Q: How do I know if my pet is in need of a higher quality diet like Natasha's
Food for Paws?
A: The best indicator is the condition of your dog. The use of low quality products and chemical preservatives has been associated with dry skin, allergies, dental disease, poor health and degenerative organ dysfunction. Other obvious signs include repeated vet visits, dingy or oily coat, brittle nails, and/or frequent (4 or more times per day) bowel movements.
Q: What’s the difference between cooking at home for my pet and Natasha’s Food for Paws products?
A: We include some ingredients that aren't typically added to home-cooked pet food, such as Cranberry for urinary tract health and Alfalfa for support of the musculoskeletal system, digestive tract, liver, brain function, and neural systems. Our formulas have also been tested to ensure that your pet is receiving the correct balance of protein, vitamins and minerals.
Q: How can I provide my dog with good dental hygiene?
A: Establishing a routine of brushing your pet's teeth (every day is optimal, but anything on a regular basis is better than nothing) and regular professional cleanings by your veterinarian are the best ways to keep your pet's smile healthy. Keeping the mouth free of bacteria does more than prevent dental disease. The bacteria that breeds in the mouth enters the body, by keeping a healthy mouth, you are ensuring a healthier and happier pet overall.
The commercial pet food industry claims that the friction of kibble is a necessary component to maintaining clean teeth is tenuous. The truth is that average kibble will clean our pet's teeth no better than cereal would ours. The kibble diets designed specifically for dental health are proven to be effective. Conversely, the benefits of these dental diets do not outweigh the benefits of feeding your pet a diet based on whole, fresh and real foods.
There are also many other products on the market for maintaining dental health. But the fact of the matter is, incorporating a routine of regular brushings by you and cleanings by your veterinarian will prevent painful infection and costly extractions more than anything else ever will.
Q: How often and how much should I feed my dog?
Please keep in mind that, as with any dietary changes, it is important to transition slowly.
Adult Dogs
Feed 2-3% of his or her body weight depending on your pet's activity
level, age and weight.
Twice daily feedings are best for your pet's comfort and metabolism.
Puppies
4 weeks - 8 weeks
Feed 4-8% of his or her body weight split into 4 feedings daily
8 weeks & older
Feed 4% of his or her body weight split into 2 feedings daily.
The above are guidelines only. It is always a good idea to consult with your pet's veterinarian; he or she may have more specific guidelines for feeding depending on your pet's individual needs.
Q: Are the ingredients used in the Chicken & Millet and Beef & Oats canine formulas antibiotic and hormone free?
Keep frozen; 1 to 2 days prior to use, defrost in the refrigerator.
Microwaves cause protein and fat molecules to change, which may be harmful to
your pet’s health.
If heating is required, we recommend adding warm water.
Refrigerate unused portions.
Q: Which ingredients are antibiotic and hormone free and which are organic?
The free range chicken, grass fed beef and farm fresh eggs are all antibiotic
and hormone free.
The millet, oats and local produce are all organic.
All ingredients are human grade.
Q: I want the best for my pet; shouldn't their food be organic?
A: In order to label a product organic 95% of the formula needs to be certified organic. We use organic grains and produce; however our antibiotic and hormone free chicken and beef, comprises over 65% of the formula.
Q: How do you cook the chicken and beef?
A: We cook at a low temperature to preserve the innate properties of the vitamins and minerals as much as possible.
Q: How do you ensure that the vitamins and minerals are not compromised in the cooking process?
A: We add the supplements sensitive to heat after the protein and grain has cooled to preserve their integrity and protect them from the heat.
Q: Do I need to supplement Natasha's Food for Paws?
A: No. Natasha’s Food for Paws” is formulated to meet the nutritional requirements established by the American Association of Feed Control (AAFCO) for all life stages. That being said, you may also choose to mix Chicken & Millet or Beef & Oats with kibble if you prefer. Simply remove desired amount of kibble and replace with Natasha's Food for Paws.
Q: Natasha's Food for Paws is more expensive than other pet foods, why?
A: Natasha's Food for Paws is REAL food. You are paying for the highest quality ingredients and the care that we take to ensure that quality. From our extensive research in the formulas to the ingredients we get from our suppliers, we always strive to put quality first. We take pride in our use of organic produce and grains and antibiotic and hormone free meat and eggs because it allows us to provide your pet with the wholesome, delicious food they deserve.
Q: How do I contact Natasha’s Food for Paws?
A: Yes, Natasha's Food for Paws can be reached at either 707.765.5770 or email info@foodforpaws.com.