How-to: Choosing the right pet food

Choose the right food for your pet to enable them to live a happier, healthier life.

Ingredients:

• A pet or pets (large or small)
• Resources on pet food (could be your vet, the internet, books, your local pet store, etc.)
• A desire to nourish your pet

Steps:

1. Do a little research on different pet foods, talking to someone at your local pet or feed store is very informative.
2. Read the list of ingredients on different food.  There are no standards for pet foods, you may be surprised what you will find.  Things like corn, wheat, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, meat by-products, etc. are not good for your pet.  Opt for pet food with rice, barley, dried fruits, kelp and other holistic ingredients.
3. Ask your local pet store for some samples of your choices.
4. Talk to your vet to ascertain these choices are right for your pet. Give each sample about a weeks trial. Mix it in with your pets regular food and watch for changes, positive and negative.
5. Choose the sample that best suits your pet.
6. Introduce the new food by mixing in small portions with your pets regular meals.  Slowly increase the amount until your pet has made a full transition in diet.
7. Observe your pet closely during this transition and watch for any sudden changes, notify your vet immediately.
8. Watch your pets health and vitality return and its coat change to a beautiful shine!
9. Exercise with your pet daily (if applicable) to maintain this beautiful health.