The Role of Supplements in Pet Health

Supplements can be a great way to give your pet an extra boost and keep them feeling their best. They can help with everything from keeping joints moving smoothly to supporting a healthy tummy and a strong immune system, and much more!

The best part? Supplements aren’t just for fixing problems—they’re great for preventing them, too! By adding the right supplements to your pet’s routine, you’re setting them up for a longer, happier, and healthier life.

Digestive Support Supplements

Digestive health is a big deal for pets because digestive issues are one of the most common reasons pet parents visit the veterinarian. Supporting their gut health is so important!

We’ll break down the three main types of digestive support: digestive enzymes, probiotics, and prebiotics, and how they work to keep your pet healthy from the inside out.

Digestive Enzymes

Digestive enzymes are like tiny superheroes that help break down food efficiently, leading to maximum nutrient absorption.

Amylase – breaks down carbohydrates (not as efficient in pets as humans)

Protease – breaks down proteins

Lipase – breaks down fats

When pets don’t produce enough of these enzymes—due to age, health issues, or medications—it can lead to poor digestion and nutrient loss. Supplementing with enzymes not only helps your pet get the most out of their meals but also gives their pancreas a much-needed break!

Probiotics

Probiotics are the good bacteria that keep your pet’s gut healthy and thriving. They protect against harmful bugs, support digestion, strengthen the immune system, and even help maintain a healthy weight. Probiotics are especially useful for improving stool consistency, reducing digestive upsets, and balancing gut bacteria.

Many pet parents provide probiotics daily to counter medication side effects or simply for better digestion, while others use them after issues like diarrhea or antibiotics to rebuild healthy gut bacteria. They work by out-competing bad bacteria for nutrients and spots on gut cells and by releasing compounds that strengthen the intestinal barrier.

We want to look for species specific probiotics with proven strains like Lactobacilli, Bifidobacteria, and Enterococci.

Prebiotics

Prebiotics are like fuel for the good bacteria, probiotics, in your pet’s gut. Supporting their growth and keeping digestion on track. These fibers, like oligofructose and inulin, work by nourishing beneficial bacteria as they ferment in the colon.

Oligofructose provides quick support to bacteria in specific areas, while inulin takes its time, helping bacteria throughout the colon. Found in foods like soybeans, oats, beets, and chicory root.

Prebiotics aren’t digested in the small intestine, allowing them to reach the gut bacteria that need them. As they ferment, prebiotics lower the colon’s pH, making it harder for bad bacteria to thrive while encouraging healthy cell growth and improving water absorption—keeping your pet’s digestion smooth and balanced!

Immune Boosting Supplements

A strong immune system keeps them healthy and ready to tackle life’s adventures. Since so much of the immune system is tied to digestion, supporting gut health will also boosts immunity.

Here is a closer look into immune-boosting superstars like anti-inflammatories and antioxidants and how examples such as turmeric and mushrooms can make a difference!

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are like tiny bodyguards for your pet’s cells, protecting them from damage caused by free radicals—unstable molecules that can speed up aging and lead to health issues. Pets need antioxidants to keep their immune systems strong, reduce inflammation, and support overall wellness.

They’re especially helpful for fighting off environmental toxins, improving skin and coat health, and even supporting brain function as pets age. You’ll find antioxidants in natural powerhouses like blueberries, spinach, and turmeric, all of which can give your furry friend an extra health boost!

Anti-inflammatories

Anti-inflammatories are key to calming down chronic inflammation, which can put extra strain on your pet’s immune system. By reducing this strain, they help the immune system function more efficiently, making it better at fighting off infections and keeping your pet healthy.

Anti-inflammatories not only reduce pain and swelling but also boost immune responses, helping your pet stay strong and better able to defend against illness. These natural helpers can be a game-changer for pets with ongoing immune challenges!

Source Benefits
Turmeric

(Curcumin)

·        Reduces inflammation, aiding immune function without overload.

·        Protects cells from free radicals, strengthening immune defense.

·        Slows growth of certain cancer cells, supporting at-risk pets.

·        Balances the immune system, preventing weakness or overactivity.

Chaga Mushrooms ·        Rich in beta-glucans, strengthening the immune system and response to threats.

·        Packed with antioxidants, protecting cells from oxidative stress and boosting immunity.

·        Reduces inflammation, supporting immune health and relieving pain or discomfort.

·        Balances the immune system, enhancing resilience against infections and stress.

·        Supports gut health, strengthening overall immunity.

Turkey Tail Mushrooms ·        Contain polysaccharopeptides (PSPs) that enhance immune function and fight infections.

·        Rich in antioxidants, protecting cells and supporting immune health.

·        Reduces inflammation, promoting immune balance and easing joint and digestive        discomfort.

·        Supports healthy gut bacteria, boosting overall immunity.

·        Research suggests turkey tail may help slow cancer cell growth, offering extra protection for at-risk pets.

Joint Health Supplements

Joint supplements are a big topic in pet health. As pets age, joint discomfort can limit their mobility, which not only affects their happiness but can also lead to other health issues like weight gain and muscle loss.

Now, let’s talk about how glucosamine, chondroitin, and collagen work to support joint health and help your pet stay comfortable and active.

Glucosamine

Glucosamine is a nutraceutical—meaning it’s a natural supplement with health benefits—and it’s often sourced from shellfish. It plays a crucial role in encouraging the growth of cartilage cells and helps reduce inflammation in the joints, making it a fantastic support and prevention option for osteoarthritis.

As pets age or face joint issues, glucosamine becomes essential for making and maintaining healthy joint cartilage, keeping them comfortable and mobile. It’s safe to use and well-tolerated, though high doses may cause mild side effects like increased thirst or an upset stomach.

Chondroitin

Chondroitin is a natural molecule that plays a vital role in joint health and is a major component of cartilage, making up most of the joints, spine, and even tissues like the lungs and ears.  Chondroitin also supports the production of new cartilage and blocks the enzymes that break it down, making it a key player in delaying the onset of osteoarthritis.

By protecting cartilage-producing cells called chondrocytes, it alleviates pain, reduces swelling, and promotes mobility. As a natural pain reliever, it can reduce the need for over-the-counter medications, and side effects are rare. On high doses, some pets may experience mild GI upset like gas or loose stools

Collagen

Collagen is a protein powerhouse that naturally supports your pet’s skin, bone, and joint health—it’s actually the most abundant protein in their body! Found in bones, skin, muscles, tendons, and cartilage, collagen is essential for building tissue and keeping it strong, flexible, and resilient.

As pets age, their natural collagen supply decreases, making supplementation important to maintain mobility and a full range of motion. Collagen helps cultivate connective tissues, reducing stress on joints and supporting healthy cartilage, which can lower the risk of injury.

By improving elasticity and strength, collagen keeps your pet active and feeling their best!

Supplements are a valuable addition to a balanced diet, enhancing your pet’s overall health and well-being. Tailoring supplements to your pet’s specific needs—and using them as preventative care—can support their long-term vitality.

With small, consistent efforts, you can help your furry friend thrive and enjoy a healthier, happier life for years to come! As always if you have any questions about the use of supplements or how to get started, our Healthy Pet Care Specialists at your local Global Pet Foods are always happy to help.

Green Tripe: Elevating Your Pet’s Daily Nutrition

Green tripe isn’t just a quick fix for your pet’s health – it’s a long-term investment in their well-being. While it provides immediate benefits like improved digestion and boosted energy levels, its impact goes far beyond that. By regularly including green tripe into your pet’s diet, you’re laying the foundation for long-term health maintenance.

Its rich nutrient profile supports overall health and vitality, helping to prevent various health issues down the line. From promoting a shiny coat to supporting a strong immune system, green tripe sets your pet up for a lifetime of thriving. So, whether you’re looking to address a specific health concern or simply want to give your pet the best chance at a happy and healthy life. Green tripe from PetKind is the ultimate solution.

A Closer Look at Green Tripe

Green tripe is sourced from the stomach lining of ruminant animals like cows, lamb, or bison. It’s a natural superfood full of protein, important amino acids, good fats, and lots of vitamins and minerals. It ensures a nutrient-rich profile that elevates your pet’s daily nutrition to new heights.

Green tripe undergoes minimal processing, crucially remaining unbleached and natural. This makes sure that the nutrients are maintained, offering pets a wholesome and unparalleled source of nourishment.

Pet parents are turning to tripe to address various dietary needs and health concerns. Whether it’s tempting picky eaters, seniors, and sick pets to eat, or boosting their daily diet, green tripe is a nutritional powerhouse. Its amino acid profile, perfect calcium-phosphorus ratio, and abundance of essential fatty acids make it an ideal supplement for aiding in overall health and well-being.

Additionally, tripe’s soothing properties can alleviate sensitive stomachs, relieve allergy symptoms, and ease diet transitions. From nourishing adult working dogs to refreshing seniors, green tripe supports pets at every stage of life. Known for promoting healthy brain and bone development, particularly beneficial for large breed puppies. With the help of its vitamins and minerals, healthy fats, and proteins, green tripe will bolster your pet’s bowl!

The Power of Amino Acids

The importance of amino acids cannot be overstated. As the building blocks of protein, they serve as the foundation for many bodily functions in your pet, from muscle growth and repair to the creation of enzymes and hormones. Green tripe’s variety of amino acids ensures that your pet receives the full spectrum of nutrients needed for optimal health, contributing to their overall strength and resilience.

From promoting muscle growth and tissue repair to supporting immune function and hormone regulation, the diverse set of amino acids in green tripe plays a crucial role in every part of your pet’s health, contributing to their liveliness and longevity.

Let’s dive into the major amino acids found in green tripe and their functions in promoting pet health.

Amino AcidFunction
Alanine-Essential for glucose metabolism and energy production
-Supports urinary health
-Improves blood quality
-Prevents kidney stones
Aspartic Acid-Plays a role in brain and nervous system function
-Supports cognitive health and mood regulation
-Boosts stamina
-Supports strong immune system
Arginine-Essential amino acid for dogs and cats
-Crucial for nitric oxide synthesis
-Promoting a healthy cardiovascular system
-Supports immune health
Glutamic Acid-Acts as a neurotransmitter
-Fuels brain function and cognitive processes
-Boosts metabolism
Glycine-Supports the synthesis of collagen for healthy skin, coat, and joints.
-Boosts stamina
-Improves blood quality
-Plays key role in maintaining DNA composition
Leucine-An essential amino acid
-Involved in protein synthesis
-Maintains strong joints
-Promotes muscle growth and recovery
Proline-Plays a role in collagen formation
-Contributes to skin elasticity
-Supports wound healing

With the above of amino acids overflowing in green tripe, your pet can get all the nutrients they need to be healthy and active.

Fatty Acids for Optimal Health

Green tripe serves as a natural source of fat, but no need to worry, the majority are good fats. It is rich in beneficial unsaturated fatty acids. Unlike saturated fats found in many processed foods, the unsaturated fats in green tripe offer numerous health benefits.

Type of Fatty AcidPropertiesHealth Implications
Saturated Fatty Acids-No double bonds
-Straight/linear structure
-Pack tightly together
-Solid at room temperature (butter, lard, etc.)
-Diets high in saturated fats are linked to high LDL (“bad”) cholesterol
-Builds up in arteries causing plaque
-Raises blood pressure and risk of heart disease
Unsaturated Fatty Acids-One or more double bonds
-Bend/Kink in structure
-Loosely packed together
-Liquid at room temperature (avocado and olive oil, etc.)
-Can help reduce LDL (‘bad”) cholesterol
-Helps maintain healthy blood pressure and blood sugar levels
-Helps to lower risk of cardiovascular diseases

Pets need fatty acids to stay healthy. Omega-3, 6, 9, and 12 fatty acids are especially important for many body functions. These unsaturated fatty acids support the brain by enhancing cognitive function and aiding in neurotransmitter signaling.

Additionally, they bolster the immune system, ensuring pets can effectively fight off infections and diseases. Also, Omega fatty acids can help keep the heart healthy by reducing inflammation and supporting its functions. They also help joints feel better by easing stiffness and making them more flexible.

Pets need Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to stay healthy, but their bodies can’t make them on their own. They have to get these nutrients from their food. Omega-3s can help fight inflammation, lowering the chance of long-lasting diseases. They also keep the heart and joints healthy, help the brain work well, and make pets’ coats shiny and their skin healthy.

Omega-6s are important for immune system function, hormone regulation, and skin health. Balancing the intake of Omega-3s and Omega-6s is key to promoting overall health and well-being in pets. Green tripe makes it worry-free as it has the perfect Omega-3 to Omega 6 fatty acid ratio.

Vitamin and Mineral Boost

Green tripe offers a vital vitamin and mineral boost! Provides an optimal balance of calcium and phosphorus, which is essential for bone and teeth health in pets. It is hard to find this perfect balance naturally. It is required for the proper development of strong skeletal structures, particularly in large breeds.

If there’s too much or too little calcium and phosphorus, pets can end up with skeletal and bone problems and health issues.  With green tripe, the balancing act is already done, creating a superior and safe dietary supplement.

Green tripe is full of important vitamins and minerals, like essential vitamins B3 (niacin) and B12 (cobalamin). Niacin plays a crucial role in energy metabolism, nervous system function, and the maintenance of healthy skin and coat. Niacin deficiency can lead to symptoms such as poor growth, digestive issues, and dermatitis.

Cobalamin is really important for making red blood cells, helping nerves function, and making DNA. Without enough of it, pets might get anemia, have nerve problems, or feel weak.

Green tripe also has lots of minerals that pets need to stay healthy, like magnesium, zinc, selenium, and iron. Each one has its role for keeping pets well. Magnesium is vital for nerve function, muscle contraction, and bone health. Zinc supports immune function, wound healing, and carbohydrate metabolism.

Selenium aids in DNA production and metabolism. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant, aiding immune function and thyroid health. Iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood and energy metabolism.

Not having enough of these minerals can make pets’ immune system weak, slow down healing, and make muscles weak and pets tired. Giving pets green tripe in their food can stop these problems and keep them healthy and feeling good.

Long-Term Health Maintenance

Immediate benefits of green tripe consumption for pets include improved digestion, increased energy levels, and enhanced nutrient absorption. However, the true power of green tripe lies in its long-term impact on pet health.

Regular consumption contributes to overall health maintenance by providing a steady supply of essential nutrients. Promoting healthy skin and coat, supporting strong bones and teeth, and boosting immune function. As pets keep eating healthy food like green tripe, it helps stop long-lasting health problems, makes them live longer, and makes their lives better.

Using green tripe for preventative maintenance offers a holistic approach to pet care. Supporting cardiovascular health, digestion, and immune function. Green tripe gives pets important nutrients and helps their gut flora stay healthy. This may stop them from getting sick with upset stomachs, autoimmune problems, or allergies.

Green tripe’s nutrients can help keep blood pressure and blood sugar levels normal, which reduces the risk of health problems like diabetes. Including green tripe into your pet’s diet boosts overall well-being, ensuring they lead happy, healthy lives for years to come.

Green Tripe & PetKind

PetKind, a family-owned and operated Canadian business, is dedicated to making it easy for all pet owners to give their pets tripe with a range of convenient products. There are green tripe options suitable for every pet’s diet and lifestyle. Their sourcing of premium ingredients is exclusively from Canada, USA, and New Zealand. Recipes are free of any artificial preservatives, by-products, corn, soy, grains, or wheat.

In PetKind’s Tripe Dry line, green tripe is the main ingredient in every recipe, making sure pets get all the benefits from this healthy superfood. After tripe, each recipe includes fresh meat as the next ingredient, giving pets a fantastic source of protein. It is a complete and balanced option suitable for cats and dogs of all life stages and breed. Best of all, Tripe Dry lacks the typical strong smell that comes with tripe, making it a more pleasant feeding experience for pet owners.

If you want more moisture in your pet’s food, no problem! PetKind has lots of options to help you add tripe and keep your pet hydrated.

People love the Tripett canned food line because of its simple recipe and great quality. It only has tripe as the main ingredient. Designed for supplemental feeding, Tripett offers pet owners a straightforward and nutritious option to enhance their pet’s diet.

Many Tripett recipes have one source of protein, making it easier for pet owners to handle any food allergies or sensitivities. Additionally, Tripett offers combinations of different proteins, providing pets with a variety of flavors and nutrients to make mealtime enjoyable and delicious.

The That’s It recipes by PetKind are another delightful addition to any pet’s diet. These recipes are made with limited ingredients such as the superfood green tripe! Alongside other wholesome ingredients like fresh meat and broth, green tripe adds an extra boost of essential nutrients. These simple but healthy recipes aren’t complete and balanced by themselves, but they’re made to enhance your pet’s regular meal.

PetKind has made it simpler than ever to incorporate the nutritional benefits with Tripe Treats! These treats are healthy and tasty, giving your pet a way to enjoy snacks without feeling guilty. They are crafted with a focus on wellness and desirability. 

The treats have an easy-to-break-apart design. You can use them as a reward during training or give them to your pet as a healthy treat anytime. They are suitable for all dogs, including picky eaters and those with sensitive stomachs.

PetKind offers several lines that include tripe, including dry food, wet food, and treats. These provide an easy and nutritious way to treat your pet and keep them healthy. To learn more about their company and variety of products they provide, please follow the link to their website. https://petkind.ca

Green tripe is full of important nutrients like amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, making it a nutritional powerhouse for pets. When you add green tripe to your pet’s food, with help from PetKind, you’re giving them the gift of good health and energy.

As pet parents, taking preventative steps to care for our pets, like feeding them green tripe, can truly impact their well-being in the long run. Let’s continue to prioritize their health and happiness by giving them the best nutrition possible.

A Guide to Sustainable Pet Parenting

Welcome to the world of sustainable pet parenting, where our furry friends and the planet team up for a brighter future! As pet lovers, we know the joy and responsibility that comes with caring for our four-legged friends. But in today’s world, being a pet parent means more than just providing food and shelter. It’s about making conscious choices that benefit not only our pets but also the environment they live in.

Let’s explore conscious buying habits in pet care, where each purchase can create a positive change. We’ll showcase brands that make excellent products while also supporting causes, cutting their carbon footprints, and leading the way in sustainability from start to finish.

So, get ready to unleash the power of sustainable pet parenting as we explore how our choices can make a difference, one paw at a time!

Paw-sitive Impact

One way we can make a difference as pet parents is by picking brands that help out with causes and communities. In the pet care world, some brands don’t just sell their product – they’re on a mission to make a positive impact on the world.

Take Almo Nature & Fondazione Capellino Foundation, for example. Set up in 2018, this nonprofit foundation uses all the money it makes to protect biodiversity and fight climate change through its Reintegration Economy model. This shows they’re committed to giving back to nature.

Similarly, Earth Rated has helped out over 11,000 organizations, including pet-related ones like SNAP Quebec. They’ve also supported big projects like global healthcare systems through partnerships with organizations like (RED).

But the paw-sitivity doesn’t stop there. Petcurean actively participates in their community by assisting with various projects. They donate time and resources to support groups that feed pets and plant trees to help bees and fight climate change.

Project Hive is all about saving bees. They’re working to create healthy places for bees to live by planting wildflowers. Their goal is to make 50 million feet of habitat by 2025.

Sweat Scoop cares about the future and not just because they have all-natural cat litter. They’re teaming up with Plastic Bank to help clean up the oceans by collecting and recycling plastic. West Paw also gives back by volunteering and donating to good causes. Both these brands show how businesses can make an impact while still making great products for our pets.

Paws on the Planet

Pet parents can make a significant impact on the planet by choosing brands with their Paws on the Planet. When we check out brands that make stuff in eco-friendly ways and have carbon-neutral factories, we can help lower our pet’s carbon paw-print. These committed companies really care about the environment. They work hard to ensure their products don’t hurt the planet during production, from getting the materials to disposal.

Companies like Beco, Earth Rated, Nature’s Hug, Made Better, Petcurean, Project Hive, The Honest Kitchen, and West Paw are leading the charge in reducing emissions and greenhouse gases. They are putting in the work to figure out and cut down on how much their products hurt the environment over their whole life.

They’re showing everyone in the pet care world how to be more eco-friendly. By choosing products from these environmentally conscious brands, pet parents can play a part in creating a greener and healthier planet for their beloved pets and future generations to enjoy.

Paw-sitive Sustainability

We have the power to make a meaningful impact by choosing brands that prioritize sustainability. These brands not only focus on environmental benefits but also uphold social and economic considerations, ensuring a holistic approach to sustainability. When you support companies that get their raw materials in a way that doesn’t hurt the planet, treat their workers fairly, and help out their communities, you’re helping make the pet care industry more fair and earth-friendly.

When you see logos like B Corp Certification and the Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC) on product packages, it means the brands are really serious about being eco-friendly. These logos help you know which brands care about the planet. Companies like Beco, Earth Rated, Earth Animal, Made Better, Project Hive, The Honest Kitchen, and West Paw proudly show off these certifications, proving they’re committed to doing great things for the planet and following eco-conscious business practices.

Also, pet parents can look for products with packaging that can be composted or are made of recyclable material. Brands like Almo Cat Litter, Earth Rated, Made Better, and Sweat Scoop care about reducing waste and using eco-friendly materials in their packaging.

When pet parents pick brands that care about paw-sitive sustainability, they help make the pet care industry better. Together, we can make the planet healthier for pets and people, making the future brighter for everyone.

Paw-Some Eating

Pet parents can make a positive impact on their pets’ health and the environment by choosing brands focused on paw-some eating. The pet food industry is changing with new options like plant-based protein and insect-based protein. These choices are better for the environment compared to traditional meat diets.

Insects and plant-based options for pet food need less land, water, and food compared to animals. That’s a great choice for pet owners who want to be planet-friendly.

Beyond their eco-friendliness, alternative protein diets offer numerous health benefits for pets. Insects and vegetables have lots of vitamins and minerals that pets’ bodies can use easily. providing complete and balanced diet for our furry companions. These diets are particularly beneficial for pets with common protein allergies or sensitivities, offering premium nutrition without compromising on taste, quality or comfort.

Brands that make insect protein pet food include FirstMate Kasiks, GO!, Made Better, and Pulp Habits. Natural Balance and Petipet have created plant-based options. By picking these brands, pet parents can feed their pets well, help the environment, and support a better future for everyone.

Taking Action for a Greener Future

At Global Pet Foods, we dedicate ourselves to offering pet products that are friendly to the planet. We also aim to help pet owners adopt eco-friendly practices every day with your pets. Beyond choosing sustainable brands, pet parents can make a difference by adopting environmentally conscious habits in their everyday lives. Easy tasks like turning off lights when you leave a room, fixing leaks to save water, using water-saving appliances, and unplugging electronics when you’re not using them can help make the future more green.

Also, pet parents can make their carbon footprint smaller by cleaning up after our pets, using waste bags that break down naturally, and picking eco-friendly pet litter. When we can, using public transportation or carpooling instead of driving alone helps cut down on emissions and makes the environment cleaner.

By adopting these eco-friendly habits into our daily routines, pet parents can significantly reduce their environmental impact. At Global Pet Foods, we believe that collective efforts, both big and small, can lead to significant positive change. Join us in our mission to create a world where pets and the planet thrive, one sustainable action at a time. Together, we can make a lasting impact for future generations.

We celebrate the journey of sustainable pet parenting, where every choice counts towards a greener future. We’re dedicated to providing eco-friendly products and helping pet parents learn about them.

Our goal is to make sustainability easy and enjoyable for everyone. We’re building a community of pet lovers who care about making a difference. This includes supporting brands that give back and adopting eco-friendly habits in our everyday lives.

Join us in our mission to create a world where pets and the planet thrive! Let’s choose brands that care about the planet, speak up for what’s right, and inspire others to join us in making the world greener. Together, we can make a positive change and leave behind a legacy of love and care for our pets and the environment.

Treats can be a Valuable Source of Nutrition for your Pet

When it comes to deciding how to feed our pets, we make it our mission to find a formula with the highest quality ingredients, in the right form for our pets – whether it be kibble, raw, freeze dried or canned. We heavily research the company that makes the food and the regions from which they source ingredients. We watch our pets closely on each new formula, assessing their energy, weight, coat condition and stool quality. We become dietitians, dermatologists and gastroenterologists all in the name of love – for our animals. We love to see them wag their tail and lick their lips, shake a paw and get up on their hind legs dancing in joy! We want to thank them for being our companions, confidants and cherished friends with the most delicious, tempting treats we can find!

 

But treats don’t just have to be delicious. “Treats” can become part of the diet that you have so carefully chosen or maybe even cooked up yourself. Considering treats, not just as a tasty morsel, but as a functional part of the diet, you can ensure the health of your 4-legged family members is always optimized. Lots of pet parents are already making a great effort to choose healthy treats, but it is possible to go even deeper and choose the right treats for what your pet specifically needs – a treat that is the perfect complement to the pet food you have chosen.

Single ingredient treats are a simple addition that you can be confident in selecting. Only one ingredient means you have complete control over what you are adding to the diet. If your pet has dietary restrictions, it can be a hassle reading through the list of ingredients in many biscuits or chewy treats. There is a wide variety of single ingredient treats including meats, fruits and vegetables.

Dogs love the taste of liver, so liver treats are a highly motivating reward. Not only are they delicious, they are high in protein, low in fat and a rich source of vitamin A – essential for skin & coat, eyesight and mobility; and B vitamins – essential for the function of multiple body systems, including energy generation, immunity and gut health. Chicken jerky is also a tasty, lean protein treat that contains B vitamins and Selenium – an important antioxidant. These treats are a great choice for weight conscious pets or pets that would benefit from extra protein or vitamins.

Fish skin is a high-quality source of omega fatty acids as well as other nutrients that support skin structure and function including B vitamins, selenium and amino acids. Beef fillets also contain omega fatty acids as well as zinc, a very important mineral for skin and immunity. These treat options are healthy and tasty for pets that need dermatological and immune support.

Many vegetables contain essential vitamins and minerals as well as complex carbohydrates that help regulate blood sugar and provide prebiotic fiber to enhance gut health. Air dried sweet potato is a palatable, low calorie treat that is low glycemic with fiber to support digestive health. Sweet potato contains vitamin B6, which also helps regulate blood sugar as well as support the nervous system and many other body functions. Vitamin C and manganese in sweet potatoes are both involved in antioxidant activities in the body.

With so many nutritious treat options, you are able to complement and enhance your pet’s diet with the most suitable additions, while enjoying quality time bonding with your pet.

 

This month at Global Pet Foods we are highlighting three new single ingredient treats from Nature’s Harvest: air dried Chicken Jerky, Beef Fillets and Pork Cracklings. Crispy cod skins and sweet potato chews are also available from Nature’s Harvest.

Visit your local Global Pet Foods to see a full selection of healthy treats from a variety of trusted brands.

#GPFlovesFromm

Have you heard?  Fromm Family Pet Foods has some exciting news about their new Crunchy O’s dog treats & expanded food lines!

Who is Fromm Family Pet Foods?  Since 1904, Fromm Family Pet Foods has maintained a tradition of quiet innovation dedicated to the health & nutrition of pets.  Food safety is their top priority – part of their commitment to all pet parents is their dedication to producing high quality, safe, and consistent pet foods.  They own and operate two dry food and treat manufacturing facilities as well as a wet food cannery in Wisconsin.  They manage every aspect of the process including sanitation & facility maintenance all the way to the lab analysis & formula blending.  They take a long-term approach to their business model to ensure you can rely on products made by their family for your furry family.

Some of their newest innovations include:

Many of our customers’ dogs & cats absolutely love Fromm’s products!  With such a wide variety available to choose from, there’s something available for every pet’s specific need.

Global Pet Foods proudly carries a wide variety of the Fromm Family Pet Foods lines in many of our stores.  Contact your local store here to inquire about product selection & availability.

Understanding Glycemic Index & Glycemic Load in Pet Foods

GLYCEMIC INDEX is a measure of the relative rate of how fast and how high blood sugar levels rise after a specific carbohydrate is eaten relative to the rate of increase in blood sugar levels if the meal consisted of only the simple sugar glucose. The higher the glycemic index the faster the rise in blood sugar levels and the higher the concentration of sugar in the blood. In contrast the lower the glycemic index the slower the rise in blood sugar levels and the lower the concentration of sugar in the blood. Glycemic indices are rated as high >70, moderate 55-70 and low <55.

Diabetes is associated with high blood sugar levels so there is an inference that if the blood sugar levels are kept low it will help to manage diabetes and may help to prevent diabetes from occurring. The management of diabetes is aided by managing blood sugar levels but whether low glycemic index foods prevent diabetes in pets is still unknown.

Glycemic indices have been developed for many food ingredients. Foods high in carbohydrates often have high glycemic indices but not always. For example, potatoes can have either a high or low glycemic index depending on the type of potato (cultivar), the preparation method, cooking time and temperature, whether the potato is eaten hot or cold, how the potato is formulated with other ingredients and the size of the meal. Hot mashed potatoes can have a high glycemic index of 70 to 80, while cold cooked potatoes mixed with protein and fats can have a low glycemic index in the range of 30 to 40.

GLYCEMIC LOAD: To further complicate the understanding of the effect of various diets on blood sugar levels one also needs to consider glycemic load. It is a mathematical assessment which attempts to predict the actual blood sugar level that will result from a complete meal, not just the individual ingredients. Glycemic load sums the glycemic indices from all of the ingredients together taking into consideration, how they are prepared and how they are served. Glycemic load is a much better predictor of blood sugar levels than simply glycemic index.

This table illustrates that the exact same diet formulation can have very different glycemic loads depending on how the diet is formulated and how the diet is served. Glycemic Load is highly dependent on preparation and presentation. Both diets A and B have identical carbohydrate inclusions but diet A has a high glycemic load and diet B has a low glycemic load.