He’ll Have Whatever I’m Having: Breakfast

By: Lori Horton

When it comes to our pets we want them to have the best; and sometimes we think that means they deserve to snack on what we eat. While this may be safe some of the time, often times it is not. There is a large assortment of foods that we consume on a daily basis that are poisonous to our canine and feline companions. This week is Pet Poison Prevention week, so it’s a good time to become familiar with some do’s and don’ts when it comes to your furry friends and sharing food.

In every morning routine the average family eats plenty of foods that we should not be sharing with our four legged companions. Coffee; the first thing we reach for to wake us up in the morning is toxic to our pets. Caffeine is found in coffee, which is poisonous to both dogs and cats. Caffeine is actually similar to the chemical Theobromine, which is found in chocolate. Both of these chemicals can cause similar adverse effects such as restlessness, vomiting, elevated heart rate, seizures, and in extreme cases, death. One or two laps of coffee will probably not hurt your pet, but large amounts can be dangerous. What goes best with coffee? Milk.

Cat’s and milk; a picture we have seen in movies and books for years. They love it, right? Wrong. Too much milk product can lead to vomiting, gas and diarrhea. Both cats and dogs are actually lactose intolerant and cannot digest any dairy. This is because they lack the necessary enzyme, called lactase, to digest dairy products. They only have enough of this enzyme when they are kittens and puppies and thrive on their mother’s milk. Once they grow up, they do not have the enzyme to digest lactose any longer and need protein to thrive. Do not confuse cow milk with Raw Goat’s Milk and Kefir. They do not have the lactose enzyme and provide many benefits.

These are just two of the many toxins that our pets have access to almost daily. Become familiar with this list so that you can help prevent a terrible incident. Follow this link for a full list of poisonous foods:

http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poisons/

Novel Proteins and Food Allergies

By Claudia Loomis

One of the most frequently asked questions our customers asks is which food we recommend for a pet who has been diagnosed with food allergies. The list of food allergies that we see is staggeringly long. Commonly pets diagnosed by their vet with a food allergy are placed on a prescription diet. These prescription diets are overly processed, contain hydrolyzed ingredients that are not natural, and many require a degree in chemistry to pronounce.

Cherrybrook has a more holistic approach to diet and nutrition for the many pets who have real food allergies.  It starts with us asking questions about the symptoms your pet is experiencing, getting to know what your pet has been fed in the past, and understanding what foods have been tried to address the allergy.  Once we have a background we can then discuss options. 

Without exception we always recommend feeding pets with food allergies a food where the main ingredient is from a single source of protein. More specifically we like to make sure that the food we recommend is made with a novel protein, one that your pet has not tried at any point in the past. At Cherrybrook we have many novel protein options to choose from. Offering a wide selection of novel proteins means that we have a great chance of finding a protein that is agreeable to your pet and will help to relieve their allergy symptoms. 

In addition we have many foods with limited ingredients. The fewer the ingredients in a food, the lower the chances that your pet will react to something in their food that will trigger an allergic response. All of our limited ingredient diets are single protein foods and many of options are novel proteins. Single source and novel protein foods come in all varieties, kibble, can, raw, freeze dried, and dehydrated. The novel proteins we offer include commonly known proteins as well as exotic proteins. The list of novel proteins include:

Venison                                    Unagi                                    Trout

Bison                                        Hoki                                      Salmon

Kangaroo                                  Goat                                      Pork

Boar                                          Brushtail                               Salmon

Alligator                                   Rabbit                                   Tripe

This list of novel proteins continues to grow. If a novel protein is recommended, it is important to feed that protein exclusively. In the past this has meant forgoing even occasional treats for your pet. But that is no longer necessary. Cherrybrook carries an extensive selection of novel protein treats to compliment your pets novel protein limited ingredient diet. Or you can eliminate protein based treats altogether in favor of a pumpkin or sweet potato treat that will not interfere with your pet’s limited ingredient diet. 

Cherrybrook is proud to offer many all natural and holistic options for pets that suffer with food allergies. Plus we have a knowledgeable and experienced staff that is eager to help you navigate through the different choices and help you select a diet that will give your pet the ability to live allergy symptom free!

Have A Safe and Happy Howl-a-day Party with your Pets

  

The Holidays are fast approaching and our furry friends want in on the friends, food, and merry! There are certain things you should keep in mind when looking to include your pets in the Holiday Festivities.

Our pets love routines, so try your best to keep to their regular schedules. Too much change can sometimes lead to a very stressed out pet which may result in unwanted behaviors. The Holiday’s can be a very busy time for us, but it is important that your pets feeding time and walking time remain as close to normal as possible. Remember; happy pet, happy you.

Many of us enjoy a good Holiday party or dinner with friends and family. Some of our furry friends love to be in on the action, while others do not. If your pet does not do well with large groups of people, set up a room for them to go as a sanctuary. 

Your cat or dog may want to hide out away from the hustle and bustle until the guests have all gone. Make sure they have plenty of water and a cozy bed in a separate room for the duration of the gathering. There are plenty of holistic calming remedies available to make this time easier on your shy pets, like Heavenly Hounds Bars and Rescue Remedy.

If your pet is a social butterfly and basks in the attention of guests, make sure there are healthy pet treats available. We all love to spoil our pets, and Grandma is no exception. Having pet treats available for your guests to give your dog or cat will help to avoid them getting table scraps from overeager guests. Alcoholic beverages, fatty, spicy human foods, as well as cooked bones, should not be fed to your furry companions as it can lead to diarrhea or hazardous blockages in the stomach.

Avoid These 2 Temptations When Sharing Thanksgiving with Your Pet

By Dr. Becker

There are few things as tantalizing as the mouth-watering aroma of Thanksgiving dinner being prepared. In fact, it can be hard to wait for the meal to be served if you've spent all day surrounded by the smells of delicious food cooking in the kitchen.

You may have also noticed that your furry companion is spending more time than usual sniffing the air and visiting the kitchen, hoping that a morsel of food might slip off the counter or out of someone's hand.

Do I Really Have to Exclude My Pet from Holiday Meals?

The usual advice for dog and cat owners during the holiday season is to avoid feeding species-inappropriate "table scraps." This is because traditional holiday dinners tend to be high-fat feasts that aren't suitable for pets.

There is also concern about ingredients in human food that can be toxic for pets. Plus, we don't want to encourage begging at the table.

But with all that said, whether or not you share your Thanksgiving meal with your pet really depends on what the meal consists of and what ingredients are used. For example, cooked turkey meat is fine for both dogs and cats. A few fresh cooked veggies such as plain (no flavorings or additives of any kind) green beans or yams are also fine.

Examples of Thanksgiving people food you'll want to avoid giving your pet include dressing (stuffing); processed or sugary foods; dishes containing raisins or grapes; dishes containing onions, leeks, or chives; bread, rolls, and butter; and all desserts.

I also recommend blending a small portion of safe people food in with your pet's regular food and offering it at her usual mealtime. It's really not a good idea to offer treats from your plate at the table, or in the kitchen during meal preparation or cleanup, because your pet will very likely remember the gesture if you do it even once.

And with that one gesture, you can turn a pet with impeccable table manners into a beggar dog or cat with a very long memory!

15 Thanksgiving Foods and Snacks Safe to Share with Your Dog or Cat

Most of these foods will be more popular with dogs than cats, but they're safe for both. They should be served plain (no sugar, salt, or spices, butter, or other additives), in moderation, and in small portions.

1. Apples. Apples contain powerful antioxidants and vitamin C. Serve apple slices to your pet, but never the core or seeds. 

1. Blueberries. Fresh or frozen, blueberries are loaded with phytochemicals, and their deep blue hue is the result of anthocyanidins, which are powerful antioxidants. Blueberries are also a good source of healthy fiber, manganese, and vitamins C and E. Introduce blueberries slowly to your pet – too much, too soon can cause a digestive upset. 

1. Carrots. Carrots are low in calories and high in fiber and vitamins. Many dogs enjoy snacking on a fresh crunchy carrot. 

1. Broccoli. Broccoli supports detoxification processes in your pet's body; contains healthy fiber to aid digestion; is rich in beneficial nutrients like potassium, calcium, protein, and vitamin C; has anti-inflammatory properties; supports eye health; helps repair skin damage; and supports heart health. 

As an added bonus, even conventionally grown broccoli is one of the cleanest (most pesticide-free) foods you can buy. Your pet may prefer broccoli steamed.

1. Kale. This dark green cruciferous vegetable is loaded with vitamins (especially vitamins K, A, and C), iron, and antioxidants. It helps with liver detoxification and also has anti-inflammatory properties. 

1. Fermented vegetables. If you happen to be serving fermented veggies as part of your Thanksgiving feast, definitely offer some to your pet. Fermented foods are potent detoxifiers and contain much higher levels of probiotics and vitamin K2 than supplements can provide. 

Beneficial gut bacteria provided by probiotics break down and eliminate heavy metals and other toxins from the body, and perform a number of other important functions.

1. Raw pumpkin seeds. Pepitas, or raw pumpkin seeds, are a rich source of minerals, vitamin K, and phytosterols. They also contain L-tryptophan and are a good source of zinc, vitamin E, and B vitamins. Research suggests pumpkin seeds can prevent calcium oxalate kidney stones, reduce inflammation caused by arthritis, and support prostate health. 

1. Sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants, and are also high in vitamins A and C. Sweet potatoes with purple flesh have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may lower the risk from heavy metals and oxygen radicals. 

1. Green beans. Fresh, locally grown green beans are a source of vitamins A, C, and K. They also provide calcium, copper, fiber, folic acid, iron, niacin, manganese, potassium, riboflavin, and thiamin, as well as beta-carotene. 

1. Spinach. This green leafy vegetable has anti-inflammatory properties and can help support heart health. 

1. Asparagus. Asparagus is an excellent source of vitamin K, A, B1, B2, C, and E, along with the folate, iron, copper, fiber, manganese, and potassium. 

1. Pumpkin. Pumpkin is a great source of fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants. It can help alleviate both diarrhea and constipation. Make sure to feed your pet either fresh pumpkin or 100 percent canned pumpkin – not pumpkin pie filling. 

1. Yogurt. Plain organic yogurt is high in protein and calcium, and most pets love it. 

1. Cottage cheese. Like yogurt, plain organic cottage cheese is high in calcium and protein. 

1. Raw almonds, cashews, and Brazil nuts. These nuts, served in moderation and very small portions, are safe for dogs. Many nuts are not – especially tree nuts – so stick with these three to be on the safe side.

If you're in the mood to prepare some special homemade treats for your animal companion over the holidays, be sure to request my free e-book Homemade Treats for Healthy Pets, which contains nutritious, easy-to-prepare recipes for both cats and dogs.

Dr. Becker

Dr. Becker is the resident proactive and integrative wellness veterinarian of HealthyPets.Mercola.com. You can learn holistic ways of preventing illness in your pets by subscribing to MercolaHealthyPets.com, an online resource for animal lovers. For more pet care tips, subscribe for FREE to Mercola Healthy Pet Newsletter.

Meet Our Cherrybrook Garwood Team!

Kellie

Hi, I’m Kellie, the Cherrybrook Garwood store manager.  I have been with Cherrybrook since this store location opened in 2010.  I have spent my entire life around animals and have worked with dogs in various ways.  I spent many years both working and volunteering at a local animal shelter and with various rescue groups.  My love for dogs brought me to the Seeing Eye in NJ where I worked for 5 years at the breeding station.  In 2008, I embarked on a once in a lifetime journey around the United States with my doggie soul mate, a German shepherd named Hudson.  We traveled to over 40 states, Mexico, and Canada, camping and seeing what this great country had to offer. 

After returning home I worked as a veterinary technician for a canine reproduction specialist here in NJ for 1 year before moving out to Denver with Hudson, my doggie soul mate, to open our very own doggie daycare and boarding facility, Barkly Manor.  During this time I continued my education in dog training and became a Certified Pet Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and a certified AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator as well.  I truly enjoyed my years as a trainer working with families and their new puppies/rescues.  Having a pet is such a rewarding experience and I love sharing that passion with others!

After a few years in Colorado I got engaged and decided to move back home to NJ to start my new family.  My husband and I have since had 2 adorable children and a German shepherd named Vader.  Working at Cherrybrook allows me to continue my career in the pet industry.  I enjoy offering advice to customers based on my extensive background in all things dog!  Stop by and say Hi next time you are in the store!

Anthony

Hi, I’m Anthony and I have been an integral member of the Cherrybrook Garwood team and have a range of experience working with pets and pet parents.  Before joining the team at Cherrybrook I spent a few years at another well known NJ pet store, honed my customer service skills at an upscale home décor retailer, and prior to that enjoyed my time working in canine health management assisting in medical procedures of and caring for guide dogs for the visually impaired.  My two dogs love that I work here at Cherrybrook.  I love working at Cherrybrook too and I especially enjoy greeting and serving our customers everyday.

Camille

Hi, I'm Camille and I joined the Cherrybrook Garwood team 4 years ago after being one of Garwood's best customers.  As a professional groomer I am very happy to share my grooming expertise with all of our customers.  On most Mondays I offer walk in advice and nail trimming from 10:30am-1:30pm for just $10.  All the proceeds go to the Tibetan Terrier Club of America Rescue.  I love Tibetan Terriers and have owned, breed, and showed them for years.  I've joined many happy families with their new furry additions.  If you have any grooming or rescue related questions then I'm your gal, so stop in or call on Monday and ask for me.

Laura

Hi, I’m Laura and I'm pleased to be the newest addition to the Cherrybrook Garwood family.  I've always owned dogs and have been very passionate about them.  I was a member of The Board of Directors at Rawhide Rescue for 6 years and an active member for 15.  For 8 years I've rescued numerous dogs from the south and placed several hundred into their "fur-ever" homes.  Taking care of pregnant dogs and whelping their puppies has always been an exciting and special experience for me.  I own one beautiful 12 year old female Husky mix named Angelina.

Besides being an avid member in rescue, I've also worked in retail for 25 years.  Even with all of my experience, I still am growing and learning new things each day thanks to the entire team at Cherrybrook.  I enjoy greeting customers and offering my help and insight.  With such an extensive past in working with dogs in general I'm always available to answer any questions that a customer might have.  But if you have any questions about acclimating your rescue to your home and family, or want to know what toys or treats are best for your dog I will be particularly happy to help.