Our Healthy Pets

Dr. Sarah, in this great video goes over many option for you when you are going away without your pets.
From the Life’s Abundance Pet June 2011 Newsletter

I have said it before that the Life’s Abundance Pet Product division has not one but TWO staff veterinarians who not only love animals but shares their knowledge and expertise with all of us.
In this video, Dr. Sarah goes over canine hypothyroidism and so many other factors!

We know the good news that pets are living longer. As with humans sometimes the aging process affects the brain.
In this incredible video Dr. Sarah Wooten explains the possibility why CDS (Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome)
may happen, what to do and more!

From the Life’s Abundance January 2011 Newsletter:

“Since the late 1970’s, there has been a significant increase in the prevalence of feline hyperthyroidism, making it the most common feline endocrine disorder in the world. What causes hyperthyroidism, and why is it so common? Previous studies of cats in the U.S., Great Britain and New Zealand have identified a number of risk factors for the development of hyperthyroidism, including genetic predispositions, the feeding of some canned cat foods and cross-breeding. Furthermore, some veterinarians believe feline hyperthyroidism is simply an outcome of cats living longer. But, if thyroid dysfunction is symptomatic of old age, why is it not more common in dogs, or people for that matter?”

“Veterinarians first noticed a dramatic surge in feline hyperthyroidism in the 1980’s. This rise coincided with the prevalent use of PBDE’s as a flame retardant in many products. A chemical flame retardant used widely in carpet pads, furniture, and electronics, PBDE (or, polybrominated dephenyl ethers) were researched in a recent EPA study that suggested that these chemicals may partly explain the current epidemic. PBDE’s linger in the environment, and cats ingest the substance in both foods and by licking their fur which retains house dust laced with toxic PBDE particles. Furthermore, studies have also shown a link between hyperthyroidism and BPA in the lining of many canned cat foods. Life’s Abundance is proud to inform our consumers that the lining in our canned foods is BPA-free.”

“An Environmental Science & Technology study reported in 2007 looked at whether hyperthyroid cats had greater body burdens of PBDE’s, and found that all cats have high levels compared to humans, with some cats with incredibly high levels (Dye et. al, 2007). The potential link between feline hyperthyroidism and PBDE exposure may be the veritable “canary in the coal mine” when it comes to evaluating the human health impacts of PBDE’s. People in the United States have the highest PBDE levels reported worldwide, according to a 2004 study also published in Environmental Science & Technology. By gaining a more complete understanding of chronic indoor PBDE exposure and its effects on thyroid hormone levels in cats, medical researchers can better assess whether the same risk exists for people. Researchers believe that further studies need to be performed before concluding a direct link between PBDE’s and feline hyperthyroidism.”

“There is good news, however. It isn’t necessary to rip up your carpet and throw out your furniture as these chemicals have been or are in the process of being banned in many states. And cats still live longer, healthier lives if they live primarily indoors, and the risk of being attacked by other animals or hit by a car while roaming outside is still much greater than the risk of developing hyperthyroidism from PBDE exposure.”

“What can you do if your cat has already been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism? What are the symptoms? In this video, Dr. Sarah reviews the signs of hyperthyroidism and treatments available. If you suspect your kitty has hyperthyroidism, schedule an appointment with your local veterinarian.”

Potera, C. Environews Forum. Chemical Exposure: Cats as Sentinel Species. Environ Health Perspect. 2007. Dec;115(12)A580.

Wakeling J, Everard A, Brodbelt D, Elliott J, Syme H. Risk factors for feline hyperthyroidism in the UK. J Small Anim Pract. 2009 Aug;50(8):406-14.

Joint and bone issues are an issue that is common among dogs and Dr. Sarah goes over symptoms that you may recognize and MAY NOT.

You know your dog so you know when something “isn’t right” with them.

Dr. Sarah always has wonderful tips and this video is no exception. New puppy? Tips on how to handle your puppy and certain breeds in the cold winter weather.

Dr. Sarah has given us an awesome video about one of the number one issues with our pets: SKIN AND COAT.
In the video she gives us so many tips as well as reasons why it is such an issue that veterinarians see most.

Dr. Sarah has become one of my favorites with Lifes Abundance as her videos have helped me and others learn so many wonderful things as well as instructional “how to’s”

We love sharing her latest video on how to clean your canine’s ears.

Dr. Jane always writes awesome and insightful articles.  Here is no exception:

Dr, Jane states:
“First, take her to your veterinarian for a full checkup. Your veterinarian will be able to determine how far along she is and if there are any health concerns. Second, provide complete and balanced nutrition. More than any other factor, nutrition will influence the health of mother and kittens. Cats are pregnant for approximately 8-9 weeks. Like humans, cats gain weight gradually throughout their pregnancy. By the end of her pregnancy, your cat should be eating 25-50% more than her normal amount.

To ensure that she is getting enough food, the free-feed method is advisable, but be sure to measure the amount you feed daily and provide fresh food each day. Feed a diet that is nutrient-dense like Life’s Abundance. Consider also feeding a high-quality canned food, to provide extra protein and water. Additionally, providing fresh, clean water is a must. You should not need to increase the amount you are feeding until the fifth or sixth week of pregnancy, and mother cats should not gain more than 15-25% of their body weight by the end of pregnancy. Remember, overweight cats can have a higher risk of difficulties during labor and delivery.” To read the complete article, please visit the Life’s Abundance Blog

As the blog owner and  parent to a cat, I feed and recommend Life’s Abundance premium cat food

So you think you have a pooch that isn’t acting like he or she should.  We advise always going to the vet to rule out any physical issue due to a medical condition.

From the Life’s Abundance August newsletter, this video below Dr. Sarah explains what some of those medical issues could be as well as some symptoms.