 Lilly has saved up her pennies for her next vet appointment  Understanding Vet Expenses We all love our pets and want the best for them, and it can also come with its own challenges, especially when it comes to vet expenses. Many pet parents often find themselves worrying about unexpected costs, like surgeries or emergencies that can arise without warning. These situations can be stressful, both emotionally and financially. It's not uncommon for pet parents to feel anxious about how they'll manage to pay for these necessary treatments while wanting the very best for their pet. This concern is not just about the money but also about ensuring pets receive the care they deserve. Understanding the different ways to pay for vet care and how to save for these expenses can ease some of these worries and help pet parents provide the best possible care for their beloved pets. Common Payment Options for Vet Care One of the first steps in managing vet expenses is understanding the various payment options available. Many pet parents might feel overwhelmed by the idea of large bills, but knowing the choices can provide peace of mind. One common option is using a credit card, which allows for immediate payment of vet bills. However, it's crucial to be mindful of interest rates that can add up over time. Another option is setting up a savings account specifically for pet expenses (our recommendation is to find a high yield saving account, this will help you build your savings faster). By regularly setting aside a small amount, pet parents can gradually build a fund that can help cover unexpected costs. Some pet parents prefer using CareCredit, a healthcare credit card that offers special financing options for vet expenses. Typically you get 6 months interest free financing and then the interest rate is quite high after this time. So do the best you can to pay off the bulk of the bill in 6 months. Each of these options has its own benefits and considerations, and choosing the right one depends on your circumstances and financial comfort. Pet Insurance: A Safety Net for Unexpected Costs Pet insurance is becoming an increasingly popular choice for many pet parents. It acts as a safety net, helping to cover costs for unexpected vet visits, surgeries, and emergencies. For those worried about their pets' well-being and potential high costs, pet insurance can provide significant relief. Different insurance plans offer various levels of coverage, from basic accident-only plans to comprehensive packages that include wellness checks and routine care. It's important for pet parents to carefully review the terms of each policy to ensure it meets their needs and budget. While monthly premiums are an additional expense, many find that the peace of mind and financial protection offered by pet insurance outweighs the cost. Having insurance means that pet parents can focus on their pets' health without the added stress of financial strain, making it a valuable tool for those who want to ensure their pets receive the best care possible. It’s best to sign up your pet while they’re young. Coverage is lowest and coverage is typically highest. But we do know some insurance providers will insure older pets as well. We were able to get basic accident-only coverage for Chester & Lilly, who are considered “seniors”. The True Cost of Surgeries and Emergencies Understanding the potential costs of surgeries and emergencies is crucial for pet parents who want to be prepared. Vet bills can vary widely depending on the type of procedure and the specific needs of the pet. For instance, a simple procedure like teeth cleaning might cost a few hundred dollars (if you’re lucky), while more complex surgeries such as hip dysplasia treatment could range into the several thousands. Emergency vet visits can also be expensive, often requiring payment upfront. Knowing these potential costs can help pet parents plan accordingly, whether through savings, credit options, or insurance. It's not just about the financial aspect, but also about ensuring that pets receive timely and necessary treatment without delay. Being informed about these costs empowers pet parents to make decisions that prioritize their pets' health and happiness, while reducing the anxiety often associated with vet visits and unexpected medical needs. Making the Best Choice for Your Pet's Care Navigating vet expenses can be challenging, but understanding the options available can make a significant difference. Whether through credit cards, savings accounts, or pet insurance, there are ways to manage these costs effectively. It's important for pet parents to assess their financial situation and choose the option that best fits their needs and their pets' needs. By being proactive and informed, pet parents can ensure they are providing the best care for their beloved companions without the added stress of financial uncertainty. Jenn's Pet TLC understands the importance of peace of mind when it comes to caring for pets and is here to support pet parents in making informed decisions about their pets' health and well-being. Are you feeling stressed and overwhelmed about your pets daily need for care? Whether it's taking the dog for a walk while you're busy at the office or making sure your kitty has enrichment time while you shuffle the kids from soccer practice to band practice, we're here to be part of your support team. Book pet care with us now and take one more stressor off your place BOOK NOW!!  Simon getting cuddles from Uncle Ryan
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Choosing the best veterinarian in San Jose and Santa Clara County can be a tough decision. We want the best for our furry family members, and their health care is no different. We want a veterinarian who is kind, caring, compassionate and will listen to us. One that sees our pet as an individual instead of just another appointment in their book. So we asked our followers who their favorite veterinarian is and why, and we are sharing the results with you!
Did your veterinarian make the list? Jenn & Ryan’s personal favorite: The Whole Pet Vet 325 Saratoga-Los Gatos Rd, Los Gatos, CA 95030 We love The Whole Pet Vet because they are open to many options (holistic and integrative) in regards to pet care. We sought out TWPV after our previous vet (who will remain anonymous) nearly gave up on treating Lilly for her digestive issues. We wanted a more holistic option and that is what TWPV was willing to offer us. They are kind, Fear Free certified (like Jenn’s Pet TLC) and we love how they strive to provide the least stressful environment for our cats. Our followers recommendations: Adobe South Bay (Los Gatos/Almaden & Blossom Hill) 15965 Los Gatos Blvd, Los Gatos, CA 95032 “All the veterinarians there are well educated, they take their time to explain everything to you and truly care for the well being of animals.” Dr Wong VCA Orchard Plaza Animal Hospital 5841 Cottle Rd, San Jose, CA 95123 “So caring and takes time to explain everything. She asks lots of good questions about our cats also.” Los Gatos Dog & Cat Hospital 17480 Shelburne Way, Los Gatos, CA 95030 “Great staff and always squeeze me in if my cats need to come in. I don’t think they are taking new clients at this time though.” Live Oak Veterinary Hospital 16025 Vineyard Blvd, Morgan Hill, CA 95037 “Jeannie Hagarty Arcay was my large animal vet through [the former] Tri-County Veterinary care for many years, and then she and a partnering vet opened Live Oak in Morgan Hill specializing in smaller animals. She is amazing, great communication and compassionate care! One of my pups has severe allergies and she goes above and beyond to ensure he is comfortable, which brings peace of mind. My dogs have seen other vets at Live Oak and they too have been wonderful.” Evergreen Veterinary Clinic 1611 E Capitol Expy Ste 205, San Jose, CA 95121 “The veterinarians at this clinic have always treated my pets with the [utmost] concern. I have taken my pets to this clinic for decades.” Pinnacle Animal Hospital 4724 Meridian Ave, San Jose, CA 95118 "Tory sees Dr. Linda Watson at Pinnacle. She's great because she is thorough, kind and respectful. She explains things clearly, doesn't recommend things that aren't needed (no upselling of products or services) and is happy to answer as many questions as I have. She never seems rushed to get to the next appointment. They are a cat friendly vet, and Tory is never taken out of my sight during the appointment - they bring everything they need into the room, so I know that she's always safe. Their prices are reasonable and they are located close to my home." Dr. Joanne Smith from VCA Palo Alto 3944 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306 "She’s caring and thoughtful and always goes the extra mile for our pets!" Why did you choose the veterinarian you have for your pet? We’d love to know! Please drop a comment below. Looking for a professional pet sitter to add to your pet’s care team? If you’re in the San Jose area, look no farther than us!! We’re accepting new clients. Click HERE to fill out our form.  The weather is warming up, it’s time for paws to hit the pavement! Looking for a new spot to explore this spring? Santa Clara County has tons of parks and trails to enjoy. Here are some of the best dog hikes in Santa Clara county. Maybe we’ll see you out there! Martial Cottle Park Difficulty: Easy (paved and flat) Leash Requirements: SCC Park Standard (6ft leash or less, all times) Parking: Free! A great choice if you’re just looking to get moving. 3 miles of paved, flat trails will take you through quaint picnic areas, playgrounds, and an educational farming facility. What you might find most surprising is that this park smells great! Aromatic herbs waft through the air as you enjoy a very leisurely stroll or bike ride.  IMG credit: All Trails Los Gatos Creek Trail Difficulty: Easy (mostly paved, easy elevation changes) Leash Requirements: SCC Park Standard (6ft leash or less, all times) Parking: Mixed. Free on University Avenue, paid in Vasona Park proper. We’ll be honest with you: this is our favorite trail! Foot and bike traffic tend to be high during the times you’d expect, but the reasons are obvious! First, it’s simply a beautiful and lush area. But it’s also a tremendous family outing. The trail passes through Vasona park which features a playground, a railroad, and water sport on the reservoir during the summer. Our pups, of course, are usually more interested in the fellow dogs around… not to mention the many geese and bunnies! Just be aware that certain areas of the trail are unpaved in case anyone has sensitive paws!  Our friend Niko loves the Los Gatos Creek Trail! Guadalupe Oak Grove Park/Jeffrey Fontana Park Difficulty: Mixed (dirt, flat trails or hill trails available Leash Requirements: SCC Park Standard (6ft leash or less), No leash dog park available Parking: Free! Take your pick here! Are you looking for a nice, easy stroll? No problem! Prefer to punish your legs? You’ve got a pair of hills that’ll do exactly that! Prefer to let Spot run himself out with his friends? You’ve got a nice, fenced dog park that’ll give him all he can handle. We’re here often and we love it!  Zach is a long time friend of ours and he absolutely loves Jeffrey Fontana park. We actually first met him at this very dog park! Coyote Creek Trail Difficulty: Mild (Paved, some grades are +8%, long stretches with no shade) Leash Requirements: SCC Park Standard (6ft leash or less), No leash dog park available Parking: Mixed. Free at multiple trailheads. This trail spans 15 miles, so all but the most ambitious will need to come back a time or two before you explore it all. Thankfully, there’s plenty to see; from rustic footbridges, to stunning views of Santa Clara’s rolling hills. It’s easy to lose track of time on this trail, so mind your distance! We recommend any sort of app that can keep track of your hike progress. Coyote Creek does have a dog park as well, for those inclined!  Jenn & Ryan love walking Coyote Creek Trail. There are so many interesting things to see. If you look closely you'll see a wild pig. But don't worry, they're pretty harmless and are used to people. Almaden Quicksilver County Park Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (Dirt, natural terrain, steep grades) Leash Requirements: SCC Park Standard (6ft leash or less, all times) Parking: Free! There’s thirty seven miles’ worth of rolling hills and unpaved terrain. We recommend plenty of water, good shoes, and careful attention paid to the complementary trail maps. We warn you, though, these trails require a particular level of fitness and service is limited should one require assistance. For those who challenge Quicksilver, however, they will be rewarded with stunning views of the valley.  One of the many trails of Almaden Quicksilver park. These trails are also frequented by horseback riders, so please be courteous while sharing the trails with them. Remember, the horse always has the right of way. IMG credit: Hiking Project We know we didn't cover all of the amazing dog friendly hiking trails in Santa Clara County. What are some of your favorites? Please drop a comment below, we want to hear from you!
Does your pup want to go on adventures but your schedule just won't allow for you to take them out? Do you feel guilty that you can't get your pup on adventures as they'd like? We're here to help!! We have lots of dog walk slots available and we'd love to include your pup on our adventures. Book Now!! Halloween is a great time to include your pet in some fun, local activities. Of course, please only include your pet if they enjoy it.
Here are a few things that are happening around the San Jose area this Halloween Season:
We’ve all been hearing about the importance of gut health as humans, but did you know it’s just as important for our dogs and cats as well? A healthy gut helps with proper digestion and nutrient absorption, supports immune system function, and even influences mood and energy levels. When you eat a heavy (maybe not so healthy) meal, don’t you feel sluggish, tired and the only thing you want to do is become one with your couch? Do you feel achy or unwell after eating certain foods? Our pets can get the same sort of feeling, so we want to be sure we’re feeding them in a way that helps promote good gut health for longevity and a reduced risk of disease.
Poor gut health can look like diarrhea or constipation, changes in their behavior or energy, chronic illness, poor coat quality, poor appetite, vomiting, bloating, changes in stool consistency, an increase in hunger but losing weight, even respiratory issues, lipomas, anxiety, dry, flaky skin, excessive shedding, or recurring ear infections. There are countless issues that can be traced to poor gut health. Just like us, our pets have a gut microbiome that includes trillions of microorganisms. These microorganisms play a vital role in keeping your pet healthy by aiding digestion, supporting immune function, and influencing mood and behavior. And just like us, their microbiome helps to break down food, absorb nutrients, and (in a healthy gut) protect against harmful bacteria. In fact, about 70-80% of a pet’s immune system is housed in the gut, making it a critical defense against illness. Sound familiar? Yup, it’s the same in humans too. Disruptions to the balance of the microbiome—caused by poor diet, antibiotics, stress, or illness—can lead to gastrointestinal problems, which can lead to all the things (and more) we listed above. It can also make pets more susceptible to infections and other diseases, underscoring the importance of maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. Pet’s can also get leaky gut syndrome just like us. Leaky gut syndrome in pets occurs when the intestinal lining becomes damaged, allowing harmful substances like bacteria, toxins, and undigested food particles to leak into the bloodstream. This can trigger an immune response, leading to chronic inflammation and various health issues such as digestive upset, allergies, skin problems, and even behavioral changes. Common causes include poor diet, stress, infections, and prolonged use of medications like antibiotics or steroids. Pets with leaky gut may show signs of diarrhea, bloating, frequent infections, or food sensitivities. So you’re probably wondering, ok what can I do? Start by feeding a balanced and nutritious diet. This is the foundation of good gut health in both dogs and cats. Important: You’ll have to do this gradually, we don’t want to switch any pet to a new food immediately. We need to make sure their system tolerates the new food well and that they’ll actually eat the new food. What you feed your pet directly impacts the composition and diversity of their gut bacteria. High-quality pet food that contains a good balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients is key to promoting a healthy gut. Fresh, whole ingredients such as high-protein meats, healthy oils (coconut, avocado, etc), vegetables, beans and healthy grains are ideal in maintaining a thriving gut microbiome. (Note: we recommend limiting the amount of grains you feed your cat [and they probably won’t like the bean either]. They are obligate carnivores and while they can benefit from the fiber and nutrients in grains and beans, it can also produce weight gain if fed too much). Avoid feeding, low-quality pet foods that are high in fillers (wheat, corn, soy), artificial preservatives (those chemicals you can’t pronounce), and unhealthy fats (canola, vegetable). These foods can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to digestive issues, inflammation, and weakened immunity. Diets that contain too much processed food can encourage the growth of harmful bacteria while reducing the diversity of beneficial microbes. Often too, oils sprayed on kibble can go rancid even before you get anywhere close to finishing the bag. If you smell your pets kibble and it smells “off” that is the oils going rancid. In addition to whole foods and ingredients in your pets food, probiotics and prebiotics play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut flora. Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that help restore and balance the gut microbiome, aiding in digestion and bolstering the immune system. Including probiotics in your pet’s diet can be especially helpful during times of stress, illness, or after a course of antibiotics. Probiotics can be added to your pets food through other food sources like fermented foods, non-dairy/unsweetened yogurt, goats milk, kiefer, or supplements. Prebiotics are fibers that feed the good bacteria already present in your pet’s gut.. Prebiotics act as the “fuel” or “food” for probiotics, creating an environment where beneficial bacteria can thrive. Some natural sources of prebiotics for pets include chicory root, pumpkin, and certain vegetables. By combining both prebiotics and probiotics in your pet’s diet, you create a powerful synergy that supports long-term gut health, strengthens the immune system, and improves overall vitality. Maintaining your pet's gut health is essential for their overall well-being, influencing not only digestion but also immunity, energy levels, and even behavior. A balanced gut microbiome supports proper nutrient absorption, helps ward off illness, keeps your pet feeling their best and can even promote longevity. By providing a high-quality diet rich in natural ingredients, along with prebiotics, probiotics, and regular vet checkups, you can ensure your pet’s digestive system stays strong and healthy. Prioritizing gut health is a proactive step toward giving your dog or cat a longer, happier, and healthier life. Sometimes living in the modern age feels like a cruel joke. This is toxic! That is hazardous! “OMG, you feed your pet that!? Don’t you know (blah, blah, blah)” It’s a PAIN! That’s not what this article is about. This is about making YOUR life easier. Sure, we’ll be discussing a few incidental hazards inherent to certain products… but we’re not trying to tell you what to do. Instead, we want to make being a pet owner as easy as possible so you can spend more time doing the things that matter with them!
Ready to retire those items making your life harder? Check out our recommended resources page and if you don’t see something there, leave a comment and we’re happy to send our best recommendations. 2024 marks the 30th anniversary of Professional Pet Sitters' week (PPSW). Pet Sitters International (PSI) started PPSW back in 1994 as a way to bring attention to a budding industry, whose mission is to provide top notch, in-home care for pets, and provide their guardians with peace of mind while they’re away from home. Over the years, thousands of pet sitting companies have cared for countless pets with the support of PSI, and we are proud to be one of those companies.
Jenn started researching about becoming a professional pet sitter back in 2009. It didn’t take long at all for her to decide PSI is a fantastic organization and, soon after joining, found her first client (the sweetest lab/chow mix to ever walk the earth). Jenn has always been passionate about animals. Growing up she had goldfish, parakeets, a hamster, guinea pigs, cats and a dog. She also always loved horses but wasn’t able to fulfill the dream of owning one until she was 20. There is a certain joy that animals bring to our daily lives that is unmatched by any other experience. It’s been scientifically proven that having a pet (any pet) can help us live longer, reduce our stress, give us purpose and keep us laughing with their silly antics. When we travel away from home (whether for a few hours or even days at a time) our pets’ well-being in our absence is vitally important. Dogs pine for a friend to visit them for an adventure. Even the shyest of cats want to know that someone is looking after them while their guardians are away. It is truly fulfilling to be able to fill that need for pet parents and provide peace of mind while they aren’t home. The emotional fulfillment pet sitters get from animals isn’t just limited to our own pets; we find joy, peace, laughter and even heartbreak when we’re around our clients' pets. We form a bond with each and every pet we care for. Over the years, we’ve cared for hundreds of pets, and not one has been exactly the same. Each has their own personality and quirks. And that's one of the things that makes this career so amazing, interacting with so many different pets! Trust is paramount when it comes to finding the right pet sitter, and we endeavor to ensure our clients have that trust. We provide yearly background checks for all of our staff (including officers). We’re bonded & insured by the best company in the industry. We’re a licensed business. We hire employees (NOT independent contractors) so we can provide hands-on training to ensure everyone provides the same level of service. We send daily report cards with pictures, video and notes about how the visit went. We clearly communicate with our clients so that no one is ever confused about the well-being of their animals. Reliability and expertise are also core values in providing peace of mind to our clients. We provide a continuity of service guarantee, which means that if our client is on our calendar; the pet will be seen one of our amazing sitters –guaranteed! Continued learning is also a value and we never pass up an opportunity to learn more about the industry's best practices. Anything from behavior, to business management, to nutrition, to communication styles, the topics are nearly endless. We have dozens of amazing reviews. One of our favorites is: “Jenn and Ryan are superb sitters. Both are kind and sincere people. They provide detailed and descriptive updates with photos after each visit. Our cats trust and love both of them. We leave home with confidence our furry family members are getting the highest quality of care. Highly recommended.” The pet industry is like any other industry when it comes to innovations and new ways of thinking. While we aren’t officially trainers or behaviorists, we do learn a lot of the basics that help us when interacting with client pets. Over the years, science has revealed a lot about animal body language, as well as how to properly train and handle misbehaving pets. Aspects of proper pet nutrition have been a top concern as of late and countless studies have been done regarding shortfalls in quality for the pet food industry. Technology is changing rapidly too and we’re learning all the time about best practices for social media, communication and website design. PSI is our number one source for continued learning. They offer an annual in-person conference, an annual online summit, and dozens of online courses for us, and our employees. They also offer a certification in professional pet sitting (CPPS), which both Jenn and Ryan have attained. As a company, we ensure we’re all up to date on our Pet First Aid/CPR training every 2 years. When pet sitters learn, we are more than willing to pass on that information to our clients. An educated pet sitter is able to spot potential problems that perhaps the guardian didn’t notice. We’re able to act quickly in emergency situations. We have plans in place in case of a natural disaster. And if the pet is nervous about us being in the home while their guardian is away; we’ve learned techniques to calm the pet, and provide enrichment as well. We’ve learned a lot over the past 15 years. Many things have changed, but the one thing that hasn’t changed is our dedication to top notch service. We want to wow our clients and are always looking for ways to do just that. With our software, our clients are able to provide us with personalized information about their pets and their needs. From there, our sitters can review this information and ensure the pets they’re caring for receive that personalized touch. We share stories about how the visit went, fun photos and cute videos. Most of our employees are trained in medication administration, and Jenn & Ryan are trained in almost all in-home care treatments. We also will provide enrichment (with the clients’ permission) if we feel the pet we’re caring for is bored or in need of some mental stimulation. We’ve noticed most sitters in the Silicon Valley are solo sitters or they use independent contractors. Solo sitters, if overcome by circumstances that preclude their ability to offer service (flat tire, sick, delayed, etc.), leave their clients scrambling to find coverage. Those who use independent contractors expose their businesses to shortfalls in quality that they, themselves, might not even be aware of. Independent Contractor law in the State of California is often misunderstood. According to the ABC test, as long as a worker is doing the core work of the business that is hiring them (i.e. a dog walking business hires a dog walker) that worker must be classified as an employee. Those who use independent contractors are not legally allowed to provide training or instruction of any kind. That contractor is also well within their legal rights to pass on that visit to anyone they want if they decide they don’t want to fulfill that visit. The simple fact is: a pet sitter who utilizes contractors in the State of California likely hasn’t done the time to research what that means for their business (which may indicate critical gaps in other knowledge bases). In contrast, we have an amazing team of dedicated employees, who are trained to our standards of care. They are not only stellar individually, but they function as a brilliant team as they each support each other during unexpected upsets (it really is a special kind of dedication to spend an extra hour mopping after an explosive bowel episode) Choosing a career as a pet sitter and dog walker is truly fulfilling a passion for pet care and well-being. This career isn’t for everyone. We work long days, weekends, holidays, in bad weather, and we encounter pet loss far more often than the average guardian. But the reward of seeing happy pets, working outside and providing peace of mind to our clients is like no other career. Providing that peace of mind to our clients is almost indescribable. We never tire of hearing ‘thank yous’ and the appreciation we feel from our amazing clients (the occasional bottle of wine doesn’t hurt either). So while Professional Pet Sitters Week 2024 comes to a close, that doesn't mean our pursuit in continued education, exceptional service, and providing that all-important peace of mind stops. Here’s to a great year!  Post Updated 3/20/2024 (FULL DISCLOSURE: Jenn’s Pet TLC is an affiliate of The Farmer’s Dog and is seeking affiliation with Small’s brand pet foods. This is an opinion piece, with the main goal of this article is to educate you, the pet parent, on seeking good pet foods.) Have you seen the stories on social media about dogs and cats suddenly becoming very ill and worse passing away after eating Purina Brand foods? Are you concerned about your pet getting sick as well? We’ve been reading story after story about mostly young, seemingly healthy pets, suddenly becoming violently ill and some even succumbing to their sudden illness. Purina Brand Pet Foods have been agonizingly quiet about this; even denying that something is wrong. We understand that correlation does not mean causation, and we urge caution when jumping to conclusions, but hundreds and hundreds of pet parents with the same story suggests that this is not a baseless concern. The latest numbers we can find state that there are around “969 reports of dogs or cats getting ill after eating Purina food, including 234 deaths”. Source That is absolutely frightening! If you suspect that there might be a problem; symptoms to look out for are: lethargy, vomiting (bloody or otherwise), diarrhea, muscle weakness, seizures, rapid weight loss, rectal bleeding, excessive urination, and refusal to eat. If your dog or cat is experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if they are sudden, seek veterinary attention immediately! If your pets are eating Purina but are otherwise stable; consider consulting a holistic or integrative vet who is open to the idea that food may be causing issues. Concerningly, many traditional vets are holding fast to Purina’s statements of “[t]here are no health or safety issues with our products, and they can continue to be fed with confidence” Source. It remains to be seen whether Purina foods are the culprit, but we are prepared to call the circumstances suspicious and cannot, in good conscience, any longer recommend Purina as a trusted brand, given that it seems to be a common denominator in the sudden spike in illnesses. This is a list of foods associated with the majority of the issues: *Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Stomach *Purina Pro Plan EN (Prescription) *Purina Pro Plan Lamb and Rice *Purina Pro Plan Chicken and Rice *Purina Pro Plan Salmon *Purina Pro Plan Bison *Purina Pro Plan Adult Complete Essentials *Purina Pro Plan High Energy *Purina Large Breed Shredded Blend Purina One Joint Health *Purina SPORT 30/20 *Purina One Lamb and Rice *Purina One True Instinct *Purina Dog Chow *Purina One Skin & Coat *Purina One Chicken and Rice *Purina Puppy Chow Tender and Crunchy *Purina Pro Plan Kittens Salmon *Purina One Salmon Selects Dry Food *Fancy Feast Wet Cat Food *Purina Pro Plan Ocean Fish Pate *Purina Pro Plan Kitten Chicken Pate *Purina Pro Plan Kitten Chow Nurture *Purina Pro Plan Live Clear *Purina One + *Purina Friskies Gravy Lovers (all flavors) *Purina Friskies Tender and Crunchy *Purina Kit and Kaboodle *Purina Beggin’ Strips *Purina Pro Plan Beef and Carrots *Purina Pro Plan Chicken and Turkey Purina (and parent company Nestle) own dozens of pet foods that you may be feeding your pet. The list is long, but please read through it: Alpo, Baker's, Beggin’, Beneful, Beyond, Busy Bone, Cat Chow, Chef Michael's, Dog Chow, Dentalife, Ever Root, Fancy Feast, Felix, Friskies, Kit & Kaboodle, Lily's Kitchen, Mighty Dog, Moist & Meaty, Pioneer Woman, Prime, Puppy Chow, Purina One, Purina Pro Plan, Purina Veterinary Diets, Whisker Lickins, Terra Canis, Zukes. There may be more! We compiled this list from various sources. Needless to say, Nestle Purina has a lot of money invested in their pet food brands, which means they have a vested interest in offering assurances rather than admitting any fault (should they, indeed, be liable). So you’re probably asking, “ok great, I get it Purina may not be a great brand, what do I do now?” Or maybe “my pet isn’t exhibiting any of these signs and we’ve been feeding these brands for years, do I really need to switch or be concerned” Our recommendation is that you should consider switching foods regardless of symptoms. Yes, Jenn’s Pet TLC has a vested financial interest in other pet food brands. Our interest in those brands, however, extends to our desire for your pets to lead long, happy, healthy lives with you. Beyond acute concerns regarding (possibly) tainted batches; there are plenty of things in Purina foods that your pets shouldn’t be eating anyway. So before we offer our recommended brands, we’d like to simply offer open recommendations of what you should be looking for; even if you opt for another brand. -High meat content (humanely sourced), with a high ( ideally 70%) moisture content. -Whole food ingredient (protip: if you can’t read it, it’s probably a chemical filler) -Raw, Freeze-dried, ‘gently cooked’, or ‘air dried’ -AVOID STARCHY CARBS (Peas, Lentils, Wheat, Corn, Soy, Potatoes, and Chickpeas) -AVOID MEAT BYPRODUCTS or MEALS -AVOID SYNTHETIC VITAMINS and MINERALS (Though this can be very difficult as many of these are added-back after processing) -AVOID ULTRA PROCESSED KIBBLE (It’s basically a meal of potato chips or bread) -AVOID BINDERS (Carrageenan, gar gum, and gluten of any kind) Source. So what DO we recommend? Sadly, our list is pretty short as Purina isn’t the only sketchy brand out there. FOR DOGS: -The Farmer’s Dog (Affiliate Link) -Rawz -K9 Natural -Raised Right -Primal -Just for Dogs -Tiki Dog -Darwin’s -WrRuVa* -Open Farm -Bixbi -Kiwi -Ziwi FOR CATS: -Smalls -Rawz -Feline Natural -Raised Right -Primal -Just for Cats -Tiki Cat -Darwin’s -WeRuVa* -Open Farm -Bixbi -Kiwi -Ziwi *word of caution with WeRuVa, some of the pate formulas have a few gums listed in the ingredients. We aren't a fan of these gums, however this is still a better option that the Purina brand foods and other cheap brands. If you need a veterinary diet, we recommend Medicus Veterinary Diets. These diets are thoughtfully curated to help ease your pet through a difficult time. They are made with wholesome ingredients meant to transition your pet back to a “normal diet”. We’ll talk next time about how the “veterinary diets” your vet may be pushing are not meant for life long use, and may actually be keeping your pet sick. We hope this helps you find the best food for your pet. What you feed them does truly matter. Just like us, what goes in, reflects what is shown on the outside. And if the food is of poor quality, poor health is inevitable. Many highly processed pet foods are made from rendered parts (aka the parts at the meat processing plant that don’t meet the standards to human consumption, technically called feed, roadkill, euthanized animals, etc), there’s little oversight into the ingredients put in the pet food, most of the grains are sprayed with glyphosate (aka roundup), many contain mycotoxins (which are “generated by fungi…with toxic effects and widely distributed in food and feed” Source.) As the saying goes, when you know better, you do better. This isn’t meant to shame anyone reading this. It’s meant to educate. Jenn has spent months studying how the pet food industry really works and what the ingredients really mean. It’s a deep rabbit hole and she’s more than willing to traverse it for you. Our goal is to be a resource for information and tips for all of our pet parents. We only want what’s best for you and your pet. https://www.drugwatch.com/roundup/ www.drugwatch.com/roundup/glyphosate/  Most pet parents want to include their pets in the festivities of the holidays, including gift giving, –and why not? Our pets are part of the family, they deserve gifts too! And just like giving thoughtful gifts to our human friends and family, we need to be thoughtful about the gifts we’re giving our pets. Here is a quick guide to finding the best gifts for your pets this holiday season. Scroll to the bottom to find suggestions for each type of pet and type of gift.
Dogs:
Cats:
Horse:
Pocket Pets: (rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, mice, rats, etc.)
Reptiles:
Birds:
Suggestions: Dogs:
Cats: Horses:
Pocket Pets: Reptiles: Birds: Losing a cherished pet is an incredibly heart-wrenching experience that many of us will face at some point in our lives. Our pets become beloved members of our families, offering unwavering companionship, unconditional love, and countless cherished memories. Coping with their loss can be an emotional and challenging journey, but there are ways to navigate the grief and find healing. In this blog post, we'll discuss some strategies to help you cope with the loss of a pet.
1. Allow Yourself to Grieve: Just like losing a human loved one, it's important to give yourself permission to grieve. Understand that the bond you shared with your pet was genuine and significant. It's okay to feel sadness, anger, guilt, and even confusion. Everyone's grieving process is unique, so don't rush or suppress your emotions. Your surviving pets will be grieving too, so be sure to allow space for your whole family to mourn. 2. Create a Memorial: Creating a memorial for your pet can be a cathartic way to honor their memory. Consider planting a tree or flowers in your pet's favorite spot, crafting a scrapbook filled with cherished moments, or even writing a heartfelt letter to express your feelings. These tangible gestures can provide comfort and a sense of closure. As a company, we will send a little gift to our clients who have lost a pet to help memorialize their pet. 3. Seek Support: Don't hesitate to lean on friends, family, or support groups during this difficult time. Fellow pet lovers can understand the depth of your grief and offer a listening ear or shoulder to cry on. There are also online forums and social media groups where you can connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Your pet sitter can be a good resource too as we, unfortunately, often deal with pet loss. 4. Remember the Good Times: Rather than dwelling solely on the pain of loss, try to focus on the joy your pet brought into your life. Remember the funny quirks, heartwarming moments, and the unconditional love you shared. Celebrate their life and the positive impact they had on you. 5. Maintain Routine: While grief can disrupt your daily life, maintaining some semblance of routine can provide stability and distraction. Stick to your regular activities as much as possible, whether it's work, exercise, or spending time with other pets. This can help alleviate the feeling of emptiness and give you a sense of purpose. 6. Create a Legacy: Consider ways to honor your pet's memory by giving back. Donating to an animal shelter, volunteering, or even fostering another pet in need can be a wonderful way to keep your pet's spirit alive and help other animals find happiness. 7. Professional Help: If you find that your grief is overwhelming and affecting your ability to function, seeking professional help can be incredibly beneficial. A therapist or counselor experienced in pet loss can provide you with tools to navigate your grief and develop healthy coping mechanisms. 8. Give Yourself Time: Healing is not linear, and there's no set timeframe for how long it takes to move forward. Be patient with yourself and allow the healing process to unfold naturally. Over time, the intensity of your grief will likely diminish, but your pet's memory will always hold a special place in your heart. Losing a pet is undoubtedly a heartbreaking experience, but it's also a testament to the love and connection you shared. By allowing yourself to grieve, seeking support, and finding positive ways to honor your pet's memory, you can gradually find healing and move towards a place of acceptance. Remember that you're not alone in this journey, and your pet's legacy will forever be a part of your life. |
AuthorJennifer, CPPS has loved caring for animals since childhood, and she’s had quite a few throughout the years. From cats to dogs, to birds, hamsters, fish, guinea pigs, and even a horse; she’s had more four-legged family members than two legged ones! Archives
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