A Powerful Joint Supporting Compound and Powerful Antioxidant (Article)

Your active or aging pet has extra strain placed on their joints, and providing the right joint support formula can make all the difference in their quality of life. Pet health experts know that the body’s supply of glucosamine, an important amino acid found in all connective tissue, can diminish as our pets age.

Less glucosamine means less joint support capability, resulting in further aches & discomfort in your pet’s joints. Glucosamine can help restore this essential joint component, and most veterinarians agree it’s the most fundamental of joint support ingredients. But contemporary research has also found that free radical damage can play a significant role in joint deterioration. In response to these findings, the newest joint support products available include antioxidants to take advantage of their free radical fighting properties, which can reduce oxidative damage to joint tissues.

Only Natural Pet Glucosamine + Asta delivers a focused approach to maintaining your pet’s joint health with the power of joint-building glucosamine plus the fast-acting synergy of super-antioxidant, astaxanthin. While not nearly as well-known as some other carotenoids in its family, like beta-carotene and lutein, this powerhouse health co-factor is causing a lot of excitement in the field of antioxidant research.

Derived from marine algae cultivated in the waters around Hawaii, astaxanthin has antioxidant properties found to be over 500 times stronger than Vitamin E in some studies, with an accelerated ability to destroy the free radicals at the root of many joint wear-and-tear problems. Astaxanthin also has the ability to support normal immune response in auto-immune reactive conditions, as well as its ability to help the joints and muscles recover after exercise.

Other research on Astaxanthin has demonstrated its unique ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and deliver its antioxidant effects throughout the central nervous system. Astaxanthin has been found to be better absorbed by the body than other antioxidants, and to support the body’s skin and eyes against the sun’s UV rays. It is demonstrating promise in the areas of cardiovascular health and has shown potential in supporting healthy blood sugar regulation in diabetic patients.

Take your pet’s joint support to the next level with the proven value of glucosamine combined with the cutting edge advantage of astaxanthin. When you give Glucosamine + Asta to your companion, you can stay one step ahead of your pet’s joint issues while supporting their overall wellness. This is a great, fast-acting formula for older cats and dogs starting to show signs of joint stiffness, and for highly active, working or athletic animals of any age.

This product was made in an FDA-approved facility using human-grade ingredients.

Available in 90 capsule bottles >>

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Top 10 Reasons Your Pet May Be Itching

By Dr. Jean Hofve, Veterinarian Advisor for Only Natural Pet

Itching, and the scratching, biting, and licking that goes with it, is one of the most common health problems in dogs and cats. Frequent head-shaking, scratching, rubbing, chewing, or licking some area of skin (including ears) means there’s a problem with itching, technically called “pruritis.” Left untreated, itchy skin can be damaged by the pet’s scratching, rubbing, or licking, which may lead to hot spots on your dog (areas of oozing, dry or inflamed skin), as well as secondary infections. Finding out what is causing the itch, and resolving that cause, is essential to your pet’s quality of life.

Itchy Dog

In very general terms, itchy-skin problems in pets fall into just a few main categories: poor nutrition, infections, parasites, and allergies are the major players; but endocrine diseases, primary skin disorders, neoplasia (cancer), autoimmune, pyschogenic (mental-neurological) causes, and drug reactions may also occur. Sometimes more than one factor may be contributing to the problem.

Here’s a list of the top ten itch-causing factors, as well as some suggestions on what you can do to help eliminate that irritating itch. Before your pet damages the skin, starts pulling out clumps of fur, or is forced to wear a cone-shaped (Elizabethan) collar, consider these common causes of itchiness in dogs and cats, and work with your veterinarian to get your pet some needed relief:

1. Nutrition

This doesn’t include food allergies; but diets containing lower-quality nutrients are at the root of many an itchy pet. We know that good nutrition is the foundation of health, and the corollary is also true: cheap ingredients (such as corn and by-products) make for expensive vet bills. Unfortunately, even vets tend to be poorly educated on nutrition, and often recommend grocery store or “prescription”-type diets.

Be sure to read this article, “What You Need to Know About Your Pet’s Food“, become a label-reader, and choose only good-quality natural foods for your cat or dog. Ideally, you should feed your dog the best organic natural dog food you can find.

Also consider supplements, such as Omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and digestive enzymes, that will enhance your pet’s digestive and immune systems, and help avoid nutritional deficiencies that can cause so much misery.


2. Infection

Skin infection (pyoderma) is surprisingly common in pets. The major infectious culprits are ringworm (not actually a worm, but a fungus that is highly contagious to other pets as well as humans), Malassezia (yeast), and bacteria. Ringworm is especially common in kittens and cats, while yeast and bacterial infections are more typical in dogs. The ears are lined with skin, so itchy ears in both dogs and cats are an extension of the same types of infections. Your veterinarian will need to make the correct diagnosis in order to properly treat the infection.

However, one thing that vets don’t talk about much is why infection occurs. In holistic terms, infections are always secondary; the skin is unhealthy for some reason (often nutrition-related), and then invaders like bacteria, yeast, and fungus can get a foothold. Keeping the skin healthy via good nutrition (with wholesome meat proteins and plenty of essential fatty acids) is the best prevention. Please see our article, “Chronic Ear Infections,” for more details. Minor skin infections and hot spots may respond well to natural topical products offer by Only Natural Pet.

“We know that good nutrition is the foundation of health, and the corollary is also true: cheap ingredients (such as corn and by-products) make for expensive vet bills.”


3. Fleas

These nasty bugs deserve a special place in the itch-causing chronicles. Bites from fleas are itchy all by themselves, but many pets develop a specific allergy to flea bites. This is most commonly seen as hair loss or rash at the base of the spine and tail, not to mention that the dog or cat will constantly be chewing at the area. Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) is an intensely itchy allergic reaction to flea saliva that can be triggered by a single flea bite! You may never see a flea or flea dirt on your pet (though daily flea-combing is never a bad idea!), and many people are quite confused as to how their flea-less pet can have such a severe reaction. If you live in an area where fleas are present (which includes most of the U.S. at least part of the year), always keep in mind that just one flea can cause intense itching for your pet that can last for weeks. There are prescription veterinary flea-prevention products available, but natural flea & tick control products are safer, and definitely worth a try before resorting to toxic pesticides. For more information, please read our article, “The Natural Approach to Flea Control.” Only Natural Pet also offers aids for flea & insect bites.

“Many pets develop a specific allergy to flea bites. This is most commonly seen as hair loss or rash at the base of the spine and tail, not to mention that the dog or cat will constantly be chewing at the area. “


4. Other Insects and Arachnids

Just like they often do in humans, mosquito bites can cause severe itching in sensitive pets, and in many areas of the country, can transmit heartworms, Lyme, and other diseases, so keep a natural insect repellent handy during bug season to help your pet stay bite-free.

Lice are an uncommon cause of itching in pets. Fortunately they are highly species-specific; a dog cannot get cat lice, and vice versa. Lice are visible to the naked eye, but don’t jump like fleas. Good hygiene, grooming, and clean bedding are usually enough to prevent lice infestations.

Ticks and mites are not insects, but members of the 8-legged arachnid family (along with spiders and scorpions). Ticks, while not usually itchy, can carry many diseases, and are well worth avoiding. Many flea repellents are also effective against ticks.

“Mosquito bites can cause severe itching in sensitive pets, and in many areas of the country, can transmit heartworms, Lyme, and other diseases, so keep a natural insect repellent handy during bug season to help your pet stay bite-free.”

There are half a dozen species of mites that can infest pets, from the highly contagious and severely itchy scabies (sarcoptic mange) to the mild-mannered demodex that inhabits normal skin, but in immune-compromised animals can cause itching and hair loss over the entire body. Mites are diagnosed through skin scrapings taken by your vet, although a negative sample may not guarantee there are no mites. Scabies in particular hides deep in the skin and is notoriously hard to find. If more than one animal in your home is itchy (including human animals), it may be smart to treat everyone for mites.

For more information, please read our article, “Ask the Vet: Natural Treatment for Demodectic Mange.”


5. Airborne Allergies (Atopy)

Many animals are allergic to the same things that cause human allergies (dust, grasses, pollen, etc.). While humans’ allergies tend to affect the upper respiratory system with sneezing and watery discharges, dogs’ and cats’ responses are more likely to involve dermatitis, or skin inflammation. While this is a major cause of pets’ itching, these allergies are tough to diagnose, and other causes usually need to be ruled out first. Blood and skin tests can sometimes be helpful for dogs; less so for cats. Like humans, pets can also be allergic to chemical irritants like pesticide residue and household cleaning products. Allergies can be difficult to control, and almost impossible to eliminate. However, hypoallergenic diets, allergy support products and essential fatty acid supplements can be helpful.

Dog Itching


6. Food Allergies

Food allergies are not quite as common as most people think, and they are actually more common in cats than dogs. Fortunately, food allergies can be resolved with diligent detective work, eliminating all common allergens from the diet (beef, chicken, eggs, corn, wheat, soy, and milk), then reintroducing one at a time to see which ones cause an allergic reaction. Strict avoidance of irritants can resolve most cases of pure food allergy. Grain-free and novel protein foods as well as raw food diets can do much to alleviate food-based allergies for many animal companions. Our articles, “All About Raw Food,” “Is Grain-Free Food Right for Your Companion?” and “The Role of Protein in Good Nutrition,” provide further details on this important topic.

“We recommend trying to find a holistic veterinarian who can guide you on natural flea control products.”


7. Genetic Factors & Breed Predisposition

Some breeds and lines of cats and dogs are more prone to sensitive skin, or are more likely to develop allergic itching due to skin folds and ear shapes. Siamese and Persian cats often have immune system issues; and many breeds of dogs are more prone to allergies that cause itching skin. Dogs with many skin folds, especially around the muzzle (Shar Peis, Boxers, Bulldogs, Pugs), floppy ears (Spaniels, Hounds, and Retrievers), or internally hairy ears (Poodles, Schnauzers), often become itchy from yeast or bacterial infections in those warm, moist environments. Temperament also plays a role; if yours is a sensitive breed, consider a holistic anxiety remedy to help ease your pet’s emotional reactivity.


8. Vaccine Reactions

Although not usually recognized by veterinarians, vaccine reactions can include dermatitis and itching. This occurs in both cats and dogs, and can result after just one vaccine. Please read our article, “Vaccination Basics,” for more details on this important health issue. The homeopathic remedy, Thuja can be helpful for pets that may have vaccine-related issues, particularly skin issues occurring after vaccination.

“Vaccine reactions can include dermatitis and itching. This occurs in both cats and dogs, and can result after just one vaccine.”


9. Glandular/Hormonal Imbalances

Several glandular imbalances can cause skin problems that contribute to itching in some pets. Glands within the skin itself can malfunction and cause skin itching, odor, and discharge. Systemic conditions related to major endocrine glands, such as the thyroid and adrenal glands, may also occur.

Hypothyroidism

(decreased thyroid function) occurs naturally in dogs, and rarely in cats, usually after treatment for overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). There is some evidence to suggest that autoimmune hypothyroidism (about half of cases) may be related to vaccination. Hypothyroidism can cause the skin to become greasy, foul smelling, and in some cases itchy; the hair often becomes very thin and brittle, starting at the tail.

Cushing’s Disease

(hyperadrenocorticism) is a condition of adrenal gland over activity that may stem from an adrenal tumor, or from the pituitary gland. Skin problems are common in Cushing’s disease, including thin skin, hair loss, and sometimes itching. Endocrine diseases are serious problems that require veterinary treatment, so always have your pet examined when unusual skin issues or other symptoms arise. Our article, “Thyroid Disorders in Cats and Dogs,” provides additional information.


10. Detoxification

The skin is the largest organ of elimination. Many irritants, residues, and compounds can be excreted through the skin. This is part of why pets develop skin symptoms from allergies that, in people, cause respiratory discharges. A temporary bout of itchiness or rash, especially after a change in diet, or after holistic treatment such as homeopathy, it may be part of the healing process. This shouldn’t last long (usually 2-3 weeks), depending on your pet’s history and initial state of health. We carry an excellent homeopathic detoxification aid, Newton Homeopathics Detoxifier, which can help pets eliminate toxins as part of an overall health program. Of course, please work closely with your veterinarian during any detox process. Please see our articles, “Fifteen Steps to Detox Your Pet,” and “When Is It Time to See the Vet?” for more information.

While this “Top Ten” is not an exhaustive list, it will give you a place to start with the most common causes of itchy skin.

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SPARK Daily Nutritional Supplement for Dogs and Cats by Pet Wellbeing

Put one serving per day on top of your pet’s food for:

  • Healthy bones, teeth and coat
  • Good digestion and nutrient absorption
  • Joint and muscle health
  • Immune system and normal recovery
  • Healthy hormone levels
  • Free radical damage (anti-oxidant)
  • As a source of vitamins & minerals for growth, aging and normal cell repair

This supplement is designed to supercharge your pet’s diet and health

  • 1 jar = 3 month supply for 12-25lb pet.
  • 90 day money-back guarantee

What is SPARK?

SPARK is a comprehensive supplement designed to supply more nutrition that canines and felines can’t get from their diet. A leading naturopathic veterinarian developed SPARK to be a complete, all in one delivery system of 43 natural ingredients, all researched and synergistically combined for their ability to maintain excellent health.

Click here to learn more about SPARK Nutritional Supplement >>

Main components of SPARK:

Non-synthetic sources of vitamins and minerals Probiotics & prebiotics + enzymes for healthy digestion
Fiber Vitamin D
Fruit & vegetable “superfoods” Sea Vegetables
Antioxidants Amino Acids

Many of the ingredients are termed “superfoods” because they are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. These ingredients are easy to absorb and assimilate and they maintain good health right down to the cellular level.

Unfortunately, many pet foods are highly processed and lack the vital nutrients that pets need to thrive. There is a big difference between surviving and thriving. SPARK was developed to give pets the best possible nutrition, so you never have to wonder if they are getting everything they need. Simply sprinkle it on their food. Most pets not only love the taste, they crave it. Take the 60 day challenge and see how your pet enjoys SPARK.

SPARK is gluten free.

What is SPARK used for?

Our pets rely on us to provide them with what they need. We love our pets but we can’t always tell how they are feeling. Our dog or cat may be lacking in energy, their bones or joints may hurt or they could have a bellyache due to poor digestion. They aren’t able to tell us what they are feeling  or if their bodies are lacking the nutrients they need to stay healthy.

  • Use SPARK for pets of all life stages
  • SPARK can be added to the diet of any feline or canine

The 60 day challenge……The challenge is on!

  1. Feed SPARK to your pet for 60 days
  2. See how your pet enjoys it
  3. Notice any healthy benefits after 60 days or less
  4. Notice how good it feels to provide your pet with optimal nutrition

You have nothing to lose! SPARK comes with a 90 day money-back guarantee.

Click here to learn more about SPARK Nutritional Supplement >>

A note from our Veterinarian…

If you are going to give your pet one supplement, this should be it. I have seen remarkable results in both healthy pets and those in compromised states. I recommend it for the majority of canines and felines of all ages (once they are weaned), and breeds. Cats that are hyperthyroid or dogs and cats with kidney disease should not take this supplement.

Some pet owners want to know when they will see a difference and of course, every pet is unique. Some common testimonials I hear about are:  More energy, good joint mobility, improvement of a health condition, better breath, normal shedding, good recovery times and numerous others.

SPARK give you the assurance that your pet is getting everything he or she needs. Have you ever witnessed your dog or cat munching grass outside? Though they cannot digest common grasses very well, there is something in the grass that they crave. Most pet foods on the market include a minimum daily requirement of synthetic vitamins and minerals, rather than a full spectrum of nutrients. As a veterinarian, I am dismayed at the ingredients that go into some pet foods, even some of the “good” brands. Even though I recommend a more holistic diet, I encourage feeding SPARK with every type of diet.

The key is: SPARK provides all the building blocks and the foundation for optimal health.

Click here to learn more about SPARK Nutritional Supplement >>

Does it come with a guarantee?

Yes! SPARK comes with a 90 day money-back guarantee.

Who makes SPARK?

SPARK is made by Pet Wellbeing, founded in 2001. Our goal? To bring the wisdom and experience of our caring holistic veterinarians to your pet. When your pet is healthy; you’re happy. Manufactured in the USA.

Why choose SPARK for your canine or feline?

Good Manufacturing Practices. All of our products are manufactured in a facility that is certified GMP.

FDA-Registered Facility. Our manufacturing facility is FDA-registered. Strict quality control procedures are meticulously monitored.

It’s guaranteed. In addition to the superior quality of our products, you are also protected by our 90 day money-back guarantee.

Reviews and Testimonials… 

Spark is THE Best…

We LOVE Spark…more importantly, our dogs love Spark. It works beautifully. Hubby and I own a pack of Yorkies who have health problems from vaccines they got from their breeders (ugh…got to get this stopped, but that’s another story). Two of them suffer gastrointestinal problems. Using Spark daily with their raw meat and bones diet, their GI problems are gone. They have lots of energy; bright, clear eyes; and feel great. Our oldest pair is almost 12 years old, but you’d never know it. They look the same as our 3-4 year old dogs and they play daily with our two youngest 11 month old pups. We’re so grateful to have found this and recommend it to everyone with dogs/cats. Try it, you will NOT be disappointed.

Thank you, Spark! You get 4 paws up from our clan.

~ Yorkie Lovers from Southern, CA


Excellent Product!

I think this is an awesome product. I feed our five cats a raw diet and even though their food turns green when adding the Spark, they absolutely love the flavour. One of our cats has Hypothyroid and cannot have Spark because of the Iodine in Bladderwrack so she gets the Nu Pet Feline Granular and Ark Naturals Gentle Digest plus the Thyroid Gold. All of Pet Wellbeing products are excellent. I’m so happy I found this website. As a practising Herbalist, I have always treated our pets naturally and these additional supplements are just what they need to continue good health.

~ Carole from Fonthill, Ontario

SPARK testimonial


Amazing!

February of 2014, my 15 year old cat was diagnosed with bladder infection and possible kidney failure. Vet suggested that she start on a restricted diet sold by the vet and blood check every 6 months. I could not afford the kidney blood test and decided to go alternative and take a chance. I found your website and your suggestion to give her SPARK. I also give her cranberry support and pet probiotic. Initially, I had to squirt the mixture into her mouth with a syringe but now, I mix it into her can food. She has regained her weight and is back to being the boss.

My son adopted a puppy from a rescue group, whom 2 weeks later came down with parvo. Thanks to fast diagnose, 3 days in the hospital and feeding him pedialyte, home made brown rice, chicken, vegetables, probiotic and SPARK… he is now a handsome trouble maker.

Two amazing success stories that I had to share.

~ Healthavore from Naples, Florida

SPARK Testimonial

SPARK Testimonial


Wow, amazing stuff…

We started our 14 year old lab cross Ella on this product and the results have been nothing short of phenomenal. An old dog with failing eyesight, hearing loss, creaky bones, and a lack of energy has, after about a month of twice daily doses with her regular food, become a much more energentic and happy old dog! Results have included: her cloudy, milky eyes have cleared up; she is more responsive and generally happier; she has much more energy and takes interest in going for walks again.

I would highly recommend this product for anyone interested in bringing a “spark” back to an older dog. Thank you.

~ Doug the fisherman from Vancouver, BC

SPARK

Ella the Lab Mix


Spark-Daily Nutritonal Supplement

I had to take a moment to write a review about this incredible product. I currently give my dog The Heart Health drops to help with his heart murmur… He has stayed steady at a level 3. I would like to credit the drops, but am not positive. I will continue the drops, as they seem to be working. The people at Pet Well Being were kind enough to send me a new product that I absolutely LOVE!!!! I don’t normally sit, and write a review unless I am totally blown away by a product… So my dog wasn’t eating well, and had dropped some weight. (I understand this can be a normal side effect of the heart murmur.) The photo nutrients, probiotics, etc. are all proving to be doing their job, and quickly!!! A big reason is that my dog likes the taste. One tsp. mixed with his bowl of food, and he consumes the whole bowl, where he used to pick at it! His coat is shiny, he has put some weight back on giving him more energy. It’s a wonderful thing seeing a 12 1/2 yr old lab with new vigor!!! Thanks so much …. I am reordering now!!!!

~ Lisa & Luc from New Orleans, Louisiana

SPARK


Click here or on the banner below to learn more about SPARK Nutritional Supplement >>