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 I have adopted a 5 yr old Chihuahua who turns his nose up at all foods. The foster mom gave me what he was eating at her home, but I don't have steak drippings to put on the food and so he won't eat it. I have put before him chicken, hamburger, yams, brown rice, tuna, thin noodles, etc on top of the all natural dry kibble hoping he will eat something, (not all of these at one time. Finally when it is very late, he will nibble at something but not enough to keep a bird alive. I feel so guilty because he is so finicky and doesn't like what I am feeding him. My son says to leave him alone, he will not starve to death but I feel so bad cause he doesn't like what I am giving him. He has been with us since June 3rd and feels right at home, so it can't be a newness thing.
Thanks,
Margie N.
Answer Hi Margie.
There are several things you could try to get you adopted baby interested in food again. First, you can get rid of that dry food altogether. Everything else you mention is wonderful for him. It sounds like you could easily do a nutritious homecooked meal. You don't need steak drippings. A little broth (the low-sodium kind) can help. Some dogs also prefer food that's warm.
Some other ideas:
1) Alfalfa is full of protein and vitamins and minerals and is often used for animals that have lost their appetites. Sprinkling alfalfa powder over his food or, if he isn't eating yet, mixing it into a tablespoon of natural yogurt is a good way to increase his appetite and give him the added nutrition while he isn't eating enough.
2) Aromatherapy can help. Two essential oils, rose and vetiver, can help with loss of appetite. You can drop them on her collar or on a bandana and put it around her neck. Or you can put it on her bedding. The oils are strong - don't put them directly on the skin.
3) Two homeopathic remedies can help with loss of appetite - Lycopodium and Nux Vomica. You can get the 6C or 12X strength and give 2 pellets twice a day for 2 days.
