WikiVet and Mars Petcare have launched new veterinary educational materials focused on cat and dog nutrition and its role in health and well-being. Through an exciting collaboration, WikiVet and Mars Petcare continue to improve the quality and reach of reference materials available to veterinary students, practicing veterinarians and vet nurses.
“Nutrition plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of pets,” said Dr. Richard Butterwick, principal nutrition scientist, WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition, Mars Petcare. “We are excited to combine our expertise in pet nutrition with WikiVet’s dynamic site, driving greater awareness of the important link between nutrition and health.”
Based on extensive research and scientific knowledge, subject matter will include differing nutritional requirements of cats and dogs; essential nutrients, their role and biological function; and consequences of deficiency and signs of toxicity. The materials will feature resources written by world leading experts in pet nutrition including Dr. Dan Chan, senior lecturer at Royal Veterinary College, University of London, and Dr. Lisa Weeth, veterinary clinical nutritionist.
“We are very pleased to continue working with Mars Petcare and believe these materials will help the veterinary profession strengthen their understanding of cat and dog nutrition and the importance of the right nutrition for a healthy life,” said Nick Short, head of the eMedia Unit, Royal Veterinary College.
Showing posts with label Pet Nutrition. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pet Nutrition. Show all posts
Thursday, June 11, 2015
Friday, April 24, 2015
Hill’s Global Symposium offered as virtual event
Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc.’s 2015 Global Symposium will, for the first time, be run as a virtual event. Delegates can join the physical gathering in Miami, Florida, USA, on April 26?28, and through a custom?built virtual event center, from April 27?June 30.
The 2015 Hill's Symposium is designed to inspire and educate veterinarians and veterinary health care team members to use nutrition to improve and transform pet's lives. A special focus will be on treating pets that suffer from concurrent conditions. Common examples include dogs suffering from arthritis and obesity, and cats suffering from lower urinary tract disease (LUTD) and obesity.
"The Hill's Global Symposium is one of the premiere nutritional continuing education events of the year,” said Dr. Heather Berst, organizing chair of the Global Symposium at Hill’s Pet Nutrition. “But time is so often a critical issue in busy practices, and taking a few days out to travel and attend the symposium is, unfortunately, just not possible for some veterinarians and key team members.”
Delegates attending virtually will be able to view lectures live and participate in Q&A sessions through the virtual event center. All lectures will be recorded and available for viewing on demand until the center closes on June 30. This virtual aspect will also benefit delegates attending the physical event, as they will be able to watch lectures again after the symposium and share them with colleagues.
During the symposium, expert speakers from around the world will discuss the pet health benefits of using nutrition to help manage multiple health conditions. Additionally, expert speakers will discuss key topics impacting the veterinary profession, including communication, compliance, social media and diversity.
"Nutrition plays a key role in managing pet health,” said Dr. Ellen I. Lowery, director, US Professional & Veterinary Affairs. “Recommending the right food for pets suffering from multiple conditions is an effective, practical solution that will encourage compliance and support a successful outcome.
"We don't want busy veterinary professionals to miss out on the great learning opportunities being offered, so we are bringing the symposium to them. We have invested significantly in the technology platform to ensure that our virtual delegates enjoy the experience and can participate as fully as those in the room.”
The 2015 Hill's Symposium is designed to inspire and educate veterinarians and veterinary health care team members to use nutrition to improve and transform pet's lives. A special focus will be on treating pets that suffer from concurrent conditions. Common examples include dogs suffering from arthritis and obesity, and cats suffering from lower urinary tract disease (LUTD) and obesity.
"The Hill's Global Symposium is one of the premiere nutritional continuing education events of the year,” said Dr. Heather Berst, organizing chair of the Global Symposium at Hill’s Pet Nutrition. “But time is so often a critical issue in busy practices, and taking a few days out to travel and attend the symposium is, unfortunately, just not possible for some veterinarians and key team members.”
Delegates attending virtually will be able to view lectures live and participate in Q&A sessions through the virtual event center. All lectures will be recorded and available for viewing on demand until the center closes on June 30. This virtual aspect will also benefit delegates attending the physical event, as they will be able to watch lectures again after the symposium and share them with colleagues.
During the symposium, expert speakers from around the world will discuss the pet health benefits of using nutrition to help manage multiple health conditions. Additionally, expert speakers will discuss key topics impacting the veterinary profession, including communication, compliance, social media and diversity.
"Nutrition plays a key role in managing pet health,” said Dr. Ellen I. Lowery, director, US Professional & Veterinary Affairs. “Recommending the right food for pets suffering from multiple conditions is an effective, practical solution that will encourage compliance and support a successful outcome.
"We don't want busy veterinary professionals to miss out on the great learning opportunities being offered, so we are bringing the symposium to them. We have invested significantly in the technology platform to ensure that our virtual delegates enjoy the experience and can participate as fully as those in the room.”
Thursday, April 23, 2015
Burns Pet Nutrition honored with 4 awards
UK company Burns Pet Nutrition has received four awards in four months.
In December 2014, Burns was honored by Your Dog Magazine’s Products Awards for 2014-15. Burns Original was named Best Dry Dog Food, Burns Weight Control+ was named Best Specialist Dog Food, and Burns Penlan Farm was named Best Wet Dog Food.
Two of Burns’ products – Burns Sensitive+ in the Best Specialist Dog Food category and Burns Kelties for Best Dog Treat – were highly commended.
In March 2015, Burns was voted Manufacturer of the Year in Pet Product Marketing magazine’s annual awards.
“These awards are confirmation that we are doing something right and keeping stockists and customers happy,” said company founder John Burns. “We’re very proud of these achievements, especially since we’re up against a huge number of global brands in a highly competitive industry, and would like to thank everyone who voted for us.
In December 2014, Burns was honored by Your Dog Magazine’s Products Awards for 2014-15. Burns Original was named Best Dry Dog Food, Burns Weight Control+ was named Best Specialist Dog Food, and Burns Penlan Farm was named Best Wet Dog Food.
Two of Burns’ products – Burns Sensitive+ in the Best Specialist Dog Food category and Burns Kelties for Best Dog Treat – were highly commended.
In March 2015, Burns was voted Manufacturer of the Year in Pet Product Marketing magazine’s annual awards.
“These awards are confirmation that we are doing something right and keeping stockists and customers happy,” said company founder John Burns. “We’re very proud of these achievements, especially since we’re up against a huge number of global brands in a highly competitive industry, and would like to thank everyone who voted for us.
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Petco unveils new initiative centered on pet nutrition
Petco has announced a new initiative, centered on the importance of proper nutrition for pets. A creative campaign, "What We Feed Them Matters," rolls out nationwide this week. The multichannel initiative emphasizes to pet parents that great health starts with great nutrition.
Safety and health benefits of food and treats continue to be top concerns for pet owners, and recent survey findings indicate that approximately 100 million dogs and cats in U.S. are overweight or obese. Feeding pets high-quality food can ultimately lead to a longer, better life, greater vitality, better skin and coat, a healthy weight and good digestion.
"We want to encourage pet parents to think about the impact food and nutrition have on their pet's health," said Brad Weston, Petco chief merchandising officer. "At Petco, we handpick the best brands to make it easy for pet parents to navigate the complex world of nutrition and find the right food for their pet."
For nearly 50 years, Petco has been a source for high-quality premium pet products and services in local neighborhoods across the U.S., with knowledgeable Petco partners on hand to help. Petco handpicks the best brands to help pets thrive with a broad range of food and treat options that support complete pet health.
"The new creative builds on the success of the 'The Power of Together' campaign, our brand transformation initiative launched last year," said Danielle Mohn, Petco vice president of marketing. "We're celebrating the importance of the human-animal connection and educating pet parents that what we feed them really does matter."
Created by Vitro, in partnership with Petco's internal creative team, the creative is a purpose-driven initiative to inspire pet parents to think differently about pet nutrition and to drive awareness of Petco's handpicked selection.
The initiative will be featured in-store and online, with nutrition education front and center. In-store, consumers can discuss their pet's specific needs with a Petco nutrition adviser and learn about feeding trends and options as part of Petco's nutrition demo program. In addition, there are a variety of digital resources that can be found online, including information on how to read a petfood label and how to transition your pet to a new food, as well as details on the latest feeding options available to pet parents.
"We want to encourage pet parents to think about the impact food and nutrition have on their pet's health," said Brad Weston, Petco chief merchandising officer. "At Petco, we handpick the best brands to make it easy for pet parents to navigate the complex world of nutrition and find the right food for their pet."
For nearly 50 years, Petco has been a source for high-quality premium pet products and services in local neighborhoods across the U.S., with knowledgeable Petco partners on hand to help. Petco handpicks the best brands to help pets thrive with a broad range of food and treat options that support complete pet health.
"The new creative builds on the success of the 'The Power of Together' campaign, our brand transformation initiative launched last year," said Danielle Mohn, Petco vice president of marketing. "We're celebrating the importance of the human-animal connection and educating pet parents that what we feed them really does matter."
Created by Vitro, in partnership with Petco's internal creative team, the creative is a purpose-driven initiative to inspire pet parents to think differently about pet nutrition and to drive awareness of Petco's handpicked selection.
The initiative will be featured in-store and online, with nutrition education front and center. In-store, consumers can discuss their pet's specific needs with a Petco nutrition adviser and learn about feeding trends and options as part of Petco's nutrition demo program. In addition, there are a variety of digital resources that can be found online, including information on how to read a petfood label and how to transition your pet to a new food, as well as details on the latest feeding options available to pet parents.
Thursday, February 12, 2015
petMD: Nutritional value is pet owners' top petfood concern
- veterinary recommendations
- brand reputations
- regulatory statements
- foods manufactured "by" a brand, rather than "for" a brand
- toll-free consumer lines
petMD conducted a survey to determine what factors people consider most when choosing a petfood, and the survey revealed that a majority of pet owners are highly concerned about the nutritional value of their pet's food. When asked what factor is the most important in selecting a petfood, only 4% of respondents said price. And while 10% said their primary consideration is palatability, nearly 80% said they choose their pet's food based on how nutritious or healthy they believe it will be for their pet.
Sixty percent of pet food buyers claim to read ingredient labels, but most are unfamiliar with the official terms used in ingredient lists, according to the study. Experts recommend that consumers look to the following sources to gather information about the best food for their pets:
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Hill’s Pet Nutrition announced as founding sponsor of VetFolio
Hill's Pet Nutrition has become the exclusive animal nutrition founding sponsor of VetFolio, an online continuing education platform for veterinary professionals offered by the American Animal Hospital Association and the North American Veterinary Community.
As part of this commitment, Hill's is sponsoring select nutrition courses, articles and related content. Hill's will also sponsor a new VetFolio program for veterinary students, veterinary technician students and recent graduates. This program will include online resource centers and educational modules.
"Veterinary healthcare team members, students and recent graduates are busy people," said Ellen Lowery of Hill's Pet Nutrition's US professional and veterinary affairs department. "We're happy to support this platform because VetFolio provides access to quality CE opportunities and resources on their schedule."
Friday, January 2, 2015
Horn Animal Wellness releases animal nutrition infographic
“There are studies that show the importance of MCTs in weight-management formulations and in age-specific formulas, thanks to the MCTs being readily available fuel for the brain,” said Dave Preszler, technical director of Horn Animal Wellness. “They are excellent for use in formulations and supplements for show and sport performance animals. MCTs are also prominently used in milk-replacement products due to their digestibility and their nutritive characteristics.”
MCTs are important in animal nutrition as an energy source and as an ingredient for cognitive health, according to Horn. MCTs are metabolized into ketone bodies, which are able to freely pass through the blood-brain barrier to become the main energy source for cells. MCTs are also readily absorbed in the gut and then released directly into the portal vein and transported directly to the liver. The liver rapidly metabolizes the MCTs, which releases instant energy to the body.
The infographic is available online and can be downloaded.
MCTs are important in animal nutrition as an energy source and as an ingredient for cognitive health, according to Horn. MCTs are metabolized into ketone bodies, which are able to freely pass through the blood-brain barrier to become the main energy source for cells. MCTs are also readily absorbed in the gut and then released directly into the portal vein and transported directly to the liver. The liver rapidly metabolizes the MCTs, which releases instant energy to the body.
The infographic is available online and can be downloaded.
Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Purina develops petfood focusing on cognitive health
To help pets sustain healthy brain function into their later years, Nestlé Purina has developed a nutritional blend of key ingredients that specifically target risk factors linked to brain aging, according to the company. The new blend, developed by Purina scientists, consists of key ingredients such as fish oil, B vitamins, antioxidants and the essential amino acid arginine. The nutritional breakthrough can help maintain cognitive functions, such as memory, social interaction and learning abilities, says Purina.
In a recent survey conducted by Purina, 54% of dog owners aren't aware that physical changes in dogs can be related to cognitive issues. But 45% of dog owners have noticed their dogs slowing down mentally as they get older. More than four in 10 dogs in the US are older than seven years, and nutrition can help maintain healthy brain function, says the company.
In a recent survey conducted by Purina, 54% of dog owners aren't aware that physical changes in dogs can be related to cognitive issues. But 45% of dog owners have noticed their dogs slowing down mentally as they get older. More than four in 10 dogs in the US are older than seven years, and nutrition can help maintain healthy brain function, says the company.
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Euromonitor releases trends in pet nutrition video
In September 2014, Euromonitor International presented the results of its annual pet care research at the National Pet Industry trade show organized by PIJAC Canada. The video (first in a series) presented discussed some of the trends in pet nutrition that featured prominently at the show and reflect well trends observed in petfood retail in the US and Canada.
In the video, Euromonitor takes a look at three trends: locally sourced food, ethically sourced food and "free from" food. The video features Svetlana Uduslivaia, senior research analyst for Euromonitor. The upcoming second videocast will discuss product development trends with emphasis on the expanding array of proteins used in petfood.
In the video, Euromonitor takes a look at three trends: locally sourced food, ethically sourced food and "free from" food. The video features Svetlana Uduslivaia, senior research analyst for Euromonitor. The upcoming second videocast will discuss product development trends with emphasis on the expanding array of proteins used in petfood.
Friday, February 28, 2014
Purina Pro Plan launches nutritional supplement bars for dogs
Footballer Eli Manning helped introduce Purina Pro Plan's new nutritional supplement bars for active dogs at the "Purina pro MANning vs. DOG Challenge" in New York City on January 29. The bars, PRiME and ReFUEL, were introduced as part of Purina's SPORT product line.
"I've been an athlete all my life and have maintained strict training regimens that include high-quality nutrition products that allow me to perform at my best," said Manning. "I'm also a lifelong dog owner and have seen first-hand what amazing athletes dogs are. Purina Pro Plan PRiME and ReFUEL nutritional supplement bars help active dogs not only perform at their best, but help them recover quickly so they can get back outside again tomorrow and enjoy the activities they love to do with their owners."
The PRiME bar is a nutrient-dense protein-rich bar that can benefit dogs during exercise, according tp Purina. In order for the PRiME bar to work optimally, it should be fed half an hour before exercise, which gives the dog a chance to digest the bar and have key nutrients present in his blood stream when starting an activity.
Fed within 30 minutes post-exercise, the ReFUEL bar helps replenish muscle energy stores and promotes muscle rebuilding after activity, according to the company. Dogs experience muscle breakdown, fatigue and depletion of energy stores, just like humans do. ReFUEL is formulated with rapidly digested ingredients that help reinvigorate tired muscles.
In addition to performance nutrition, Purina Pro Plan has given dog owners access to expert training in the palm of their hand with Purina Pro Plan P5, a free mobile app. The P5 app offers dog owners of all breeds and sizes specialized mobile lessons in agility, dock diving, flying disc, obedience, running and strength training. It is available for free for iPhone, Android and Google Play devices.
"I've been an athlete all my life and have maintained strict training regimens that include high-quality nutrition products that allow me to perform at my best," said Manning. "I'm also a lifelong dog owner and have seen first-hand what amazing athletes dogs are. Purina Pro Plan PRiME and ReFUEL nutritional supplement bars help active dogs not only perform at their best, but help them recover quickly so they can get back outside again tomorrow and enjoy the activities they love to do with their owners."
The PRiME bar is a nutrient-dense protein-rich bar that can benefit dogs during exercise, according tp Purina. In order for the PRiME bar to work optimally, it should be fed half an hour before exercise, which gives the dog a chance to digest the bar and have key nutrients present in his blood stream when starting an activity.
Fed within 30 minutes post-exercise, the ReFUEL bar helps replenish muscle energy stores and promotes muscle rebuilding after activity, according to the company. Dogs experience muscle breakdown, fatigue and depletion of energy stores, just like humans do. ReFUEL is formulated with rapidly digested ingredients that help reinvigorate tired muscles.
In addition to performance nutrition, Purina Pro Plan has given dog owners access to expert training in the palm of their hand with Purina Pro Plan P5, a free mobile app. The P5 app offers dog owners of all breeds and sizes specialized mobile lessons in agility, dock diving, flying disc, obedience, running and strength training. It is available for free for iPhone, Android and Google Play devices.
Monday, February 10, 2014
Academy of Natural Health Sciences offers pet nutrition online courses
Academy of Natural Health Sciences is offering a pet nutrition online home-study program. These pet nutrition programs specialize in canine nutrition, feline nutrition, equine nutrition, or general clinical pet nutrition.
The Canine Nutrition Program is a 100-hour program covers a variety of subjects. Courses include The Problems with Pet Food; Protein, Carbs and Fat for Dogs; Health Benefits of Proper Feeding; Making the Switch to a Better Diet; Feeding and Dry, Canned or Frozen Food; Feeding Options for Busy Owners; Keys to Healthy Homemade Meals; Preparing Homemade Meals; Raw Food Feeding; Pet Nutrition Supplements; Herbs for Dogs; Homeopathic Remedies; Flower Essence Use; Veterinary Acupuncture; Veterinary Chiropractic; Massage Techniques; Vaccinations; and Natural Remedies and Health Problems. Upon completion of the program, the student will be awarded a Canine Nutrition Certificate that can be applied to the school's Clinical Pet Nutritionist program.
Similar to the Canine Nutrition Program, the Feline Nutrition Program is also a 100-hour certification. Courses are similar to the canine program; however, vary slightly. Some special feline courses include Litter Box Tips, Raw Food Feeding, What Cats Need and Don't Need, Species Appropriate Nutrition, and Proper Dosing for Cats.
The Clinical Pet Nutritionist Program is a 500-hour program that goes into more detail with pet nutrition studies. Starting with the canine and feline programs, students also examine pet nutrition through courses such as Anatomy and Physiology for Cats and Dogs; Dog and Cat Diseases; Sports Nutrition for Dogs; Clinical Nutrition for Dogs and Cats; Diseases and Natural Remedies; Raw Food Feeding for Dogs and Cats; Breed Specific Nutrition; Prescription Diets for Dogs and Cats; Herbology for Dogs and Cats; Homeopathy for Dogs and Cats; Drug, Herb and Supplement Interactions; Preventing Drug-Caused Nutrient Depletions; Blood Work and Nutritional Interpretations; Canine and Feline Health Assessments; CPN Business and Legal Guides; along with a Counseling Practicum. Graduates are awarded with a Clinical Pet Nutritionist (CPN) Diploma upon completion.
The last program available for pet nutrition through the Academy of Natural Health Sciences in the Equine Nutrition Specialist (ENS) program. Still in development, the Academy of Natural Health Sciences is still converting the program to an online curriculum.
For more information on these programs or to enroll today, visit http://www.anhs-school.com/pet-nutrition.html.
The Canine Nutrition Program is a 100-hour program covers a variety of subjects. Courses include The Problems with Pet Food; Protein, Carbs and Fat for Dogs; Health Benefits of Proper Feeding; Making the Switch to a Better Diet; Feeding and Dry, Canned or Frozen Food; Feeding Options for Busy Owners; Keys to Healthy Homemade Meals; Preparing Homemade Meals; Raw Food Feeding; Pet Nutrition Supplements; Herbs for Dogs; Homeopathic Remedies; Flower Essence Use; Veterinary Acupuncture; Veterinary Chiropractic; Massage Techniques; Vaccinations; and Natural Remedies and Health Problems. Upon completion of the program, the student will be awarded a Canine Nutrition Certificate that can be applied to the school's Clinical Pet Nutritionist program.
Similar to the Canine Nutrition Program, the Feline Nutrition Program is also a 100-hour certification. Courses are similar to the canine program; however, vary slightly. Some special feline courses include Litter Box Tips, Raw Food Feeding, What Cats Need and Don't Need, Species Appropriate Nutrition, and Proper Dosing for Cats.
The Clinical Pet Nutritionist Program is a 500-hour program that goes into more detail with pet nutrition studies. Starting with the canine and feline programs, students also examine pet nutrition through courses such as Anatomy and Physiology for Cats and Dogs; Dog and Cat Diseases; Sports Nutrition for Dogs; Clinical Nutrition for Dogs and Cats; Diseases and Natural Remedies; Raw Food Feeding for Dogs and Cats; Breed Specific Nutrition; Prescription Diets for Dogs and Cats; Herbology for Dogs and Cats; Homeopathy for Dogs and Cats; Drug, Herb and Supplement Interactions; Preventing Drug-Caused Nutrient Depletions; Blood Work and Nutritional Interpretations; Canine and Feline Health Assessments; CPN Business and Legal Guides; along with a Counseling Practicum. Graduates are awarded with a Clinical Pet Nutritionist (CPN) Diploma upon completion.
The last program available for pet nutrition through the Academy of Natural Health Sciences in the Equine Nutrition Specialist (ENS) program. Still in development, the Academy of Natural Health Sciences is still converting the program to an online curriculum.
For more information on these programs or to enroll today, visit http://www.anhs-school.com/pet-nutrition.html.
Monday, November 11, 2013
Southern Tier Pet Nutrition announces new capital partner
Siena Lending Group LLC announced the completion of a three-year US$2.45 million senior secured credit facility for Southern Tier Pet Nutrition LLC on October 17. The facility will be used to support the company's working capital and capital expenditure needs.
Southern Tier Pet Nutrition, located in Sherburne, New York, USA, is a contract manufacturer of holistic, natural and organic petfoods in the US. The company is owned in partnership by BHC Interim Funding III, L.P. and Ohio Pet Foods Inc.
David Grende, president and CEO of Siena Lending Group, said, "We are pleased that we were able to support Southern Tier during this period of vibrant growth. We're impressed by the leadership in this business and look forward to working together to help management meet all of their future goals."
James Golladay, chairman and president of Ohio Pet Foods, said, "We are very excited to partner with Siena on this transaction. Their flexibility and responsiveness will allow Southern Tier to make productivity increasing investments and build upon the rapid growth it has experienced this year."
Southern Tier Pet Nutrition, located in Sherburne, New York, USA, is a contract manufacturer of holistic, natural and organic petfoods in the US. The company is owned in partnership by BHC Interim Funding III, L.P. and Ohio Pet Foods Inc.
David Grende, president and CEO of Siena Lending Group, said, "We are pleased that we were able to support Southern Tier during this period of vibrant growth. We're impressed by the leadership in this business and look forward to working together to help management meet all of their future goals."
James Golladay, chairman and president of Ohio Pet Foods, said, "We are very excited to partner with Siena on this transaction. Their flexibility and responsiveness will allow Southern Tier to make productivity increasing investments and build upon the rapid growth it has experienced this year."
Friday, October 18, 2013
Waltham nutrition symposium addresses health concerns shared by humans, pets
Attendees of the Waltham International Nutritional Sciences Symposium, held October 1-4 in Portland, Ore., learned about about the "link" between issues relating to what humans eat and concerns over what pets eat from Dr. Karyl Hurley, director of Global Scientific Affairs for Mars Petcare, which helped organize the event. The symposium drew food scientists from academia on both the human and animal side, veterinary nutritionists, representatives from petfood companies and leaders in veterinary medicine from 24 countries.
According to Theresa Nicklas, professor of pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, USA, one example of a dietary issue that affects both people and pets is obesity, which is called an "epidemic in many nations around the world, especially among children." Nicklas described various parental styles, some now thought to be significant factors in explaining the rise in overweight and obese children.
Dr. Alex German, of the University of Liverpool in England, suggested that while lifestyle, such as a lack of exercise, has been examined as an explanation for weight gain in pets, "parental" style may also play a important roll. As in people, indulgent or authoritative pet "parents" may unintentionally encourage weight gain in their animals. "If veterinarians can predict (pet owner) parental style, perhaps they can more effectively prevent obesity," German said.
Another topic discussed at symposium relating to people and pets is the diminishing of traditional protein sources, such as beef, pork, lamb, chicken and turkey. "In short, the issue is sustainability," said Dr. Kelly Swanson, an associate professor in the Department of Animal Sciences and Division of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Illinois.
Increasingly, less land is available for raising animals for food production, while simultaneously human populations are rising around the world, she said. Many speakers suggested that the future for people and pets may include alternative protein sources.
One solution may be insects, according to Dr. Guido Bosch, a researcher at Wageningen University in The Netherlands. Comparing various bugs, he said mealworms are the highest in fat (among insects tested) and protein.
According to Theresa Nicklas, professor of pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, USA, one example of a dietary issue that affects both people and pets is obesity, which is called an "epidemic in many nations around the world, especially among children." Nicklas described various parental styles, some now thought to be significant factors in explaining the rise in overweight and obese children.
Dr. Alex German, of the University of Liverpool in England, suggested that while lifestyle, such as a lack of exercise, has been examined as an explanation for weight gain in pets, "parental" style may also play a important roll. As in people, indulgent or authoritative pet "parents" may unintentionally encourage weight gain in their animals. "If veterinarians can predict (pet owner) parental style, perhaps they can more effectively prevent obesity," German said.
Another topic discussed at symposium relating to people and pets is the diminishing of traditional protein sources, such as beef, pork, lamb, chicken and turkey. "In short, the issue is sustainability," said Dr. Kelly Swanson, an associate professor in the Department of Animal Sciences and Division of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Illinois.
Increasingly, less land is available for raising animals for food production, while simultaneously human populations are rising around the world, she said. Many speakers suggested that the future for people and pets may include alternative protein sources.
One solution may be insects, according to Dr. Guido Bosch, a researcher at Wageningen University in The Netherlands. Comparing various bugs, he said mealworms are the highest in fat (among insects tested) and protein.
Friday, September 20, 2013
PetSpy.com compares ingredients in dog food to educate pet owners on nutrition
Homemade dog food website, http://petspy.com, examined commercial dog food companies and compared the ingredients to help educate pet owners about pet nutrition online.
The site says comparisons made through research have confirmed the varying levels of natural and refined ingredients that are placed into some petfoods sold in the U.S. "The words 'natural' and 'healthy' are not always accurate on petfood packages," said a source for the website.
The website offers dog food reviews for natural sources and some store-bought specialty brands. The comparisons made on PetSpy.com have been placed into accessible content online that includes streaming videos, e-books and blogs.
The site says comparisons made through research have confirmed the varying levels of natural and refined ingredients that are placed into some petfoods sold in the U.S. "The words 'natural' and 'healthy' are not always accurate on petfood packages," said a source for the website.
The website offers dog food reviews for natural sources and some store-bought specialty brands. The comparisons made on PetSpy.com have been placed into accessible content online that includes streaming videos, e-books and blogs.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
SuperZoo University to feature animal wellness, business development, technology courses
SuperZoo, the national show for pet retailers, will take place July 23-25 in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, offering a number of resources for companies, including an enhanced SuperZoo University.
SuperZoo University is an educational program for pet retailers, which offers seminars on marketing trends and technologies, animal wellness education, hands-on grooming demonstrations and more. The curriculum is divided into three tracks: Business Development, Animal Wellness and Technology. The School of Animal Wellness will feature doctors from Horn discussing animal species, new feeds and other health issues, in addition to an "ask the expert" panel session on pet nutrition.
Other new classes in the tracks include: Mystery Shopping: Pull Out the Microscope for Your Pet Business, What Women Want in Your Store, Search Engine 101 and Marketing Bootcamp.
SuperZoo will also feature a new Concept Store, an environment where attendees can see merchandising best practices and new technologies put to use in retail displays and other demonstrations.
SuperZoo University is an educational program for pet retailers, which offers seminars on marketing trends and technologies, animal wellness education, hands-on grooming demonstrations and more. The curriculum is divided into three tracks: Business Development, Animal Wellness and Technology. The School of Animal Wellness will feature doctors from Horn discussing animal species, new feeds and other health issues, in addition to an "ask the expert" panel session on pet nutrition.
Other new classes in the tracks include: Mystery Shopping: Pull Out the Microscope for Your Pet Business, What Women Want in Your Store, Search Engine 101 and Marketing Bootcamp.
SuperZoo will also feature a new Concept Store, an environment where attendees can see merchandising best practices and new technologies put to use in retail displays and other demonstrations.
Monday, April 29, 2013
Sustainability of pet ownership, feeding practices topics of new research
University of Illinois animal sciences researcher, Kelly Swanson, in cooperation with scientists at natural petfood maker, the Nutro Co., raised a number of important questions on the sustainability of pet ownership in new research.
Sustainability is defined as meeting the needs of the present while not compromising the future. Swanson said that although the carbon footprint aspect of sustainability receives the most attention, nutritional aspects are also important. “If you just change the diet a little, the financial and environmental costs associated with it are quite different,” he explained.
Since dietary ingredient selection and nutrient composition affect the sustainability of the petfood system, and because protein is costly financially and to the environment, protein source and amount of protein in the diet are especially important.
Swanson's research shows that dogs and cats require specific nutrients, not specific ingredients, making it possible to meet nutrient requirements with a variety of nutrient sources. For example, animal protein can be replaced by plant protein, which requires less water and energy to produce. Soy-based proteins are a common petfood ingredient, and their production is estimated to be 6 to 20 times more efficient in terms of fossil fuel requirements, Swanson said.
Petfood manufacturers also make heavy use of the secondary products from the human food chain. “That’s great from a sustainability standpoint because we’re using the products that would otherwise not be used,” he said.
Swanson's research shows there are strategies to make petfood manufacturing more sustainable while still meeting the animals' nutritional needs and keeping products affordable.
“Advancement in areas of nutritional sustainability will help us develop innovative products to improve pet health and nutrition and produce quality and safe petfood,” said Rebecca Carter, research scientist at The Nutro Company. “Nutritional sustainability is part of a wider sustainability platform to improve the sustainability of our products and promote the sustainability of pet ownership and the petfood industry.”
Swanson stresses the importance of educating consumers and veterinarians, as well as the petfood industry, about sustainable feeding practices.
“[Pets are] being fed as much as 20 percent more than they need, so their health is poor, and you’re wasting all that food,” said Swanson. “Especially with cats, it’s very difficult.”
Swanson said it would be helpful to develop a model that would estimate the environmental impact of petfoods and serve as a basis for strategies to increase the sustainability of petfoods in the future. Researchers concluded that there are no “good” or “bad” feeding practices, but just some that are more or less sustainable. They hope the findings highlight areas where changes could be made to current practices and stimulate discussion within the industry so that the overall sustainability of petfoods may be improved in the future.
"Nutritional Sustainability of Pet Foods" by Kelly S. Swanson, Rebecca A. Carter, Tracy P. Yount, Jan Aretz and Preston R. Buff was recently published in Advances in Nutrition and can be viewed online.
Sustainability is defined as meeting the needs of the present while not compromising the future. Swanson said that although the carbon footprint aspect of sustainability receives the most attention, nutritional aspects are also important. “If you just change the diet a little, the financial and environmental costs associated with it are quite different,” he explained.
Since dietary ingredient selection and nutrient composition affect the sustainability of the petfood system, and because protein is costly financially and to the environment, protein source and amount of protein in the diet are especially important.
Swanson's research shows that dogs and cats require specific nutrients, not specific ingredients, making it possible to meet nutrient requirements with a variety of nutrient sources. For example, animal protein can be replaced by plant protein, which requires less water and energy to produce. Soy-based proteins are a common petfood ingredient, and their production is estimated to be 6 to 20 times more efficient in terms of fossil fuel requirements, Swanson said.
Petfood manufacturers also make heavy use of the secondary products from the human food chain. “That’s great from a sustainability standpoint because we’re using the products that would otherwise not be used,” he said.
Swanson's research shows there are strategies to make petfood manufacturing more sustainable while still meeting the animals' nutritional needs and keeping products affordable.
“Advancement in areas of nutritional sustainability will help us develop innovative products to improve pet health and nutrition and produce quality and safe petfood,” said Rebecca Carter, research scientist at The Nutro Company. “Nutritional sustainability is part of a wider sustainability platform to improve the sustainability of our products and promote the sustainability of pet ownership and the petfood industry.”
Swanson stresses the importance of educating consumers and veterinarians, as well as the petfood industry, about sustainable feeding practices.
“[Pets are] being fed as much as 20 percent more than they need, so their health is poor, and you’re wasting all that food,” said Swanson. “Especially with cats, it’s very difficult.”
Swanson said it would be helpful to develop a model that would estimate the environmental impact of petfoods and serve as a basis for strategies to increase the sustainability of petfoods in the future. Researchers concluded that there are no “good” or “bad” feeding practices, but just some that are more or less sustainable. They hope the findings highlight areas where changes could be made to current practices and stimulate discussion within the industry so that the overall sustainability of petfoods may be improved in the future.
"Nutritional Sustainability of Pet Foods" by Kelly S. Swanson, Rebecca A. Carter, Tracy P. Yount, Jan Aretz and Preston R. Buff was recently published in Advances in Nutrition and can be viewed online.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Alltech extends early registration for GLIMPSE 2020 symposium
Alltech has extended early registration for its 29th Annual International Symposium, taking place May 19-22 in Lexington, Kentucky, USA.
Alltech's GLIMPSE 2020 symposium will be available at an early discounted price of US$599 through April 25 at 11:59 p.m. EST. Standard registration will be available after April 25 for US$850.
For more information or to request an invitation, contact an Alltech representative at symposium@alltech.com.
Alltech's GLIMPSE 2020 symposium will be available at an early discounted price of US$599 through April 25 at 11:59 p.m. EST. Standard registration will be available after April 25 for US$850.
For more information or to request an invitation, contact an Alltech representative at symposium@alltech.com.
Friday, April 12, 2013
Companion animal session to be offered at Alltech Symposium
Members of the pet industry can gain practical knowledge from the companion animal session being offered at Glimpse2020, the 29th annual Alltech International Symposium, taking place in Lexington, Kentucky, USA, May 19-22.
The session features a lineup of presenters, including Debbie Phillips Donaldson, editor-in-chief of Petfood Industry, as well as veterinarians, corporate leaders and researchers representing companies such as Proctor & Gamble, Champion Petfoods and Ainsworth Pet Nutrition.
Presentations will address topics including how to lower disease through nutrition, the role of DHA in the future of pet health, the holistic pet movement, building brands for the petfood industry, global trends for the future of petfood development and advancing pet health through nutrigenomics. Break-out session tracks will also offer attendees the chance to participate in focused discussions ranging from algae and agriculture’s carbon footprint to nutrition and marketing.
Registration for Alltech’s 29th Annual International Symposium is open now and available for an early discount price of US$599 until April 15 at 11:59 p.m. EST. Standard registration after April 15 will be $850.
The session features a lineup of presenters, including Debbie Phillips Donaldson, editor-in-chief of Petfood Industry, as well as veterinarians, corporate leaders and researchers representing companies such as Proctor & Gamble, Champion Petfoods and Ainsworth Pet Nutrition.
Presentations will address topics including how to lower disease through nutrition, the role of DHA in the future of pet health, the holistic pet movement, building brands for the petfood industry, global trends for the future of petfood development and advancing pet health through nutrigenomics. Break-out session tracks will also offer attendees the chance to participate in focused discussions ranging from algae and agriculture’s carbon footprint to nutrition and marketing.
Registration for Alltech’s 29th Annual International Symposium is open now and available for an early discount price of US$599 until April 15 at 11:59 p.m. EST. Standard registration after April 15 will be $850.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Clear Conscience Pet awarded for dog treats, pet food topper
Animal nutrition company Clear Conscience Pet was recently honored with two awards for its pet treats and pet food topper.
Clear Conscience Pet's Lamb Airy Bites dog treats were selected as "Best Pet Treat of the Year 2012" by the Dogington Post. The company's SuperGravy, a holistic gravy pet food topper, was also selected as "Best In Show Food Topper 2012" by Doggies and Stuff.
In addition to its recent awards, Clear Conscience Pet has announced it is launching a new pet treat product, Sliders Tender recipes. These moist dog treats are available in Sliders Tender Chicken & Cheddar and Beef & Cheddar recipes.
Clear Conscience Pet's Lamb Airy Bites dog treats were selected as "Best Pet Treat of the Year 2012" by the Dogington Post. The company's SuperGravy, a holistic gravy pet food topper, was also selected as "Best In Show Food Topper 2012" by Doggies and Stuff.
In addition to its recent awards, Clear Conscience Pet has announced it is launching a new pet treat product, Sliders Tender recipes. These moist dog treats are available in Sliders Tender Chicken & Cheddar and Beef & Cheddar recipes.
FreeHand named Best Dry Dog Food winner in Dogington Post Awards
As part of a larger initiative to educate dog owners on proper nutrition, effective training, and other ways to raise a happy and healthy dog, the Dogington Post reviewed pet food and pet products for its first annual Dogington Post Awards of 2012. Readers voted for the winners, selecting FreeHand as winner of the Best Dry Dog Food category.
FreeHand, a company that launched in June 2012, works to save the lives of abandoned dogs in the communities where its petfood products are sold. For each dog food bag sold, the company donates an equal amount to local shelters and rescues.
“We recognize the significance of this award from the readers of The Dogington Post - and we are honored to have been nominated over the hundreds of other pet foods in the market, many of which are well-established and well-financed brands. This proves the most important point of all - that dog owners buy our product because it is good for their dogs as well as for the lives of rescue dogs in their communities,” said Tom Bagamane, FreeHand’s managing director and co-founder.
FreeHand, a company that launched in June 2012, works to save the lives of abandoned dogs in the communities where its petfood products are sold. For each dog food bag sold, the company donates an equal amount to local shelters and rescues.
“We recognize the significance of this award from the readers of The Dogington Post - and we are honored to have been nominated over the hundreds of other pet foods in the market, many of which are well-established and well-financed brands. This proves the most important point of all - that dog owners buy our product because it is good for their dogs as well as for the lives of rescue dogs in their communities,” said Tom Bagamane, FreeHand’s managing director and co-founder.
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