All natural, no by-products, no preservatives, organic, etc... These are words we have been told to look for in the products we buy for our beloved pets. Is it all really necessary? There are thousands of cats and dogs that have lived long lives on corn based diets with preservatives and by-products. My first dog 30 years ago for instance, lived to be 15 years old. His longevity, though, would have to be attributed to veterinary visits and not a low-quality diet. This dog had to have a dental every 2 years to control tartar, de-wormed regularly, medicated for his heart and was deaf by age 12, blind by age 13 and crippled with arthritis by age 14.

My 14 year old dog that I presently own eats a well-balanced natural diet. He can hear, see, run and even jump on the bed. In addition, he does not suffer from any medical conditions. You may conclude that I have not extended the life of my dogs by feeding better diets, more importantly, though, I have extended the quality of their life.

Where do you begin, you ask? The first step is recognizing your pet as an individual. Even though you might encounter pets of similar breeds, each pet still requires his own personal nutritional program. Use your professionals for guidance but most of all trust your own knowledge of your pets needs. Below I have listed several questions that will assist you in evaluating your pet’s health.

1. Does your pet have a dry, greasy, dull, or flaky coat?
2. Does your pet have skin odor even after bathing?
3. Does your pet appear thin or undernourished?
4. Does your pet’s energy level appear low at times?
5. Does your pet have large amounts of stool?
6. Is your pet susceptible to ear infections and/or skin irritations?

If you have answered yes to all of these questions chances are you are feeding your pet a low-quality diet. If you have answered yes to any one of these questions then you need to re-evaluate your pet’s diet.

Begin by reading the ingredient list in your pet’s diet. Make sure the diet you feed is free of these ingredients: by-products, corn, wheat, soybean and artificial preservatives or flavorings.

The next step is to locate a store that specializes in high-quality foods, a health food store for dogs and cats. Stores like Pet’s Best provide the professional staff that will assist you in providing the right foods for your pets. In addition to a well balanced natural dry kibble don’t hesitate to supplement your pet’s diet with oils, vitamins, glucosamine, pulped vegetables and other natural additives.

Once you have gathered all the ingredients needed to design your pets personal diet always continue evaluating their health and making adjustments as necessary.

Keep in mind that your pets might encounter a period of detoxification if you have made significant improvements to their diet. Symptoms like excessive shedding, eye discharge or loose stools are not uncommon (if symptoms persists see your veterinarian).

The key to optimum health is persistence. Remember use professional guidance to assist in designing your pet’s diet but always trust your instincts. You know your pets better then you think. Close observation of their skin, coat, teeth, stools and actions will give you the knowledge you need to make the right decisions.

Pet's Best at 14109 S. Dixie Hwy., 786-573-4898.