Do Grain-Free Diets For Pets Work?

Many pet owners learn about grain-free diets for their cats and dogs after their pets experience health issues such as ear infections, IBS, allergies and more. Some pet owners just want to feed their pets a healthier diet. What are grains? Common grains in pet food include rice, quinoa, oats and wheat. Why avoid them? They are high in carbohydrates and cause inflammation. But grain-free is only the first step..... Many grain-free pet foods replace the grains with starchy carbohydrates such as potatoes, chickpeas, lentils and pea flour. Pet owners may wonder why their pet is eating a grain-free diet yet still having symptoms such as itching and scratching, excessive licking, digestive problems? The reason is that these starchy carbohydrates still are too high in sugar and may be very hard to digest for some pets. 

Limiting carbohydrates by feeding a raw frozen diet or raw freeze dried (not the same as dehydrated which tend to also be high in carbohydrates) can help. Many canned foods are low in starchy carbohydrates but you need to carefully look at the ingredients to be sure that the diet is primarily animal or fish protein and vegetables. Feeding a diet that contains fresh ingredients with a hypoallergenic protein (e.g. rabbit) can give your pet much needed relief.

If your pet is having digestive issues or problems with scratching and allergies, please email us at support@askariel.com and we will be happy to help.  Please know we cannot provide veterinary advice but we can provide articles and information to help you make an informed decision.  Please include your pet's diet on the order form at checkout and our nutritionist will include a diet suggestion on the packing slip that comes with your product directions.

Honoring Rescuers During National Volunteer Week

In honor of National Volunteer week, we would just like to thank ALL of the wonderful rescuers across this country and abroad who are dedicated so much of their time, money and effort to save and rescue the lives of countless abandoned, neglected and homeless animals. When I ran Ariel Rescue (100 years ago), there was NO INTERNET. Now we can see the animals available for adoption at the shelters but in those awful times, there were barely lists of animals "to be destroyed".Thanks for all the wonderful rescuers, we are saving so many more lives because of your dedication and grateful for the help of technology too!

Here we are at the Husky Haven of Los Angeles adoption event last weekend. So many terrific volunteers! A few people applied for dogs but careful screening (impulse adoptions NOT a good idea!) some extra steps are needed to ensure proper fencing and here's hoping a few of the nice families will follow up and adopt!

Natural Remedies For Pets With Chronic Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Lilly

Renee contacted us, in July 2013, upset and frustrated because at that time, she said “I have spent hundreds in the last two months. Lilly had a urinary tract infection (UTI) last month and now this month, she also had an infection last year. I need your help…”

Susan Davis, Pet Nutritionist, recommended changing her diet to a grain-free, hypoallergenic diet and using natural holistic supplements which would help reduce the potential for infection and improve her health overall. 

  

Renee used the following home remedies to help her dog Lilly with much success:

Pet UTI Prevention Formula- Acidifies the urine and helps clear bacteria and pathogens from the urinary tract, present in UTI infections, reduces inflammation and help promote healing.

Power Probiotic for Pet- Best Probiotic for dogs and cats!  Replenishes friendly bacteria in the digestive tract that has been killed off by antibiotics.  Pure and natural--no fillers!  A "must" for pets with a history of urinary tract ( or any type) infections. Helps to ward off repeat urinary tract infections.  

NotaSAN Drops – Natural homeopathic formula that controls inflammation and infections. Very helpful if your pet has been on antibiotics as it helps to prevent recurrence of an infection. Use with QuentaSAN for best results. Gentle, easy to administer and safe for long-term use.  

QuentaSAN Drops -Natural homeopathic formula that fights bacterial and viral infections. Use with NotaSAN to stop the cycle of chronic infections.  

Amazing Omegas for Pets-  A researched-backed, concentrated, therapeutic fish oil providing a powerhouse of Omega 3s in just a few drops.  These omega 3s can reduce inflammation and give relief from the uncomfortable symptom of UTIs.

Two years later we received this note from Renee

"Just want to say, "THANK YOU"!  THANK YOU”! Took your advice and had vet take urine with her fasting and her PH was 7 this month…Blood test and urinalysis came out good. (She has been UTI free since on your diet plan and supplements) Lilly was 8 years old last November 17, 2014.  She has battled UTI 's from spring of 2012 until I found you on the internet in July 2013.  I was a little skeptical at first, but I tried it anyway, and glad I did, as it worked.  You have helped Lilly much."  Renee and Lilly 2015

Lilly’s latest update

"My sweet little baby Lilly was eleven last November.  The Vet says she is in great shape. Thank you, Susan, for your diet and supplements for UTI's over several years ago.  The supplements are good quality and they work!” Renee and Lilly 2018

Why Are Raw Frozen Diets Beneficial For Cats and Dogs?

Raw Frozen Diets Contain Food In Its Natural State

When it comes to pet food, raw frozen diets are unmatched due to the wholesome and balanced nutrition they provide for cats and dogs.  These diets contain real meats, ground bones, vegetables and fats in their natural state.  Since the food has not been overprocessed or overheated,  they are highly digestible and pets absorb the nutrients,  leaving a lot less poop for you to pickup!  A raw frozen diet can improve digestion, help with allergies, strengthen immunity, improve your pet's coat quality and reduce inflammation. Raw frozen diets are the gold standard of pet nutrition for many pets but if your pet has any history of allergies or digestive issues, choose a hypoallergenic source of protein such as rabbit and transition slowly.   

If your pet is finicky or very sensitive, you can slowly introduce a raw frozen diet by starting with a companion product from the same brand in freeze dried form.  Examples:  Instinct and Stella and Chewys offer the same ingredients in their raw vs freeze dried diets.  Most pets love the taste of the freeze dried so you can start with small pieces and then include both raw and freeze dried in their bowl. 

In summary, raw frozen diets offer the following benefits to pets:

1) contain fresh real ingredients
2) easily digestible so your pet absorbs more of the nutrients
3) reduced poop
4) low in carbohydrates so reduces yeast and allergy symptoms
5) healthier gums and teeth
6) improved digestive health 

Does Your Dog Have Gas? Tips To Give Your Dog Fast Relief

Does your dog's gas have you gasping for air? While an occasional stink bomb might be funny, if your dog's gas is regularly clearing the room, it's time to re-evaluate your pet's diet and overall digestion.  Excessive gas and/or burping can be a sign of a health issue.

Normal digestion produces gases in the intestinal tract.  However, foul smelling gas is often caused by bacteria when undigested food (that should have been broken down in the stomach or small intestine) reaches the colon.  Pets with poor digestion may suffer from bloating, indigestion, distension and discomfort.   Consuming the wrong food or poor digestion are the most common culprits causing your pet to suffer from gas (flatulence), indigestion and stomach aches. 

Giving your pet probiotics and digestive enzymes with every meal can reduce gas and indigestion.   The most helpful supplements for digestive issues and support are Soothing Digestive Relief, Gastro ULC, Power Probiotic, K9 Digestive (bigger dogs), and Lypozyme (smaller pets both cats and dogs).  Diet changes are also essential.  Eliminating dry food which is high in starchy carbohydrates which can be hard to digest can help.  Avoiding food allergens can also bring a great deal of relief.

If your pet has gas, there is an easy solution:  change the diet and use a few enzyme and probiotics.  Please include your pet's diet on the order form at checkout  along with your  a pet's health issues and Ask Ariel will include a diet suggestion on the packing slip that comes with the product directions.

Have a question about your pet?  Please feel free to email us at support@askariel.com  Please know we cannot provide any veterinary consultative advice.

What To Look For When Selecting A Diet For Your Pet

So many brands - so many choices! Here are 3 tips to ensure you are giving your pet the best nutrition.

1) Fresh - Be sure to include something fresh in your pet’s diet every day. Examples: vegetables, defrosted raw diets, fresh ground flax seed, fresh baked fish or lean meat  

2) Low Carbohydrates - We all love carbs but they can be detrimental to our pets contributing to weakened immunity, obesity, diabetes and cancer. Cats are carnivores and dogs have minimal need for them yet carbs are abundant in pet foods. Examples of high carbohydrate foods: grains such as rice, biscuits, dry pet food (must be made with starchy carbs to form the kibble), sweet potatoes, pea flour, sweet fruits

3) Easily Digestible - Many foods may sound “healthy” or natural but they might not be right for your pet. Easily digestible means that there is normal poop, no digestive problems such as vomiting or tummy rumbling and that your pet isn’t displaying symptoms of itching, chewing and tearing his fur out. The pet’s diet is often the culprit in many health conditions. If your pet is itchy and miserable, there could be an issue with the diet.

When it comes to your pet's health, the adage "you are what you eat" rings true.  To learn more about diets for different health conditions, please click here. 

See Something? Say Something -- An Animal's Life Is Depending Upon You!

Kokito

By now, you may be familiar with the tragic story that occurred on a United Airlines flight where the owners of Kokito the puppy were forced to put the puppy in an overhead bin by a flight attendant.  The mother had a baby to attend to and in spite of their protests, were told that is where the puppy had to go.  Kokito's suffocation is only one story.  There are many, many stories of animal suffering.  It's easy to speculate about what "we might have done" had we been on that flight.  Even though there was rough turbulence, would we as  a fellow passenger have demanded the flight attendant check on the pet? 

Many of us are afraid of the repurcussions of causing a scene on an airplane just as we are afraid of causing a problem with a grumpy neighbor who leaves their dog outside in the bitter cold.  Animals depend on us to be their voice.  When you think you see something, even if it just your gut, SAY SOMETHING!    It is upon all of us to listen and speak up even when it is not "socially correct,"   Rest in piece Kokito.  We are so sorry for your loss and your family's grief.   Maybe your tragic death will help more animals because there are so many that are tied up, chained up and left outside with little provisions and help is just a phone call away......

Poor Compliance With Medication Is One Reason Pets Don't Get Better

Do you see the pill? Well.....neither did I!  One reason pets may not show improvement from a health condition is that the pet owner may forget to give a pill or the pet doesn’t take the pill.  In our case, Legend must take his Keppra antiseizure medicine exactly 8 hours apart 3x a day. We literally revolve our lifestyle and appointments as best we can around those pill times after the horrific cluster seizure episodes he went through. Well his last dose is 11 pm and I always check to make sure he ate the pill. The dim light and being half asleep made for a perfect storm! It shows that even when we schedule everything perfectly (phone alarms, wall notes, pill containers) things don’t always come out the way we planned...... We got lucky and since we have been sure to adminster the pill almost always, this was a rare exception.  But, when you have a busy schedule....it's not always easy.

Poor compliance with medication is one reason a pet may not show signs of improvement.  This could be anything from treating heart conditions to skin problems to seizures.  Here are a few tips to help ensure your pet gets the needed medication and/or supplements.

• Keep a schedule posted in at least one or two central locations such as the refrigerator or a place you are likely to see it
• Set up alarms on your phone BEFORE the scheduled pill time and AFTER just in case you got distracted
• Use a pill container with the allocated number of daily pills

Home Remedies For Dogs And Cats With Arthritis

Could your cat or dog be in pain from arthritis? Pets hide their pain for as long as possible. By the time a pet vocalizes discomfort (from for example a sudden movement), the pet has already been experiencing a considerable amount of pain.  Pets in pain may pant, pace, not want to eat, become suddenly shy or aggressive and just not act like themselves.    Don't wait for your pet to vocalize their pain from arthritis.  If you notice any of these subtle signs below, be sure to check with your veterinarian right away.  The following signs can be symptoms of arthritis:

• Difficulty or hesitation to sit down or get up
• Difficulty jumping up or reluctance to climb stairs
• Lameness in one or more limbs
• Stiffness in the morning that improves as the day progresses
• Subtle signs that the pet may not want to put weight on the limb
• Sensitivity when touched in certain areas

 AskAriel.com offers home remedies that contain well researched ingredients scientifically proven to help arthritis.  The products to use depend upon the size and progression of your pet's condition.

Amazing Omegas - A research-backed, powerful source of omega-3 nutrients (essential fatty acids) that can help reduce joint inflammation, which can be causing pain for your pet. Absolutely the best fish oil available.  

Special SAMe - Guaranteed Purity and Potency, Special SAMe contains cofactors such as Vitamin B6, B12 and Folate to improve absorption and efficacy.  Powerful antioxidant scientifically proven to help arthritis.  Can be used along with prescription NSAIDs (which can affect your pet's liver) to improve results and detox the liver.

Ultraflex--excellent for cats and small dogs.  A food based supplement (made from ground eggshells) is easy to administer once daily.  Contain collagen which helps repair and strengthen cartilage and connective tissue.  Especially helpful for pets with torn ligaments and collapsed trachea.

Remembering Ariel The Amazing Dog And Inspiration For AskAriel.com

Ariel’s amazing life is the inspiration behind Ask Ariel. Why? Because Ariel led a life of good health that all of us---both human and animal would be grateful to attain. In fact, until a week before her death at 14 years of age (old for a 54 pound dog), Ariel was still running through the meadows, playing with her ball and enjoying a zest for life that few have ever seen. Ariel NEVER appeared to be an “old dog”.

 

Ariel was the first pet I had in my adult life.  Today is the 13th anniversary of her death.  Ariel was the mascot for our 501(c)(3) public charity Ariel Rescue.   Every weekend she accompanied our volunteer group greeting customers even when she was 14 years old!  Ariel taught me so much about holistic pet health and nutrition too.  While I miss her and think of her every single day, I am  so grateful for all the wonderful years we spent together and the incredible gifts her beautiful soul left to all of us.

To learn more about the Ask Ariel Your Pet Nutritionist story and how we got started, please click here

Natural Alternatives To Pet Steroid Medications

What Are Steroids? Why Are Steroids Prescribed for Pets?

Steroids are medications that are prescribed for reducing inflammation or as an immunosuppresant drug. Some health conditions that may be helped by using steroids are Autoimmune diseases, pain, IBD symptoms and skin allergies. Common names of synthetic forms of corticosteroids that are prescribed for pets include:  Prednisone, Prednisolone, Dexamethasone, Triamcinolone, and Methylprednisolone. Although there are times that steroids can be helpful, they have many side effects (both long and short-term) and should be used sparingly. 

Short-term Side Effects

• Increased thirst and urination
• Increased hunger
• Panting (especially dogs)
• Increased susceptibility to infections (especially bacterial skin infections)

  Long-Term Side Effects

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTI) – may not have typical symptoms (because of the anti-inflammatory effect of the steroids) Periodic urine analyses is important.
• Changes to skin and coat 
• Poor wound healing ability and increase susceptibility to bacterial and fungal infections
• Weight gain (because of increased hunger and fluid retention)
• Muscle weakness
• Predisposition to diabetes
• Possible development of Cushing's Disease

Natural Alternatives to Steroids for Pets
What’s a pet owner to do?  The key to reducing steroid usage is reducing the need for them.

1.) Avoid foods that promote inflammation and weaken immunity. Avoiding chemicals, starchy carbohydrates (found in dry food) and food allergens such as beef, poultry and fish (in cats) can help reduce inflammation and lessen the need for steroids.

2.) Use holistic supplements to support your pet's immunity and reduce inflammation:

Supplements That Reduce Inflammation:

Amazing Omegas- A research-backed, powerful source of omega-3 nutrients (essential fatty acids) that can help reduce joint inflammation, which can be causing pain for your pet. Absolutely the best fish oil available.  

Immune Harmony -Contains a unique patented sterol formula for immune support, a powerful antioxidant formula which protects the body from free radical damage and an essential fatty acid complex to help with bioavailability of the nutrients. Rebalances the immune system and can be used with prednisone and/or antibiotics.  First line of defense for pets with autoimmune conditions.

Power Probiotic - The best probiotic for pets!  Backed by scientific research, this powerful multi-strain formula promotes the growth of friendly bacteria which helps replenish a healthy intestinal ecosystem. Pets that have taken steroids or antibiotics have a weakened immunity due to the medications depleting the "friendly bacteria" needed for a strong immune system.

NotaSAN Drops and Capsules – Natural homeopathic formula that controls inflammation and infection.  Gentle, easy to administer and safe for long-term use. 

Curcumin Complex For Pets-contains three bioactive curcumonoids found in turmeric. It is scientifically proven to be a powerful antioxidant and a natural anti-inflammatory for pets. Helps to relieve pain and improves flexibility and mobility

3.) Reduce stress for your pet by maintaining a feeding schedule (Avoid huge blood sugar swings by feeding twice a day and giving your pet a mid-day snack) Spend quality time with your pet and give them regular exercise.

  

Reasons Why Dogs Vomit Bile Vs. Food

We've all been there—watching our dogs heave and retch, but did you know that not all episodes of "throwing up" are the same for dogs?  In fact, dogs can vomit food, bile or simply regurgitate. While these might seem similar, they each have distinct reasons why they occur.

Vomiting is a complex reflex that involves the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth. It typically occurs due to illness, ingestion of toxins, motion sickness, or dietary indiscretion.  When dogs vomit, it often brings up partially digested food along with gastric juices.  Often times, you might notice your dog first licking his lips or circling around seemingly uncomfortable. Vomiting is often preceded by signs of nausea, such as drooling, restlessness, or retching, and may be accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy or abdominal discomfort.  After throwing up, dogs may attempt to eat their vomit and seem to feel better after the food has been expelled. 

Regurgitation, on the other hand, is a passive process that involves the effortless expulsion of undigested food or liquid from the esophagus or pharynx, without the forceful abdominal contractions associated with vomiting. Regurgitation occurs when food or liquid refluxes back into the mouth or throat, often due to issues with swallowing, esophageal dysfunction, or acid reflux.  A dog may be just walking by and a small amount of liquidy undigested food just spills out.  Unlike vomiting, regurgitation typically occurs soon after eating or drinking and may not be preceded by signs of nausea.  It is often a symptom though of dog acid reflux.   

Vomiting bile, also known as bilious vomiting, involves the expulsion of yellow or greenish fluid known as bile from the stomach. Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, which aids in the digestion and absorption of fats. Dogs often vomit bile in the morning when the stomach is empty. Unlike vomiting food where the dog may be nauseated and restless, vomiting bile is often due to build up of acid in the stomach.  The dog may be first attempting to eat grass to ease their stomach discomfort.   Food can coat the stomach and provide a buffer to absorb the excess acid.

Dogs can experience three forms of expulsion from the digestive tract: vomiting, regurgitation, and vomiting bile.  Understanding the distinctions can help identify the diagnoses and manage the symptoms.  Regardless if your pup experiences recurrent or persistent vomiting, regurgitation, or vomiting bile, it is essential to consult your veterinarian for proper evaluation and management.  

 

Help! My Pet Smells--Here is What You Can Do To Get Rid Of Smelly Odors

You keep smelling that odor.  You try bathing your pet, cleaning the bedding and still the odor persists.   Sometimes you need to be a pet detective to figure out what the source of the odor is.  Pet odors are a warning sign that need your attention!

Smelly Skin and Coat— Sometimes a pet owner might conclude "Oh that is just the way Rover smells" but in reality---there is something else going on whether it be an infection, poor diet or digestive issues. Although bathing a pet with medicated shampoos may help, if your pet still smells after having a bath, there may be an underlying health issue and it is a good idea to take your pet for a physical examination.

A common cause of skin odor is infection and allergies (both food and environmental). Pets may have parasitic, bacterial or yeast infections that should not be ignored.  Pets with skin problems. allergies and yeast are frequently reacting to their diet--almost always it contains allergens and too many carbohydrates!  Pets with these issues seem to fare on a raw frozen diet as these foods contain fresh enzymes, are lower in carbohydrates and contain "live" food. Dry foods can be harder to digest, can ferment in the bowel and can therefore promote yeast overgrowth.

Stinky Ears—If you smell near your pet's ears and there is a strong odor, take your pet for a checkup right away. Ear infections, left untreated are very painful and can lead to deafness.  Many ear infections are due to yeast overgrowth and using the same protocol for smelly skin and coat would be advised.

Bad Breath—Pets need dental cleanings just like we do. Pets can develop infections in the mouth, have rotting teeth and inflamed gums.  For cats, stomatitis is a leading culprit with bad breath.  Symptoms of stomatitis include red, inflamed gums, mouth odor and reluctance to eat.  Using QuentaSAN and NotaSAN along with Power Probiotic can make a tremendous difference. If you have recently had your pet’s teeth cleaned and there is still a bad odor, then it could be poor digestion or acid stomach and Power Probiotic, K9 Digestive Enzymes and Gastro ULC can help.   

Holistic Supplements for Smelly Pets

• Power Probiotic for Pets-essential for your pet's good health. Supports digestion, helps fight infection and enhances overall immunity.  Very important if your cat has taken any antibiotics.
• K-9 Yeast Defense-contains natural anti-fungal ingredients that kill off yeast and help rebalance the intestinal tract.  
• Amazing Omegas- A research-backed, powerful source of omega-3 nutrients that controls allergies.  The best fish oil available for pets. 
• AllerEaze-Pets with yeast tend to have allergies.  To help reduce your pet's allergy symptoms, you need to do more than just kill off the yeast.  By using AllerEaze along with the yeast protocol, you are giving your pet a natural antihistamine that helps calm down the allergic response.
• NotaSAN-Natural homeopathic formula that fights inflammation and infections. First line of defense for infections in cats. Can be used safely long-term to prevent recurrences. Use with QuentaSAN for best results.
• QuentaSAN - Natural homeopathic formula that fights redness and bacterial infections.  Essential for pets that have autoimmune and viral conditions.  

Valentine Pet Contest - Enter To Win

2nd Annual Valentine Toy Sweepstakes
Win A Free Toy For Your Special Valentine
*No Purchase Necessary*

Valentine Toy Contest Starts Today Through February 12th. Post A Photo of Your Pet Now!

The Sooner You Post, The Better Chances To Win!

Here is how to enter to win:
1) Post any photo of your pet (s) on our Facebook page
2) Include a comment about any of our products that you like or are interested in knowing more about along with the photo of your pet
3) Email us at support@askariel.com so we can contact you if you win!

Prizes

7 lucky winners will win a free Valentine toy!
2 of the winners who have the MOST LIKES on our Facebook page will also receive the Valentine Treat Bag Grand Prize. The other 5 winners will be chosen from a random drawing on February 12th.

Valentine Treat Bag Grand Prize (2 winners with the most FB likes) will receive a free Power Probiotic, free shipping coupon, a Valentine toy and some healthy freeze dried treats.

Note: Winners must be 21 years of age and a US resident. If you don't know how to post a photo of your pet on Facebook, please just email us what you would like to post and we can do it for you.

Valentine Toy Contest Starts Today Through February 12th. Post A Photo of Your Pet Now! The Sooner You Post, The Better Chances To Win!