What You Should Know Before You Cook for Your Dog

Before pet owners place their dog on a home-prepared diet, there several points they need to be aware of.

Cooking for your dog can be easy. Photo by R-M Arca.

With the dog food recalls in recent years and the development of dog allergies and sensitivities, an increasing number of pet owners are considering the home-prepared or "homemade" diet for their dog. However, pet owners should obtain a good understanding of what is involved with making food for their dog before they begin.

What is a Home-Prepared Diet?

Home-prepared or "homemade" pet diets are not to be confused with "table scraps". The latter is a mix of leftovers from a human's meal. A home-prepared diet for a dog is based specifically on meeting a dog's nutritional needs.

In "Pet Nutrition: Guidelines for feeding your pets", Dr. Ihor Basko, DVM, recommends "you cook and feed your pet based upon: breed and body type, personality, age, sex, current problems, inherent genetic weaknesses, climate of the season, and the level of exercise and activity and stress."

There are four things dog owners should know before making food for their dog:

Determine Your Dog's Nutritional Requirements

Although dogs are omnivores, like humans, their nutritional requirements are different. It is important to consult your veterinarian to help determine your dog's nutritional needs.

Dr. Basko recommends that a dog's diet should consist of:

1. 20 - 30% grains (Examples include brown and white rice, oats, millet, quinoa and barley)

2. 10 - 30% protein (Examples include meat, fish, eggs, soy products, kelp, spirulina, blue-green algae and dairy products)

3. 20 - 40% vegetables (Examples include carrots, turnips, garlic, sweet potatoes, spinach, celery, lettuce, parsley, azuki beans, lima beans, soybeans, string beans, sweet peas, white beans, basil, seaweed, rosemary, dill, pepper, tarragon)

Dog owners should know what foods are harmful to dogs. Some dogs are lactose intolerant, so lactose-reduced dairy products is a viable option. Finally, a dog's nutritional requirements change as they age.

How to Make Dog Food: Research Dog Food Recipes to Start

Numerous resources are available to help dog owners get started on the homemade diet for dogs. This is just a sampling:

1. Dr. Good Pet: Contains a detailed list of ingredients to use and a basic recipe that can be varied

2. I Love Dogs: A large online cookbook of dog food recipes submitted by dog owners

3. Better Food for Dogs: A Complete Cookbook and Nutrition Guide by David Bastin, Jennifer Ashton and Dr. Grant Nixon, DVM (Toronto: Robert Rose Inc., 2002)

Once dog owners have a better sense of their dog's preferences, they can start modifying an existing dog food recipe by substituting ingredients or creating their own. When making dog food from scratch, dog owners can use this online calculator to determine serving portions. The online calculator has recommended adjustments for weight loss diets as well as those for weight gain.

Use Digestive Enzymesand Supplements to Avoid Holes in Your Dog's Diet

Cooked or processed foods have been depleted of the digestive enzymes dogs require. Therefore, owners should incorporate canine digestive enzymes into a dog's diet when feeding homemade dog food.

Brewer's yeast tablets and seaweed contain vitamins and nutrients to promote healthy skin and coat in dogs. Brewer's yeast is also a deterrent against fleas. Many holistic pet food stores carry freeze-dried veggies/vitamin mix that can be added to a homemade meal.

How to Succeed in Making Food For Your Dog

There are five things to remember when making dog food: gradual changes are optimal, know thy dog, variety, balance over time and calcium:

1. Gradual Changes: Drastic diet changes cause indigestion, stomach upset and diarrhea in dogs. Owners can feed their dog a canine digestive enzyme to make the diet transition smoother or make subtle changes to their dog's diet.

2. Know Thy Dog: Is he just picking at his food? Or is she inhaling it? Does the dog suddenly gain a swollen lip or itch after eating? Owners should observe their dog carefully for an allergic reaction, indigestion, gas or diarrhea and make adjustments.

3. Variety: In "Introduction to Homemade Diets for Dogs", Mary Straus states there is a lack of reliable data on canine nutritional requirements. For this reason, she cautions pet owners against relying solely on recipes. Owners should vary the type of meat (and the cut), grains and vegetables to ensure that their dog's nutritional needs are met.

4. Balance Over Time: As no one homemade dog food recipe contains all the nutrients a dog requires, Straus says that owners should strive for giving their dog a balanced diet over a period of one to three weeks as opposed to trying to make each meal complete and balanced.

5. Calcium: Dogs need to have enough calcium in their diet. Raw bones give dogs the calcium they need. Dogs can also get calcium by eating cottage cheese, yogurt and lactose-reduced dairy products. Some dogs may require calcium supplements to reach the necessary amount.

Health Benefits to Home-Prepared Dog Food

Straus recounts several cases where dogs experienced improved health after switching to a homemade diet. People whose dogs were plagued by seizures, digestive disorders, allergies, ear infections or arthritis showed a significant improvement to their health after switching to the homemade diet.

Homemade dog food isn't for all dogs and their owners. Pet owners should have a good understanding of the their dog's nutritional needs, research feeding guidelines and recipes and the keys to success with the home-prepared diet before they begin. With patience, keen observation skills and some imagination, dogs owners can discover how enjoyable and rewarding cooking for their dog can be.

Related Reading:

Homemade Hamburger Recipe for Dogs

Grain Free Hamburger Recipe for Dogs

Fresh Dog Food as a Convenient Alternative to Homemade Dog Food

Originally published on Suite101.com on June 3, 2010. All rights reserved by Rhona-Mae Arca.

Pets Can Recycle Too!

Environmentally-conscious pet owners are now finding that the three Rs, "Reduce, Recycle, Reuse," can apply to pet equipment and supplies.

The pet supply market is becoming increasingly "green" with pet waste composters, eco-friendly toys, pet beds, clothing and other supplies. Recently, there are a growing number of opportunities for pet owners to recycle pet equipment and supplies such as pet beds, carriers and toys. Here are three recycling options for environmentally-conscious pet owners and their pets.

Donate Pet Supplies and Equipment

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has local branches and humane societies throughout the world. The pet shelters established by the SPCA do accept some used pet supplies and products. Some of the items they do take include blankets, towels, stainless steel food dishes, pet beds, pet carriers (crates), washable toys and unopened pet food. Shelters may accept one specific brand of pet food.

Donors should properly cleanse and sanitize used pet supplies before bringing them to a shelter. These organizations will also accept donations of new pet supplies and equipment, gift cards, unopened cleaning and office supplies.

To find out more about which items are acceptable and which are not, donors can contact their local SPCA, humane society or animal shelter.

Sell Pet Equipment and Supplies to a Pet Consignment Store

Second-hand stores for pets? Yes, they do exist. Some pet thrift stores are run by humane societies. These second-hand pet supply stores accept leashes, beds, dog and cat carriers, toys, cages and training equipment.

Consignment stores and used pet supply boutiques are a fairly new concept. “No one has ever marketed a consignment store to pets, but we feel there is a definite need for it,” said Kimberly Hall, owner of the Haute Hound in the December 2009 article "Haute Hound Pet Boutique Enters Consignment Business". This type of second-hand pet boutique will accept gently-used designer pet accessories, such as clothing, leashes, costumes and jewelry on consignment. They also accept the usual items of food dishes, pet beds and blankets. Items that are not sold after a certain period of time are donated to a local animal shelter.

Sell Used Pet Supplies & Equipment in the Classifieds

Used pet equipment and supplies that are in good condition can be sold through online classified ads such as Ebay, Kijiji and 4pawsexchange.com or print ads in the newspaper or community newsletter. Online classified websites require advertisers to set up an account. Some examples of items that can be sold as second-hand items include bird cages, pet carriers, training equipment, invisible fencing, pet beds, crates and fish tanks.

Pets and their owners can "go green" by recycling pet products and supplies that are in good condition. By donating pet supplies and equipment to a local animal shelter, selling them to a second-hand pet supply store or selling them through a classified ad, items that are still in good condition are kept out of the landfill.

Originally published on Suite101.com on March 12, 2010. Winner of a Suite101 Editor's Choice Award. All rights are reserved by Rhona-Mae Arca.

Wholesome Dog Treat Recipe

Granola, dried berries and yogurt form the core of Maestro's Fun Bits. This wholesome snack will have dogs on the go craving for more. Maestro's Fun Bits can be prepared in a food dehydrator or a conventional oven. This healthy treat for dogs and people is perfect for day trips and hikes.

Ingredients for Maestro's Fun Bits

2 cups of organic granola-type cereal (naturally sweetened or unsweetened)

1/2 cup of dried cranberries

1/2 cup of plain yogurt

2 tsp. Vanilla extract

2 tbsp. Maple syrup

Tools and Equipment

• Medium mixing bowl

• Measuring cup

• Measuring spoons

• Rubber spatula

• Food dehydrator

• Airtight food storage container

Preparing Maestro's Fun Bits

1. Thoroughly mix together all ingredients in a bowl.

2. Once all moist ingredients are evenly mixed in with the dry ingredients, spoon out dollops onto food dehydrator trays.

3. Dry at 145 degrees F until crunchy, checking at regular intervals. A rough approximate drying time is 5 hours in high altitude. However, individual drying times will vary depending upon altitude and the food dehydrator.

4. Remove Maestro's Fun Bits from the food dehydrator, place in an airtight container and store in a cool, dark place, such as the pantry. When stored properly, homemade pet treats will keep for up to 30 days.

Alternatively, a conventional oven can be used to make this wholesome canine treat. According to Living Strong, it is recommended to "Set your oven's temperature control between 140 and 200 degrees F" to dehydrate food in a conventional oven.

More please!

Tips and Variations

Over-drying food is to be avoided. According to food dehydrator manufacturer Nesco, “Over-dried foods lose quality in texture, nutrition, and taste." To check for dryness, remove a piece of food and let it cool. Then test the degree of dryness with your fingers.

Dog owners can try any of these variations to Maestro's Fun Bits:

• Use puffed wheat or puffed rice instead of granola.

• Use another type of berry, such as raspberries, blueberries or strawberries.

• Add another type of fruit, such as chopped apples.

• Try apple or orange juice instead of maple syrup as a sweetener.

Finally, there are several things that dog owners should keep in mind when making dog food and homemade dog treats:

1. Make gradual dietary changes to avoid indigestion, stomach upset and diarrhea.

2. Owners should observe their dog carefully in case of an allergic reaction.

3. Variety ensures that a dog's nutritional needs are balanced.

Originally published on Suite101.com on September 17, 2011. All rights are reserved by Rhona-Mae Arca.

Cleaning with Nature's Miracle Pet Stain & Odor Remover

Nature's Miracle

Anyone with a dog or a cat knows that accidents happen. Nature's Miracle Stain & Odor Remover is one product that can help safely clean pet urine, pet feces and more.

If you have a pet, chances are, you've had to clean up an accident or two. Maestro doesn't get sick too often, but when he does, Nature's Miracle is a what I root through my cabinets for to clean up dog urine, feces or vomit.

A Look at the Products & Features of Nature's Miracle

Eight in One Pet Products claims that Nature's Miracle is a non-toxic spot and stain remover. The bottle also reads "non-flammable, non-acidic, safe on colours and on all water-safe surfaces."

The ingredient list is fairly short, comprising of only four easy-to-pronounce ingredients. There's water, nature's enzymes, isopropyl alcohol and natural citrus scent. Hmm, if there is anything "citrus" in the formula, then there's citric acid. At any rate, that's kid and pet friendly. "Nature's enzymes" sounds a little mysterious, but then, other products say variants on the same thing.

There's a light odor when you open the bottle. It's just the alcohol and the citrus scent.

Using Nature's Miracle

To remove odors and stains, first clean up the excess mess. One of my clients recommended using two table knives to scoop up pet vomit or feces, which works extremely well.

Then, soak the affected area thoroughly with undiluted solution. Let it sit for at least five minutes, then either wipe away the stain with a clean cloth or a brush.

Mainly, I use the brush to help the solution penetrate all the way to to the carpet pad and help remove the remaining mess. Generally, I place a paper towel on top of the stain to help absorb the excess and then allow the spot to air dry.

As with any stain remover, the tougher the stain, the longer the solution has to sit. Repeat the steps for really tough stains.

Pros and Cons of Nature's Miracle

A major benefit of Nature's Miracle is that it works on all organic stains. I've also used it to remove dirt, grass, food and blood stains (my cuts, not Maestro's). The manufacturers also claim that it works on grease, smoke and perspiration.

In my experience, this product successfully eliminates pet odors and stains on a variety of surfaces. I've used it to remove stains on carpets, upholstery and clothing.

As far as drawbacks or cons go, I have three. On some stains - the tough ones - the carpet feels a little crusty upon drying.

You do have to use quite a bit of solution when removing carpet stains. This can be pricey if you have to clean up messes often.

I wish retailers would regularly stock a wider selection of the sizes. However, that's not a product complaint but a retailer one.

There are other pet stain and odor removers out on the market. Four alternative products that are quite popular are: Woolite Pet Stain & Odor Remover, Pawsitively Clean by Bissels Eww Spring Morning Scented Dog Enzyme Stain & Odor Remover, Shout Pets Enzymatic Hard Surface Stain & Odor Remover Spray and Top Paw Linen Breeze Max Power Stain & Odor Remover.

Another non-toxic all-purpose cleaner is Norwex Carpet Stain Remover.One of music teacher colleagues told me, "We have two dogs and it does wonders."

Where to Buy Nature's Miracle

Nature's Miracle Stain & Odor Remover is available on Amazon in a variety of sizes, from quart-sized to gallon-sized. It ranges in price from $5.65 to $21.30 USD. In Canada, it retails between $11 to $36 CAD. My 947 ml bottle cost me $11.99 at Pet Planet.

Most local pet stores carry Nature's Miracle, although they tend to carry the larger sizes. Pet Valu, Pet Planet, PetSmart and Wal-Mart are some of the stores in Canada that sell Nature's Miracle.

Nature's Miracle - The Verdict

I've used Nature's Miracle since Maestro was a puppy. He's now a middle-aged dog. I have tried other stain removers, however, since the scent is light and there are no complicated chemicals, Nature's Miracle doesn't irritate my respiratory system like other pet stain and odor removers do.

It works on everything that I've used it on. However, don't just take my word for it. Nature's Miracle consistently appears on Amazon Best Sellers Pet Supplies, having spent 475 days in the Top 100. It's currently sitting in the Top 25.

Doggone Holidays - Unique Ideas for Dog-Friendly Vacations

I was quite surprised that this piece of mine fell victim to Suite101.com 's Great Purge. I had a blast writing this. There are just so many places to take Maestro to!

People love their pets. According to the Travel Industry Association of America, over 49% of Americans consider their pets to be full-fledged members of the family. In 2009, 18% of Americans took their pets on vacation with them.Businesses in the tourism industry are getting the hint. Some establishments offer packages for dogs and the people in their lives, such as activity camps and canoeing adventures; while one beach town has opened the majority of its doors to canine visitors.Outdoor Vacations for Adventurous Dogs and Their Families Camps are sprouting up with fun activities for dogs to enjoy with their entire family. These companies include classes such as agility, flyball, frisbee, rally obedience and swimming. In addition, these camps offer workshops and demonstrations for human family members on various topics, such as first aid for dogs, understanding your dog's body language and troubleshooting behavioral issues.

Canine Club Getaway on Roaring Brook Ranch (Lake George, NY), offers five-day getaways for the entire family. In addition to classes and demonstrations, they offer hikes, Barks and Crafts, a costume contest, Yappy Hour and doggie weddings.

In Chicago, IL, Camp Dogwood designs offers weekend and extended camps throughout the fall, winter and spring. Some of their unique classes include Training Secrets: Teach Your Dog to Do Anything, Dock Diving Workshop and their Rowdy Rover Workshop.

For active dogs and their humans, Dog Paddling Adventures in Richmond Hill, ON, offers exciting outdoor adventures year-round. They offer canoe trips in the summer and in the winter, they offer skijoring and kicksledding in trips. They run hikes in the spring and fall.

Luxurious Vacations for Pampered Dogs and Their Families

An increasing number of hotels, motels and bed and breakfast establishments welcome pets. They offer amenities for their canine guests, ranging from pet beds and water dishes to massages and special menus for the dog. Pet sitters can be arranged when owners want to do some sight-seeing or shopping without the dog.

Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale, AZ is one of four hotel resorts recommended by Modern Dog Magazine. Canine guests arrive to find treats, a water bowl and dog blanket in their room. Their goodie bag includes a leash, tennis ball, dog toy, MANKINDog wristband, waste bags and more treats. Hotel Valley Ho offers in-room doggie massages for their canine guests.

In Vancouver, BC, dogs and cats registered in the Palisades Pooch Program at the Pacific Palisades Hotel are welcomed in grand style. In the pet corner, visiting pets are listed on the hotel welcome board. Each canine and feline guest receives treats, water bowls and a special door sign to use when the pet does not want to be disturbed.

For families who want to include their dog on all aspects of their vacation, head to Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA. In "Carmel redefines dog-friendly vacations", Ann Tatko-Peterson states "It has 25 hotels, inns and bed-and-breakfasts welcome pets of all sizes, and 44 restaurants, bars and coffee houses that offer seating where dogs are permitted." Various art galleries, stores, city hall and even the Church of the Wayfarer welcome pets.

Families who consider their dog a full-fledged member of the family have a growing number of vacation spots that welcome and cater to these pampered pets, including activity camps, hotels and tourism sites. Pet owners should research traveling with their dog and handling pet travel anxiety before embarking on a dog-friendly vacation. It is best to make reservations in advance to ensure that the accommodations are prepared to receive all members of the family, furry and non-furry.

(c) Rhona-Mae Arca, 2010. All rights reserved.