Your Dog's Nutrition is Important
By: Dr. Jane Bicks
According to holistic veterinarian Dr. Jane Bicks, the maximum
life span of dogs is estimated to be around 25 to 30 years. Yet
the average dog generally lives no longer than about 13 to 14
years. She says that this deficit is due largely to poor nutrition.
For example, canned food is about 75 to 78 percent moisture,
which leaves very little room for nutrition. In addition to
containing what is generally considered the bottom of the barrel
ingredients in terms of nutritional density, most conventional
dog food products contain especially large amounts of sodium to
make them palatable, as well as dairy, by-products, chemical
preservatives, artificial colors and other potentially harmful
ingredients.
The carbohydrate ratio is too high in some dog food
brands as well, eventually leading to obesity, which is
increasingly becoming a serious problem with dogs. In fact,
obesity is one of the greatest health concerns facing our dogs;
it can cause unnecessary suffering and a shortened lifespan.
Another problem, according to the USDA Agricultural service, is
that mites often get into dog food pellets, which can cause a
number of problems such as disease. They recommend keeping dog
food cool and dry, and vacuuming in the places where the food is
stored the food is stored a least once a week. In addition keep
the area around the dish where the dog food is served clean. Also,
do not leave any dog food in your pet's bowl on warm, humid days.
It should be noted that harder working dogs require more protein
and fat in their diet to maintain stamina and good body form. A
dog food that is complete and balanced and includes at least 26
percent protein and 1650 kilocalories of metabolizable energy per
pound is ideal. During the seasons when dogs are not working,
their energy requirements decrease. Feed less of the high calorie
food or change to a less nutrient-dense dog food.
Dr. Jane Bicks has been honored on many occasions by the
veterinary profession and is the author of several books
including 'Thirty days to a Healthier, Happier Dog' and 'Dr.
Jane's Natural Guide to a Healthier, Happier Dog'. She has been
involved in many advisory boards including Canine Companions for
independence and has served as the President of the Veterinary
Medical association of New York City.
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