Just like people, pets everywhere endure the irritating signs of aging. Less energy, less mobility, cartilage deterioration, joint stiffness, hip dysplasia, and so on. And, just like with people, these symptoms can either be tolerated or treated.

Although pets cannot speak and communicate their discomfort directly to us, their actions, or lack of action, can sometimes speak volumes. Does your dog need help getting up the stairs? Does your cat have difficulty jumping up onto your lap? Are your pets stiff and lacking energy in the morning? Unless you have acquired loving pets equipped with super powers, then you’re well aware that pets, just like us, are susceptible to getting arthritis and joint stiffness problems as they age.

Can the dreadful signs of joint deterioration and arthritic symptoms be treated naturally? Maybe! Stephanie Evans of Bottled Fitness thinks so. She’s written to tell us all about Joint “Rescue” Chewables, a homeopathic pet remedy for dogs or cats suffering arthritis or other joint problems.

Joint “Rescue” Chewables contains glucosamine and other natural anti-inflammatory ingredients. Stephanie believes that with the proper supplementation of Glucosamine and Chondroitin, your dog may be flying over couches and up the stairs in no time. Miracle treatment? Maybe. But the science behind it should be accounted for, too.

What causes joint deterioration in dogs and cats?
The most obvious answer is aging. Mechanical wear and tear over a lifetime of constant physical activity can certainly cause the protective cartilage lining the joints to become damaged which causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. Genetics and heredity can also be contributing factors. Certain breeds of dog are more susceptible to, or have a genetic predisposition to, hip displaysia, for example. Immune deficiencies, infections, and even trauma can also contribute to arthritis and joint pain.

How does Glucosamine and Chondroitin help?
Glucosamine and Chondroitin, naturally occurring substances in the body, may help to synthesize new cartilage and block negative, cartilage-killing enzymes in the joints. Not only can an increase of these substances in the body help to aid and relieve already existing pain and joint destruction, it may also be given as a preventative measure in younger dogs.

So why haven’t these types of supplements been flooding veterinary clinics and pet aisles all over the country if they work so well? Some European studies have revealed how beneficial these substances can be. Glucosamine is approved as a medical drug in most areas of Europe and their guidelines have recommended its use as an effective and safe therapy for osteoarthritis in humans. However, a major U.S. study found that the dietary supplements glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, together or alone, appeared to fare no better than placebo in slowing loss of cartilage in osteoarthritis of the knee. In the U.S., substances like glucosamine and chondroitin are considered to be nutraceuticals and, as such, they are not strictly controlled or regulated by the FDA.

According to the Glucosamine & Chondroitin for Hip Dysplasia & Arthritis in Dogs article on PetEducation.com, many U.S. companies are now producing product lines consisting of Glucosamine and Chondroitin and conducting several research studies to help bring additional statistics and research to help support the benefits of these substances in the treatment of arthritis and joint pain.

Joint “Rescue” and Ark Naturals
Ark Naturals has created a natural line of nutritional supplements to help your pet live a long and pain-free life. They’ve created Joint “Rescue” to provide relief from joint swelling and inflammation using an effective combination of glucosamine, chondroitin, antioxidants, minerals and herbs. Joint “Rescue” Chewables for dogs and cats uses 500 mg of glucosamine sulfate for the formation and repair of healthy cartilage and connective joint tissues. The minerals and antioxidants packed into liver-flavored wafers help increase glucosamine absorption.

Not only does this all-natural formula have healing powers, it can also be given to younger dogs and cats for preventative and strenghtening supplementation since the botanical formula doesn’t cause gastric bleeding or liver damage like other anti-inflammatory agents. The wafers are also easy to break in half, so small dogs and cats can effortlessly chomp their way to good health, too.

About America’s Nutrition
America’s Nutrition is a U.S. company located in the heart of the Midwest, 50 miles southeast of Chicago. They believe true strength and beauty comes from deep down beneath the surface with a healthy lifestyle, a nutritious diet, vitamins, and supplements. They offer Joint “Rescue” Chewables for pets as well as other pet supplements specifically formulated for animal needs.

Should any of our pets begin to display signs of arthritis or joint pain and discomfort, it’s definitely something we would try. We’re big fans of natural remedies both for ourselves and for our pets. However, we’d also discuss it with our vet. It’s always important to keep in mind that while vitamins and minerals and other herbal supplements may help, they in NO way suffice as a substitute for vet care.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – July 15, 2010 – Buffalo, NY – Feline’s Pride is expanding its July 1, 2010 voluntary recall of Feline’s Pride Raw food with ground bone for cats and kittens, Natural Chicken Formula, Net Wt. 2.5 lbs. (1.13 kg., 40 oz.) produced on 6/10/10 to include the product produced on 6/21/10, because it may be contaminated with Salmonella. People handling raw pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the raw pet food or any surfaces exposed to the product.

When consumed by humans, Salmonella can cause an infection, salmonellosis. The symptoms of salmonellosis include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, minimal diarrhea, fever, and headache. Certain vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems, are particularly susceptible to acquiring salmonellosis from such pet food products and may experience more severe symptoms.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

The product is packaged in uncoded plastic containers and sold frozen to private consumers nationwide. Once thawed, the pet food has a shelf life of about 1 week. The firm manufactures the pet food by an as-ordered basis. This expansion of the recall affects those orders placed and shipped from June 21 through June 26, 2010 (produced on 6/21/10).

The firm and FDA are investigating this matter to determine the source of this problem, and will take any additional steps necessary to protect the public health.

To date, both the firm and the FDA have received no reports of Salmonella infection relating to this product.

People who are experiencing the symptoms of Salmonella infection after having handled the pet food product should seek medical attention, and report their use of the product and illness to the nearest FDA office.

People should thoroughly wash their hands after handling the pet food – especially those made from raw animal protein such as meat or fish — to help prevent infection. People may risk bacterial infection not only by handling pet foods, but by contact with pets or surfaces exposed to these foods, so it is important that they thoroughly wash their hands with hot water and soap.

Since certain vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems, are particularly at risk from exposure they should avoid handling this product.

Consumers with questions should contact the company at (716) 580-3096, Monday -Friday from 10 am – 4 pm EDT.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – July 1, 2010 – Buffalo, NY – Feline’s Pride is announcing a voluntary recall of Feline’s Pride Raw food with ground bone for cats and kittens, Natural Chicken Formula, Net Wt. 2.5 lbs. (1.13 kg., 40 oz.) produced on 6/10/10, because it may be contaminated with Salmonella. People handling raw pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the raw pet food or any surfaces exposed to the product.

When consumed by humans, Salmonella can cause an infection, salmonellosis. The symptoms of salmonellosis include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, minimal diarrhea, fever, and headache. Certain vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems, are particularly susceptible to acquiring salmonellosis from such pet food products and may experience more severe symptoms.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

The product is packaged in uncoded plastic containers and sold frozen to private consumers nationwide. Once thawed, the pet food has a shelf life of about 1 week. The firm manufactures the pet food by an as-ordered basis. This recall affects only those orders placed and shipped from June 10 through June 17, 2010.

The firm and FDA are investigating this matter to determine the source of this problem, and will take any additional steps necessary to protect the public health.

To date, both the firm and the FDA have received no reports of Salmonella infection relating to this product.

This product should not be fed to pets but should instead be disposed of in a safe manner (e.g., in a securely covered trash receptacle). People who are experiencing the symptoms of Salmonella infection after having handled the pet food product should seek medical attention, and report their use of the product and illness to the nearest FDA office.

People should thoroughly wash their hands after handling the pet food – especially those made from raw animal protein such as meat or fish — to help prevent infection. People may risk bacterial infection not only by handling pet foods, but by contact with pets or surfaces exposed to these foods, so it is important that they thoroughly wash their hands with hot water and soap.

Since certain vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems, are particularly at risk from exposure they should avoid handling this product.

Consumers with questions should contact the company at (716) 580-3096, Monday –Friday from 10 am – 4 pm EDT.

Merrick Pet Care Recalls Beef Filet Squares 10oz Bag (Item #60016 Lot # 10084TL7 Best By March 24, 2012) Because Of Possible Salmonella Health Risk

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – July 2, 2010 – Merrick Pet Care, Inc. of Amarillo, Texas is recalling 86 cases of its 10oz “Beef Filet Squares for Dogs” pet treats (ITEM # 60016 LOT # 10084TL7 BEST BY MARCH 24, 2012) because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling the treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products. Consumers should dispose of these products in a safe manner by securing them in a covered trash receptacle.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers immediately.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian immediately.

The Beef Filet Squares were shipped to distributors and retailers throughout the US. These individuals have been notified and have activated their recall procedures.

The treats are sold in 10oz plastic bags marked with “Lot # 10084TL7 Best By Mar 24, 2012” on the top of the bag and on a sticker applied to the bottom.

No illnesses have been reported to date. FDA collected a surveillance sample of “Merrick Beef Filet Squares for Dogs” (lot #10084TL7) which were purchased from a retail store. The sample tested positive for Salmonella.

Consumers who have purchased 10 ounce packages of “Beef Filet Squares for Dogs” are urged to return the unused portion to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-664-7387 M-F 8:00 – 5:00 CDT.

We all know multivitamins benefit humans immensely, and are vital for proper nutrition. We also know that without sufficient vitamins and minerals, we become malnourished and susceptible to diseases such as rickets, scurvy, and beriberi. But what we may not know is that pets also need and benefit from vitamin supplements. While good-quality pet food typically contains a fair amount of these nutrients, some pets may need additional vitamins and minerals to aid in their system function. Without them, your pets’ lifespans can be cut short. Conversely, over-supplementation can be dangerous, too. Be sure to consult with your vet before buying and/or administering vitamin supplements to your pets, and be sure to read the label carefully.

Many factors can contribute to vitamin deficiency in animals. Sicknesses that require antibiotics are a common culprit, because the antibiotics kill all germs, bad and good. Because pets are lower to the ground, they are more exposed to cleaning agents we use and various other toxic substances. Cold weather and stress also take a toll on your pets’ overall health and well being, and can necessitate additional nutrition to make up for this.

Just as it does in humans, vitamin deficiencies manifest themselves both overtly and internally in pets. Skin and hair coats will lack luster and shine, and the animals will appear fatigued outwardly, but the deficiencies can also lead to more severe conditions internally, such as cancer, and heart and adrenal problems.

Vitamins fall under two groups: water soluble and fat soluble. Water-soluble vitamins flush out of the system, and are often drastically cut down in food because of processing and cooking. Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the pets’ bodies in cells called lipocytes. The fat-soluble vitamins are easier than that water-soluble ones to overdo, so take extra measure not to feed them more than necessary. However, your pet will need these vitamins daily over a period of months for positive change in their nutrition, so be consistent in the distribution.

Here’s a list of vitamins and some of their many benefits. Several of these vitamins and minerals have overlapping purposes.

Water-Soluble Vitamins and Minerals

• The “B” vitamins (Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Pantothenic Acid, Pyridoxine, Folic Acid, Cobalamin and Biotin) – food digestion and nutrient absorption, DNA synthesis, proper growth, nerve damage prevention, healthy coat, thyroid, bone marrow and proper enzyme use
• Vitamin C – immune system booster

Fat-Soluble Vitamins and Minerals

• Vitamin A – bone and teeth formation
• Vitamin D – regulating phosphorus and calcium levels in the bloodstream
• Vitamin E – cell function and fat metabolism, also an antioxidant
• Vitamin K – regulates blood and clotting (to prevent hemorrhaging)
• Phosphorus – allows the body to produce its own energy
• Calcium – heart, nerve, and muscle function
• Iron – red blood cell generation, energy, enzyme function
• Magnesium – heart rate, healthy bones, nervous system, and muscles
• Manganese – reproductive health, milk production for nursing pets, fat-to-protein assimilation, blood sugar regulation
• Potassium and Sodium – regulating body fluid
• Selenium – slows aging

For those interested in natural supplements above and beyond the necessary ones, here’s a short list of popular ones and their uses.

• Glucosamine and Chondroitin – joint and muscle pain
• Milk Thistle – liver health (hepatitis treatment)
• Ginger/ Slippery Elm – digestive problems
• Echinacea/Vitamin C – immune system help
• Omega 3 Fatty Acids – aid in treating heart disease, cancer, kidney disease, arthritis and allergies
• Choline – can help with seizures and cognitive diseases

It’s important to keep in mind that while these vitamins and minerals may help, they in NO way suffice as a substitute for vet care. After your vet has made his or her recommendation, you can find pet vitamins online at stores such as 1-800 Pedmeds. You can also find them in stores like PetSmart or PETCO.

Find Everything You Need For Your Pet at PETCO.com!

Shop at PetSmart.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — June 18, 2010 – Natural Balance Pet Foods, Inc., of Pacoima, CA, announces a voluntary recall of Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Chicken Dry Dog Food with the “Best By” date of June 17, 2011, in 5-lb. and 28-lb. bags because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

No illnesses have been reported to date. The recall notification is being issued out of an abundance of caution based on an isolated instance in which a product sample with a “Best By” date of June 17, 2011, had a positive result for Salmonella in a random sample test conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This product was originally manufactured on December 17, 2009, and is the only Natural Balance product being recalled.

Salmonella can affect animals and there is a risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling dry pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with surfaces exposed to this product. This product was manufactured on December 17, 2009.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

Recalled products were only distributed in pet specialty stores in the states of Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

The only product affected by the recall is the Sweet Potato & Chicken Dry Dog Food with the “Best By” date of June 17, 2011, product information as follows:

Consumers who have purchased Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Chicken Dry Dog formula with the “Best By” date of June 17, 2011, are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. A separate letter and instructions will be forwarded to all relevant Natural Balance customers. For additional information, please contact Natural Balance Pet Foods Customer Service at (800) 829-4493 (8am – 5pm, PDT) or by visiting www.naturalbalanceinc.com.

June 22, 2010 – United Pet Group, Cincinnati, Ohio is voluntarily recalling all unexpired lots of its PRO-PET ADULT DAILY VITAMIN Supplement tablets for Dogs due to possible Salmonella contamination. The Food and Drug Administration is aware of this recall.

The product was sold nationally at various retailers. The product comes in 100-count white plastic bottles with a light blue label, and UPC code 26851-01800. These products are being removed from retail stores and consumers should immediately stop feeding these supplements to their pets. The affected products are those with expiration dates on or before “06/13″. The expiration date can be found imprinted vertically on the right side of the product label.

Laboratory testing has revealed that one Lot of this vitamin product was contaminated with Salmonella. The company is recalling all unexpired Lots of the product out of an abundance of caution.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

People who handle dry pet food and/or treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products. Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Consumers who have purchased the product are urged to contact United Pet Group or the place of purchase for further direction. Consumers may contact United Pet Group at 1-800-645-5154 ext. 3, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm EST.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – CINCINNATI, June 9, 2010 – The Procter & Gamble Company (P&G) (NYSE:PG) is voluntarily recalling specific lots of its Iams canned cat food in North America as a precautionary measure. Diagnostic testing indicated that the product may contain insufficient levels of thiamine (Vitamin B1), which is essential for cats. Cats that were fed these canned products as their only food are at greater risk for developing signs of thiamine deficiency.

The following Iams canned cat foods are included in the recall:

Product Name – Iams ProActive Health canned Cat and Kitten Food – all varieties of 3 oz & 5.5 oz cans
Date on Bottom of Can – 09/2011 to 06/2012

This recall is limited to only Iams canned cat food distributed in North America. No other Iams pet food is involved.

Early signs of thiamine deficiency may include loss of appetite, salivation, vomiting and weight loss. In advanced cases, signs may include ventroflexion (downward curving) of the neck, wobbly gait, falling, circling and seizures. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your cat is displaying any of these signs. If treated promptly, thiamine deficiency is typically reversible.

Consumers who have purchased canned cat food with these codes should discard it. For further information or a product refund call P&G toll-free at 877-340-8826 (Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM EST).