Why is Life's Abundance Not Found in Stores?

 

This is one of the questions that is asked most frequently! It is not enough to put great care into developing and making exceptional premium products. For us, it's also imperative to ensure that the customer receives the product in the same, premium condition they expect. Which leads us to why our products are not offered in chain stores or online retailers. Traditional distribution methods lack product control. For example, when a product leaves a manufacturer’s facility, it’s impossible to know if that product retained its original quality after sitting in warehouses and on shelves for months on end. We not only make premium products, but we also ensure that we DELIVER premium products directly to your doorstep! 

Our products are made in frequent batches and go directly from the manufacturer to our warehouses where they are carefully boxed and shipped to customers. This controlled distribution process allows us to deliver products in their original premium condition. You may have your own experiences that reflect this. Perhaps you opened a snack only to realize that it was stale right out of the wrapper. Or maybe the flavor was a little off, or the contents of the package were pulverized. These common scenarios are the result of a typical distribution channel where the product can be subjected to extreme temperatures, extended periods in storage, environments lacking pest control, and more. In the end, the consumer may be getting a very different product than what they’d hoped for. 

Because of our direct shipping relationship with consumers, combined with our controlled manufacturing process, we know which consumer received which product, down to the lot number. In the event there is ever an issue with a product, our proactive communications system allows us to reach 6,000 people by phone in just one hour! We can also reach them by email and through the mail.

Our no-worry notification system gives people the transparency they desire and helps boost confidence in their purchase decision. Another reflection of our purpose, this system is in place to protect consumers to the level we think they deserve. We view the traditional system of product recalls to be inherently broken. That is, unless the problem is big enough to have potentially harmed a large number of people, most consumers will never hear about a recall. Yet we have a solution to keep customers safe that we not only feel is acceptable, but that we take pride in. 

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Raven Hannah is a self-described animal whisperer, lifelong pet parent, and owner of HolisticPetsAndPeeps.com & TheGiftedPet.com. She is certified as a holistic consultant, aromatherapist, Reiki practitioner (for animals and people), and pet nutritionist. She encourages others to celebrate animals as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled! When Raven isn’t busy being a slave to her very demanding senior cats or helping her favorite rescues with fundraising projects, she is most likely working on growing her businesses and raising awareness in an effort to make this world a better place for all creatures.

Here's Why Cats Cannot Be Vegan!

Many pet parents have adopted a vegan or vegetarian lifestyles for health, environmental, and ethical reasons. Naturally, some cat parents wonder if they should also be buying vegan cat food for their furry family member. So, can cats be vegan? The answer is no! Here's why your cat requires meat in his or her diet.

Your Cat is an Obligate Carnivore

A vegan or vegetarian diet simply cannot provide all of the nutrients that your cat needs. In fact, these specific nutrients can only be supplied through the ingestion of animal meat. Why? 

Cats Don't Produce Enough Taurine

Unlike many species (including humans and dogs), cats can’t synthesize the essential amino acid taurine. Without enough taurine in their diet, cats are likely to develop a heart condition known as dilated cardiomyopathy, experience vision problems, contract UTIs and have other health issues. Cats must ingest taurine through their diet, which can only be found in animal sources ~ hence the term obligate carnivore. Plant sources simply do not provide this amino acid. 

Not All Proteins Are Created Equal

Cats also require a high-protein diet. While human vegetarians are able to substitute protein sources such as beans and lentils for animal meat, this isn’t possible for felines. It again comes back to those amino acids, which differ depending on the type of protein. Besides taurine, other essential nutrients for cats include vitamin D, vitamin A, and arachidonic acid ~ all readily found in high-protein animal sources.

What About Vegan Cat Food?

Now that we know how important animal protein is for your cat’s diet, you may be wondering what ingredients are substituted in vegan cat food. The truth is, most vegan or vegetarian cat food has not passed feeding trials by AAFCO, the Association of American Feed Control Officials. AAFCO works with the FDA (Center of Veterinary Medicine) and state governments to recognize the state laws that regulate commerce in animal feed and pet food. 

Vegan cat food that is AAFCO-compliant primarily contains ingredients such as oats and plant proteins (often corn and peas), as well as synthetic versions of essential nutrients (taurine, vitamin D, etc.).

It’s important to note that because your cat is an obligate carnivore, he can’t digest plant material very well. His gastrointestinal tract and metabolism have adapted to eating meat.

The addition of synthetic ingredients may strike you as problematic, as it does many veterinarians. Another problematic aspect of vegetarian and vegan cat food? It’s often high in carbohydrates, which are generally unnecessary for cats and may cause digestive issues.

Work With Your Veterinarian

If you are dead set on buying vegan cat food, work with your vet to make sure your cat stays healthy. Dr. Armaiti May, DVM, CVA suggests having your vet track your cat’s overall health through blood work and urine content, as well as cardiac ultrasounds and retinal evaluations. 

Can Dogs Be Vegan?

Dogs are naturally omnivores, meaning they can get nutrients from both plants and meat. And unlike cats, dogs can synthesize their own taurine, which makes them a candidate for vegan or vegetarian diets. Although challenging, it is possible to transition your canine to a plant-based diet. Make sure you purchase AAFCO-compliant dog food and work with your vet to track your dog’s health. 

As a longtime vegan myself, I agonized over what to feed my cats and dogs for many years. There were many sleepless nights and tortured days, feelings of immense guilt and shame, as well as a lot of experimentation, trial and error, and the expense (and wastefulness) of trying to find an appropriate vegan cat food that wouldn't jeopardize their health AND that they would actually eat! Dogs are much easier since they are omnivores but cats . . . much trickier for those of us dedicated to living a vegan lifestyle and wrestling with the scientific facts of what cats require nutritionally. 

I realized that I had to find a way to make peace with my decision so I went with a smaller company whose holistic vet formulator cared enough to address my concerns personally and discussed the health impacts of trying to force my cats to also be vegan. It wasn't an easy process, however, it was necessary. 

I truly hope that all pet parents, vegan or not, will consider feeding your pets our award-winning, never recalled, holistically formulated pet food, treats, and supplements from Life's Abundance. 

For more information or to make a purchase, be sure to visit:

www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com

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Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her online specialty pet boutiques (www.TheGiftedPet.com & www.PamperedPetEssentials.com), and premium pet food business (www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

She is an enthusiastic advocate for animal rights, including wildlife & nature and likes to dabble in creative projects such as photography, digital art, custom greeting cards and more!

Raven is also dedicated to helping pet parents and other humans stay happy, healthy, and balanced with her 100% therapeutic-grade essential oils, oil-infused nutritional supplements, and oil-related lifestyle enhancements via Holistic Oils For Pets & Peeps! (www.HolisticOilsForPetsAndPeeps.com)

For more information, please use the Contact Me! page on this blog or visit her Facebook page to PM her www.facebook.com/HolisticPetsNPeeps

NEW! HolistaPet CBD Oil For Dogs, Cats & Horses!

http://bit.ly/HolistaPetCBD

NEW to the Holistic Pets & Peeps family of holistic remedies for pets . . .

HolistaPet CBD Oil For Dogs, Cats & Horses ~ Potential Benefits of CBD for Pets


What is HolistaPet CBD Oil? ~ Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the most highly researched compounds found in the industrial hemp plant (Cannabis Sativa). This natural occurring cannabinoid is gaining more popularity over the past few years because of its potential benefits. Our CBD Oil For Dogs and our delicious CBD dog treats contain NO THC, are non-psychoactive and will NOT get your pet “High”.

HolistaPet believes that your pet’s health and comfort should always come first. They are dedicated to providing natural remedies to reduce your pet’s pain or discomfort without all the side effects of traditional prescription drugs. All products have been crafted to help aid in the relief of pain, inflammation, arthritis, digestive issues, allergies, skin problems, seizures, nausea, cancer, tumors, anxiety, and phobias. They wholeheartedly believe that consuming natural occurring superfoods can help lower the risk of certain illnesses and promote overall health and wellness while also encouraging a healthy appetite.

HolistaPet was founded by a group of health-conscious enthusiasts with over 25 years of combined experience in the organic food industry. They’ve been able to partner up with hemp farms in Colorado to produce some of the highest grade CBD pet products available on the market. 

As a result, they came out with a unique line of organic, plant-based CBD pet products. Their products contain only the best organic vegan ingredients. They are cruelty-free, non-GMO, gluten-free and dairy-free. They use only pure wholesome ingredients, no artificial flavors or colors.



CBD Oil for Dogs & Cats ~ Potential Uses ~ Research has shown that CBD may act as an anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, antiemetic, antioxidant, anxiolytic and antipsychotic agent. Therefore many of our customers are sharing their experience with CBD as a potential aid for many ailments including ~ pain & inflammation, nausea, stress & anxiety, skin conditions & allergies, and more. 

Potential Benefits of CBD Oil for Horses ~ Cannabidiol (CBD) is produced naturally by the hemp plant. Recent studies have found how CBD works with your horse’s endocannabinoid system to potentially help improve overall health.

CBD oil is a great way to ensure your horse receives a proper daily nutrition balance. Veterinarians nationwide are recommending HolistaPet CBD as the top holistic choice for helping promote a healthy life for your four-legged friend.

Find out more on the potential benefits of CBD and place your order here:

http://bit.ly/HolistaPetCBD

Questions? Please feel free to use the Contact Me! form on this page!!

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Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her online specialty pet boutiques (www.TheGiftedPet.com & www.PamperedPetEssentials.com), and premium pet food business (www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

She is an enthusiastic advocate for animal rights, including wildlife & nature and likes to dabble in creative projects such as photography, digital art, custom greeting cards and more!

Raven is also dedicated to helping pet parents and other humans stay happy, healthy, and balanced with her 100% therapeutic-grade essential oils, oil-infused nutritional supplements, and oil-related lifestyle enhancements via Holistic Oils For Pets & Peeps! (www.HolisticOilsForPetsAndPeeps.com)

For more information, please use the Contact Me! page on this blog or visit her Facebook page to PM her www.facebook.com/HolisticPetsNPeeps

Four Common Skin Problems in Dogs

Skin problems are some of the most common complaints in veterinary medicine, right up there in the top three. Surprised? It shouldn’t be too shocking when you consider that the skin is the body’s largest organ, one subjected daily to the elements. And for dogs, skin is one of the organs most frequently affected by allergies. With well over 100 different causes of canine skin problems, it can be hard to sort out why your dog is red or itchy. So, how do you even begin to understand why your pup is scratching? Easy … you start with the basics. Today, we’ll take a look at the most common skin problems veterinarians see at the clinic.

In order to understand skin disease in dogs, we need to know the difference between symptoms and causes. The cause of skin disease is the underlying condition that predisposes a canine to the problem, such as a surface infection or something more serious, like endocrine disease. The symptoms are the outward physical manifestation of those causes. Common symptoms include itchiness, hot spots, hair loss, and scaly skin. Pet parents often feel frustrated when they very carefully and completely describe a set of symptoms but their vet can’t definitively determine the source of the problem. That’s because for every itchy dog, there are many experiencing multiple causes! Getting to the root cause of a symptom is the only way your vet can provide complete diagnosis, and hopefully provide your pooch with some relief.

The most common causes of skin disease fall into four distinct categories: infection, parasites, endocrine and allergic disease. While this is not an exhaustive list, these categories account for the vast majority of problems.

1. Infections: Multiple organisms can take root and cause disease in the skin. Vets see bacterial infections such as Staphylococcus, yeast such as Malassezia, and fungus such as Dermatophytosis (which causes ringworm). These infections can cause a variety of symptoms such as hair loss, itchiness or redness. In order to determine the cause, your veterinarian often needs to look at a sample of skin cells under the microscope or send hair to culture. It is very important to know which organism is causing the infection to minimize time to resolution and make the patient comfortable as quickly as possible. Guesswork just doesn’t cut it very well! The right treatment makes all the difference.

2. Parasites: You only signed up for one dog, not the hundreds of bonus fleas or mites they can sometimes bring in. In addition to being gross, parasites can transmit infection to our companion animals (and sometimes to us), possibly leading to irritation and secondary infections when the itchiness becomes unbearable and dogs start chewing away at their skin. Some of the most common skin parasites are mange mites, fleas, and ticks. The good news is, once your vet identifies the parasite, treatment options are pretty straightforward and will eliminate the problem.

3. Allergies: Lick, lick, lick, chew, chew, chew. If you’ve ever been woken up at 2 a.m. by the incessant sounds of a dog attacking his own skin, you know just how affected pets can be by the intense itching of allergies. In dogs, allergies fall into three major categories: flea, food, and atopy (environmental allergies). Those three distinct causes all look very similar from the outside so it can take some solid detective work and diagnostics to definitively name the culprit. While time-consuming, it’s obviously well worth it! Because allergic disease is a chronic condition, it’s one that we must manage rather than cure. The more specific is in their knowledge of the cause, the better they can manage the problem over the long term.

4. Endocrine: Disorders of the endocrine system can manifest in the skin in a variety of ways. Hypothyroid dogs may have thickened, greasy skin, while canines suffering from Cushings may have a distinctive pattern of hair loss on the trunk. While these skin symptoms are secondary to the main disease process, they offer important clues as to what’s really going on.

So, what can we as pet parents do to avoid doggie skin problems? Causes such as parasites are fully preventable with the right medicines, but allergies can be very difficult to prevent. You can, however, work on maintaining the health of the skin by giving your pet proper nutrition, and by adding essential fatty acids through skin-and-coat supplements. Perhaps the best first line of defense is by using dog-appropriate shampoos and conditioners that don’t strip the oils from the skin with harsh chemicals.

Life’s Abundance takes canine skin and coat health seriously. The first time you use Revitalizing Shampoo, you may already notice a change in your dog’s appearance after the first bath. Thanks to its unique formula, coats will be shinier and fuller, with less dander and no more “doggie smell”. With moisture-activated odor neutralizers, our shampoo features antioxidants and organic herbal extracts that penetrate into the hair shaft and promote coat health. Also included are kiwi and mango essences, selected because they too enhance the health of the skin, as well as leaving your dog’s coat smelling clean and fresh. 

Unless otherwise instructed by your veterinarian, you should not bathe your dog more than once every 2-3 weeks. If your dog’s coat could do with some freshening in between baths, use Bath Fresh Mist to neutralize odors and condition the skin and coat. And it’s so easy to use … simply spray and brush into in the coat. You will love the aroma and your dog will enjoy being pampered!

Nothing is lovelier than petting a dog with a beautiful, soft coat and healthy skin. With vigilance, premium nutrition, and regular veterinary care, your dog can have the skin of a movie star! And, perhaps best of all, your pooch will enjoy the sweet, sweet relief of life free from itching.

Not yet a part of the Life's Abundance family?! Get shopping for your furkids here:

www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com

Essential Nutrition 101 ~ Sulfurzyme® Powder & Capsules for Health & Healing (Animals & People!)

Sulfurzyme® combines wolfberry with MSM, a naturally occurring organic form of dietary sulfur needed by our bodies every day to maintain the structure of proteins, protect cells and cell membranes, replenish the connections between cells, and preserve the molecular framework of connective tissue. MSM also supports the immune system, the liver, circulation, and proper intestinal function and works to scavenge free radicals. Wolfberries contain minerals and coenzymes that support the assimilation and metabolism of sulfur. FOS is added to this formula to support normal digestive system health.

Sulfurzyme® is a source of MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) which is a natural anti-inflammatory and vital nutrient for body function. Joined with NingXia Wolfberry, this product far surpasses any other MSM product on the market and appears to have much greater bioavailability from the combination.  Both the capsule and the powder form can be used in all animals. Sulfurzyme® is incredibly helpful in cases of arthritis, all forms of skin conditions, autoimmune diseases, healing of wounds, reductions of scar tissue, and just general cell structure and function. There are not many conditions that are not benefited by Sulfurzyme®.  Both the opened capsule and powder form can be mixed into foods, and even cats easily ingest it in this way. It is very difficult to give too much of this product, and if you did, you would likely only see softened stools. One capsule of Sulfurzyme® contains approximately 1/4 teaspoon of the powder. 

Birds & Exotics:  Start with a small sprinkling into foods, and gradually increase as needed. Approximately 1/4 to 1/2 of a capsule is generally consumed per day. More can certainly be used in cases of need.

Cats:  Gradually increase to 1/4 to 1 capsule per day. More can be used when needed.

Dogs:  Small dogs up to 20 pounds (9 kg) will generally get between 1 capsule once or twice a day, to 1 1/2 teaspoons per day.  Medium dogs 20-50 pounds (9 - 23 kg) will generally get between 1 capsule twice a day, to 1 heaping teaspoon per day. Large dogs over 50 pounds (23 kg) will generally get between 2 capsules twice a day, to 1 tablespoon per day. Daily amounts are split into multiple doses to be given throughout the day, and larger amounts can be used, if necessary.

Large Animals:  Up to 1 heaping tablespoon can be given twice a day in cases of need (especially in autoimmune conditions).

Should you wish to get started with your own oils and products, we recommend that you enroll as a wholesale member in Young Living by purchasing the Premium Starter Kit, which gives you the Everyday Oils (including Joy & Valor), a bonus oil called Stress Away, a Home Diffuser, as well as samples to try or share. This is an excellent investment in your health, as well as the health of your animals. 

You also have the option of joining as a Retail Member, as opposed to a Wholesale Member, so it is completely up to you. There are also options for monthly Essential Rewards orders, which earn you points that you can spend on additional products, as well as promotional items every month that you can earn for free, just by shopping for what you already need. 

Please ask us for additional information, or you may learn more by logging on to:

www.HolisticOilsForPetsAndPeeps.com

Thank you for joining us on this wonderfully holistic journey. We are truly grateful to have you here with us and look forward to helping you any way we can! ♥

Become a Wholesale Member (Sponsor / Enroller #1797711) 

with  ANY Premium Starter Kit and receive an Essential Oils 

Pocket Reference Guide (Sixth Edition) and an Essential Oils & Pets 

booklet as our way of saying thank you for choosing holistic 

essential oil products for your animals! 

www.HolisticOilsForPetsAndPeeps.com

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Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets (and ALL animals) as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her Holistic Healing, Animal Intuition, Aromatherapy, Animal Reiki (www.HolisticPetsAndPeeps.com), as well as her premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/HolisticPetsNPeeps), or email her at HolisticPetsAndPeeps@gmail.com.

Effects of Aging on Canine Cognition

Dr. Jessica Vogelsang takes an in-depth look at how canine cognition changes as dogs age and provides tips to help keep them healthy for many years to come!

I can’t tell you how often I ask pet parents about their senior dog and the response is “okay, but … I guess he’s just getting old.” I love this conversation opener because it tells me two things. One, the pet parent is paying enough attention to know something has changed, even if they don’t think it’s anything to be concerned about. Two, there’s probably something I can do to help!

All living things grow old. The aging process is complicated and messy, encompassing a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Some we can control, others we can slow down, and the remainder we just manage the best we can. The good news is, there’s almost always something we can do to make a companion animal feel better.

When we think about what it means to be old, most of us jump to the most obvious complaint of age … aches and pains. The body stiffens, the joints dry out, the discs in our spines shrivel up, and we end up shuffling around like Carl from the movie Up. Almost all senior dogs develop symptoms of osteoarthritis, which is one of the reasons I recommend joint supplements for seniors. If a pet parent says, “He won’t climb the stairs anymore,” or, “He doesn’t want to go for long walks,” then I know we’re likely dealing with pain.

But what about cognitive dysfunction, the age-related decline in neurologic function? Referred to as “canine cognitive dysfunction” in veterinary medicine, some laypeople call it “doggie Alzheimer’s”. While the symptoms can be similar to what humans experience, it’s not exactly the same thing.

Unfortunately, cognitive decline is quite common in senior dogs. More than half of all dogs over the age of 11 show at least one clinical sign. Since we don’t know for certain all the biological changes that occur in an aging brain, we describe canine cognitive dysfunction as a collection of symptoms:

• Disorientation
• Changes in activity level
• Changes in sleep/wake cycle (e.g., wandering around in the middle of the night)
• House-soiling
• Anxiety
• No longer adhering to an established routine

For many years, we simply accepted this condition as a price for living a long life. However, we’re learning that there are ways we can actually decelerate cognitive decline in dogs.

One way veterinarians manage cognitive dysfunction in dogs is through medications. Certain drugs that increase the amount of the neurotransmitter dopamine may improve brain function. In fact, the same drug used by dogs can also be used to treat Parkinson’s!

The other way we manage cognitive decline is through the nutrition and personal attention we provide our dogs. New and exciting research is showing that certain types of antioxidants and dietary ingredients can positively impact the brain function of senior pets! I love this because these are safe, easy changes we can use to improve the aging process for all our senior friends:

1. Feed a diet rich in antioxidants. Free radicals in the body accelerate the aging process. Antioxidants, such as those found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, can be added to a dog’s diet to limit the free-radical damage. Several studies have shown that seniors who eat a diet rich in antioxidants exhibit clinical improvement in cognitive function within just a few weeks.

2. Exercise the brain. Keep your pet’s neurons working through lots of daily playtime, walks, and puzzles. We joke that the brain is a muscle; it’s not, of course, but like a muscle, it does benefit from regular workouts!

3. Fatty acids. We all know essential fatty acids are good for the skin and coat, but there’s also increasing evidence that a subset of fatty acids called medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) serve as a preferred energy source for the brain and can actually improve mental sharpness.

If your dog is getting a little gray around the muzzle, don’t accept “he’s just getting old” as a fact of life. Yes, we all age, but we can do it better by taking steps to preserve health and quality of life.

All the best to you and your lovable, aging dogs!

For more information on feeding your dogs (and cats!) a healthy, premium line of pet food and treats, please use the Contact Me page or visit www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com!

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Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets (and ALL animals) as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her Holistic Healing, Animal Intuition, Aromatherapy, Animal Reiki (www.HolisticPetsAndPeeps.com & www.HealingOilsForAnimals.com), as well as her premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/HolisticPetsNPeeps), or email her at HolisticPetsAndPeeps@gmail.com.

5 Meds That Are Toxic to Pets

As a lifelong pet parent, I'm always cognizant of keeping anything even remotely upsetting to little pet tums (and their overall well-being) out of reach. That includes toxic foods, medicine, plants, and anything that they may decide is a new toy. 

Most of us should be aware that chocolate and grapes can be toxic for pets, but potential threats can lurk elsewhere in your home. Prescription and over-the-counter medications are among the top reasons people call into poison control hotlines for both kids and pets, and with good reason. Here are the top five medications of concern when it comes to pets and toxicity:

1. Ibuprofen. As the active ingredient in common over-the-counter products such as Advil and Motrin, ibuprofen is unfortunately ingested by pets both accidentally and intentionally by owners unaware of its potential side effects. Cats are particularly sensitive to its effects. The most common clinical sign is vomiting or gastrointestinal ulcers, though it can also lead to kidney damage. Other NSAIDS such as Aleve can also be problematic.

2. Acetaminophen. Speaking of pain medications, acetaminophen-containing products such as Tylenol are also high on the list of pet poisons. Like ibuprofen, cats are particularly sensitive to the effects of this medication, and one pill is enough to kill a cat. Both cats and dogs can experience liver damage as a result of this medication, starting with decreased appetite and leading to yellow skin (a sign of jaundice), swollen paws or difficulty breathing. Acetaminophen is a common ingredient in combination products like cough and flu remedies, so be careful to read the label on your products!

3. Stimulants. ADHD medications such as Adderall and Ritalin can be toxic to companion animals. Sadly, they are more likely to be ingested by pets as they are often prescribed for children who may be less vigilant about keeping the pills out of the reach of the household dogs and cats. Signs of ingestion may include dilated pupils, seizures, shaking or hyperactivity.

4. Antidepressants. Antidepressants fall into several categories depending on their mechanism of action. In the most commonly prescribed medications (such as Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft, and Effexor) work by increasing the concentration of neurotransmitters in the brain. When overdosed, the brain can be flooded with these chemicals and pets can experience a variety of symptoms such as depression, hyperexcitability, seizures, and vomiting.

5. Vitamin D. As doctors are starting to diagnose Vitamin D deficiency more often, this is a common supplement in people’s medicine cabinets. When there is too much in the body, blood calcium levels also rise, resulting in serious damage to the kidneys. It is so effective at causing damage that it's commonly used in rat poisons such as d-Con. Vitamin D might appear on rodenticide labels as “cholecalciferol,” and should be avoided.

There’s no time like the present to ensure any of these items in your house are safely secured away from prying pet paws. If you suspect your dog or cat has ingested any of these harmful substances, call your veterinarian or a pet poison control helpline ASAP!

~ Pet Poison Helpline ~ www.PetPoisonHelpline.com  

($59 incident fee applies)

~ ASPCA Animal Poison Control ~ https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

(A $65 consultation fee may be applied to your credit card)

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Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets (and ALL animals) as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her Holistic Healing, Animal Intuition, Aromatherapy, Animal Reiki (www.HolisticPetsAndPeeps.com & www.HealingOilsForAnimals.com), as well as her premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/HolisticPetsNPeeps), or email her at HolisticPetsAndPeeps@gmail.com.

Make Your Dog Happier by Thinking Like One

Most people who have a dog love their dog. Unfortunately, sometimes that love falls short of actual empathy. For example, many of the "problem dog behaviors" that people complain about aren't really your dog's fault. If someone you know keeps getting "bad dogs," chances are that the dogs aren't the source of the problem. By showing your pup a bit of empathy by viewing recurring issues from their perspective - both physically and mentally - you will develop a deeper appreciation and love for your furry companion. And that translates into a happier dog ... and a happier you!

Dogs are so much more than most people know. Like humans, dogs produce Oxytocin, which allows both species to experience love and affection. Canines also have highly evolved limbic systems - more advanced than the majority of other species and comparable to humans ~ which enables them to experience a range of higher emotions, including an appreciation for beauty and something akin to religious ecstasy. If you've ever caught your dog gazing at a sunset or drinking in the beauty of nature, such meditative moments are caused by flares of limbic activity. 

The most important point about dogs is that they are pack members. This is one of those facts that everyone knows but hardly anyone ever considers when trying to understand canine behavior. Imagine how confusing it is for animals with a genetic predisposition towards a pack mentality when you ~ the de facto leader of the pack ~ don't exhibit pack behavior!

Your dog's socialization instincts are very strong. Pack hierarchy was established millions of years before domestication (search for "Tomarctus," "Miacid" and "Cynodictis" for more details about the ancient progenitors of modern dogs). Humans and dogs began living together starting around 30,000 BC so there's a long history behind the "man's best friend" descriptor. Because you provide food, shelter, affection and fun, you are the de facto leader of the pack. That's why it's so vital for you to understand how this should inform your interactions with your pup! To get you started on this journey of understanding, here are three examples that frequently crop up for pet parents.

He Stares at Me Every Time I Eat!

From pitiful, longing looks to grumpy growl grumbling, dogs all over the world appear to be begging to eat the food on your plate, much to our annoyance. While he may find the smell of your food super appealing, that's not the primary take-away from this behavior. So, what is he trying to communicate? Let's put on our "pack mentality glasses." As social creatures, dogs view mealtime as a social event. As top dog, you are responsible for fairness at mealtime. But when you ~ and other human family members ~ partake, your dog feels left out. Punished even. So, in a sense, they are begging ... only they're begging for inclusion. If at mealtime, you provide them food or a healthy treat, then suddenly your dog not only feels included, they also no longer feel ostracized. Try it for yourself and see if everyone isn't happier!

She's Just Scared of Everything!

Again, dogs are sensitive social animals. Recent MRI studies show that dogs are capable of complex emotions and reading the emotional state of their caregivers. When people express anger or annoyance ~ whether it's at the news, a bad day at work or problems with a spouse or partner ~ dogs are highly attuned to that. Frustration on your part over skittishness or anxiety will likely only exacerbate these very issues. Whether you realize it or not, you're setting the tone for everyone else in your home. If you're quick to snap, your dogs will be anxious. For the well-being of your pack, be careful about the emotions you project.

He Keeps Chewing Up My Shoes!

This one is so common, it's hard to find someone who hasn't experienced the heartbreak of losing a favorite pair of shoes. Sadly, many feel their dog was being vindictive and dole out a harsh punishment. First of all, canine memory works differently than it does for us. Shaking a slobbery, mangled shoe at your pup is really going to baffle them, especially if it's been more than 20 minutes since it was destroyed. So, what are dogs trying to tell you when they chew up your shoes? This question is answered best with another question: what is the last thing you do before you leave the house for an extended period of time? You put on your shoes, right! Your dog believes ~ with evidence gathered basically every day ~ that destroying your shoes will prevent you from leaving the house (i.e., the pack). He's really not being a jerk, he's just trying to keep you where you belong ... with him! To avoid this happening, simply protect your footwear with a dog gate.

There you have it. Three simple examples of "problem behavior" that can be understood in a completely new way that's more charitable to your dog. Just remember that you're the leader here and your dog looks to you (often lovingly) for reassurance, consideration, and safety.

Do You Know What's In Your Pet's Food?

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Raven is an engaging entrepreneur who encourages others to celebrate pets (and ALL animals) as part of the family, as well as keep them happy, healthy, and spoiled with her Holistic Healing, Animal Intuition, Aromatherapy, Animal Reiki (www.HolisticPetsAndPeeps.com & www.HealingOilsForAnimals.com), as well as her premium pet food business (http://www.PremiumPetFoodStore.com)

For more information, please visit her Facebook page to PM her (https://www.facebook.com/HolisticPetsNPeeps), or email her at HolisticPetsAndPeeps@gmail.com.