About Laura Murphy Expertise Do you have a question about nutrition, including which food is best for your pet and which should be avoided? If you’re researching homecooked or raw diets, this is the place. I can tell you everything you ever wanted to know about raw feeding. Do you want to know whether or not you need to supplement your pet’s diet and, if so, which supplements are for you? I can help you with just about any question regarding canine and feline nutrition and feeding. Although I believe in the benefits of raw feeding, I respect anyone trying to do the best thing for their pets and will answer questions on any type of pet food.
I can address many areas of holistic pet care, including illness, homeopathic remedies, herbal remedies, and flower essences. We can talk about everything from vaccinating (and when not to), to skin problems, to cancer. Please note that I am not a veterinarian and any health-related information is from my personal experience and research, but I can be a good resource.
I can also answer your questions about pet rescue, including when to use them and what kind of pet is right for you. And I love controversial subjects like puppy mills and animal experimentation. If I don’t know the answer to your question immediately, I’ll research it for you.
Basically, if you’re got a pet question – fire away. Chances are, I’ll have something you can use.
Laura Murphy
Experience An animal lover and owner all my life, I spent years as a foster parent for a national rescue group and as a volunteer at my local Humane League. Many years ago, I began researching and using natural health care methods to treat both my pets and my family. I have worked with holistic vets to develop and provide custom homeopathic and Bach Flower Essence blends for their clients. In 2002, I started Pets By Nature to give pet owners who are seeking a healthier and more natural way to feed and care for their pets a reliable source of education, support, guidance, and products. Relying on honesty, integrity, and openness with respect to natural health care for companion animals, I am able to provide quality products, services, and information with the intent of helping interested pet owners learn about and practice a more natural method of pet nutrition and health care.
Education/Credentials I am a college graduate and full time Business Systems Analyst. I have written many articles for publication on my web site and throughout the local pet community. I have been a vendor at local dog shows and do public speaking on the topics of pet nutrition and holistic health care.
Past/Present Clients My clients range from new pet owners to 4th generation raw feeding breeders. I enjoy a wonderful professional relationship with several veterinary practices who refer my diets, supplements, and homeopathics to many of their clients. I ship supplements and flower essences all over the world, and provide a quality frozen raw food to the Central Pennsylvania area. Virtually all of my marketing is word-of-mouth referrals from my current clients and I consider them all my extended family.
Question QUESTION: What would be the normal amount of food to feed a 25 lb. cocker spaniel - She is 15 years old and in great health.
Thanks!
ANSWER: Hi Denise,
That totally depends on the type of food. If you're feeding a raw diet, she would need 1/3 to 1/2 pound of food a day. If you're feeding canned or dry food, there should be directions on the packaging.
I would need to know more about the type of food you're feeding to provide a more specific answer.
Laura Murphy
Pets by Nature
www.petsbynature.com
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QUESTION: Thanks for your answer! The dry dog food bag says to feed her 2 cups a day, but she is ravenously hungry all day long (as well as thirsty) and I am trying to decide if this is "normal" behavior for a 15 year old cocker.
Thanks!
Answer Hi Denise,
Many dogs are food-motivated and constantly act as though they're starving. My guys are no exception. I would caution that excessive thirst can be a sign of kidney problems or diabetes, both of which are common in older dogs. I would suggest a checkup at the vet with a blood panel to rule that out. If she checks out fine, I wouldn't worry about it. At 25 pounds, she's not over or underweight. She sounds very healthy. If she just loves to eat, you could try giving her a soup bone or marrow bone to gnaw on. These are wonderful "recreational" bones and provide days of chewing pleasure. They are also good for the jaws and muscles, provide great total-body exercise, and are just plain fun.
