Top Rated Dog Food, Worth of One More Bite - Family - Pets

Have you ever scrutinized the ingredients in a commercial dog food promoted on national TV and consider if those were healthy or not? Some of dog foods on hand are so highly processed and contain extra preservatives. Like eating potato chips for humans, they aren't doing any better for our dogs. Dog food should prove that it can provide all the nutrients needed by your ever dearest pet. So, check if the dog food you shop at is top rated dog food.

The well-being of your dog should be one of your top priorities and you would not disagree that you also like to save money on the vet bills. Opposing to the popular belief, just any dog food will do, people often neglect the importance of choosing the top rated dog food for the improvement of your pet's health.

You might questioned the legitimacy of dog ratings and reviews found in the Internet, but as a dog owner, you want to go out of your way and try anything that will ensure the best quality care for dog. So, checking and exerting some effort to see some reviews and dog food ratings are so beneficial.

You could go for commercial dog food, however many will suggest to choose home made dog food since you have the chance to pick and prepare the food yourself. So, you should be on the ball about dog's diet through reading some dog food ratings and reviews.

Easy step to care of your dog's health is giving him fresh water and quality food at all times. In spite of common and misleading beliefs, all brand of dog food are not created in the same way as the other top rated dog food do.

When choosing dog food, check the ingredients on the package. Consider if the label states that it contain 'human grade' to ensure that this meet the high quality criteria. This means, that the meat in it is also suitable for human consumption. Unfortunately, most of the dog foods available out there are not 'human grade', that's why very few are included on top rated dog food list.

Choosing between top rated dog foods can be a difficult task, as they often seem highly regarded and thus trustworthy. In this case, a good indicator whether you're dealing with quality food or not, is whether the ingredients are carefully explained on the packaging.

Never buy grocery store-food that does not contain any nutritional information on it, it could prove damaging for your dog.

Many commercial dog foods are filled with corn gluten meal, corn meal and such just to cut down the costs of production. These ingredients are not healthy in any way for your dog.

Most top rated dog food includes major ingredients such as vegetables, meat-based proteins and whole grains. Foods rich in stated above "bad" ingredients can lead to serious health problems.

Feeding your dog with top rated dog food might cost you a lot, but will be cheaper in the end, prior to all the expensive medicine, vet's professional fee and operations when your dog's health become worse.

Providing your dog with your chosen top rated dog food is worth a single or more bites of your dog. Making him contented and healthy should be your top priority since this is one of the most important factors of dog care. You should never go for something that will compromise your dog's health. Take time to read reviews and ratings to see which of those dog food brands meet the qualifications to gain status of top rated dog food in town.

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What Are Great Commercial Dog Food Ratings? - Family - Pets

Have you ever thought of how companies make dog food? So many people are influenced from the photos of the choice selections of meats as well as fresh whole grains which are plastered on the bags and in the TV ads of the majority of dog food manufacturers. But when you are aware of what they're putting in dog food, you are likely to reconsider buying, and start to honestly suspect the reliability of the reviews which so called good quality dog food receives.

The fact is that dog food companies are a part of the human food and agriculture business. Dog food presents to slaughterhouses and manufacturers a useful way to turn waste material directly into profit. Slaughterhouse waste material is made up of components like digestive tract, heads, feet, and even infected and malignant animal components. These waste materials are made up of grains which have been considered as unsuitable for human consumption.

Dry commercial dog food is created by a machine that blends the materials used in accordance with a formula designed by a computer to offer the appropriate nutrition. The mixture is heated and created into dough, after which cut in pieces. When the dough hits normal air pressure, it grows or puffs to it's final shape. Food is then allowed to dry. Its sprayed with fat or some other compounds to make it more desirable. Although heating process kills the harmful bacteria in the ingredients, the food item could collect harmful bacteria throughout the drying and also coating process. Some professionals state that getting dry commercial dog food damp will allow germs on the surface to multiply and make your animals sick. They advise never to incorporate dried foods with water, canned food items, or any other liquids.

The better producers of pet food much like the super high quality, 100% natural, and organic kinds do not use byproducts. Their particular labels include foods such as poultry or maybe lamb as being the primary ingredients. Even so, most of these various meats are still generally waste. When it comes to poultry, bone fragments are allowed. Several animal meat products are not selected fresh; they are rendered. Simply put, the uncooked components are poured straight into giant vats and boiled for many hours. The rendering splits fat, eliminates h2o, as well as wipes out microbes, infections, parasites, and also other organisms. But these high temperatures may also transform as well as destroy healthy enzymes and necessary protein found in the uncooked ingredients.

Once the pet food marketplace is put in perception, it is no wonder that dog lovers decide to supply their dogs the most beneficial nutrition available simply by creating wholesome homemade foods for them. Our canines need to have correct vitamins and minerals so that they can live long as well as healthy and balanced lives, and they are generally not receiving them with the dog food industry. Should you want your pet dog to reside a life free from the common health issues related unacceptable foods, then providing your four-legged friend an home made diet is the right selection for you and your dog.

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Dog Food Rating-Know What?s Inside - Family - Pets

In order to find a good restaurant or a good movie, many times we look at the ratings that are given by others in order to determine how good it is. Looking at ratings also helps when we are looking for a good brand of dog food to give our beloved pet. However, are the ratings of dog food a good way to determine if the food is really healthy?

Typically, you can find ratings and reviews on dog food given by websites, veterinarians, and others. These individuals look at several things when offering their opinions on whether the dog food receives a high rating or not. One thing that they look at is the ingredients on the label. But, what some do not realize is that dog food manufacturers are supplied with a huge array of loopholes that allows them to make their product sound better and healthier then it actually is. For instance, manufactures list the ingredients on the label by weight first. In doing so, consumers are unaware of which ingredients are dehydrated. Often times, the content of the inferior dehydrated ingredient is more then the better quality ingredient. Manufactures also split their ingredients in order to divide the higher volume of inferior ingredients. Corn can be split up into corn meal and corn flour for example.

Another way to decipher whether a dog food is high quality is to understand the wording on its package. The word "with" means that the product contains no less than three percent of the named ingredient. The word "flavor" means that there is no actual minimum percentage for the named ingredient. The said ingredient can be anything from a by product to broth or stock.

When rating food for your dog, it can be complicated if you do not understand the guidelines that the manufactures must follow. Many dog owners today are realizing that giving their dogs a high quality diet is much easier when they feed their dogs homemade meals. Dogs are like people in that they prefer to have variety in their diets. By following dog food recipes that can be made at home, you can give your dog the variety of foods they crave. You can be sure that all of your ingredients are high quality because they are supplied by you. Plus, dog owners are finding that creating dog food recipes from scratch is easier then they anticipated. They are able to control their dog's weight better and are noticing that their dogs are feeling fuller longer. Once you can alter your dog's digestive system to become accustomed to healthier, quality food, their digestion improves and slows.

There are many ways to pamper our pooches in today's society. However, dogs do not understand fashion or the price of their leather collar. No, the best way to pamper your pooch is through their stomach by improving their health with homemade dog food recipes. You will love what an everyday diet of quality dog food will do for your dog and your dog will love you for it!

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Dog Food Ratings - They Don't Tell the Whole Story - Other

There are all sorts of dog food ratings and comparison charts and reviews you can get comparing one commercial brand to another, analyzing crude protein content, calorie values, ingredient sources, and so on. There are two things that are never mentioned, however: ingredient definitions and comparisons to home made dog foods. Why not?

One obvious answer is that it is difficult, if not impossible, to compare a commercial brand to "home made" because of the broad range of possibilities for home made dog foods; there is no one standard home made dog food recipe. And there is some truth in this. Another not so obvious answer is that a lot of these reviews are commissioned by the manufacturers themselves and they aren't going to put something in a review or comparison that makes them look bad.

If you read the ingredients lists on cans of pet foods, one ingredient that you will see time after time is "meat by-products". Do you know what that is? It's the non-rendered, clean parts, other than meat, derived from slaughtered mammals. It includes, but is not limited to, lungs, spleen, kidneys, brain, livers, blood, bone, partially defatted low temperature fatty tissue, and stomachs and intestines freed of their contents. It does not include hair, horns, teeth and hoofs. Sounds appetizing, doesn't it?

If you are buying a can of "Beef Delight" for your Fido and it contains meat by-products, you would expect those by-products to be beef, but you could easily be wrong. The definition says derived from mammals, which means they could be pigs, goats, any mammal, not just cows. They can also be from "downer" animals, animals that are sick or dying just prior to slaughter.

You wouldn't eat this stuff yourself, so why feed it to your dog, who is a member of your family? Yes, it takes some time and effort to make your dog's food yourself, but when you do, you know exactly what's in that food. You control the quality and you control the nutritional content. You know exactly what your dog is being fed. That's more than can be said when you read those dog food ratings.

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Dog Food Rating - Home Made is Best - Family - Pets

The title says it all. If you take even a little bit of care in selecting ingredients and preparation, food you make yourself for your dog will be better than even the best commercial dog food. Food you make yourself will be worlds better than the average popular commercial brands. Period. Let's look at some of the reasons home made dog food should top the list of any dog food rating chart.

Have you ever read the list of ingredients in an average can of dog food? If you have, do you know what those ingredients really are? For example, a lot of dog foods contain "meat by-products". Do you know what they are? According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials it is:

"The non-rendered, clean parts, other than meat, derived from slaughtered mammals. It includes, but is not limited to, lungs, spleen, kidneys, brain, livers, blood, bone, partially defatted low temperature fatty tissue, and stomachs and intestines freed of their contents. It does not include hair, horns, teeth and hoofs."

Note it says derived from slaughtered "mammals". I'll bet you thought these by-products were from cows, especially if the can's label said something like "Beef Entree". The mammal can be any source - goats, pigs, horses, even euthanized animals from animal shelters. Diseased or dying animals can be used as well.

When you decide to cook food for your dog, where do you get the raw ingredients? You go to the grocery store and get the same beef, chicken, pork, vegetables, and grains you would eat yourself. You certainly don't go looking for "animal by-products".

Even dog foods that don't contain by-products are using cuts of meat that wouldn't be eaten by humans. It's a profit thing. If a cut of meat can be packaged and sold to people, it will bring a higher price than it would as animal feed.

So, if you really care about your dog's health and nutrition, cook your pet's food yourself. The food you prepare for your pet will be prepared with greater care and love than even the best commercial dog food, and will easily top the chart of any dog food rating.

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The Pudgy Pooch

Fat dogs are likely to end up with serious dog health problems. Ask yourself these three questions. Is your dog starting to look a little overweight? Is it difficult to feel your dog's ribs? Has your dog gained a few extra pounds in the last year? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions then maybe it is time to start thinking about a weight control program for your dog.

A pound or two weight gain for a small dog is equivalent to 15 or 20 pounds for an adult person. Overweight or fat dogs are at serious risk for developing or aggravating a wide-range of health problems. These dog health problems include: musculoskeletal disorders including hip and elbow dysplasia, arthritis, spinal disc problems and joint and ligament ruptures; heart, kidney and liver diseases; diabetes; breathing and respiratory problems; increased intolerance to heat and exercise; poor coat and skin disease; and increased surgical and anesthetic risk. Excess weight can reduce the life expectancy of your dog by as much as 20%.

The fat dog or pudgy pooch weight control program is really based on a very simple equation. In order for your dog to lose weight, you must reduce the number of calories he eats while increasing the number of calories he burns through increased activity. As one popular truism states - If your dog is too fat, you aren't getting enough exercise. As you begin to develop your dog's weight control program, you should make a list of the reasons that probably contributed to your dog's excess weight. These reasons might include: too little exercise; feeding your dog too much dog food; feeding your dog table scraps and leftovers; and giving your dog food and treats as rewards for good behavior. Some dog breeds such as the American and English Cocker Spaniels seem to process their food efficiently and are subject to weight gain. You must watch their food intake carefully.

The first step in your weight control program is to visit your veterinarian and have him or her weigh your dog and set a healthy target weight. Ask your vet to do a blood test to rule out metabolic disorders such as hypothyroidism which may be contributing to weight gain and which can be readily treated. Then, in conjunction with your vet, decide on which dog food approach to use. You can either reduce the intake calories by cutting back on your existing dog food by 25% or you can switch to a reduced calorie dog food . If you switch to a calorie reduced dog food, then make sure you buy a high quality dog food that doesn't have too much ash and will provide good nutrition for your dog. Ask your vet whether it would be beneficial to add a vitamin/mineral/fatty acid supplement to your dog's diet.

Next ask your vet to make sure your dog is healthy enough to tolerate an increased amount of exercise and activity. There are a number of activities that you and your dog can participate in that will result in burning up more calories. Other ways to burn calories are by simply increasing the frequency of exercise and play sessions or by increasing the duration of the exercise period. In other words - more walks or longer walks. Remember to keep monitoring your dog's food intake. Don't let other family members reward him with dog treats - buy your dog chewy toys instead!

Finally you need to monitor the progress of your weight control program by weighing your dog every two weeks on a regular basis. Before long you will be enjoying the benefits of a healthier, happier and more active companion.

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4 Ways Pet Food Coupons Can Help You Save - Food

In the present economy, many households are being forced to live within stringent budget constraints. With a small amount of effort and research, households can most certainly save money on dog food, even though it is sometimes not immediately apparent as a money saving item.

If your household has found itself with a reduced budget, you can stop purchasing new toys and treats for your pet to save money, but you must continue to buy pet food. This article is intended to detail four ways that pet food coupons can help you stretch your family's grocery budget.

Stay Local- You can save a surprising amount of money on dog food if you simply choose to shop locally. Particularly if you live in a small town without the presence of a national grocery chain, you will save gas money by not driving to a major shopping center. Additionally, local merchants are likely to offer coupons and discounts unique to their store. These local coupons and specials are typically featured in your town's newspaper, so be sure to comb through it each week.

Utilize Coupon Sites- The internet offers a wide variety of coupon websites where you can find dog food coupons. Make a point to review the coupon sites you decide to use at least once a week as retailers and manufacturers generally change their coupon offerings on a weekly basis. If you happen to find an exceptional coupon, check to see if there is a limit as to how many each customer can use; if there is not, print several to save even more money.

Brand Names Are Worth It- Buying generic dog food can actually end up costing you more money over time. Aside of the fact that these discount brands tend to offer vastly less coupons than brand name options, they also lack the proper vitamins and nutrients to keep your pet in top form. In general, this means that your pet will need much more of a discount brand in order to attain the same number of nutrients present in a small portion of brand name food. It is best to have cat food reviews.

Other Ways to Find Coupons- There are also several other ways to obtain pet food coupons. For example, signing up for your preferred brand's email club or standard mailing list can yield coupons and other special offers at various times throughout the year. Also, remember to check each bag of pet food you purchase for proof of purchase tags. Often, once you have accumulated a certain number of proof of purchase tags you can redeem them through the manufacturer for various prizes or coupons. Check with your preferred brand to find out their individual policies. You can use dog food coupons to reduce your grocery bills without exerting excessive time or energy.

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Essential Pet Travel Needs for Holiday Trips - Family - Pets

Yuletide season is just around the corner and its perfect time to break away and relax on holidays. Just because you are traveling for the holiday does not mean your best friend dog and pets have to stay home. As per experience, having pets on travel and vacation is far lot different and exciting. Traveling with pets is easy and comfortable now with lots of innovative and reliable pet travel products.

This Pet Street Mall will guide you through the essential and must have pet needs that will ensure safety and comfort for your pet while traveling. Weather you are traveling these holidays by car or plane, we are confident we have the pet travel item for you. Check out this list of top pet travel needs every pet should have.

Airline Approved Pet Carrier. Traditionally known as Porters, Taxis, Carriers, and Kennels; they are now known as pet cages or crates. Airline Approved Pet Carriers are sturdy covered door posts for a durable long lasting product. They have strong wire mesh doors to keep your pets secure while creating a comfortable air flow. These fashionable pet carriers come in variety of colors and sizes and are 100% Airline approved so you won't experience any costly mishaps and delays. When choosing, always make sure your pet fits well in its crate. The pet should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in the cage. It is essential too to properly train & orient your dog to use the pet carriers and discourage any aggressive behavior in the kennel like biting, chewing, licking, ramming, or pawing.

Pet Travel Crates. These containment systems are designed Specifically to fit "Side-by-Side" in SUV & Van Rear Compartments. They are portable, has safe & secure slide bolt latches and surely tough yet easy to clean ABS plastic pan. Finished in a long lasting Black Epoxy Powder and comfortable plastic carrying handle already included. PetStreetMall offers free shipping on all pet crates and their premier customer service department has not only helped customers nationwide select the correct crate.

Dog Vehicle Barriers. They are mainly used in Sport Utility Vehicles to safely secure your dog in the rear of the vehicle. This will keep your dog safely away from the driver and other occupants. Dog vehicle Barriers are offered in either a tubular or mesh design. If an extension can also be purchased if needed. They come in small, medium and large tubular barriers for all SUVs and Mini-buses. Soft Net Vehicle Pet Barrier is also available, made with micro-mesh material which is actually easier to see through than metal tube-style barriers.

Pet Travel Bowls & Dog Food Bags. Travel bowls are collapsible food dishes that is perfect for traveling, hiking or when simply visiting parks. Dog food bags are collapsible food containers too for much easier and less mess food containment.

Dog Car Seats. Pet car seat provides a safe and secure place for dogs on car while traveling. Dog Car Seat will limit pets from wandering inside the car, yet it provides him with a comfortable place to enjoy the ride. While providing your dog with his own special seat in your car, it will also keep your car seat clean and damage-free. With dog car seats, you wont have to worry about the safety of your dog while enjoying the out of town trip.

Pet Seat Belts, Buckles and Dog Car Harness. Like people, dogs also need the same kind of security when they are about to travel. Dog seat belt is the proper restraining of your dog in a safe area inside the car. It is also important to place your dog in a secured seat for him to enjoy the beauty outside while having a ride. Pet buckle ensures that your dog will behave properly while enjoying the ride and prevents him from hitting the hard interior of your vehicle when theres a sudden stop. And once a dog car harness is worn on your pet during your long road trip, you will have the peace of mind knowing that your pet will not roam or create damage inside you car.

Car Seat Covers and Pet Cargo Mats. Having a seat cover is definitely one of the best techniques in keeping your vehicles interior in good condition. Aside from protecting your car seat, your dog can comfortably lie on this cover because of the soft materials used. If ever the seat cover is already dirty, all you need to do is to remove it and wash it right away! Aside from the beauty and cleanliness it brings to your car, dog seat cover is used to provide superb comfort to your pet. Your dog can snooze and rest on this smooth seat cover during travel. For SUV cars, high quality pet cargo mats will keep your car stain and grime free even if you always bring your dog with you. SUV cargo mats are easy to sanitize and can be the best protection of your dog against any kind of weather.

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4 Ways Pet Food Coupons Can Help You Save - Food

In the present economy, many households are being forced to live within stringent budget constraints. With a small amount of effort and research, households can most certainly save money on dog food, even though it is sometimes not immediately apparent as a money saving item.

If your household has found itself with a reduced budget, you can stop purchasing new toys and treats for your pet to save money, but you must continue to buy pet food. This article is intended to detail four ways that pet food coupons can help you stretch your family's grocery budget.

Stay Local- You can save a surprising amount of money on dog food if you simply choose to shop locally. Particularly if you live in a small town without the presence of a national grocery chain, you will save gas money by not driving to a major shopping center. Additionally, local merchants are likely to offer coupons and discounts unique to their store. These local coupons and specials are typically featured in your town's newspaper, so be sure to comb through it each week.

Utilize Coupon Sites- The internet offers a wide variety of coupon websites where you can find dog food coupons. Make a point to review the coupon sites you decide to use at least once a week as retailers and manufacturers generally change their coupon offerings on a weekly basis. If you happen to find an exceptional coupon, check to see if there is a limit as to how many each customer can use; if there is not, print several to save even more money.

Brand Names Are Worth It- Buying generic dog food can actually end up costing you more money over time. Aside of the fact that these discount brands tend to offer vastly less coupons than brand name options, they also lack the proper vitamins and nutrients to keep your pet in top form. In general, this means that your pet will need much more of a discount brand in order to attain the same number of nutrients present in a small portion of brand name food. It is best to have cat food reviews.

Other Ways to Find Coupons- There are also several other ways to obtain pet food coupons. For example, signing up for your preferred brand's email club or standard mailing list can yield coupons and other special offers at various times throughout the year. Also, remember to check each bag of pet food you purchase for proof of purchase tags. Often, once you have accumulated a certain number of proof of purchase tags you can redeem them through the manufacturer for various prizes or coupons. Check with your preferred brand to find out their individual policies. You can use dog food coupons to reduce your grocery bills without exerting excessive time or energy.

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Why Pet Owners Should Use Pet Food Coupons - Business

Pet food is expensive -- every pet owner knows this -- but with the use of dog food coupons, it can become a very affordable thing indeed. For example, you can often find dog food coupons in a variety of magazines. With the use of dog food coupons, you'll be saving enough money that you can then afford to get your special pet the little toy or playhouse that you would not have been able to afford before.

If you use the coupons as a guide for purchasing food for your pet, you can even discover better brands that you wouldn't have tried otherwise. Whether you're dealing with pets or with any other product, a good sale can often get people to buy something new. Your pet may thank you when you come home with a new type of dog food that you got because of the coupons.

You can save a lot of money on your pet's food by entering and participating in a food company's promotional sweepstakes. Of course, cat food companies sponsor these contests as a way to market to a larger group of people. The personal information you provide in order to take part in these contests will only end up providing you with information about more products that can make feeding and caring for your pet a much easier process. The marketing aspect becomes much less sinister when this is considered, and many people enter the contest in order to get better prices on pet food.

If you are observant, you've probably discovered that your pet will prefer one kind of cat food over another, and this may make you reluctant to try a new kind of cat food when you have one that already works. When you've been perusing the grocery store, though, you have probably run across a new kind of pet food that you thought your pet might enjoy eating. You're more liable to give a new type of pet food a try if you have been giving the key to a discount (i.e. a coupon).

For a customer, a coupon may provide either a small bit of savings or a great quantity. Some coupons are designed to just give you a small discount on a type of food you would buy anyway. If it is a new brand of cat food or it is a more expensive kind of food, then companies will cut multiple dollars from the purchase price in an effort to get you to buy their brand of dog food.

As you can see, you can really save a lot of money by using pet food coupons. It's not even a difficult process, as you can take a look in any pet magazine, circular, or store catalog and find all sorts of coupons for all sorts of brands. If you pay too much for pet food, the blame can only rest on you. There are available dog food coupons.

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4 Ways Pet Food Coupons Can Help You Save - Food

In the present economy, many households are being forced to live within stringent budget constraints. With a small amount of effort and research, households can most certainly save money on dog food, even though it is sometimes not immediately apparent as a money saving item.

If your household has found itself with a reduced budget, you can stop purchasing new toys and treats for your pet to save money, but you must continue to buy pet food. This article is intended to detail four ways that pet food coupons can help you stretch your family's grocery budget.

Stay Local- You can save a surprising amount of money on dog food if you simply choose to shop locally. Particularly if you live in a small town without the presence of a national grocery chain, you will save gas money by not driving to a major shopping center. Additionally, local merchants are likely to offer coupons and discounts unique to their store. These local coupons and specials are typically featured in your town's newspaper, so be sure to comb through it each week.

Utilize Coupon Sites- The internet offers a wide variety of coupon websites where you can find dog food coupons. Make a point to review the coupon sites you decide to use at least once a week as retailers and manufacturers generally change their coupon offerings on a weekly basis. If you happen to find an exceptional coupon, check to see if there is a limit as to how many each customer can use; if there is not, print several to save even more money.

Brand Names Are Worth It- Buying generic dog food can actually end up costing you more money over time. Aside of the fact that these discount brands tend to offer vastly less coupons than brand name options, they also lack the proper vitamins and nutrients to keep your pet in top form. In general, this means that your pet will need much more of a discount brand in order to attain the same number of nutrients present in a small portion of brand name food. It is best to have cat food reviews.

Other Ways to Find Coupons- There are also several other ways to obtain pet food coupons. For example, signing up for your preferred brand's email club or standard mailing list can yield coupons and other special offers at various times throughout the year. Also, remember to check each bag of pet food you purchase for proof of purchase tags. Often, once you have accumulated a certain number of proof of purchase tags you can redeem them through the manufacturer for various prizes or coupons. Check with your preferred brand to find out their individual policies. You can use dog food coupons to reduce your grocery bills without exerting excessive time or energy.

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A Few Facts And Risks About Why A Home Made Dog Food Recipe Is Better For Your Dog Than Commercial Dog Food - Family - Pets

A Few Facts And Risks About Why A Home Made Dog Food Recipe Is Better For Your Dog Than Commercial Dog Food

The recent recall of over 60 million cat and dog food cans and pouches has sent out a wake up call. The commercialized dog and cat food that we thought was safe, isn't so safe after all. This wasn't the first recall and it probably won't be the last. The food that we've been feeding our pets everyday, has once again been shown to put our pets at a high risk of ill health and possible death.

Recall

The latest recall (March 07), was launched after reports of thousands of cats and dogs had developed kidney failure after eating these affected products. Many veterinarians and professional dog handlers have known for a long time that commercial dog food is inadequate in nutrition, is laced with poison causing chemicals and is the sole cause of diseases and deaths. Many further agree that these foods are filled with useless fillers, a very poor quality of meat and often times, disease infected meat.

While it's difficult to prove that this food processing method is to intentionally harm our pets, the fact remains that it is still a very life threatening process.

It's been said that before dog food manufacturers came into existence, dogs and cats had survived in the wild for thousands of years on their own. There is proof that wolves have lived in excess of 35 years of age.

The dogs and cats who lived in the wild, survived by living off of carcasses that included internal organs and contents of the stomach, which consisted of partially digested vegetation, all of which contained essential nutrients, which were vital for their survival.

Commercial Dog Food

There is strong belief that the preservatives used to extend the products' shelf life, along with the sweeteners and food coloring, cause cancer and many other health problems.

Most all of the dog food manufacturers use heat in the wet and dry food manufacturing process and whatever protein may be included, is either deficient, or is destroyed completely by this process.

The additives and preservatives in the form of chemicals that are also used to improve the taste, stability, characteristics and appearance of the food, provide absolutely no nutritional value whatsoever. The meat by- products that are used, are animal scraps that the FDA has deemed unfit for human consumption.

These scraps include feet, lungs, heads, spleens, intestines, ligaments and other miscellaneous parts.

When reading the label, you might be under the impression that it contains whole meat, but it's actually the parts that no one else has any use for and is most generally the backs and necks as well as other unwanted parts.

The chunky bits that appear as meat are actually wheat gluten, a totally meatless product. A popular filler that is used is corn. Corn is something that dogs just cannot digest at all.

Suppliers of animal feed from China have admitted that for years they have been spiking shipments to the pet food companies in the United States to make it appear as though the food was of a high quality protein.

Home Made Dog Food Diet

Dogs thrive on whole natural foods just like humans do. Dogs, just like everyone else, also have specific nutritional needs. Dogs do not need many carbohydrates to be healthy, so a diet low in carbohydrates and high in protein is an ideal diet.

Most dogs love vegetables, especially when cooked and also have a fancy for fruits, although avocados, grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs.

Foods with a balance of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids, help to improve their joint and skin health. Foods with a moderate protein content are best for non-working type dogs. Foods with meat, being the source of protein, are best. Racing dogs and lactating mother dogs should have diets of one-third protein content as well.

In comparison with other animals, dogs produce a much lower amount of vitamin C. Dogs do need vitamin C and it plays a vital role in hip dysplasia (abnormal growth or development), which is a common problem with today's dogs. Vitamin C is needed to break down the animal protein in the diet and also helps to keep the immune system healthy.

A healthy dogs diet consists of 40% meat, 30% protein and 30% starch. A balanced, proper diet keeps your dog healthy and among so many other benefits, helps to maintain a smooth and shiny coat.

Healthy teeth are also the result of a good diet.

Conclusion

A happy dog is a healthy dog. With a simple change in your pets diet, not only will you begin seeing positive results immediately, but you'll also save money from unnecessary veterinarian bills. But the most important part of it all, is that you will be saving your dogs life. Your pet will live a much longer and healthier life. Everything they do, from taking a lazy afternoon nap, to playing hard, is determined by what you feed them.

To learn which foods are the most healthiest for your pet and to also discover how you can quickly and easily prepare healthy meals that will insure your pets longevity and maintain a lifetime of health, Click Here and discover the many homemade dog food recipes that you can begin preparing right from your own kitchen.

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Top Dog Food Coupons - Food

By using top dog food coupons which I found online, I've literally saved hundreds of dollars throughout the life of my little closest friend. My family loves our top dog like an actual member of our family but we were over spending on paying for him to consume. We knew there had to be a better way to save yet still nourish him high quality nutrition.

I began looking through typical places like the newspaper and extremely saver magazine for top dog food coupons but I was surprised to find which none of them had very much to provide. I then decided to sit down at my computer and use my brain. What I found was by going directly to the manufacturer of the food I could find the best savings. By running these searches I also found that medications had been also heavily discounted online. Pet meds coupons might be found on pretty much every pet designed site. I decided to stick in order to my original quest associated with finding a top dog food coupon site that would help us save. The actual goal as to discover printable top dog food coupons which could be used every time I visit the store. Following about two hours of heavily searching, I found was I was looking for.

I had a friend attending college who was constantly changing his best dog food brand based on which one was on sale that 7 days. His top dog constantly had digestive issues in line with the constant food change. Undoubtedly my favorite brand that he fed his pet was called "Come and get it top dog". I am talking about, how can you not love a brand of food with that title.

Once I figured out a way to get top dog food coupons I immediately reached out to him and told him my technique. This way he or she could also share in the massive savings that the internet had to offer. He called me a few weeks later and said that his top dog's digestive system appeared to be improving and he was no longer experiencing the issues he had whenever his food was changed every week. I'm really happy to have done something that not only preserved my family money but also increased the quality of life of another animal. The last time I noticed him he was running around as vive rant as ever. It's almost as if he understood that I was the person who persuaded his owner to only feed him one kind of best dog food. I'll be honest, a small tear formed in my eye when I was petting which little guy. I designed a difference, and it felt excellent.

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Beneful Dog Food Coupons, Smart Shopping On Dog Food - Shopping

Having a dog is a long term commitment, and keeping your pethealthy throughout their life is important. We all know how importantour pets health and well being are to our families.While there are numerous high quality choice when it comes to feeding your pet, Purina's brand "Beneful" has been a staple of quality.Beneful is a premium quality, nutritious food that helpsensure your pets health and vitality, keeping them strong for life.A premium quality dog food usually costs a little more but we don'twant to feed our pet a sub-standard brand either. That's where using Benefulpet food coupons is a smart choice. We aren't sacrificing quality for alower cost food. By using Beneful dog food coupons, we can give our doga premium food for around the same cost as a lesser quality brand.The savings makes the difference in knowing you're feeding your dog oneof the best foods available.

How do you find Beneful coupons? An internet search for the officialPurina or Beneful websites is a good start. They will have useful informationabout pets, an assortment of pet products,coupons,free trials, and FAQ'S. Alot of special offers they have will be printable directly from their website.The next place I would look would be pet coupon websites. They are more gearedtowards offering coupons and basic information on the brands if that's really allyou need. You can print and clip coupons there to redeem at your localsupermarket.Vets and pet stores may have a supply of Beneful couponsthat you can use during your purchase as well. Weekly newspaper inserts and monthlyclipper magazines could offer coupons too.

Because a premium quality dog food like Beneful costs a few dollars more, usingBeneful dog food coupons can balance the cost so you can feed your dog a healthy,nutritious food.

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Dog Food Rating Systems: A Critique of the Points / Formula Method - Family - Pets

Introduction

When searching for the term "dog food rating" on Google recently, I was flabbergasted to receive over 55 million hits.

Since it is no longer possible to live without information overload, I thought it would be helpful to provide a review / critique of the point / formula grading method.

This is one of the more popular dog food rating systems used by many of these aforementioned websites.

The Point / Formula Grading Method

Essentially, one begins with a grade of 100 for each pet food. Points are then subtracted for ingredients that are considered substandard.

For example, a listing of "by-product" on the dog food label would reduce the above score by 10 points, as would foods that contain BHA, BHT, or ethoxyquin.

On the flip side, points would be added for meat sources that were organic or food that contained probiotics, as examples.

Major Strength of The Point Method

One of the aspects that is commendable about this dog food rating system is that it has brought attention to many of the substandard ingredients in our pets' food.

Foods that use by-products instead of whole meats, unnamed meat sources, harmful additives, protein from grains instead of from meat and artificial ingredients are essentially downgraded.

Thus, the points / formula system teaches dog owners how to begin spotting these ingredients in the dog food labels, and avoid foods that contain them.

Major Weaknesses of the Point Method

In my estimation, however, there are some major weaknesses with the points / formula approach to rating dog food:

1. The criteria for the subtraction and addition of points are far too numerous.

On one website, I counted 29 different calculations that I would need to perform to receive a final score. Only the hardiest souls (or math majors) would be able to sit down with pen and ingredient label and carry out that many additions and subtractions. (And what if someone missed a number?)

Granted, many dog foods had already been rated using this method, which would save time; however, many others had not been rated and new pet foods are being developed all the time.

In addition, there are other weaknesses which go beyond being able to save time.

2. The presence of a few bad ingredients can be masked by many good ones

Even if a dog food contains 95% whole meat sources, few grains, lots of pro-biotics and no additives, the presence of several substandard ingredients would not tip the scale towards an unfavorable rating.

Why would you want to feed your dog 95% good stuff and 5% junk?

3. Some of the criteria do not go deep enough and can yield a false rating

Many of the dog foods that were rated using the points / formula method received scores well over 120, an A+ rating. Yet upon closer inspection, these foods did not deserve their high rating.

As an example, one brand in particular had a named meat source as its first ingredient (chicken). This is a huge plus, both because it is a named meat source (vs. a by-product) and because it is the first ingredient, signifying that this is the largest ingredient the food contains.

However, the meat was inclusive of its water content, which once removed, slid this ingredient further down the list.

Secondly, even though the grain ingredients were whole (considered a plus in the rating system), once the chicken slid down the list, these grains made up a larger portion of the food.

This is a big no-no in feeding dogs, since their digestive systems are set up to feed on meat, not grains. In addition, many dogs are allergic to wheat, which became one of the main ingredients in this particular dog food now that it made up a larger percentage of the content.

Conclusion

As you can see, the cons of the dog food rating system based on points easily outweigh its strengths.

In the future, I hope to review / critique some of the other systems that exist for rating dog food.

Til then, give your dog a hug for me!

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Dog Health Insurance - Family - Pets

Health Insurance for DogsBefore you buy your dog, you should be aware that just like any animal, they will face various health challenges or complications for the rest of their life. You will find that as a puppy, your dog will require an array of vaccinations to protect them from diseases. As an adult, your dog will also require a range of preventative care, and as your pet matures, they will face some common ailments which are associated with aging in animals. This is why it is important to have dog health insuranceCommon Puppy AilmentsSome of the common ailments and puppy health needs include vaccinations or boosters, ingesting foreign bodies, poisoning, and spaying or neutering. As an adult, your dog will require insurance to cover routine dental care, ear infections, bladder infections, as well as injuries from accidents. As your dog ages, some of the common ailments that they are likely to suffer from include kidney disease, cancer, heart disease and arthritis.It is therefore important for pet owners to find the best dog health insurance plan for their pets as soon as they get them. The benefit of a good dog health insurance plan is that it will offer much needed assistance in the event that your pet becomes ill or has an accident, by easing the financial burden of high vet expenses. Dog health insurance will cover accidents, illnesses, prescriptions, hospitalization, as well as surgery.Reasons to get Dog Health InsuranceOne of the important reasons for getting dog health insurance is to enable you to meet the vet bills arising from treatment that your dog may require. By ensuring that you can afford the treatment costs for your pet, you will be in a position to avoid having to have your beloved pet put down. In order to find the best dog health insurance for your pet, you should get various quotes from different pet health insurance companies and make comparisons for the best rates. And also you should definitelly read online Dog Insur ance Reviews.

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Cleaning My Fish Tank Can Be Rewarding - Family - Pets

I finally got round to cleaning my fish tank after being rather afraid I would kill all my new acquisitions and putting off the job for far too long.

It was the first time I'd had to do it since buying my aquarium and as I'd had dire warnings from the pet shop owner about how easy it was to upset the chemical balance in the tank etc, I was understandably nervous about my ability to not kill off all its inhabitants.

One of the main reasons for cleaning my fish tank, besides of course the health of my fish, was the smell it was emitting.

It was like a cross between unwashed teenage boy trainers and the moss that lurks in dark, damp backyards. It was becoming increasingly noticeable as the days went on. First of all it was only when I was next to the tank, a few days later the smell reached me on the sofa and the final nail in the coffin was opening the door of my apartment and being hit with a wall of stench.

I could put it off no longer. Telling my girlfriend I had to stay in that night because I was cleaning my fish tank didn't go down very well. She took it as a euphemism, rather like 'I'm washing my hair tonight' and put down the phone in a sulk.

This of course made me even happier about what I was about to do and I tried desperately to come up good reasons why I couldn't do it, and then I looked over at the tank.

I couldn't see the fish. They were in there, it was just that the glass on the tank was so covered in green junk I couldn't even see through it any longer.

The pet shop owner told me that I would know when the time was right for cleaning my fish tank and gave me three things to look out for as an indication.

The first was the smell, the second was when the glass was dirty, and the third was a tank full of expensive and colorful dead bodies!

Guessing that sign number three was imminent; I bit the bullet and got down to business. I followed the pet shop guy's step-by-step instructions which I'd written down on a piece of paper with the imaginative heading I'd given it of 'what I need to do when I'm cleaning my fish tank'.

I siphoned, I vacuumed my gravel, I scraped my glass and did everything the way I should have done it. In fact I have to say, it was all really rather satisfying and though I hate to admit, I quite enjoyed it.

The end result was of course well worth it. I can see my fish again, the water no longer smells funky and nor does my apartment.

Next time I won't put off cleaning my fish tank for so long, in fact I'm looking forward to it.

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Posh Doggy Boutiques - Family - Pets

For your posh puppy, pet boutiques offer designer dog clothes, stylish carrying cases and many other unique pet accessories.

Fifi & Romeo Boutique - Los Angeles, CA (7282 Beverly Blvd, (323) 857-7214) - Big dog fans beware: This froufrou boutique is strictly tiny canine territory. Lavishly decorated with pink-striped walls, a chandelier and Pucci mannequins, Fifi & Romeo is--in the words of co-owners Penelope Francis and Yana Syrkan--"Audrey meets Eloise." Cashmere sweaters and faux fur-trimmed wool coats are just a few of the decadent goods made for pint-sized pooches. There are also blankets, raincoats and stylish doggie totes for critters on the go. But pampered pets aren't the only concern at this shop. It has extended its collection of luxurious accessories to include items for women, infants and the home.

DOG Pet Boutique - Los Angeles, CA (346 N La Cienega Blvd) - Paris Hiltons and Nicole Ritchies, rejoice! Now there is a fashionable and chic place to accessorize and pamper your pooch. Located across from the Beverly Center, this fun store offers extravagant clothes, rhinestone collars, plush bedding, designer carrying purses, pink chew toys, organic dog food and baked doggie treats. The knowledgeable staff, large selection and one-of-a-kind items make the spot the perfect place to over-indulge man's best friend.

Canine Styles Downtown - New York, NY (59 Greenwich Ave, (212) 352-8591) - Go elsewhere for bulk food. Come here to pamper your pooch with extravagant treats. Try tasty Sushi Snacks or custom-made raised feeders. They also have collars and leashes in all styles and colors. This adorable West Village nook is like Barneys, but for the canine set. Think Burberry dog beds, camo-patterned sweaters, and gourmet snacks. Poochi Sushi, anyone?

The Urban Pet - Los Angeles, CA - Urban Pet's lush digs on Beverly Blvd. - supplies (dog, bird, cat, fish, reptile), competitive prices, premium, holistic and raw pet foods - plus an added bonus: a friendly staff who encourage you to bring your pet companion shopping. Hang out by the Koi pond and shop the Green Zone freaturing all eco-friendly products. From beds, toys, leashes, collars to shampoos and kitty litter, be assured your eco-friendly craving will be satisfied.

Bark N Bitches - Los Angeles, CA (505 N Fairfax Ave, (323) 655-0155) - Brimming with treats for everyone's favorite beast, this spacious, well-appointed store maintains a holistic collection of wares suitable for the kookiest of dogowners (which, in L.A., is everyone). From koi fish-printed dog beds and painting kits for four-legged friends to stuffed toys, biodegradable bags and chic doggie license tags, the stock is inventive, organic and practical. With fashionable personalized water bowls, cosmetic bags and even cute doggie literature, the owner's passion for her furry clients makes for an inspired shopping experience.

Trixie + Peanut Pet Emporium - New York, NY - Online retailer and New York City pet boutique trixie + peanut celebrates the unique relationship between pets and the people who love them. Named after founder Susan Bing's two rescued Boxers, trixie + peanut began as a mail-order catalog in 1999. As an animal lover, Susan understood that pet owners desired the very best for their four-legged friends. A seasoned art director and graphic designer, she realized there were no pet catalogs that took advantage of sleek design to market an equally chic collection of items.

Dogadillo Dog Boutique - Austin, TX - With high end clothing and accessories, other packs can immediately tell if you shop at Dogadillo. Our top of the line nutritional products make your dog look and feel great!

Pawsh Dog Boutique - Boston, MA - Pawsh is a chic Back Bay boutique offering a variety of healthy, practical and fun options for dogs and their owners. Sample the latest and greatest dog collars, stylish apparel, luxurious spa products, fun toys, and tasty treats.

Off the Leash Pet Boutique - Chicago, IL - Full-service pet shop sells grooming products, human-grade pet food, leashes, collars, toys, brushes and more; dog wash on the premises.

Pet Shop Girls - Boston, MA - At The Pet Shop Girls, we believe that a healthy pet has a much better chance of staying healthy through proper nutrition. For this reason, we have carefully selected the variety of foods and treats we sell to provide the highest quality diet available. Pet Shop Girls is the spot to keep your dog or cat, healthy and vibraten. We carry a wide variety of vitamins & supplements for your pet.

The Barkery - Scottsdale, AZ - Five hundred dollar cologne for your dog might sound a little extreme to most folks, but for the those who are crazy for their canine, and have that kind of dough to spend, this is the shop for you. Located at D.C. Ranch, this quaint boutique is filled to the brim with mostly expensive, extravagant splurges for your pooch. You can find everything from a Steve Nash basketball jersey to a wedding gown or tux. The store also stocks a wide ranch of bowls, shampoos, collars, jewelry and dog related artwork.

Diva Dogs Boutique - Phoenix, AZ - Functional, Fashionable, Fabulous, The core elements of Diva Dogs that makes you smile when you see that well dressed dog strut its stuff down the street as if they were in a New York fashion show. Delivering on high expectations of quality is the focus of product line selection and personal service in addition to a true, alluring boutique setting only fit for pampered owners and their pets.

Urban Beast - Seattle, WA - We like to think our cat is as style-conscious as we are. Seattle-based Urban Beast caters to that fantasy with a bright, cheerful pet boutique in a new development across from REI. While plenty of their stock comes from Italian design firm United Pets, the friendly staff make a particular effort to source locally-made and eco-friendly products such as Marmalade pet care's Cheeky Chaise.

Petopia - New York, NY - Pet supply shop carrying some natural and organic brands of pet food and pet care supplies; free delivery.

Canine Styles - New York, NY - Canine Styles has been a leading purveyor of top quality accessories for dogs in New York City for half a century; dog toys, clothing, coats & sweaters, collars, leashes, harnesses, dog beds, carriers, bowls, dog ID tags, and more. Building on this reputation for excellence, we are proud to launch our website and bring our business into the 21st century by making our selection of dog gifts and accessories available to dogs everywhere.

High Maintenance Bitch - Seattle, WA - High Maintenance Bitch store that caters to pampered pooches. This small Wallingford shop is packed with everything to spoil any dog rotten, including designer collars, feather boas, magnetic earrings, diamond necklaces, bubble bath, dog-friendly cookie dough and more. A doggie beauty section holds items like "whiskera" lash brightener, paw exfoliator, Candy Paws nail polish and handmade fragrances. Humans can shop themselves as well, browsing designer pet carriers, bathrobes, panties and t-shirts emblazoned with the store's logo.

Zen Dog Pet Boutique - Denver, CO - Zen Dog Pet Boutique is a haven for pampered pets, Commons Park boutique offers toys and accessories for cats and dogs and freshly made organic biscuits and treats. From Schnauzers to Siamese, furry friends are sniffing, prancing and sprinting to Zen Dog Pet Boutique in the North Platte neighborhood. Owner Alex E'Aton has created a zen like environment of brilliant colors, enchanting products and a mantra of good taste. This is more than a pet store, but nothing short of "dog"ma! Providing one of the most comprehensive, upscale, edgy, purposeful and playful collections for the family pet.

CityDog Market - Atlanta, GA - CityDog Market is your dog and cat specialty store. So whether you're pampering your pet or nurturing a rescued dog or cat, we have the products, provisions and expertise you're looking for. When you and your pet visit CityDog Market, you'll be happier than when you arrived.

Doguroo - Atlanta, GA - Doguroo is Atlanta's full-service dog care destination. Our goal is to enhance the lives of dogs and their parents through a holistic and uncompromising offering of services, products, and education. Doguroo is a pack of people who are intent on providing the very best care for the beloved dogs of others. We provide that care by meeting the needs of dogs and their parents through our comprehensive service offering and our affordable, yet hand-picked nutrition and other retail offering.

Cheeko B Pet Boutique - San Francisco, CA - Cheeko B Pet Boutique is San Francisco's newest and chicest pet boutique. Located at the intersection of Union Square and Nob Hill, Cheeko B brings San Francisco residents and visitors a unique selection of collars, leads, toys, accessories, grooming products, apparel, carriers, beds, food and treats for dogs, cats and their owners.

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Dog Food That Is The Healthiest For Your Dog - Family - Pets

Are there any dogs who would not want to eat dog food made fresh and natural? Dog food that is made from homemade ingredients, the healthiest dog food, from dog food recipes? There are no better food that a dog can eat than homemade dog food, because it is the healthiest way we can get good nutrition to our beloved pets. As soon as owners realize completely what manufacturers are putting into those bags and cans, they also realize that it is that very food that is causing our dogs to get sick and develop diseases.

Some disturbing facts about K9 food that comes in cans and bags should come to light for dog owners to know about. One of the main preservatives used is ethoxyquin, which is a know carcinogen. It doesn't have to be listed on the nutrition label to actually be in the package. Fats are used to make the appearance of pet food more appetizing, but they don't have any control over companies that they obtain fats from, and these companies could use ethoxysquin in their products. Pet food companies don't have to list this ingredient, because they aren't the ones adding the ethoxyquin to the fat they put in their products, and this is therefore legal for them to leave off the nutrition label. Another chemical is propylene glycol, an additive used to keep the ingredients in and treats from falling apart. Propylene glycol has been attributed recently to causing cancer in cats. Because of this discovery, cat foods and treats no longer use it in their products. But, K9 foods and treat s have yet to stop using it.

By making your own food from scratch ingredients at home, you know what is going into the food you are giving your dog. You can also make sure that just the right amounts are being added, so that there are just enough amounts of fats, carbs and protein being put into your dog's diet. Foods rich in fruits, vegetables, honey and peanut butter can be used in your own recipes. Imagine all the fresh meat that you introduce into your dog's diet. Meat such as turkey, chicken and beef, or even fish like halibut and tuna.

By taking the time to make your own food following healthy recipes puts you in control of what your dog eats. You'll learn what fresh foods are not healthy to feed your dog, like avocado, which contains persin, as well as caffeine, grapes and chocolate. Other foodstuffs to keep out of your dog food recipes are those that contain citrus oil, yeast dough and hops.

You will gain so many more benefits from creating home-made meals for your dog. Special diets that are needed due to a specific health problem are a great reason to go home-made. Competitions require training of your dog, which means meals with more calories and protein in them, and food that is store bought just doesn't meet those requirements. Perhaps you have a dog who has food allergies from what is contained in commercial foods, or maybe your dog has a hard time digesting that kind of food. Whatever the reason for changing, the biggest reason of all is realizing that to continue with store bought dry food provided by the big pet food brands means continuing to feed your dog all of those chemicals, preservatives and artificial ingredients, and that is just too much of a risk to your faithful dog's health.

Like what you have read and looking to learn how to Make Your Own Dog Food, then visit to find the best advice on Dog Food Recipes for how they can benefit you dog! Register today and receive a FREE ebook of canine nutrition!

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Latest News on the Dog Food Recall - Family - Pets

If you own a pet, more than likely you remember the dog food recall that first occurred last March. The food that was recalled was more than just a slight problem, but it was potentially deadly food, which definitely put fear in the hearts of pet owners all across the Nation. There were more than 16 deaths that were associated with this tainted food and thousands of worried pet owners were flooding veterinarians' offices fearing the worst about their pets. While it appears that the initial crisis is over, pet owners still find themselves on edge, so let's take a closer look at the latest news on the dog food recall.

Brands that were RecalledIf you have a dog of your own, then you'll definitely want to know more about which dog foods were recalled during this dog food crisis. There were a variety of different brands and types of foods that were recalled during this time and some may still not be safe for your dog, though you probably won't find them on the store shelves anyway. The following are a few of the different dog foods that were a part of the dog food recall.

- ALPO- Champion Breed Large Buiscuits- Blue Buffalo- Diamond Pet Food- Food Lion dog food- Gravy Train- Hannaford- Iams Can Chunky Formula- Mighty Dog- Nutriplan- Ol' Roy- Pet Essentials- Publix- Springfield Prize- Winn Dixie- Weis Total Pet

Where Did the Problem Come FromOne of the big questions that surrounded the dog food recall is where the problem actually came from. In the end it appeared that the FDA had actually traced the gluten that was responsible for much of the problem all the way back to China. The gluten was actually tainted with melamine, which ended up causing the problem with the food in the first place. The FDA is fairly sure that this is where the problem really did come from and that other types of pet foods should still be safe for pets. Although the FDA believes that the problem gluten came from China, the officials in China still maintain that they don't believe they are actually responsible for these foods that have been tainted.

Many Lawsuits Have Been FiledSince the dog food recall occurred, there have been quite a few different law suits filed against the companies that made the dog food that was contaminated. Those who have filed these suits have alleged that their dogs either became sick or died when they ate the food that has been recalled. Pet owners who lost a pet or had to pay extensive bills due to a sick pet because of the dog food recall definitely feel that they should be compensated and that these dog food companies should be held accountable for what they have done.

It is still important today that you take a close look at what your dog is eating. Although the food now seems to be okay, many pet owners are still shying away from foods that were recalled in the past. Even though these foods seem to be okay now, if your dog ever does develop any suspicious symptoms it is important that you call your vet as soon as possible. So, for now the danger of the dog food recall seems to be behind us; however, you never know when there could be a problem again, so it is important that you always keep an eye on your dog and what he eats.

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Harmful Ingredients in Dog Foods - Family - Pets

Most of the dog owners even dont know about the ingredients that are included in the food they feed to their dogs. It is a very important matter to know because 8 out of 10 diseases in dogs occur due to lack of nutritious diets. So, here I am going to give some useful information on different types of ingredients that should be avoided as much as possible.

Grains: The grains such as wheat gluten and corn should be strictly avoided because they are the key allergens to the dogs.

Food coloring: Yellow-6 should be avoided because it causes tumors in animals.

Fats: If the dog food industry has not disclosed the animal source, then probably its from 4Ds which include dead, diseased, dying and disabled animals. Avoid these kinds of foods as well.

Fiber: Cheaper fillers like corn bran, oat hulls, soybean, rice hulls and wheat mill run along with cellulose should be strictly avoided because they are not the part of natural dog food.

Fruits: Fruits are beneficial for dogs health but some fruits should be strictly avoided as it may harm them. Grapes are one such fruits which have no positive effect towards dogs health.

Flavorings: If you look at the label of the food pack, then you may see that it is made from enzymatic hydrolysis of undecomposed animal tissue along with 4Ds, if the animal sources are not disclosed. So, avoid them and get some natural food for your little friend.

Preservatives: Avoid BHT and BHA which have been already banned in most of the countries. The worst one is ethoxyquin which is actually a rubber stabilizer. So, avoid these kinds of preservatives as good food doesnt contain any of these.

Other Supplements: Little amount of salt, yeast and mineral oil is fine but if their amount is increased, then it may cause harm to dogs health.

Sweeteners: Sweeteners arent bad for dogs but if they become addicted to them, then it might get difficult to feed them with their usual foods. So, avoid sweeteners as much as possible.

There are lots of other ingredients too which should be either minimal or completely avoided. For feeding your dog with healthy food, there are some good and natural dog foods such as:

* Natural Balance * California Natural * Science Diet * Merrick * Evo

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Dog Food - Tips for Buying Dogswell Products - Family - Pets

Your dogs health and their care is a matter of concern. Their health and dogswell is fully dependent on numerous aspects like their diets, systematic plan for your dogs exercise, their grooming process and the way you train your dog. Although all these aspects are inter-related, the most crucial is to provide them with the healthy and holistic food that your pet love to devour. This, their health and care is of course depends upon you and your selection.

So, as talking in the respect of the dog food, there are many brands to choose. But, Dogswell is one of the healthy dog food brand that use natural ingredients without any artificial preservatives and colorings, and also they dont have animal steroids, fats or byproduct of meat. If you go to any of the grocery shop nearby your home or at the store aisle, you cannot find the product of Dogswell. If you ask, how to buy the Dogswell dog food, then here are some tips for that.

1. The type of dog breed and their age will also affect the criteria of dog food they require. For instance, a grown up German shepherd will need dogswell large breed adult dog food.2. You can whether prefer for the dry food or the canned food, only a matter of preference, both you and your dogs. Dogs are seemed to be interested on canned food because of the flavor and the aroma. But, the expert veterinarian suggest for the dry food as it has low risk for obesity and also in terms of gum disease and tartar.3. Dogswell dog foods are mostly available from the online stores such as Pet Food Direct, Petco, and other retailers like Amazon. Click on the menu "Dog Food", scroll down the page and click on the dogswell link under the "Featured Brands". You have to identify the type of food, their bag size, and the quantity you want to purchase. And if you want to purchase the can food, enter the quantity of the can you want to purchase or you can also get those can in bulk. While y ou buy the canned food in bulk, the online stores only sell the canned dog food in the amount of 12 or 24. You only have to enter your ZIP code and you can find the nearest store that sells Dogswell dog food.4. In most of the websites, you dont require your account for the purchase, but during checkout, you will be given an option to set your account. You can then provide your name, email address, phone number and your credit or debit card information including your methods for shipping.5. You can double check the order for accuracy and once checked, click "Place Order" button. You will get a conformation email which you can print out as receipt. A tracking number will be provided to you so that you can track the Dogswell dog food arrival.

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Merrick Dog Food - Family - Pets

As respect to the Dog Food Quality Scale, Merrick dog food has been at the top of the list. It could be pretty simple and easy to mix up the different brand of Merrick food. This pet food is tasty, digestible easily and loved by huge range of dog breed. Although this food is little cheaper than other but don't go to the price because it give same amount of nutrient and human grade food supplement that are essential for your dog's health and sound life.

CANNED DOG FOODThe list of canned holistic food is some unique as that of the five star restaurants' menu. The can food is the perfect mixture of fine quality ingredients of human grade. The human grade ingredients protein source of the food is from one of the fresh fruits and vegetables and is added to each and every type of pet food. And there is no addition of any kind of preservatives and other by-products of food. Your pet health is more of concern, so being careful in testing, healthy and antibiotic and hormone free products are only the ingredients of this Merrick.

Another specialty of this dog food is the apples that are used in it and those apples are of Fuji, Red, Granny Smith and Golden Delicious varieties in order to make the meal of the Merrick Standard and to pair them with the entre for the best compliment. After all we have mentioned this as the five star menus, isn't it? The cans are made especially for the pets in the plant that is located at Texas and we humbly love your pet companion having the taste of this Merrick pet food and have a better life today and treat your dog some royalty.

DRY DOG FOODAs canned, this dry Merrick dog food too is holistic and a great encore in the line of gourmet. Dry food is considered as the convenient food provided to the pet and easiness in the today's society and also termed as the quality pet food that will develop the overall health of your pet. They make easy meal for your pet and only you have to pour some of this dry food in the bowl and it's ready in no time and without hassle and also they are easy for storing.

You can supplement the can food with the Merrick dry food for the best offer which also adds a home cooked feeling in your dog's food. This will be both tasty and beneficial from the healthy point of view and see how fast your dog eats their meal. Then you surely will be credited for being a good cook and there is a promise of never letting this down anyhow.

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How to Choose the Best Dog Food for your Pet - Family - Pets

With so many pet food brands on the market, it is hard for any dog owner to know just which one is the best dog food. Is it the $20 bag? The $40 bag? Or is it really worth it to buy the $100 bag of food that you see sitting at the veterinarian's office every time you take your dog for his routine vaccinations?

If you are wondering if you are feeding your dog the best dog food there is out there, here are some things to bear in mind when you go pet food shopping next time.

Know the RatiosKnowing just how much of "what" should be in the food for dogs is a good and easy way to first start examining and determining whether or not a dog food is the best dog food for your pet. An easy way to look at it is that your dog's diet should consist of the following: 50% vegetables 40% meat 10% grain (or carbohydrates)

That means that the food that has "corn" as the third ingredient probably isn't the best dog food for your pet. You also don't want to choose a pet food that promises to be loaded in meat. Dogs need their protein, sure, but anything over the 40% mark is simply overloading your dog with an unnecessary ingredient.

Meat should be High on the Ingredients ListJust as "corn" shouldn't be the third ingredient on the list, meat shouldn't be the last. As a matter of fact, meat should be the number one ingredient on the list! The first three ingredients on a quality bag of food for dogs are some sort of animal meat meal, such as beef meal or lamb meal.

TIP: Do not be fooled by seeing that a meat meal is first on the list, only to be followed up by fillers and by-products. Make sure that the first three ingredients are a meat meal to ensure that you are feeding your dog the best dog food.

Skip the PreservativesPreservatives are absolutely horrible for human and dog health alike. If you want to improve your dogs health, you need to skip on any dog foods that contain chemical preservatives like BHT, BHA, and Ethoxquin. Any foods that are made with the natural preservatives vitamin E and vitamin C are far better choices.

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Coping with Dog Food Allergies - Family - Pets

Dealing with allergies of any kind can be incredibly uncomfortable and frustrating, never mind dog food allergies which can be rather difficult to pinpoint. Just what is it in that 20-ingredient pack of food that is causing these dog food allergies? How can you perform testing to see just what your dog is allergic too? Heck, how do you even know that your dog is suffering from dog food allergies?

Dog allergies all tend to have similar symptoms, all of which involves the scratching and pawing and chewing of some part of the body. The part of the body that is usually being scratched and chewed is related to his area of allergy. If a dog is having a food allergy, it may be the face that is being pawed, or your dog may be chewing at his abdominal area. As a result of the chewing, licking and scratching, dog skin problems may also arise due to a food allergy.

If you are wondering how you can start to determine and treat your pet's dog food allergies, then you have come to the right place.

1) Substitute his food: A great way to start the process of determining dog food allergies is to substitute the meat portion of your dog's food with a different meat. For instance, if the food you are feeding your dog is beef-based, switch it up with a lamb-based food and see if that cures the problem. Lamb is a safe choice as it is thought to be "non-allergic".

NOTE: You can also choose to buy some "allergy free formulas" of food, but this may not necessarily be the best dog food for your pet. Check out a number of different mixes, and always aim to purchase foods that do not include a lot of chemical preservatives, dyes, colors, or "filler" foods.

2) Introduce new foods slowly: though you may be anxious to try a new food with your dog to see if it helps his allergies, you need to introduce any new foods to your diet gradually over a week. Start off with a 4:1 ratio of old food to new, and build it up from there to a 3:2 ratio, a 2:3 ratio, 1:4 ratio and then a full serving o the new food.

3) Consult your Veterinarian: Vets do have the ability to perform some allergy tests on your dog to see what may be the issue. If the allergy is not very severe, they you may want to treat it symptomatically (with anti-histamines, cold compresses and medicated baths); however, if it is a severe allergy, then the cost to have the allergy testing done is well worth it.

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Dog Food for Adults and Their Diet Change - Family - Pets

Adult Dogs Feeding

The maintenance period for a dog starts when he reaches the condition of full maturity. And normally the healthy dog doesn't require high nutritional food as compare to the pregnant, hardworking and nursing dogs. Thus the pregnant, hardworking and nursing dogs need to be given a good care for a good body condition. Exactly the good condition of their health is defined as:

1. The proportionate development of the animal

2. Observable waist behind the chest

3. Covering of Slight fat over the ribs which can be felt with a touch.

Supplement vitamins, minerals or meat isn't necessary if the pet is fed with complete and balance dog food. But if in the case where the dog is fed with the table scraps and supplementary meat products, they will need more than 10% of the total diet they are fed. So, there is one diet that can bring out some changes in your dog noticeably. The Natural Balance Brand dog food have those vital nutrients that are required to avoid the dilution of nutritional value in dog's food, disposing the dog towards obesity and creating a finicky eater.

For the lower calorie and less active dogs, more attention should be given in order not to let them gain excessive weight because an overweight dog have many health problems and short life span. You can often decrease their weight by avoiding them to feed on table scraps and treats, and avoiding high energy pet food.

Whether they are fed twice a day or thrice a day, they should be fed at the same routine and the water you are giving to them must be fresh. The food which you feed them should be according to their breed, activity and metabolism and this all thing is taken consideration by the Natural Balance Brand dog food manufacturer with high attention given for the proper health developments.

Change in Dog's Diet as he grows old

You have to be more attentive when your pets grow older because at this age they need more nutritional value for the better health. During this age period, their digestive system change and need more vitamins and proteins with fewer calories. Taking these requirements in preference, Natural Balance Dog Food also has those diets that are based on senior diet formula.

It depends on the dog breed to be a geriatric eater when aged. A small dog like Jack Russell at six years age is teen dog whereas a Great Dane can be senior. So before recommending a dog food for your dog yourself, you surely want some tips for the nutrition from your veterinarian.

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Fromm Dog Food For The Nursing Puppies - Family - Pets

According to the thumb rule, every offspring must have approximately their body weight during birth during lactation and nursing phase each week. Most of the females are expert mother but some may be nervous and less attentive, so they need some extra care to calm them and to accept their newly born puppies. The poorly nursed pup may be small in size, cooler in temperature and weigh less. So routine handling is good for checking their progress and health condition of the pup. This might include working with the mother and pups both, and placing the pups near to the nipples of the mother and also remember that excessive handling may cause stress to both pups and mother.

Introducing Solid Foods to Puppies

The puppies are ready to wean by six weeks of age and if they have already started to eat the solid food from their dam's food, then this usual to happen at about 4 to five weeks of age. As the puppies get mature, they must be fed appropriate diet of the proper life stage three times a day at least until the nutritional value of the food per pound of the body is level off. You can later reduce the amount of food twice a day when they reach the age of six month and once in a day when they are eight months old. Never forget to give them fresh water at all time.

Warm milk or water can be used in the dry food to moisten it. But however excess milk can cause digestive problem as a laxative for some pups and grownups. The uneaten part of the food must be thrown away and one time should be given to the puppies for eating.

The routine must be established by making the puppies to feed at the same place and at the same time. This will later help in housetraining. It is strictly not recommended to offer human food from the table as it will encourage them to beg and make them finicky eater. So the dog food like Fromm Dog Food are made with duck, chicken meal, barley, brown rice, fish meal, oatmeal and many other nutritious substances that are necessary for the supplement of vitamins, proteins, minerals and meats.

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Feeding Science Diet Dog Food - Family

Feeding Older Dogs

Whenever the dog reaches to the last 25% of their life span, they are considered as the aging dog or older or geriatric. Especially when small breed of greater than 12 years, medium one more than 10 years, large breed greater than 9 years and giant breed greater than 7 years of age, are considered as old age dogs.

Here are some signs of the aging in the dogs:

1. Body weight changes

2. Movement difficulties

3. Degradation in eye sight and hearing power

4. Change in skin and hair coats

5. Change in urination and elimination

6. Teeth and mouth problems relating with bad breadth.

The current diet that is commercially formulated for the grownups is the great source of protein for them. The active animals may need huge amount of energy requirements, so you have to be cautious in order to avoid the risk of excessive weight gain. Science Diet dog food can be the best food for the good health of the dog and also to avoid the weight gain risk.

Refusal to Eat

If you dog is starting to be picky about the food and if you have avoided the habits of problem eating in your dog, you should probably see your veterinarian. The deviation of the dogs from their normal behavior may be the sign of illness.

The dog will be encourage to be holdout to see what is offered in the food if they are offered a variety of food. But some have eagerness to eat particular food for several days and suddenly this eagerness will vanishes with the refusal in the intake of food. This is also an attempt by the dog itself to stop the calorie intake because excess eating can result in uncomfortable feeling as that in human. So they will relieve their discomfort by not eating.

Transition to a New Food

You have to change the diet of the dog for their health. Transit their food gradually at the period of seven or eight days. Go on increasing the amount of new food in the old food and finally replacing the old food by new one. The change of the diet will help to avoid the digestive trouble in their system. You can change to the nutritious diet like Science diet Brand Dog Food can be one of the choice for the transition of the food for your dog.

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Essential Pet Travel Needs for Holiday Trips - Family - Pets

Yuletide season is just around the corner and its perfect time to break away and relax on holidays. Just because you are traveling for the holiday does not mean your best friend dog and pets have to stay home. As per experience, having pets on travel and vacation is far lot different and exciting. Traveling with pets is easy and comfortable now with lots of innovative and reliable pet travel products.

This Pet Street Mall will guide you through the essential and must have pet needs that will ensure safety and comfort for your pet while traveling. Weather you are traveling these holidays by car or plane, we are confident we have the pet travel item for you. Check out this list of top pet travel needs every pet should have.

Airline Approved Pet Carrier. Traditionally known as Porters, Taxis, Carriers, and Kennels; they are now known as pet cages or crates. Airline Approved Pet Carriers are sturdy covered door posts for a durable long lasting product. They have strong wire mesh doors to keep your pets secure while creating a comfortable air flow. These fashionable pet carriers come in variety of colors and sizes and are 100% Airline approved so you won't experience any costly mishaps and delays. When choosing, always make sure your pet fits well in its crate. The pet should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in the cage. It is essential too to properly train & orient your dog to use the pet carriers and discourage any aggressive behavior in the kennel like biting, chewing, licking, ramming, or pawing.

Pet Travel Crates. These containment systems are designed Specifically to fit "Side-by-Side" in SUV & Van Rear Compartments. They are portable, has safe & secure slide bolt latches and surely tough yet easy to clean ABS plastic pan. Finished in a long lasting Black Epoxy Powder and comfortable plastic carrying handle already included. PetStreetMall offers free shipping on all pet crates and their premier customer service department has not only helped customers nationwide select the correct crate.

Dog Vehicle Barriers. They are mainly used in Sport Utility Vehicles to safely secure your dog in the rear of the vehicle. This will keep your dog safely away from the driver and other occupants. Dog vehicle Barriers are offered in either a tubular or mesh design. If an extension can also be purchased if needed. They come in small, medium and large tubular barriers for all SUVs and Mini-buses. Soft Net Vehicle Pet Barrier is also available, made with micro-mesh material which is actually easier to see through than metal tube-style barriers.

Pet Travel Bowls & Dog Food Bags. Travel bowls are collapsible food dishes that is perfect for traveling, hiking or when simply visiting parks. Dog food bags are collapsible food containers too for much easier and less mess food containment.

Dog Car Seats. Pet car seat provides a safe and secure place for dogs on car while traveling. Dog Car Seat will limit pets from wandering inside the car, yet it provides him with a comfortable place to enjoy the ride. While providing your dog with his own special seat in your car, it will also keep your car seat clean and damage-free. With dog car seats, you wont have to worry about the safety of your dog while enjoying the out of town trip.

Pet Seat Belts, Buckles and Dog Car Harness. Like people, dogs also need the same kind of security when they are about to travel. Dog seat belt is the proper restraining of your dog in a safe area inside the car. It is also important to place your dog in a secured seat for him to enjoy the beauty outside while having a ride. Pet buckle ensures that your dog will behave properly while enjoying the ride and prevents him from hitting the hard interior of your vehicle when theres a sudden stop. And once a dog car harness is worn on your pet during your long road trip, you will have the peace of mind knowing that your pet will not roam or create damage inside you car.

Car Seat Covers and Pet Cargo Mats. Having a seat cover is definitely one of the best techniques in keeping your vehicles interior in good condition. Aside from protecting your car seat, your dog can comfortably lie on this cover because of the soft materials used. If ever the seat cover is already dirty, all you need to do is to remove it and wash it right away! Aside from the beauty and cleanliness it brings to your car, dog seat cover is used to provide superb comfort to your pet. Your dog can snooze and rest on this smooth seat cover during travel. For SUV cars, high quality pet cargo mats will keep your car stain and grime free even if you always bring your dog with you. SUV cargo mats are easy to sanitize and can be the best protection of your dog against any kind of weather.

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Beneful Dog Food Coupons, Smart Shopping On Dog Food - Shopping

Having a dog is a long term commitment, and keeping your pethealthy throughout their life is important. We all know how importantour pets health and well being are to our families.While there are numerous high quality choice when it comes to feeding your pet, Purina's brand "Beneful" has been a staple of quality.Beneful is a premium quality, nutritious food that helpsensure your pets health and vitality, keeping them strong for life.A premium quality dog food usually costs a little more but we don'twant to feed our pet a sub-standard brand either. That's where using Benefulpet food coupons is a smart choice. We aren't sacrificing quality for alower cost food. By using Beneful dog food coupons, we can give our doga premium food for around the same cost as a lesser quality brand.The savings makes the difference in knowing you're feeding your dog oneof the best foods available.

How do you find Beneful coupons? An internet search for the officialPurina or Beneful websites is a good start. They will have useful informationabout pets, an assortment of pet products,coupons,free trials, and FAQ'S. Alot of special offers they have will be printable directly from their website.The next place I would look would be pet coupon websites. They are more gearedtowards offering coupons and basic information on the brands if that's really allyou need. You can print and clip coupons there to redeem at your localsupermarket.Vets and pet stores may have a supply of Beneful couponsthat you can use during your purchase as well. Weekly newspaper inserts and monthlyclipper magazines could offer coupons too.

Because a premium quality dog food like Beneful costs a few dollars more, usingBeneful dog food coupons can balance the cost so you can feed your dog a healthy,nutritious food.

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Why Pet Owners Should Use Pet Food Coupons - Business

Pet food is expensive -- every pet owner knows this -- but with the use of dog food coupons, it can become a very affordable thing indeed. For example, you can often find dog food coupons in a variety of magazines. With the use of dog food coupons, you'll be saving enough money that you can then afford to get your special pet the little toy or playhouse that you would not have been able to afford before.

If you use the coupons as a guide for purchasing food for your pet, you can even discover better brands that you wouldn't have tried otherwise. Whether you're dealing with pets or with any other product, a good sale can often get people to buy something new. Your pet may thank you when you come home with a new type of dog food that you got because of the coupons.

You can save a lot of money on your pet's food by entering and participating in a food company's promotional sweepstakes. Of course, cat food companies sponsor these contests as a way to market to a larger group of people. The personal information you provide in order to take part in these contests will only end up providing you with information about more products that can make feeding and caring for your pet a much easier process. The marketing aspect becomes much less sinister when this is considered, and many people enter the contest in order to get better prices on pet food.

If you are observant, you've probably discovered that your pet will prefer one kind of cat food over another, and this may make you reluctant to try a new kind of cat food when you have one that already works. When you've been perusing the grocery store, though, you have probably run across a new kind of pet food that you thought your pet might enjoy eating. You're more liable to give a new type of pet food a try if you have been giving the key to a discount (i.e. a coupon).

For a customer, a coupon may provide either a small bit of savings or a great quantity. Some coupons are designed to just give you a small discount on a type of food you would buy anyway. If it is a new brand of cat food or it is a more expensive kind of food, then companies will cut multiple dollars from the purchase price in an effort to get you to buy their brand of dog food.

As you can see, you can really save a lot of money by using pet food coupons. It's not even a difficult process, as you can take a look in any pet magazine, circular, or store catalog and find all sorts of coupons for all sorts of brands. If you pay too much for pet food, the blame can only rest on you. There are available dog food coupons.

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