Is Your Dog Or Cat Getting Enough Antioxidants?

Most pet owners have heard that antioxidants are important for their pets. But why? Antioxidants are substances that can help prevent cellular damage from free radicals. They are abundant in vegetables and fruits (especially berries). Antioxidants are not just another gimmick. Pets often need extra antioxidants beyond what is in their food. 

Here is why.  Pet foods may not always contain sufficient antioxidants for several reasons. Firstly, the processing and storage of commercial pet foods can lead to a loss of natural antioxidants present in raw ingredients. High-heat cooking and prolonged storage can degrade these sensitive compounds.

Moreover, the quality and sourcing of ingredients play a significant role. Lower-quality or heavily processed ingredients may have diminished antioxidant content. Additionally, the choice of ingredients in commercial pet foods may focus more on meeting nutritional requirements than on providing ample antioxidants.

Pet food formulation and storage conditions can also contribute. Over time, exposure to air and light can lead to the degradation of antioxidants. Some pet food manufacturing processes may prioritize long shelf life, potentially sacrificing the stability of these delicate compounds.

Including antioxidants inyo ur dog or cat's regimen can extend the quality of their lives as well as their longevity. Adding "live fresh food" to your pet's diet in the form of green or lower glycemic colored vegetables such as squash or raw frozen diets can greatly enhance the number of antioxidants in your pet's diet. Supplementing with antioxidants like Purrfect Pet CoQ10 or Resveratrol For Dogs can support organ health, immunity and may have an anti-aging effect. When you can, try to include some fresh vegetables and other antioxidants in your pet’s diet.

Published 11/28/2022

Updated 4/25/2024

Author:  Susan Blake Davis

What Vegetables Are Good For Your Pet?

Vegetables are nature's medicine!  Each different color of veggie provides specific nutrients and health benefits.   Yellow and orange vegetables, like carrots, yellow squash, sweet potatoes and pumpkin are naturally high in carotenes.  Carotenes are phytonutrients that  can help protect healthy cells and reduce oxidative stress.   Leafy greens and other green vegetables, like zucchini, asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and kale, are rich in chlorophyll, vitamins and fiber. 

A recent research study showed that Scottish terriers that ate green leafy vegetables and yellow-orange vegetables at least three times a week had a significantly reduced risk of developing bladder cancer (TCC - transitional cell carcinoma)*. 

*Reference: Research study: Evaluation of the effect of dietary vegetable consumption on reducing risk of transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder in Scottish Terriers. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2005 Jul 1;227(1):94-100. Malathi Raghavan, Deborah W. Knapp, Patty L. Bonney, Marcia H. Dawson, Lawrence T. Glickman.

Keeping Your Pet Health During The Holidays

Did you know? One of the most risky times for your pet’s health is during the holidays? Pancreatitis is a real threat and veterinary emergency hospitals fill up the day after a holiday. Why? Both cats and dogs overindulge either due to excess “pampering” or getting into the trash.

What is pancreatitis? It’s inflammation and swelling of your pet’s pancreas— a vital organ that produces enzymes for digestion and hormones like insulin to regulate your pet’s blood sugar. Pets with a history of pancreatitis, diabetes or prior digestive problems are most vulnerable. Small and elderly pets are also at high risk.

What’s a pet owner to do? Check frequently on your pet’s whereabouts while guests are over. Keep safe, healthy treats readily available. Ask guests not to feed table scraps and be sure pesky paws are kept out of the kitchen. Keep your trash securely closed.

If you notice the signs of pancreatitis such as vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite or lethargy, contact your veterinarian right away. Use AskAriel’s LypoZyme enzymes to help prevent flare-ups and relieve the discomfort associated with pancreatitis.

How To Increase Omega-3s In Your Pet's Diet?

Omega 3 fatty acids provide many benefits to pets. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) have been scientifically shown to be helpful for allergies, arthritis, skin problems, heart conditions, kidney function and brain health. One way to increase omega-3 fatty acids in your pet's diet is to add fish oil such as Amazing Omegas for Pets. Another is to add certain fish to their diet. Sardines, mackerel, herring, trout and salmon contain some of the highest amounts of naturally occurring omega-3 fatty acids. Consider adding sardines packed in water or a small amount of baked salmon to your pet's food as a healthy treat. Some pets, especially cats may have an allergy to fish so always start with just a small amount to see how your pet responds.

What Helped Teddy's Cough?

With thanks to Katie in Florida for sending in 17-year-old Teddy’s success story:

"Teddy has had a chronic cough since May 2020. Over the course of 2 years, he has been on 3 different medications, had an EKG, x-rays, and many vet visits. The meds would work for a while but the side effects were awful for Teddy. I kept researching and finally came across a thread online where someone mentioned Ask Ariel. I learned a lot from the website and ordered some supplements. Since then Teddy is off all medication and is doing so much better! It took some time and he will have a bad day once in a while, but overall I’d say his cough is 85% better, which has improved his quality of life tremendously, and mine since the coughing was the worst during the night. Teddy takes Ask Ariel Power Probiotic, Ultra-Flex Collagen, and LypoZyme. He also takes Kidney Health to support his kidneys which were affected by the medications. I am so grateful I kept at it and finally found Ask Ariel. I had started to research end of life options because I didn’t know what else to do and didn’t want him to be suffering. I am so grateful for Ask Ariel’s educational approach and supplements.”

Why You Should Adopt A Senior Pet?

It’s so sad that wonderful adult pets are often overlooked in shelters. But you can change that. The truth is that love is ageless and adult pets are hidden gems! They already have life experience and maturity, making their transition to a home much easier. Adult pets are usually calmer, less destructive and low maintenance. With an adult pet, what you see is what you get! Their personality and size are already established, so there are no surprises. The best part is that adult pets seem to realize that they have been given a second chance and are loyal and grateful. Save a life and find a perfect pet by visiting

Today Is Canine Lymphoma Day

Today is National Canine Lymphoma Day a day to spread awareness about canine lymphoma

Lymphoma is one of the most common and most researched forms of cancer in dogs. Dogs have several lymph nodes throughout the body. One of the first signs of lymphoma is a swollen lymph node. The best time to treat lymphoma is early on when the dog is feeling well and perhaps the only sign is a swollen lymph node.

Chemotherapy can significantly extend the life expectancy of the dog, often by more than a year. The goal of the chemotherapy is to kill off as many cancer cells as possible putting the lymphoma “in remission”. Most dogs tolerate chemotherapy pretty well, and drug technology advancements are enabling pet owners to administer some medications at home. Chemotherapy attacks the cancer throughout the dog's body but a few cancer cells remain.

Holistic therapies such as cancer vaccines, natural supplements and a low carbohydrate diet can help the dog’s immune system recognize and attack the hiding cancer cells. This may help the dog stay in remission longer and experience a stronger immune response when out of remission. If you notice that your dog has a swollen lymph node, it is important to contact your veterinarian right away. Using holistic remedies (diet changes and immune support supplements) combined with conventional veterinary therapies can give your dog the best chance to fight canine lymphoma. To learn more, please visit our website page about holistic treatments for canine lymphoma.