bowl along with dinner. Your dog or cat will have to work around the ball, requiring a slower pace and smaller mouthfuls. The ball trick may work in the beginning, but many dogs (and some cats too!) will find ways of removing the offending object, rather than eating around it. In that case, you may need a bowl with the ‘object’ built in. See ‘A Bowl Full of Options’ for details.

Changing foods can be difficult on your pet’s digestive system. I’d recommend changing foods as a final option, or last resort. When choosing a new food to try to solve the problem of swallowing whole kibble, start with a large kibble. A larger piece of food is going to require more chewing. With cat food, unique shapes of cat food can encourage chewing of the food because kibble with pointy edges can be uncomfortable to swallow whole. Not all pets that vomit have a problem chewing their food. If the pieces come up whole, and the vomiting is not all the time, then slowing your pet down while eating is a good first step. Vomiting could also be a sign of illness, so monitor your pet closely and visit your veterinarian if you suspect anything more serious than eating too quickly.

 Just add Water Racing sled dogs in particular are very prone to upset stomach and throwing up their food whole, so most mushers feed their food wet. You can switch to canned food, or you can simply add water to your pet’s kibble to make the food softer or mushier. This can be an effective solution to break the cycle of gorging and vomiting, but it does have several drawbacks. Having to add water and let the food soak for a few minutes to absorb the moisture decreases the convenience of feeding dry food. Adding water also negates any dental benefit derived from crunchy kibble scraping the teeth. 8 Companion - Winter 2012

T H E Im I mP P O RTA N C E O F C H E wI w Ng

A Bowl Full of Options by LIBBI HOOD

There are many types of bowls for pets, likely many more than you ever thought possible!

Stop the Gorging! If your dog or cat is gorging – taking large mouthfuls of food, swallowing the kibble whole and then throwing it up – the “Skid Stop” Slow Feed Bowl is an option for you. The molded-plastic bowl has impediments that your dog must work around, in order to eat. These impediments look like dividers

and they’re molded right into the bowl, so your dog dog can’t move them out of the way. The space in the the bowl allows your dog to take moderate mouthfuls, mouthfuls, which can encourage her to chew her food rather rather than gorging and swallowing it whole.

59951

SKID STOP SLOW FEED BOWL

7.99

59952

SKID STOP SLOW FEED BOWL

9.99

• Skid Skid Stop Slow Feed 59951 › $7.99

Stylish & effective Raised dining offers your dog many benefits. When their bowls are raised closer to the height of their head, dogs can eat easier without bending down to gulp food or water and then raising their head to swallow. Benefits of this can include slower, more comfortable eating and better digestion. The raised bowls usually result in a much cleaner dining area as well. Dogs spill less

food and water when they don’t have to bend down to the ground to eat. New raised double diners available at Pet Valu, Paulmac’s and Bosley’s stores consist of stainless steel bowls that nestle in a wrought-iron stand. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean, while the stands have attractive patterns of powdercoated wrought-iron which won’t stain or rust.

76252

BARON DOUBLE DINER

76253

BARON DOUBLE DINER

69.99

76254

BARON SINGLE DINER

69.99

76256

MESH SINGLE DINER

49.99

76259

REGAL DOUBLE DINER

59.99

76260

REGAL DOUBLE DINER

54.99

76261

BONE DOUBLE DINER

49.99

• Baron Single 76254 › $69.99

99.99

• Regal Double › from $54.99

Fun for Dinner! Sometimes your dog or cat needs a new bowl simply because you’re bored of the previous ones. The new Bone and Fish bowls are the perfect antidote to the winter blahs. Durable, easy to clean stainless steel bowls sit perfectly in brightlycolored, fun shapes: a bone for dogs and a fish for 53781

THE BONE BOWL BLUE

24.99

53782

THE BONE BOWL RED

24.99

53784

THE BONE BOWL WHITE

24.99

53787

THE BONE BOWL BLACK

24.99

53792

THE FISH BOWL RED

24.99

53793

THE FISH BOWL PINK

24.99

53794

THE FISH BOWL WHITE

24.99

53797

THE FISH BOWL BLACK

24.99

cats. Multiple colors including blue, red, pink and and black allow you to match your pet’s dining area to area to your décor or even to your pet’s personality. While these bowls won’t slow your dog down at at feeding time, or make your pet a neater eater, sometimes sometimes the added fun is enough. the added fun is enough.

Winter 2012 Winter 2012 - Companion 9

Kindred Kitties F E ATuR E STO RY

Meeeeooowwwww well known for being very vocal

Traditionally a dog’s world, distinct cat breeds are now more recognizable. by lora Kee

n our adoption-friendly world where most household cats come from random acts of cat-love, most of us end up with cats of the domestic short-, medium- or long-haired varieties. These are great cats – a diverse genetic profile can make your standard cat less prone to genetic disorders caused by selective breeding. Of course, responsible breeders test for genetic anomalies and breed them out. Domestic cats come in a wide variety of colors, sizes and shapes, not to mention personalities! Some people, however, prefer to select their cats based on the characteristics of specific breeds.

Cat breeds often develop by accident, based on cats living in an isolated area where certain traits become more prominent due to the limited gene pool in a small population. For example, the Manx breed developed naturally on the Isle of Man. Cats likely traveled to the island by ship, stayed on the island and the Manx breed was developed. Its defining feature? Manxes have no tails!

The Manx Look, no tail!

Van

Splish Splash they like to take

baths!

The Ragdoll Pick up a ragdoll cat and it will likely go limp in your arms

10 Companion 10 Companion - Winter 2012 - Winter 2012

Different breeds don’t just look different from one another. There are some personality traits that certain breeds are known for. While the Siamese cat is one of the most prevalent and recognizable breeds, they’re also well known for being very vocal. Even more interesting is the Turkish Van. Revered in their native Turkey, they have only started to become a popular breed in the last 20 years, arriving in North America in 1989. What makes these guys so special? Aside from their coloring, which includes a white body with color on the tail and head, Turkish Vans actually like the water, and are known as the swimming cats! If you have a cat that loves jumping in the shower with you, it might just have some Turkish Van in its history. Ragdoll cats are also popular for what their name suggests. Pick up a ragdoll cat and it will likely go limp in your arms. These popular cats are very affectionate and love to follow their humans around, flopping on laps whenever possible. If you’re thinking of adding a breed of cat to your family, make sure you work with a reputable breeder and do your homework to make sure the breed you’ve selected is a good fit for your home.

C AT b R E E D S

CaTS of OUS CUriOUS CLaSSeS S

Sphynx

Singapura Kitten

Hairless & as soft as a fuzzy peach!

Doesn't grow much bigger

Other Distinct Breeds

Smallest Cat: Singapuras are small cats that usually weigh only five to eight pounds when full-grown. The breed came out of South Asia and resembles other cats from the area, such as Burmese cats and Abyssinians, although the Singapura is known for its dark, sandy brown color. largest Cat: The largest domestic cat is the Maine Coon, which can weigh up to 25 pounds. This breed was first recognized in Maine, and is special among cats because it is well adapted to harsh winter climates. The long-haired water-resistant coat keeps them warm in winter, and they have large paws, perfect for walking on snow.

Scottish Fold cats have ears that cats have fold down in front. This gives the breed a distinctive sad expression, though the typical personality is friendly and sweet.

Scottish Fold

Friendly & sweet

Cornish Rex cats have a distinctive wavy coat that sheds very little, and also has proportionally larger ears than other cats. Pixie Bobs are the result of natu-

Cornish Rex This breed originated in Cornwall, England

rally occurring mating between bobcats and barn cats. They have a natural bobtail and their ears have Lynx-like tips.

The Sphynx is a hairless cat. Sphynxes are covered with a fine fuzz that makes them feel like a warm peach.

even larger Cat: A relatively new trend in cat breeding is the crossing of domestic cats with an African wild cat called a Serval, which has created a new breed called Savannah cats. When a domestic cat is bred with a serval, their offspring can weigh up to 40 pounds. The standard house-cat version of this breed is much smaller, at about 17 pounds on their long, lean bodies, and have only 12.5% wild cat genes. These exotic cats have an almost doglike personality and can be trained to walk on leashes.

Shortest Cat: Munchkin cats â&#x20AC;&#x201C; these little guys resemble ferrets with their disproportionately short legs and long bodies due to a natural genetic mutation. They have no trouble getting around, though. Look up these kitties on YouTube for some adorable videos! Winter 2012 - Companion 11

H E A LT H TIPS

Skin & Coat Health Follow the trail for recommendations on achieving a healthy coat of hair for your dog.

gO See THe veT!

Severe

These severe hot spots are beyond a hot spot remedy.

For severe cases, especially if the symptoms have started rapidly, visit your vet to check for underlying medical reasons.

remedy

Try a hot spot remedy and consider supplements.

THinning cOngrATulATiOnS Sounds like a healthy coat.

HOT SPOTS

My dog has hot spots where the skin is inflamed & the hair is thinning from continuous licking.

SHAmPOO

Do you shampoo your dog too often?

TOO mucH

Shampooing more than once per week, or using the wrong shampoo, may remove too much of the skin’s oils. This leads to skin inflammation and causes a dry, dull coat.

dull Not great – my dog’s coat is dry and dull.

SHiny Shiny,

tangle-free, clean & full.

How is your dog’s hair & coat?

nO I only shampoo

once per month or less.

Severe shedding, leading to all over thinning of hair coat?

SHedS

Not great – my dog sheds a lot.

AverAge

Average shedding?

mATTed

Not great – my dog’s coat gets easily matted.

SuPPlemenTS

Consider a skin and coat supplement that includes Omega-3 fatty acids, ideally sourced from fish oils. Fish oils have more potent Omega-3 fatty acids than canola oil or flaxseed, and therefore are the most effective against inflammation.

dAyligHT

Shedding is governed by the hours of daylight. Indoor pets shed a little throughout the year, primarily because artificial light creates the illusion of more daylight.

leSS Consider less frequent shampooing and switch to a mild, pet-specific shampoo with moisturizing or soothing properties. BruSH Groom your dog regularly with a good brush. This will help get rid of excess hair, to slow shedding. It will also spread your dog’s natural oils, decreasing matting and dullness.

12 Companion - Winter 2012 - Winter 2012

FOOd A good coat

requires good skin. Both hair and skin are made mostly of protein. Make sure that your dog is eating a food with high quality protein.

RE D I RE C T T H E I R C H E wI N g !

➳ How to

SToP oP Unwanted Chewing! by candace eberts

hewing is a normal, natural and necessary behavior for dogs. Chewing helps to maintain healthy teeth, and it is also your dog’s primary form of entertainment! By chewing on something, your dog is learning what an object feels like and how it tastes, so he can determine if it’s good enough to eat. Your dog must learn from you what to chew and what not to chew. Have you ever come home to find feathers flying around the family room from torn pillows? Do your baseboards have teeth marks? Have your shoes seen better days? If you answered yes, then you need these tips and tricks to understanding and correcting unwanted chewing! Chew Toy Training is a method commonly used to help teach your pet to chew appropriate chew toys rather than household objects. It is important that you spend the time teaching this to your dog, especially during those oh-so-cute puppy years, to maintain a happy and healthy relationship in the long-term. Chew toy training can be done with a variety of toys that food can be hidden or frozen into. This alternative eliminates feeding your pet from a bowl and encourages exclusive chewing on the toys provided. Until completely chew toy trained, don’t feed your dog from a bowl and instead, use hand feeding as a reward when you see your dog happily chewing away on the toy provided. A variety of toys is important to maintain interest and to keep your dog entertained. This method can also be incorporated into crate training your dog. Chew toys in the crate help encourage the development of a chew toy habit. Remember to only leave behind what your dog is allowed to chew!

try thIs

Grannick's Bitter apple for Dogs Spray Bottle Invented by a pharmacist in 1960, Bitter Apple spray leaves an unpleasant yet harmless taste on your dog's fur to discourage licking, chewing and biting. Keeps dogs from licking wounds & hot-spots, so they have a chance to heal properly. 43880 › $12.99

Why does your dog chew specific items like shoes or socks? One reason is scent. Dogs will seek out objects that smell like their family members. Basically, shoes, socks and clothing are a wildly popular chew because they smell like us! As a member of the family, it is natural for your dog to think that your belongings are his belongings too. To train your dog to use appropriate chew toys, place your botscent on them. Leave a new or existing chew toy at the bot tom of your laundry hamper for a day so it picks up your scent, making it just as attractive to your dog as shoes. Many types of deterrents are available as well that can be used on objects such as plants and furniture. If your dog chews your house plants, it may be due to a lack of plant containing nutrients in his diet. A wide variety of treats and supplements available at your local Pet Valu can greenhelp prevent the need to consume your household green ery. Sprays such as Bitter Apple also deter your pet. Once sprayed directly onto an object, spray deterrents leave behind an awful taste that is non-toxic and won’t hurt your pet, but will make her stop chewing. Along with making chew toys more attractive, and nonchew toys taste awful, it’s important to always encourage your dog when she chews appropriate objects. Positive reinforcement is the best reward as your dog wants nothing more than to please you. If you do catch your dog chewing on something you don’t want him to, immediately take it away and replace it with the correct chewing alternative. If you come home to chewed shoes or worse, don’t punish your dog after the fact. Your dog doesn’t think like a human being and he won’t connect his punishment to the shoes. Instead, puppy-proof your home by putting chewable objects out of reach and using deterrents on larger objects. Then remember to praise your dog when he chews appropriately. Sometimes the problem is larger than just remembering to put your shoes in the closet. Destructive chewing is most commonly seen in dogs that spend a lot of time alone. It is important for any dog owner to understand that dogs require a healthy dose of mental and physical stimulation every day. Naturally, dogs will chew to relieve stress and boredom. The longer your dog is by himself, the more objects he seeks to keep him entertained! A healthy dose of mental stimulation includes providing your dog with a wide variety of toys to keep him busy. Puzzle toys that challenge your dog can stimulate the brain and provide great entertainment for the whole family. Tricks like ‘Search’ or ‘Find’ also make your dog think. Physical stimulation includes exercise. Taking your dog for a morning run before you leave for the day has been noted to help discourage anxiety, another behavior associated with destructive chewing. An evening walk is just as rewarding as your dog is exposed to different sights, smells and sounds. If your daily routine includes a walk, try a different route every couple of days. This introduces new elements into the walk which provides fantastic mental and physical stimulation for your dog. Winter 2012 - Companion 13

C AT m YTHS

Cat

Need to be more careful, only one life left!!!

Mythology Does your cat have nine lives? by libbi hood

veryone has heard that cats have nine lives. It’s a phrase that’s made its way into popular culture. If you search “Nine Lives” on the internet you find all sorts of companies and connections, many that have nothing to do with animals or pets. There is adventure tourism, a design studio, an art gallery, movie titles and countless articles online that trade on the phrase nine lives. Obviously very popular, what is the origin of this saying? The obvious first thought is that cats are said to have multiple lives because of their physical nature. They are graceful, acrobatic and highly athletic crea-

thrown from towers in medieval Europe and many survived, seemingly unscathed, to the amazement of those watching. In Ypres, Belgium, there is a Festival of the Cats which acknowledges the tower-throwing history when a jester tosses plush cats from the belfry tower of Cloth Hall to an excited crowd below. There are many theories about how the throwing of cats began. One is that the cats were in the tower to control the mice, and when they weren’t needed anymore, they were tossed out of the tower. Another legend is that cats were connected to witchcraft and black magic, and

One thing to consider… if cats have nine lives, how does “curiosity kill the cat?”

Why nine

Is the number nine significant? Nine is considered a mystical number, a trinity of trinities. However, in some Spanishspeaking regions, as well as Arabic and Turkish areas, cats are said to have only six or seven lives. A third theory is that the reverence of cats in ancient Egypt is likely the origin of their nine lives. Ancient gods that descended from Atum-Ra numbered nine, and were collectively known as Ennead, or the nine. Atum-Ra took the form of a cat for visits to the underworld, and he represented all nine lives of himself and the ancient gods descended from him.

throwing the cats from the tower was tures – all at the same time. They supposed to remove evil spirits. balance on the thinnest (and highWitchcraft and magic is another est!) of railings and ledges. They can possible source of the nine lives turn and twist their body, while on myth. It’s thought to be more than firm ground or even in the air, midSeven, used one up yesterday, had a run-in with a washing jump, in ways that are mind boggling just the cat’s flexible, supple nature. So, how many lives machine on gentle cycle! A book from the dark to most humans. you got left? ages, Beware the Cat, is This turning and twisting is said to have contained embodied in a cat’s “righting reflex,” the phrase “It is perwhich is its natural ability to turn its body mid-fall and land on its feet. It’s mitted for a witch to I've nine, an automatic sequence of movements take her cat’s body I think? nine times.” that take only a moment: first the cat adjusts its head to an upright posiWasn't tion and its body follows by twist'Curiosity ing or rotating to match the head. Killed the Cat' a band? The cat’s tail is the final ‘rudder’ to ensure balance and a perfect landing are attained. Plenty of slow-motion video has revealed the righting reflex in action, and it’s illuminating to watch. Apparently cats were 14 Companion - Winter 2012

Who keeps count?

Feeling the Chill Pets can feel the effects of winter just as much as people.

DOG

Most dogs love to go for walks regardless of the weather. Be aware that snow and ice make it harder for dogs to find a scent, and therefore more likely for them to become lost. More dogs are lost in the winter than any other season.1Keep your dog on a leash in the coldest, snowy months.

HAMSTERS

HUMIDITY

VEHICLES

All pets could suffer ill effects from being left unattended in your car on a cold winter day. Temperatures can quickly drop and unexpected delays in your return could lead to hypothermia, or worse.

CAT

Cats love to go outdoors all-year-around, but many drive us crazy by crying to come in a few minutes later. It’s much safer to keep your cat indoors year-round. Many outdoor cats fall asleep under the hood of a car that’s still warm, leading to injury or even death when the car is started again. Bang on your car hood in winter to ensure no neighborhood cats are napping.

Rats are happier in cool weather compared to hot, as they don’t have an effective way to cool their body temperature. However, a steady temperature is much better for rats, and really for most small animals, than wide variations in temperature during the day. If your thermostat automatically drops 10 or more degrees lower during the day when you’re out, make sure your rat has ample bedding, enclosed areas and fabric strips with which to keep warm.

SHELTER

All pets can keep warmer with appropriate shelter, but remember that the shelter needs to be an appropriate size. Covering your bird cage with a blanket does little to warm your bird, because the space around them is much more than can be warmed with body heat. A cover may block a cold draft, but that’s all. Dog houses also need to be a snug fit if they are going to help your pet stay warm outdoors in the winter.

Remember that most home heating causes dry air in cold climates. Birds, with their delicate respiratory systems, need enough humidity to thrive. Humidifiers or a daily misting can help keep your bird healthy.

Dogs and cats aren’t the only pets susceptible to cold temperatures. Hamsters will basically hibernate if the temperature in their room drops below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. If your hamster appears comatose in a colder-than-usual room, he should be just fine once the temperature (and his body) is warmed up gradually.

RATS

C O LD C O mF ORT

COMFORT

Consider your pet’s comfort in winter months. Older and overweight dogs and cats can be susceptible to the aches and pains of arthritis, which is made worse by cold or damp weather. Provide a warm, soft place to sleep indoors such as a pillow or padded pet bed. Leave your dog’s hair at a longer length in winter for added warmth, rather than shaving it short. For increased comfort, consider functional apparel like a warm, water repellant coat for walks and a soft, warm sweater to keep warm indoors.

BIRDS

Birds are great pets with interesting habits and often beautiful coloring – because many of the species originate in the tropics! With an ancestry accustomed to warm weather, it’s important to ensure your bird is healthy during the winter months. Maintain a steady room temperature as much as possible, within the ideal range of 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Most birds will be fine in a colder room for a few days, as long as the temperature change was gradual. Sudden changes, such as a cold breeze from a window, are much more likely to cause distress to your bird.

According to the American Society for the Protection of Animals. ASPCA.com.

RABBITS

POISONOUS

Anti-freeze is poisonous to dogs and cats, and worse, it tastes sweet and appealing to pets so they are tempted to drink it! Always clear up spills and keep pets away from harmful substances.

Rabbits are another pet that prefer cooler temperatures to extreme heat. However, any pet rabbits kept in outdoor hutches need to be provided with proper shelter, including a wind break and a warm box filled with hay for insulation during winter.

Winter 2012 - Companion 15

S m A L L A NImAL

Fascinating Ferrets These active pets are both entertaining and adorable. by lora Kee

ou might be surprised to learn that one of the most popular pets in North America is the ferret. These small creatures have been kept as pets for thousands of years – it’s reported that even the Romans kept ferrets. Through the Middle Ages and into the Victorian era, ferrets were kept as pets by British aristocracy and royalty - in 1390, a law was passed that only the very wealthy could own ferrets! Fortunately, that law doesn’t apply anymore, and now ferrets are great pets for many people. Ferrets were first kept by humans as working animals – they were used in rabbit hunts because they could crawl through rabbit burrows. They are still used today for this purpose in Europe and Australia, although it’s illegal to hunt with ferrets in the United States. Ferrets are also helpful in setting up communications systems – a ferret crawls through the wiring tubes with a guide string tied to its harness so that the wiring can be strung through the tubes. But the main job for most ferrets these days is bringing joy to their owners by being fun and adorable pets!

a Ferret in the Family Ferret enthusiasts believe that ferrets are the best pets, and for many people they are. Ferrets have a lot to offer. They’re smart and love to play and learn tricks, and each ferret will have its own unique personality. Ferrets live an average of 6-8 years. They are generally 13 to 16 inches long, with males being larger than females. Males weigh more as well, up to 4 pounds. Ferrets have great hearing and a sharp sense of smell, but their eyesight is average at best. Ferrets can also be trained to use litter boxes, making them easier to care for. Often they won’t take to it as quickly as a cat, but a little patience will pay off. Choose a ferretspecific litter pan with a high corner as ferrets back into a corner to eliminate and they can easily “overshoot” the edges of a regular cat litter box. Ferret pans will attach securely to the edge of the cage. Watch your ferret and make sure he uses the litter box when he wakes up, as most 16 Companion - Winter 2012

• Ele-Fun Tunnel 74286 › $24.99

ferrets will go to the bathroom within 15 minutes of waking. Once he has used the box, you can take him out of his cage to play. Have a litter box outside the cage as well, and place your ferret in the box at least once every half hour. Act immediately if your ferret starts to back into a corner, placing him in his litter box. When your ferret uses her litter box, give her a treat as a reward. Positive reinforcement will help your training efforts – especially if the reward immediately follows the action. In addition to litter training, ferrets will require unique preparation that you should consider before adopting. You will need to ferret-proof your home! Ferrets can squeeze through very tiny openings, and their curiosity means they will find every last one • Super Pet Sleep-e-Tent 58034 › $21.99

of them in your house. Before letting your ferret out, make sure any and all holes are covered up or filled. Some ferrets will enjoy chewing on electrical cords. This is bad for the ferret, and anything the electrical cord might have been powering, so it’s best for everyone to keep ferrets away from cables. This also means plugging any holes or spaces in appliances that a ferret could get into or underneath. Supervise your ferret in the house to make sure he stays out of trouble. A wire cage is the best home for a ferret. This will make sure he has lots of air, which will help keep his home smelling fresh. His cage will also need a water bottle or bowl, food dish, and litter box. Lastly, your ferret will want a soft, warm, dark place to sleep, like the Super Pet Sleep-e-Tent.

S m A LL AN I mAL

• Crinkle Tunnel 74272 › $5.99

Ferret instincts Ferrets have some odd behaviors. Ferrets have some odd behaviors. They have a reputation as thieves, and do like to collect items and hoard them – favourite items are socks (especially dirty ones!), rubber things, and just about any other small item they can carry. If you’re missing something, check your ferret first, he may have hoarded it! Hoarding items is an instinctual behavior for ferrets. In the wild, their ancestors would hide prey that they’d killed so they could eat it later. In your home, this instinct guides them to hide whatever they can get their paws on. As for dirty socks, some ferrets like them because they make a nice soft bed that smells like their favorite people. Ferrets have a reputation as biters. Some ferrets will have issues with biting, but others will have no problem. Sometimes pet ferrets bite simply because they want to play. Ferrets bite each other to communicate or show dominance, so you need to train them not to bite you. Ferrets have a thick skin, so the type of biting they typically do wouldn’t hurt another ferret, but it will hurt a person. If he bites you, tell your ferret “no,” and offer a chew toy instead.

• Bandits Ferret Treats 30515, 30517, 30518, 30519, 30514 › $3.99

The hunter Diet

The Ferret Fragrance One of the myths about ferrets is that they have an uncontrollable unpleasant odor. The truth is that they do have scent glands that produce a mild odor, but as long as your ferret is healthy and kept in a clean environment, the smell is easy to control. Keeping the litter box clean is the first step to controlling odors. Clumping litter is not good for ferrets, as young ferrets may eat it, and most ferrets will play in their clean litter. Clumping litters could clump in the eyes and nose of your ferret if they tunnel in the box. Many absorbant pellet litters made of recycled newsprint or wood are available and will do a good job of controlling the smell. Because of their scent glands, bedding and other parts of the cage will start to smell. For this reason, it’s best to buy beds, hammocks and other accessories that can be washed. Cages should be made of non-absorbent materials like plastic and metal. Wooden toys and cages will absorb odors and can’t be cleaned well enough to remove them, so avoid these for your ferret.

Ferret Facts • Queen Victoria bred albino ferrets & gave them as gifts. • The name ferret is derived from the Latin word furonem, which means thief. • Ferrets are very deep sleepers – so deep that sometimes their owners think they’re dead! • Ferrets have a hard time containing their emotions – they do a ‘happy dance’ when excited.

Ferrets are natural hunters and are descended from animals that would have only eaten meat. For this reason, meat protein should be the basis of their diet. It’s important to feed a food that’s designed for ferrets that contains enough protein and little or no grains. Some ferrets will enjoy other foods, but treats should be given in moderation to avoid digestive problems. A meat-based treat like Bandits is a good option that your ferret will love. One risk that ferret owners must be aware of is that ferrets will eat just about anything. Many love to chew on rubbery things like erasers or headphone cables, but ferrets have been reported to chew on or eat almost anything. Numerous household items could be very dangerous for the ferret if swallowed. To avoid a hefty vet bill for x-rays, or even surgery, keep an eye on your ferret when he’s loose to make sure he doesn’t eat anything other than food.

• High-Corner Litter Pan 58222-3› $8.99-$12.99 Winter 2012 - Companion 17

K I D 'Z O NE

Name that Cat Breed

Crossword Across Clues 1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17

for walking on snow. The large st dome stic cat has large paws don't mind talking about it. The most recognizable breed, and they The 'ferret' cat with very short legs. and a barn cat. This breed is a cross between a bobcat e country of Turkey. The swimming cats, revered in their nativ breeding with African wild cats. A large breed that is the result of cross a. South Asian cat that likely hails from Burm lap. your on flop to loves that An affection ate cat tail. The breed of cat with no

Down 2 4 6 10 16

South Asian cat that looks like No. 10 , givin g it a sad look. This breed has ears that are folded down d a distinct look. A wavy coat and large ears give this bree ds when full-g rown . Tiny cats that weigh only five to eight poun h fuzz.' This hairless cat is usually covered in 'peac

Name the breed of cat from the clue, and write it in the numbered space. HINT: All the answers are in the story on pages 10-11

Down Words 3

4 5

Across Words

find the answers at

www.petvalu.com/companionanswers 18 Companion - Winter 2012

➳ All about

ingredients ngredients Healthy pet foods come down to the ingredients used to make them. At Companion magazine, we want to help you recognize and understand the ingredients in the foods your pet eats every day.

 basil is an herb that aids the digestion process. Basil also contains the antioxidant monoterpenes, which is associated with cardiovascular health.

dandelion is another ingredient that helps digestion. It’s a mild laxative  and diuretic, meaning it gets both solid and liquid waste moving out of your pet. Dandelion also has an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin. urinary  birch leaf is an anti-inflammatory that is commonly used to treat urinary tract infections.

Camomile is well known as a calming tea for people, and it provides  similar properties in pet food. Camomile calms stress and anxiety and relaxes the lining of the digestive tract. indigestion.  lemon balm, much like camomile, reduces stress and eases indigestion.

Kelp is a brown seaweed which is a rich source of natural organic minerals  like iodine, potassium and calcium, as well as B vitamins and Vitamin C.

 Parsley helps purify blood and other body fluids. It supports liver, kidney and adrenal gland function.

thyme, a member of the mint family, is an herb with antiseptic properties.  immune  garlic contains the powerful antioxidant allicin, which supports immune functioning and has antimicrobial properties.

Marigold is a source of lutein, which helps protect eyes from  harmful ultraviolet rays. and  rosemary is an antioxidant which helps to support cardiovascular and

h at K t e s o N he

no w s

Dogs have a much better sense of smell than people – up to 100,000 times more powerful! This fact of life is why dogs are used for law enforcement. Highly trained dogs can track a scent and sniff out drugs and explosives. Amazingly, earlier this year German research discovered that dogs could also detect cancer, specifically identifying lung cancer from breath samples. Multiple anecdotal stories have also surfaced of dogs identifying cancer in their owners. One dog smelled his owner’s breath and then nudged her right breast. It was cancer. Another dog wouldn’t stop licking a mole on her owner’s leg. It was a malignant melanoma – cancer. These amazing canine feats are leading to more research, including an attempt to determine whether cancer has a specific scent. If it does, machines could be invented that detect cancer in a much less invasive way than current technology. In the mean time, we should all pay attention to our dogs. They are amazing.

liver functioning. The antiseptic properties of rosemary make it useful as as a natural preservative.

As you can see, herbs and botanicals provide much more than flavoring to a pet food. In general, they provide ‘boosters’ like antioxidants, antiseptics and anti-inflammatories which protect and enhance the natural functions of the body, ideally resulting in a health boost.

i ng Comin y uar febr

like "sliders" for dogs

Introducing Performatrin Ultra Grain-Free small Bite formula – the same great food in a smaller kibble size! Since the launch of Performatrin Ultra Grain-Free, dog owners have been asking for a smaller-sized kibble. Many small dogs only eat small kibble, which is common with small-breed dog food formulations. Since Performatrin Ultra Grain-Free is an all breed, all life stage dog food, the new Small Bite bags are perfect for puppies, small breeds, and any other dog that prefers smaller kibble. Look for it in Pet Valu, Paulmac’s and Bosley’s stores in early February.

• Kibble shown actual size. Left 〉〉 Small Bite Right 〉〉 Original

Winter 2012 - Companion 19

Try our best dental chew

ever

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