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Functions of Fiber

Article courtesy of Purina Petcare

 

Perhaps the awareness of the benefits of fiber in human diets has prompted pet owners to ask about its benefits in pet foods. Once described as "filler" or "bulk," fiber has gained recognition for the beneficial effect it has on the gastrointestinal system.

 

Fiber is the portion of carbohydrate in a diet that is difficult for the digestive system to break down and use. Despite its limited digestibility, fiber does have benefits for dogs.

Fiber helps address the concern about the prevalence of obesity in dogs. It is important in special diets designed for weight reduction or weight management. Fiber helps reduce caloric intake and provides dogs a satisfied feeling of fullness when being fed fewer calories.

 

However, high-fiber diets alone will not ensure weight loss. Strict portion control is also necessary for a successful weight loss program. Work with your veterinarian to plan a weight reduction program for your pudgy dog.

 

The value of fiber to help minimize constipation is well known. Fiber absorbs water and lends bulk to the intestinal contents. This stimulates the movement of the intestinal tract and normalizes passage time through the bowel. Fiber sources also contribute to fecal consistency.

 

When fermented by the microorganisms that normally reside in the intestinal tract, fiber provides an important source of energy for the cells lining the intestinal tract and promotes healthy cell function.

 

Sources of dietary fiber in dog food include beet pulp, rice bran, soybean hulls, apple and tomato pomace, peanut hulls, citrus pulp, the bran of oats, rice, wheat, and cellulose. Pulp is the solid residue that remains after juices are extracted from fruits or vegetables; pomace refers to the pulp of the fruit.

 

Studies suggest that certain forms of fiber in the diet tend to slow the absorption of sugar from the intestine, which can aid in blood sugar control.

 

In assessing the role of fiber in a dog’s diet, the old adage "more is not better" holds true. Excessive dietary fiber is associated with adverse effects such as loose stools, flatulence (or gas), and increased stool volume or density. Reputable dog food manufacturers formulate diets to provide balanced nutrition with proper levels of fiber for a dog's life stage and activity level.

 

 

Functions of Fiber. (n.d.). Retrieved November 17, 2009, from

http://www.purina.com/dogs/food/FunctionsOfFiber.aspx

 

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Breed of the Month: Siamese Cat

 

Appearance:

Siamese are well known for their sleek lines, striking color contrast, aristocratic heads, blue almond shaped eyes, and short silky coats. 

 

History:

Siamese cats have intrigued people around the globe since they were first exported from Thailand (known then as Siam) in the late 1800’s.  The first Siamese that appeared in England were a gift from the country to an ambassador.  They began to appear in British cat shows shortly after, and in American shows by the early 1900’s.

 

Dimeanor:

This ancient breed has a memorable meow and is known to have a legendary voice.  They are the ideal “people” cat.  They love to cuddle and are very social.

 

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Do It Yourself: Doggydoodles

Ingredients:

1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup shortening
3/4 cup honey
2 eggs
3 ¾ cups white flour
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ cup cornmeal
2 teaspoons cinnamon

 

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 400F. Combine oil, shortening, honey and eggs in a mixing bowl and beat well. Add flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Knead together to form dough. Shape dough into rounded teaspoon-size balls. Mix together cornmeal and cinnamon and gently roll balls in the mixture. Bake for 8-10 minutes on a greased cookie sheet, cookies placed 2 inches apart. Allow to cool on a rack, and store in an airtight container.

 

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Pet Refuge Adoption Spotlight: Angel

 

 

 

Lots of good times and fun comes with this gal!  Angel is a Beagle/Jack Russell Terrier mix of 2 1/2 years old.  She weighs about 35 pounds and is a nice size dog for the family.  Angel is housebroken and should do well around older children.  She has not lived with other dogs but is more than willing to do a meet and greet!  She loves to play fetch and if no fenced yard is available, she will need some nice daily walks.

 

 

 

 

 

 

To get more information about Angel and other animals available for adoption at Pet Refuge, visit the Pet Refuge website: www.petrefuge.com  or call (574) 256-0886.

 

 

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Ask Dr. Paws

 

Dear Dr. Paws,

 

Why has my cat suddenly stopped using the litter box?

 

Sincerely,

Ashley in Elkhart

 

 

Dear Ashley,

 

If your cat stops using the litter box, don’t punish him – try to find out why. If you have multiple cats in your house, make sure you have enough litter boxes. A good rule of thumb is to have one more box than you have cats. So two cats require three boxes.

Like humans, most felines want privacy. So if your cat stops using the litter box, try putting a hood on it. Place the box where it’s accessible, but away from where your cat eats and sleeps. You could also try changing the type of litter – some cats dislike the scented kinds. And make sure the box is roomy with low sides for easy entry and exit. Change the litter box and wash the box often. If the house-soiling problem continues, consult your veterinarian.

 

Answer courtesy of Purina Petcare

http://www.purina.com/cats/behavior/LitterboxLapses.aspx

      

 

 

To get your advice from Dr. Paws, simply email your question to us.  Each month we’ll select a question to answer right here on our website.

 

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           Upcoming Events

 

 

Martin's Paw Mart on State Road 23 in Granger

12/6 Greyhound Adoptions 1:00-3:00 P.M.

12/7 Pet Palace Nail Trims 5:00-6:00 P.M.

12/12 Humane Society “Stuff a Van” 10:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M.

NNNNNHumane Society Pet Adoptions 12:00- 2:00 P.M.

12/13 Natures Variety Dog Food Demo 11:00 A.M.-3:00 P.M.

12/19 Dream Paws Pet Adoptions 11:00 A.M.-2:00 P.M.

12/22 Aussie Pet Mobile Nail Trims 4:30-6:30 P.M.

12/26 Pet Refuge Pet Adoptions 12:00-2:00 P.M.

AAAAANatures Variety Dog Food Demo 12:00-2:00 P.M.

 

 

Martin's Paw Mart on Cleveland in Saint Joseph (MI)

12/5 Animal Aid Pet Adoptions

12/11 “Food for Fido” Food Drive for Homeless Pets

12/12 “Food for Fido” Food Drive for Homeless Pets

12/12 Save a Stray Pet Adoptions

12/26 Humane Society Pet Adoptions

12/1-12/24 Catroom’s “Home for the Holidays”

HHHHHHAll cats adopted during this time will receive a special gift

 

Martin's Paw Mart on Bristol Street in Elkhart

12/2/09 Nail Trims 5:30-7:00 P.M.

12/12/09 Greyhound Adoptions 11:00 A.M.-2:00 P.M.

 

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Featured Pet of the Month:

Chelsea                

Name: Chelsea

Age: Three years-old

Submitted by: Jan Lovas

 

            

If you have a great pet and want it featured in our newsletter, simply email us a photo.  Each month we’ll be featuring a different furry (or slimy, or scaly…) friend right here in our Pet of the Month Feature!

 

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Money Saving Coupons Exclusively for You!

Click on the links below to print your coupons.

 

 

 

Save $1 on any size bag of Kit & Kaboodle

 

Save $2 on 1 (27 lb) Tidy Cat litter pail