The Benefits of Grain Free Dog Food

Amy Tokic
by Amy Tokic
Updated:  September 29th, 2022

Figuring out the right diet for your pet’s needs is no easy feat – there are so many options out there and it can be difficult to narrow down the choices to food that will actually nourish your pet’s body. Things get even more complicated for pets with sensitive stomachs or food sensitivities, but there are always alternatives that will cater to your pet’s unique nutritional requirements, such as grain-free food – ideal for dogs who that experience gastrointestinal upset when eating anything that contains grains.

Why Some Dog Foods Have Grain


If you look at the ingredient lists of most dog foods, you’ll notice that a great deal of them contain grains, some of them even listing grains as their first or second ingredient. But do dogs really thrive when fed grain-rich foods? The answer is not completely black or white. While carbohydrates are essential for dogs and need to be a staple of a canine’s nutrition, there are some key aspects to be considered. First, the carbs should come from complex sources such as barley, whole oats, brown rice, whole wheat, whole corn, and sweet potato, to balance blood glucose levels and sustainably support your pet’s energy levels throughout the day. Secondly, carbs, while important, shouldn’t make up for such a huge chunk of your pet’s diet – protein should always be the primary ingredient in dog food.

 

Pros and Cons of Grains in Dog Food: How Grains Affect Your Pet’s Health 

While some grains are not inherently bad for dogs, the way they are used in dog food recipes may be far from ideal for their nutrition. Often highly processed, added in larger quantities than they should, and nutritionally poor. For example, grains in pet food may trigger certain dogs' food sensitivities. Even if your pet is not allergic to grains (which would most definitely cause symptoms ranging from diarrhea to hives and skin itchiness), they might have a delicate tummy that can be irritated by the cheap grain fillers in their food, causing an upset stomach, gassiness, or vomiting.

 

However, grains are an important part of a dog’s diet – they provide carbohydrates and fiber and ensure that their nutrition is complete and balanced. A way to reap these benefits without exposing your pet to the potential downsides of grains is to opt for other sources of complex carbs and fibers, such as sweet potato, quinoa, or ancestral grains. Grain-free dog food often includes one or more sources of complex carbs, both to ensure that all the essential nutrients are present in the recipe when grains are excluded from it, as well as to introduce important vitamins and minerals your pet needs. 


Is Grain-Free Food the Right Choice for Your Dog?


If your pet’s tummy is irritated when eating foods that are full of grains, a grain-free formula could be what they need for healthier digestion and other health benefits, such as itch-free skin and a shinier coat. Of course, that doesn’t mean that any type of grain-free food will do – not all of them are formulated to support your pet’s overall health.

One of our favorite choices is Nature's Recipe grain-free dog food, which offers a tried-and-true formula with over 35 years of experience behind it, crafted with purposeful, natural ingredients tailored to suit your pet’s nutritional needs. It is made with real meat, either chicken or fish, and mixed with healthy veggies and wholesome sources of carbs and fiber, such as sweet potato and pumpkin. Needless to say, all of their formulas are free from corn and wheat, contain no artificial preservatives or flavors, and no poultry by-product meal. Nature’s Recipe provides a clean, complete formula that needs no grains to maintain your pet’s good health.



Feature Image by otsphoto/Shutterstock.com

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Amy Tokic
Amy Tokic

Amy Tokic, Editor of PetGuide.com, is a passionate animal lover and proud pet parent of Oscar, a Shih Tzu/Chihuahua cross, and Zed, a Japanese Chin. Her love of animals began in kindergarten, when she brought her stuffed dog Snoopy into class with her every day. Now, she writes about her adventures in pet ownership and tirelessly researches products, news and health related issues she can share with other animal enthusiasts. In her free time, Amy loves perusing used book and record stores, obsessing over the latest pet products available and chasing squirrels with wild abandon (a habit attributed to spending too much time with her pooches).

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Benefits Of A Grain-Free Diet For Your Dog

Is a grain-free diet right for your dog? Here’s how to tell if you should go against the grain and make a switch. A grain-free diet for dogs is very much in vogue right now. However, it might not the cure-all that some people are claiming it is. While some dogs thrive on a grain-free diet, it’s not inherently healthier than a diet that does include grains. Every dog is an individual, so what’s best for one dog might not be good for others. That being said, it’s worth exploring the supposed benefits of a grain-free diet and whether this kind of food might be more suitable for your pooch. Related: Grain-Free Coconut and Banana Dog Treat Recipe What Are the Supposed Benefits of a Grain-Free Diet? Advocates of a grain-free diet for dogs cite a long list of benefits. It’s worth noting that these benefits haven’t been scientifically proven, so take them with a grain of salt. Reputed benefits include: Fewer allergiesImproved digestionBetter breathIncreased energyHealthier coatLess sheddingDecreased weight in overweight dogsFewer/smaller stools Do Some Dogs Benefit From a Grain-Free Diet? Some dogs definitely benefit from a grain-free diet. Those dogs who do see a vast improvement in their health after switching to a grain-free diet are likely to be those dogs who are allergic or intolerant to one or more grain. Grains such as gluten and corn are fairly common allergens, so if a dog did have an undiagnosed intolerance or allergy to one of these ingredients, then he would certainly be better off following a grain-free diet. Related: How To Choose the Best Dog Food For Your Dog Do All Dogs Benefit From a Grain-Free Diet? No, not every dog is better off on a grain-free diet. The gluten in wheat and other grains is actually a great source of protein. While some advocates of a grain-free diet claim that dogs aren’t biologically designed to eat grains, this simply isn’t true. Although dogs are descended from carnivorous wolves, scientists have identified 10 key points that show domesticated dogs are better able to consume and digest starch and fat in comparison to the wolf. In fact, it’s hypothesized that early ancestors of present-day dogs ate wheat and other crops discarded by early farmers. What’s more, a grain-free diet tends to be much higher in protein and may actually be unsuitable for senior dogs and dogs with certain medical conditions. The Quality Issue There’s one key reason why many dog owners might see improvement in their dog’s health after switching to a grain-free diet, and it’s nothing to do with grains. The majority of grain-free dog food is made by premium brands and contains high-quality ingredients. If a dog owner has switched their pooch from a basic- or low-quality food to a high-quality, grain-free food, the health improvements probably have much more to with the improved quality of the ingredients than the absence of grain. Should I Switch My Dog to a Grain-Free Diet? In most cases, it won’t hurt to switch your dog to a grain-free diet, but it certainly isn’t necessary in all cases. If your dog is suffering from any of the symptoms of a food allergy – such as diarrhea, unexplained rashes or weight loss – it’s possible that a grain-free diet might help (although you should also consult your vet about such ailments). However, if your dog is perfectly healthy on a high-quality food that contains grains, then it’s fine to keep his diet as it is.

FDA Warns Pet Parents About Grain-Free Dog Food And Heart Disease

The U.S.Food and Drug Administration is investigating a possible link between a canine heart disease known as DCM and grain-free dog foods, particularly ones that contain peas, lentils and/or potatoes as main ingredients. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned that dogs feed grain-free foods that have peas, lentils or potatoes as main ingredients are showing signs of a unique condition that may cause enlarged hearts, and may lead to death in dogs. The condition is called canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and is prevalent in certain breeds. Concerningly, though, the FDA warns that it is showing up more and more in atypical breeds, and they believe it might be from a nutritional deficiency (low taurine) in grain-free foods that have peas/lentils/legumes/potatoes as ingredients. Related: Encouraging Research Links Heart Failure Cause and Treatment for Dogs and Humans Currently, the FDA is not specifying brands that they are investigating, as they believe the ingredients in the foods are more telling than the brands. The DCM affected dogs seem to have all been fed similar dog foods–those containing peas, lentils, other legumes or potatoes as base ingredients. Dr. Martine Hartogenisis is with the FDA and says that they are looking at a potential link between the DCM diagnoses and those foods, and they encourage pet owners and vets alike to report any DCM cases–especially in dogs who are not known to develop DCM. DCM can lead to an enlarged heart and can develop into congestive heart failure. This can be fatal in dogs, so the FDA advises to watch dogs fed those types of foods for lethargy, weight loss and even coughs sometimes. In cases where diets are modified early and vet treatment occurs, the FDA suggests that heart function may improve in dogs who do not have predisposed genetic links to the disorder. Great Danes, Newfoundlands, boxers, Doberman pinschers and St. Bernards are some breeds who have genetic predispositions. Alarmingly, though, the FDA reports that cases have been found in golden and Labrador retrievers, whippets, miniature schnauzers, a Shih Tzu, a bulldog and an assortment of other mixed breeds. Related: DIY Dog Food: Up at the Cottage Cheese; Chicken Dog Food Recipe [Video] The FDA says that diets of dogs reported to the FDA to have DMC consistently included foods that had potatoes, peas, lentils or legumes as well as their protein, starch and fiber bases early on in their ingredient lists. The higher on the ingredient list, the more of the ingredient included in the food, and the FDA says that early reports from the veterinary cardiology community shows that dogs eating those foods for long periods od times seem to be showing higher cases of DCM. They are clear to note that those foods tend to be more common in ‘grain-free’ foods, though they are not sure of the link. IF your dog is diagnosed with DCM, a change in diet is imperative and should be done with the help of a licensed veterinarian. The FDA says that taurine deficiency is a potential risk factor for DCM, and could be the culprit, so taurine levels are critical.

The Benefits Of Fresh Dog Food: Is It Right For Your Pup?

Research continues to show that a dog’s health begins in the gut. In essence, what goes in (and goes out) has a big role in their overall health and time at the vet. How can we make sure that their guts are at their healthiest? Fresh food. When we give dogs clean, whole, fresh foods, we’re helping to fuel them just like we do ourselves. Real foods gently cooked to keep nutrients in help build our immunity and energy levels, and they do the same in our dogs. Fresh foods are more bioavailable for your dog than are even the most premium kibbles with processed ingredients. This bioavailability means that your dog has better long-term health benefits and short-term perks too. One of our favorite fresh options is Ollie. Ollie delivers fresh dog food to your dog only made with the best whole ingredients, formulated by vets – none of that kibble with dyes, fillers and fake meats. Ollie combines their carefully sourced ingredients and vet-formulated recipes with information you give about your dog’s weight, allergies and breed to create a perfectly portioned diet that comes right to your door. No, it doesn’t get much easier than that. Sign your dog up for Ollie today and receive 50% off your first box. Ingredients Matter The sad truth about many dog foods is that so many standard dog foods are filled with chemicals, dyes, fake meats, preservatives and other not-so-optimal ingredients. This can make a significant difference in your dog’s weight, overall health and even their life span. It’s crucial that when you’re looking at dog foods, you become a label reader and know what’s going in your dog’s mouth. Ollie’s fresh food is made with whole foods that are gently cooked to preserve the nutrients. Their suppliers have to go through an extensive vetting process, and there are no fillers, soy, corn, wheat or artificial flavors. In fact, that’s one of the reasons we love Ollie so much. The ingredients are clean and transparent, and you can even eat Ollie’s if you’d like. We’d not recommend it because your dog may have something to say on that matter, but if you wanted? You could.

Quinoa Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipes

I love quinoa – I eat this super seed at least once a week because it’s grain and gluten free and it’s high in protein. And this is a people food that’s equally super for dogs. Quinoa has been linked to everything from preventing heart disease and cancer, as well as an antioxidant and can reduce the risk of diabetes. It really was a no-brainer to use it in my Quinoa Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe (well that, and it does have quinoa as the title as the recipe!). Quinoa Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipes Makes 20 cookies Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup quinoa flour 3/4 cup buckwheat flour 1/3 cup molasses 1/2 cup water 1/3 cup olive oil 1 tablespoon honey 2 eggs Directions: Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.Using a food processor, add quinoa and buckwheat and mix well. Add in molasses and honey. In a separate bowl, lightly beat egg and add the oil and water. Add this mixture slowly to the food processor until a dough ball forms. If the flour mixture sticks to the bowl, turn off the processor and use a spatula to get it off the sides.The dough should be soft, but not wet, making it easy to work with. Using a tablespoon, scoop mixture and roll dough into balls in your hands. Softly flatten with the balls of your hands and place on the cookie sheets.Bake for 30 minutes.Store treats in an airtight container in the fridge or the freezer. The dough wasn’t stiff enough to use cookie cutters, but I still had fun with the design. I just used a teaspoon for the dog pad and a dropper for the dog toes.

Chickpea Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe

I’m learning all about grain-free recipes this month. And I’m also realizing that Oscar is acquiring a taste for them! If your dog can’t digest grains, there’s no reason why he can’t enjoy a tasty, homemade biscuit. This time around, I’m pleased to present my Chickpea Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe. This type of flour is full of flavor, dietary fiber and protein. Because it’s a bean, it’s not considered a grain – which is good news for dogs who can’t digest gluten. And this recipe has the extra benefit of banana, peanut butter and flax seed meal. Chickpea Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe Makes about 25 medium-sized cookies Ingredients: 2 cups chickpea flour 1 banana 3 tablespoons peanut butter 1 large egg 1 1/2 tablespoons flax meal Directions: Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.In a small bowl, mix banana, peanut butter and egg until completely combined and smooth.In a large bowl, mix the flour and flax seed. Add the wet and dry ingredients together until the dough comes together.Warning: This is going to be some tough dough! Set parchment paper on the counter to roll the dough out onto. Roll the dough to a 1/2- to 1/4-inch thickness and cut out the cookies using a cookie cutter of choice. Transfer the cookies to a parchment-lined baking sheet.Bake the cookies for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool treats on cooling rack store in fridge or freezer in airtight container. This was my first time working with chickpea flour. I found the dough tough to work with and the smell was a bit strange at first – it had a bit of a savory scent. But Oscar liked them and that’s always my indicator of a job well done!

People Online are Losing it Over Real-Life Rainbow Bridge Memorial

Social media has become a powerful space for pet parents to share the joys and challenges of living with their furry companions. From heartwarming adoptions to hilarious antics, our online feeds are filled with proof of the special bond that is formed between pets and their humans. But there is another side to pet ownership, a bittersweet time when we could use the understanding of other pet parents. That is, of course, the inevitable loss of a beloved pet and the emotions that come with it. A recent viral video has sparked a wave of shared grief and emotion on TikTok.The video, originally posted by @onlyjulianamarie on TikTok, shares a beautiful real-life “Rainbow Bridge” memorial in Lake Lure, NC. It includes a literal rainbow bridge upon which countless pet owners have placed collars of all colors and sizes to memorialize the pets that have left a lasting mark on their hearts. Many of the collars include tags adorned with the name of a special pet or a heartfelt engraved message. Others are nameless; their stories known only to the loving pet parents who placed them there.

Hundreds Wanted to Adopt a Swearing Parrot - Now He Has a Perfect Home

There is no doubt that parrots are masters of mimicking voices and talking. But what they learn from their owners is not always so nice. Pepper, a White-fronted Amazon parrot who now lives in Olean, New York, is a perfect example of that.Recently, Pepper has gone viral on social media, particularly for his foul, R-rated language, and rather… ”colorful” vocabulary. Pepper was known for swearing profusely, much to the amusement of all who met and saw him. However, the parrot recently went up for adoption – and hundreds hurled to provide him with a new home. So now, Pepper is settling in with his new owners.“We checked in with his adopters, Tiffany and Tim, yesterday, and they report Pepper is settling in nicely,” the New York SPCA wrote. “He hasn't cursed at them just yet, but we know it's coming. He loves his veggies and always greets his adopters when they walk in the room.”Interestingly, Pepper’s new owners already own a parrot – an African Grey – who likewise swears a lot, even more than his new friend. “We love that Pepper found his home with adopters who won't be phased by his colorful language, and who know their birds,” the SPCA said. “May Pepper have decades of issuing threats to his new family! Now, go kick some a$$, Pepper!”Trying to find out how exactly Pepper learned all these words, the SPCA learned that his last home was in Buffalo, New York. There he shared a home with a rather naughty dog. The owner often tried to get the doggo to listen by saying things like “Do you want me to kick your a**?” Naturally, Pepper was quick to pick up those words and add them to his growing vocabulary. "We can't wait to read updates on our potty-mouthed friend," the SPCA said in a statement. But the new owners said that Pepper is still staying somewhat polite, and hasn’t cursed at anyone just yet. But there is no doubt it’s coming. Pepper’s new owners created an Instagram page where they could document the everyday moments of their new pet. You can find their adventures under the handle, @twospicyparrots.The SPCA shared that prior to the adoption they received over 300 requests for Pepper, but were very careful about their choice as they wanted the parrot to go to a great home which would be his “forever home”. Now that is a happy ending for this potty-mouthed parrot!

Study Finds Pet Pigs Don't Bond with Their Humans Like Dogs

Have you always dreamt of bringing a pet pig into your home? Have you seen any adorable social media videos of cute companion pigs behaving like dogs as they interact with their people? A recent study published in Scientific Reports reveals that these videos may be misleading. Comparing the behaviors of companion pigs and dogs, the researchers discovered that the two species respond with noticeably different behavior patterns when interacting with people, including their owner and a stranger. Most importantly, they found that pet pigs don’t develop the special pet-owner attachment with their humans that we see in dogs. The findings are significant when you consider the role that pets play in society today. Once seen as valuable for their work in farming, protection, and other tangible roles, most pets today are kept instead solely for companionship.

When To Say Goodbye To Your Dog? A New Survey Sheds Some Light

Deciding when it's the time to say goodbye to a beloved canine companion is the toughest decision you’ll have to make. Even when the pooch in question is sick or old, it’s never easy to choose to euthanize a furry friend. The question for many dog owners remains - how do you know when it’s time to say goodbye?Difficult questions like this one spurred the members of the Dog Aging Project to survey 2.570 dog owners about the details of their companion dog’s death. Researchers asked the owners to list the dog’s cause of death, whether euthanasia was involved, the reason why euthanasia may have been chosen, the dog’s age, the quality of life the dog had before death, and what medical symptoms they exhibited. The survey’s findings were published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. The Dog Aging Project is a collaborative, research-driven project that accepts dogs from various backgrounds to study the effects of aging. The idea behind this project is to get a better insight into what contributes to a long and healthy dog lifespan. Data showed that over 85% of owners whose dogs had died reported choosing euthanasia. Almost half of those owners stated they chose to euthanize their dog to relieve their pet’s suffering. More than half of all respondents listed disease or illness as the cause of their dog’s death.“What this survey shows is that all dog owners struggle with deciding when it’s time to say goodbye, and you’re not alone if you’re facing this decision,” said Dr. Kellyn McNulty, an internal medicine resident in the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, who worked on the study. “As veterinarians, we encourage people to consider not just the ‘lifespan’ of a companion animal, but also the ‘health span’  - the portion of your dog’s life when they’re in good health,” she added. “Advocating for your pet is about more than helping them live longer - it’s also about making sure that the time they have here on Earth is a good time.”The interesting thing about this survey is that it has allowed researchers to learn that euthanasia isn’t something that mainly affects older dogs. Many diseases and conditions can affect younger dogs, lowering their quality of life and leading owners to wonder whether it might be time to say goodbye to their companions sooner rather than later. “It’s not a decision that anyone wants to have to make, but the survey showed us that many pet owners face these questions regardless of how old is their dog,” said McNulty.Age may become a more significant factor in determining the quality of a dog’s life as veterinary medicine continues to improve at treating and managing chronic conditions in dogs. One thing dog owners can do is be on the lookout for the signs of aging and talk with their vet to determine whether age or chronic illness is affecting their dog’s quality of life.“If your dog is well-trained and potty-trained and begins soiling the house that’s a possible sign. Others include restlessness at night, new onset anxiety and fears, and arthritic issues.”One thing every dog owner needs to remember - you are not alone when it comes to deciding to say goodbye to your pooch. In addition to family and friends you can turn to, there are many dog owners out there facing the same tough decision. Additionally, your veterinarian can always provide expert advice based on your dog’s condition and answer all of your questions.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Bark Air, A New Airline for Dogs, Took Its First Flight from New York

Flying with a dog in the first class may sound like a dream for many pet parents. But, Bar Air, a new luxury airline has turned that dream into reality. The company describes itself as “the world’s first travel experience designed specifically for dogs first, and their human companions second.”The luxury airline took its first flight on Thursday, May 23, departing from New York and landing in Los Angeles. The inaugural flight transported six dogs of varying sizes - from a tiny Chihuahua to a golden retriever - and 11 humans, both passengers and crew. Before boarding concierges offered the dogs calming treats, noise-canceling ear muffs, and calming jackets to ensure a pleasant and stress-free flight. Once on the flight, the pups were served their beverage of choice during the ascent and descent and could munch on special cupcakes during the flight. Once in the air, dogs could enjoy a spa treatment and were offered blankets covered with pheromones for extra comfort. The crew is trained in dog CPR and fear-free behavioral practices to ensure the safety of four-legged travelers. The new airline is a subsidiary of Bark, a company behind several dog-focused brands, including the subscription service Bark Box. The company’s co-founder and CEO, Matt Meeker he’d been working on this idea for more than a decade.The company shared details of the inaugural flight in an Instagram post, writing: “Right now, at an altitude of 30,000 feet, there is a flight filled with dogs. Unlike any flight before it, these dogs are not merely an afterthought, nor are they treated like cargo or a burden to the crew and fellow travelers. Here dogs are the foremost priority.”“Every detail of this flight experience has been crafted with a ‘dog’s first’ mindset. It has taken 10 years, but we are finally confident that we can provide all dogs with the air travel experience they deserve: one that puts them first.”The inaugural flight was sold out, even though tickets weren’t cheap. Tickets for Bark Air flights from New York to Los Angeles cost $6,000 for one dog and one human in each direction, and one-way flights from New York to London cost $8,000. Many pet parents quickly pointed out that the cost is too high, but Meeker already acknowledged that in a May letter. “This is cost-prohibitive for most families, but less expensive than most options today. And this is also how most innovative products and services began,” he wrote. “Televisions, telephones, VCRs and DVD players, to automobiles, train and boat travel, and yes, even human air travel - all of these started with very high prices until demand was proven and the cost could be brought lower by serving the masses.”The new airline has no size or breed restrictions for dogs, but humans must be over 18. Humans are advised to keep their dogs leashed as much as possible, once on board, and to ask before approaching other passengers. Meeker, who traveled with his dog on two recent test flights, said that people hoped dogs would misbehave for the sake of the experiment, but they did no such thing. Even in moments of significant turbulence, all canine passengers remained undisturbed.“I don’t know why I’m surprised by this, but the dogs made it magical,” he said.The initial reaction to Bark Air has been extremely pawsitive. The company currently offers four round-trip cross-country flights a month but plans to expand its routes, starting with a New York to Paris trip beginning this fall. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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Two Pet Food Recalls Spark Fear of Bacterial Infections

This week, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued two separate pet food recalls over fears of bacterial contamination that could cause health issues in pets and, in some cases, death.The first recall notice involves pet food for cats and dogs, and the second notice involves pet food for hedgehogs.A popular online pet food company, Viva Raw LLC of Hillsborough, North Carolina, has voluntarily recalled five of its cat and dog foods over the fears that the products may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. According to an announcement on the FDA website, the recalled products include Viva Turkey for Dogs Ground, Viva Turkey for Dogs Chunked, Viva Turkey for Cats, Viva Pure Turkey, and Viva Beef & Turkey for Puppies. All of the recalled products were manufactured under Lot 21244. The products involved in the recall were packed in clear packaging and shipped as frozen, one-pound bricks. The expiration date wasn’t listed on any of the packaging. The recalled cat and dog food was distributed to customers in all 50 states, including the Columbia district. Listeria was discovered in the food after the FDA conducted sample testing on Viva Turkey for Dogs. All pet food products from the same lot should have been destroyed, but the company claims some items were ‘inadvertently released from the warehouse’ to customers. According to the FDA press release: “Viva Raw is notifying all customers who were shipped any Turkey or Beef & Turkey for Puppies products between May 16th and June 28th, 2024. No illnesses related to this lot have been reported to date.”  Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria that can cause Listeriosis in humans. Listeriosis is a serious infection that causes vomiting, fever, and diarrhea, among other symptoms. Pregnant women, young children, and old and sick people are at most risk of developing severe complications. In cats and dogs, this bacteria can cause diarrhea, anorexia, and fever. Some animals can also experience depression, miscarriage, and death.In addition to becoming sick, pets who consume the contaminated food can also become carriers, spreading listeria through their saliva and feces and infecting people and animals they come in contact with.In its notice, the FDA advises owners not to feed these contaminated products to pets. Also, you shouldn’t touch these products with your bare hands. Use gloves or paper towels to dump the product in a sealed bag and then disinfect all the surfaces that have come into contact with it.The second recall involves various lots of Sun Seed Vita Prima Hedgehog Food and Vitakraft Vita Smart Hedgehog Food. The Vitakraft Sun Seed Inc. of Wisconsin, Ohio, has voluntarily recalled some lots of various hedgehog foods, as they may be contaminated with Salmonella.According to the notice, the recalled products were distributed in many states, including Arizona, California, Georgia, Florida, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Massachusetts, Missouri, Minnesota, Nevada, North Carolina, New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wisconsin.Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause serious infections in humans and animals. In humans, the most common symptoms of Salmonella are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramping. However, this bacteria can cause even more serious issues in people, including arthritis, endocarditis, arterial infections, and more. Pets suffering from a Salmonella infection can experience fever, diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, decreased appetite, abdominal pain, and vomiting. Some infected animals don’t exhibit any symptoms, but can be carriers of Salmonella and spread it to other people and pets. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Viral TikTok Video Shares the Joy of a Rescue Dog Reunited with Friend

Adopting a rescue dog can be a challenge at the best of times. Having gone through multiple homes/environments, sometimes without the attention to training or socialization that helps to create that “ideal pet,” rescue parents find themselves trying to navigate various challenges and obstacles. Not that it takes away from the benefits of being a rescue pet parent – having only ever rescued our dogs and cats, I can attest to just how much love these amazing pets have to give!  One struggle many rescue pets will need to overcome is leaving behind the other pets they have previously connected or bonded with. This could include pets that they are housed with in shelter environments or those that they live with in foster homes. While some become SO incredibly bonded that organizations decide they can only be adopted together, others try to increase their chances of being adopted by offering the pets individually. This was the situation with Celeste, a beautiful and loving rescue dog that was adopted by TikTok user goosegooseduckling. However, they never could have predicted how this story would unfold… A few months after adopting the pup and bringing her into their Indiana home, Celeste’s new mom, Michelle, decided to introduce her to the neighbor’s dog. However, a short conversation with the neighbor revealed something amazing… Celeste and her new neighbor were best friends in the shelter before they were adopted! Offering even more insight into the incredible situation, Michelle wrote: “What a small world! Today we found out that our next door neighbor’s dog was adopted from the same shelter, nearly 2 hours away from where we live. They were both rescued as young pups, and each spent 9 months at the shelter… with a 6-month overlap. This was their first time seeing each other since being adopted.”The video of the two dogs running and playing has now gone viral on TikTok, with over 300 comments and 7.6K likes. It’s a reminder of the many emotions a dog in the shelter system can experience—from meeting new friends to leaving them behind for their new forever home. However, Celeste would come to enjoy the best of both worlds!

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Centers for Disease Control has some big news for anyone wanting to bring that cute little rescue home to the US.

Should My Dog Warm Up Before Playtime?

Our dogs are always up for a good time, whether it’s a game of fetch or a hike on a local trail. But before you unleash your dog’s inner athlete, you may want to consider the importance of a proper warm-up. Physical activity is an essential factor in setting your dog up for a happy, healthy life. However, just like humans, dogs need to prepare their muscles to avoid injuries during exercise. Even a casual game of fetch in the backyard could lead to an unwanted mishap. Let’s discuss the importance of a warm-up routine for your dog, including how to tailor it to your dog’s breed, age, and fitness level. I’ll also share ways to make the process fun and enjoyable for both you and your pup. Discover how a few simple warm-up exercises can prioritize your dog’s health. Do All Dogs Need to Warm-Up Before Exercise? One common misconception about warm-up exercises is that they are only for dogs who engage in dog sports and other high-intensity activities. While canine athletes should warm up before exercise, they aren’t the only ones who benefit from this step.Often, we include our dogs in our favorite activities like running, hiking, or biking (as your dog runs alongside you). These activities can definitely put your dog at risk for injuries if they haven’t stretched or warmed up. There’s a good chance if you regularly engage in these activities, you likely take the time to stretch yourself. Your dog’s needs are no different! What Injuries Can a Dog Suffer from Not Warming Up? If you skip the warm-up before your dog’s physical activity, you are increasing the risk that your dog will experience a variety of injuries, ranging from minor discomforts to significant injuries that could sideline them for weeks or even months to come. In the most severe cases, your dog may suffer an injury that could have a life-long impact on their ability to run around and play like normal. Here are a few of the more common injuries your dog may experience: Muscle Soreness or Cramping Have you ever experienced cramping or sore muscles after exercise? If so, you know just how uncomfortable this can be. While a warm-up isn’t going to prevent muscle pain entirely after rigorous exercise, it can help reduce the pain that develops after their play session. Luckily, these injuries are minor and will subside after encouraging your dog to rest and relax as their muscles recuperate. Sprains and StrainsSprains and strains, the next step up in severity, are injuries that occur when a ligament, muscle, or tender has been stretched too far. There is no set limit on how far is “too far,” but a proper warm-up can extend this limit slightly, reducing the risk of this happening. Like muscle soreness, the treatment is generally nothing more than taking time off and resting. However, more severe cases may require some additional care. Joint Injuries These injuries carry the highest risk for long-term complications. Joint injuries can’t all be prevented with a simple warm-up. However, tight or stiff muscles around a joint will increase the risk of injury. You should also consider doing conditioning exercises to build muscle strength in the muscles around your dog’s joints, protecting them from damage during exercise. If you have a dog that has previously experienced joint problems or is at high risk of joint issues, you may want to consult a certified professional canine fitness trainer or rehabilitation professional to design a set of exercises that will best condition your dog for their lifestyle and favorite activities. How Long Should a Warm-Up Take? One reason why many pet parents may skip the warm-up is due to time constraints. But your dog’s warm-up doesn’t have to be long and overly extensive. The most effective warm-up exercises will take only 10 to 15 minutes. You just need to get your dog moving long enough to get the blood flow effectively circulating through your muscles and increase your dog’s heart rate. Some outside factors can influence this timeframe. On a hot summer day, your dog’s warm-up can be a little shorter than it would be on a colder day in late fall or winter. You can use a sweater or jacket to help reduce that warm-up time during the cool months. I usually outfit my dog Lucifer in the Kurgo Dog Onesie Body Warmer when we’re heading out for winter activities and exercises. Unlike most dog coats and sweaters, it provides coverage to the whole body, including the legs, which is important when considering its use to reduce warm-up times.

How Do I Keep My Pet Comfortable During a Power Outage?

Power outages can be stressful for everyone, but have you ever considered what this experience may feel like for your pet? Imagine witnessing the lights flicker and then go out, leaving you in darkness while unable to understand why it happened.While we can’t sit down and have a conversation, explaining what they are experiencing, there are steps we can take to keep them comfortable.This article will explore some easy strategies to keep your pet safe during a power outage, including reducing stress levels and keeping your pet cool (or warm) until the power returns. Plus, I’ll give you a list of must-have supplies to ensure you’re prepared for the next power outage.Let’s get started…Do Pets Get Scared When the Power Goes Out?Whether your dog or cat will be scared or anxious during a power outage will depend mainly on their personality. Some pets will find the experience frightening, while others will carry on their day as if nothing has changed. The best way to predict how your pet will respond is by observing how they act in other new situations.There are a few potential triggers for stress and anxiety that you may want to take into consideration:Alarm systems, smoke detectors, and other similar items in the home may beep to alert you that the power has gone outA power surge could cause a “pop” or “boom” sound if it impacts electronics in the homeThe loss of a comforting white noise, like a fan, can increase stress in some petsPower outages often coincide with storms, which can be a source of stress and anxiety for some petsStress or anxiety felt by human family members as a response to the power outage can influence the stress levels of our pets

How Do I Teach My Cat to Play Fetch?

Unlike dogs, cats aren’t exactly known for their love of fetch. If you dream of tossing a toy with your furry best friend for hours, fear note – with a bit of time, patience, and positive reinforcement, you may just inspire a new love for the game in your kitty. This post will discuss why some cats take to fetch so naturally and how play can benefit your cat’s overall health and well-being. Plus, we’ll share how to teach your cat to play fetch step-by-step with tips for success! So, grab your cat’s favorite toy and get ready for a fun game of fetch…Why Do Cats Love Playing Fetch? There are many theories about why cats enjoy this game. The most accepted theory is that the action triggers natural hunting instincts. When an object is thrown, it mimics their prey moving across the room. The cat then chases the toy, stalking and hunting it. Retrieving the toy and bringing it back to you is similar to cats bringing their freshly killed prey to their owners as a gift. Other experts see the game of fetch as an attempt to spend quality time playing together, bonding like we do with our dogs. However, no research confirms either theory. What Toy Do Cats Love Most? Finding the best toy for your fetch-loving cat can be a fun process. Why? There is no “one-size-fits-all” solution. Instead, you’ll have to set aside time to play and test which toys your cat connects with most. Think of it as a fun game of trial and error. We have two cats at home, one of whom is absolutely in love with playing fetch. Pippen, our Maine Coon mix, will bring toys to us randomly throughout the day. She drops them at our feet and meows loudly while pawing at our pant legs, begging us to throw whatever she has brought us. Here are a few of her favorite toys to play fetch with: SmartyKat Skitter Critters Catnip Cat Toys: These little mice are not only the perfect size and weight for cats to carry around, but the fact they include catnip makes them even more enticing. If the theory about hunting is correct, they are a great example of mock prey. Catit Eco Cat Toy: Another prey-like toy, this is arguably the top choice in our house. Pippen loves anything with feathers. If you have a tiny kitten, this is a little harder to carry, but Pippen is relatively small, and she has never had a problem. Andiker Cat Crinkle Balls: This is another one I have heard other cat parents raving about. The balls make a fun crinkling sound while the foil-like mylar material reflects the light, making them a fun visual spectacle to hunt down. SPOT Colorful Springs: These toys may not seem special, but the spring design causes them to bounce around the room unpredictably. This keeps your cat on their toes as they hunt them down with each throw. Cat Tube Spring Toys: These toys are made of lightweight mesh material, making them easy to carry around. If you fold them or push down the ends, then let go, they fly through the air. The goal is to find something your cat loves, wants to retrieve, and can comfortably carry back to you to continue the game. Is It Normal for a Cat to Never Play? While you can expect a range of playfulness from cats, with some cats being very playful and others only playing occasionally when they “feel like it,” it’s not normal for a cat to never play at all. A healthy adult cat should get at least 30 to 60 minutes of playtime daily. This can be in one large play session or, ideally, split into shorter play sessions of 10 to 15 minutes. If you have a cat who appears lazy or unmotivated, you should prioritize turning this around and encouraging them to play more. Otherwise, they will be at a higher risk of potential health complications, including obesity, diabetes, urinary tract diseases, arthritis and other joint-related issues, and fatty liver disease.

UK Law Commands Serious Jail Time for Pet Theft

Recently introduced private member's bill received Royal Assent to make it a law.

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