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 My dog does not seem to be very interested in his food and he does not seem to be eating as much, is this normal?
About a month ago i got him from a rescue center and he seemed to settle in well. Over the last couple of weeks his appetite seems to have decreased.
He is a 1 year old Labrador crossed with a small dog (possibly a terrier) Currently he is fed a complete dry food designed for puppy/junior.
How do i know if it is just a change in lifestyle of if something is wrong?
Answer Charlotte,
There are a number of reasons a dog can go off his food. Dry foods are prone to developing mycotoxins, especially if you are buying large bags and the food is exposed to the air for a long time. Dogs know when these bacteria are there and will refuse food that they previously liked because they know there's something wrong with it. You might try getting rid of the bag and getting a new one.
Here's some information on mycotoxins. Click on the link titled Dangers of Dry Dog Food:
Depending on what you're feeding now, you can also consider upgrading his food. You don't mention what you are currently feeding. Go to a site called www.dogfoodanalysis.com and look up his food. If it's rated as less than a 4-star food, consider upgrading to one of the better foods. Most people go by advertising to know what's good for their pets, but the companies that advertise the most produce the worst quality foods and the companies that produce the quality foods don't have the money to spend on advertising. Most people have never even heard of the best foods on the market. It's worth a look to see how his current food is rated.
I would also suggest a Bach Flower Essence for his change in circumstances. These are natural and perfectly safe and often work wonders on emotional issues such as rehoming. They are available online and at natural pharmacies. You would want Walnut. It can help them adjust to new circumstances. You simply put a few drops in his mouth a couple of times a day and within days you should notice a difference. Over time, you can cut back on the dosing until you no longer need it.
