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 two dogs; 9 yr old mixed rescue dog and an 8 yr old german sheperd who have been battling diahreeha on and off for the past month. we just cannot afford the organic dog foods as they are both large dogs; 80 pounds and 130, and to feed them the amt they are supposed to get (we always do a bit less) we just cannot afford the organic or topline stuff. i also, however, cant afford to keep feeding them white rice and ground beef. we thought it was the water as we just moved to an area with well water, but i gave them strictly bottled water, rice and ground beef and the diahreea subsided but then when i slowly reintroduced the purina for sensitive stomaches, it returned on both dogs. so it is safe to say it isnt the water, unless the fact that i am cooking the rice in the sink water is a factor. i just want to get them help but if i go to the vet it will require office visit fee, fecal exam (which was done on the rescue mix and turned up normal, about a month ago) and then tests. we are just in a temporary tough financial situation right now and cannot afford much. any suggestions?
Answer Hi Jennifer. I'm sorry you're having such a tough time with your dogs. Unfortunately, all the cheaper dog foods are full of the things that are causing your dogs problems: corn, brewer's rice, and other fillers are causing them to have digestive problems.
My recommendation is to buy the best food you can afford, and supplement it with good quality human food. This can include healthy table scraps (pasta, rice, meat, cooked vegetables, cereal, etc.). That is something you already have on hand and usually just goes to waste. As long as you stay away from fatty or sugary foods, people food is great for them.
Something that might help with the diarrhea is canned pumpkin. (Not the pumpkin pie spice, but the plain canned pumpkin.) This provides extra fiber in their diet and helps to get them regular. It's not a miracle cure and won't compensate for a bad diet, but it might help you get them on the right track.
