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Three Healthy Holiday Treats That Your Dog Will Love

Posted on November 26, 2019October 23, 2020 by Above1 Support

How do you celebrate the holidays? Many of us come together to share time and tasty food with family and friends. The aromas of Thanksgiving feasts and delicious baked goodies fill our kitchens and warm our hearts. This holiday season, why not show your best furry friends a little extra love and include them in the feast?

Recipes Fido will love

Our friends at Best Friends Animal Society put on their aprons and baker’s hats to make Fido’s taste buds sing. Here is a recipe that BriAnne Figgins, manager of Best Friends’ Angel Village café and Canyon Grill whipped up in the village kitchen using our NEW Wellness CORE Bestie Bars, chicken and carrots recipe.

The treats have adorable sayings on them, such as “U + Me,” “Love” and “BFF,” but for our recipe, we’re going to crush them up to make a drool-worthy pie crust!

Mini Pumpkin Pie Dog Treats

Prep and assembly time: Seven minutes
Cook time: Eight minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Yield: 24 small pies and one to 24 very happy dogs

Ingredients for the crust
One bag (eight ounces) of Wellness CORE Bestie Bars, chicken and carrots recipe
½ cup oats
½ to 1 cup unsweetened applesauce

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Place Wellness CORE Bestie Bars in a food processor or blender and pulse until very crumbly.
Add in the oats and enough applesauce to make the mixture slightly moist.
Mold the pie crust mixture into a nonstick (or lightly greased) muffin tin. (Depending on the size of the muffin tin, the recipe can make up to 24 minipies.)
Bake at 350 degrees for eight minutes.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool.

Ingredients for the filling
Two cups canned pumpkin (This should be plain pumpkin puree, not sweetened or spiced.)
½ cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)

Directions
Mix pumpkin and peanut butter together until smooth.
Scoop into cooled pie crusts with a spoon or spatula.
Serve and watch Fido and his friends enjoy.

Chef BriAnne in front of Bestie Bar pumpkin pie dog treats

How did the dogs like them? A few lucky office dogs at the Sanctuary, who served as taste testers, sampled several treats each and gave their approval with lots of tail-wags. BriAnne also says, “I gave one to each of my dogs, and they loved them. This recipe is really quick, easy and worth every minute to have the entire family together for pumpkin pie.”

The fun didn’t end there. Next up in the Angel Village café kitchen: peanut butter cupcakes, adapted from this recipe from “the fitchen”.

Peanut Butter Pup-Cakes

Prep and assembly time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Yield: 24 very cute “pupcakes” using a minimuffin tin

Ingredients for the cake base
1 cup oat flour
1/2 cup quick oats
1/4 cup agave syrup
1/4 cup peanut butter (Make sure you choose xylitol-free peanut butter.)
1/4 cup unsweetened apple sauce
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and lightly grease muffin tin.
In a large bowl, whisk together dry ingredients.
Add agave, peanut butter and apple sauce and stir until well-combined.
Fill the muffin tin three-quarters full, bake 12-15 minutes and allow to cool

Ingredients for the frosting
1 cup sweet potato, boiled
1/2 cup coconut cream

Directions
Peel sweet potato and chop into small cubes.
In a medium pot, bring four cups of water to boil.
Add chopped sweet potato.
Boil 20 minutes or until very tender.
Drain and allow to cool.
In a medium bowl, combine sweet potato and coconut cream and beat until smooth.
Once the pupcakes are cooled, top with the frosting and serve.

After pie and cupcakes, BriAnne wanted to create some more traditional dog treats. To do so, she used this recipe from damndelicious.net.

Spinach, Carrot and Zucchini Dog Treats

Prep and assembly time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 18-25 minutes (Time will vary based on the size and shape of the treats, as well as how crunchy you’d like them.)
Total time: 55 minutes
Yield: This will depend on how thin or thick you make the cookies and the size and shape of your cookie cutter

Ingredients
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/4 cup peanut butter
2 large eggs or (if preferred) egg substitute
1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
3 cups whole wheat flour (more if needed)
1 carrot, peeled and shredded (Using a food processor to shred and chop the veggies will reduce prep time.)
1 zucchini, shredded
1 cup baby spinach, chopped

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease the cookie sheet.
Use an electric mixer and beat the pumpkin puree, peanut butter and eggs on medium high until well combined (one to two minutes).

Gradually add oats and 2 1/2 cups flour at low speed, beating just until incorporated. Add additional flour (1/4 cup at a time) just until the dough is no longer sticky. Add carrot, zucchini and spinach, beating just until blended.Working on a lightly floured surface, knead the dough until it comes together. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough to desired thickness. Using cookie cutters, cut out shapes and place onto the prepared baking sheet.Place into oven, bake until edges are golden brown and then allow to cool.

Find Fido (if he’s not already in the kitchen, eagerly awaiting your latest creation) and reward him for being such a faithful friend.

“We didn’t change anything about this recipe,” BriAnne says. “But it can be modified for your dog. You can use different-sized cookie cutters, depending on the size of your dog. You can make them thinner or bake them a bit longer if you want them to be crunchier. You can also bake for a shorter time if you want them to be softer — say for older dogs with dental problems. It’s kind of fun to make them more personal.”

Ready to make your own? Shop Wellness CORE Bestie Bars here: https://shop.bestfriends.org/products/wellness-core-bestie-bars

Mona the dog eating a Bestie Bar pumpkin pie treat

Photos by Molly Wald

* This article was originally posted on Best Friends Animal Society : bit.ly/BestFriendsTreats.

Tips for Caring for Senior Pets

Posted on November 13, 2019October 23, 2020 by Above1 Support

Cats may have nine lives, and our pooches may live their life a little more quickly in dog years, but there is no softer spot in our hearts than that held by our beloved senior pets. November is all about senior pets, making it the perfect opportunity for sending some love to our older pet companions! Here are six must-know tips for caring for senior pets.

1. The Regular Checkup

From puppy- or kittenhood to senior years, the annual examination is an important part of pet health, most important in your pet’s mature years. It’s a common thought that seven of a dog’s years are comparable to one year of human life, but in fact that formula is a little more complex.

The American Veterinary Association explains that 15 human years equals the first year of a medium-sized dog’s life, the second year for a dog equals about nine years for a human, and every year after that equates to approximately five years for a dog. And because pet’s years are not the same as humans, it’s all the more important to make sure to keep the regular checkup, each and every year. Let’s put it this way; it’s like your 75-year-old grandmother not going to the doctor for five years!

2. Good Teeth, Long Life

For almost every type of animal (humans included), the condition of the teeth can be a powerful indicator of the overall condition of the body, and daily dental care and regular dental checkups can prevent the creation of problems elsewhere in the body. For dogs and cats, ignoring the teeth can cause a buildup of tartar and bacteria, bacteria that can travel through the bloodstream and cause problems in other parts of the body, including the heart, liver and kidneys.

Regular brushing with veterinarian approved toothpaste and pet-friendly toothbrush as well as annual professional cleaning can do wonders for your pet’s overall health. And when choosing toys and treats for your pets, select options made for promoting good dental health.

3. Let’s Get Physical

Science tells us that an object in motion stays in motion, and symbolically speaking, pets that keep movement in their lives will keep moving longer. As pets age, their energy can wane, but this is not the time to let them become couch potatoes. Just like humans, as pets age, metabolism and energy decline, making the body susceptible to weight gain and even obesity, as well as a score of other health problems, including diabetes and even mental health issues like depression.

Regular exercise promotes a healthier waistline and a better outlook, for both you and your pet! Plan a time daily to take your dog for a walk or play indoors with your cat. It’s important to keep moving as pets age into their senior years. This alone can add precious time to their lives!

4. You Are What You Eat

If you ate fast food cheeseburgers and French fries every day, how would your body respond? Now imagine doing that for years. In what state would your organs be? What would your waistline look like? The same can be said for your pet’s diet. If their food is full of less-than-quality ingredients and meaningless fillers, what part is it really playing in their nourishment and overall health? Choosing the right food for your pet is important their whole lives, but especially in their senior years.

Wholesome, thoughtful ingredients make all the difference, and making sure your pet is receiving those ingredients in a tasty way assures good eating habits as well! If you don’t already know what’s in your pet’s food, give the ingredient list a once-over. Then switch to something better!

5. The Better to See You With, The Better to Hear You With

Often the first signs of aging in our pets are changes to their vision and/or hearing. Many pets develop cataracts or dwindling vision loss in their later years, and many lose some if not all of their hearing. It’s important to recognize the signs of these issues and take the proper precautions to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort.

A few suggestions:
•   Make sure there is clear path to food and water.

•   Create an environment that makes it easy for your to pet to go outside to relieve himself, or make it easy for him to alert you that he needs to go.

•   Always keep your pet on a leash when outdoors; he may not hear or see dangers as they approach.

•   Talk with your veterinarian about any supplements or treatments that may offer benefits for hearing or vision loss.

6. Patience is a Virtue

Senior pets require a little more love and attention than their younger counterparts, and thankfully we love them and want to make their lives safe, comfortable, healthy, and happy in their golden years. Sometimes they are going to move a little slower, or perhaps have an accident when they haven’t gone in the house since the puppy years.

These are the moments for patience and remembering our roles as caretakers. It’s up to use to make sure we are doing everything we can to provide a safe, loving environment. It’s up to use as pet owners to prepare for the challenges and meet them with kindness.

We love senior pets at Wellness Pet Food, and we’re proud to create wholesome, nourishing food that can promote longer, happier lives for dogs and cats everywhere. In fact, we offer food specifically made for senior pets. Find out more now!

Wellness Pet Food is Compliant with WSAVA Pet Food Recommendations

Posted on November 12, 2019October 19, 2020 by Above1 Support

Wellness Natural Pet Food WSAVA Approved

What is WSAVA?

WSAVA, or the World Small Animal Veterinary Association, is comprised of over 200,000 veterinarians across 113 member associations. This association advances the health and welfare of companion animals through building an educated and collaborative global community of veterinary peers.
As one of its activities, WSAVA encourages its veterinarians and pet parents to be mindful of the food they feed their pets, as well have a general understanding of the company that makes their pet food by asking several questions.

The WSAVA Global Nutrition Council provides clear recommendations for selecting pet foods:

Employ a qualified nutritionist with PHD in animal nutrition
Formulated to AAFCO recommendations
Undertaken AAFCO feeding trials
Produced in USA
Strict quality controls in place
All dry recipes complete and balanced to life stage
Nutrient analysis available for recipes on website
Extensive product research undertaken

Now that you know what the necessary requirements are for a pet food brand to be considered WSAVA compliant, we’ll walk you through how each requirement is evaluated, and how Wellness Pet Food meets those requirements:

1. Do you employ a full-time qualified nutritionist? Who formulates your foods and what are his/her credentials? We have worked very closely with a Ph.D. Animal Nutritionist who either formulates or reviews our diets. He has spent more than 25 years formulating diets for dogs and cats and our relationship with him goes back more than fifteen years. In addition, he has published numerous peer-reviewed articles on dog and cat nutrition in scientific journals including the Journal of Nutrition and the British Journal of Nutrition.

1. Are your recipes formulated to AAFCO recommendations? Our diets are 100% complete and balanced and are formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) based on Nutrient Profiles, unless otherwise stated on the label.
2. Have your diets undertaken AAFCO feeding trials? Yes, our diets have undertaken AAFCO feeding trials.

1. Where are your foods produced and manufactured? Our diets are produced at a combination of our own plants and co-manufacturing partners. Our WellPet Operations plant is located in Mishawaka, IN and our Farm Fresh Kitchen plant is located is South St. Paul, MN. Based on the products, we are happy to share who makes our products and where they are located. Please call or email our dedicated Consumer Affairs Team for additional details. We are available via phone at (800) 225-0904 or via email at info@wellpet.com M-F | 8-5 ET.

1. Do you have strict quality controls in place? At Wellness, we are committed to the highest standards of pet food safety. Our highest priority is providing you and your animal companions with consistently safe, premium-quality natural food for dogs and cats.
  Our Quality Assurance program maintains the strictest standards of food safety in the pet food business, one that exceeds Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards for pet food. At every stage of every process, Wellness controls quality. We are known for active management of manufacturing. We develop our own unique formulas with premium ingredients through detailed sourcing and nutritional analysis. We conduct comprehensive audits of our procedures.
  Our Quality Assurance program does not only encompass our manufacturing operation and final product inspections, but starts from the time we select the finest and freshest ingredients, making absolutely sure WellPet products continue to be healthy and safe for your dog or cat. We follow the same strict guidelines for pet food that are applied to food for people. We do so by requiring that each of our suppliers utilize the HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points) program, adhering to even more stringent food safety criteria than required for pet food.
  Our manufacturing partners say we are THE hardest to please – this is because, like you, we won’t compromise on your pet’s health. We are “passionately picky” and promise that “Your pet’s wellbeing is at the heart of all we do, that’s why we do whatever it takes to make the healthiest natural products for the pets that depend on us.”
2. Are all dry recipes complete and balanced to life stage?Yes, our diets are 100% complete and balanced and are formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

1. Are Nutrient Profiles available? Yes, Nutrient Profiles are available for download on our Wellness product pages?

1. What is the caloric value of your food? Our kcal values are per 8.0 oz. cup (dry) or per can (wet). Kcal’s are on the majority of our labels and our product pages. If in doubt, please don’t hesitate to call or email our dedicated Consumer Affairs Team for additional details. We are available via phone at (800) 225-0904 or via email at info@wellpet.com M-F | 8-5 ET.

What kind of research has been conducted? As the results published in peer-reviewed journals? Before our diets are commercialized we ensure that they meet high standards for digestibility, starch gelatinization, stool performance, palatability and urine pH for cats diets. We have also conducted research focused on protein digestibility, blood glucose response and weight loss. None of the research was conducted with the intent of publishing, yet the intent was and is to ensure that we provide diets that perform to our high standards.

Complete List of 2020 Pet Holidays

Posted on November 11, 2019December 18, 2020 by Above1 Support

Maybe you’re the kind that creates a special bone cake for your pup’s birthday each year, or perhaps your beloved cat has her own stocking that’s hung by the chimney with care each year. No matter the holiday, there is always a reason to remember how much our canine and feline companions mean to us. We love our pets all year long, and with this handy calendar, you can find a reason to celebrate your furry friends most any day of the year!

Pet Holidays for January 2020

•   Walk Your Pet Month
•   National Train Your Dog Month
•   Unchain a Dog Month
•   January 2: National Pet Travel Safety Day
•   January 2: Happy Mew Year for Cat’s Day
•   January 14: National Dress Up Your Pet Day
•   January 22: National Answer Your Cat’s Question Day
•   January 23: World Spay Day
•   January 24: Change a Pet’s Life Day
•   January 29: Seeing-Eye Guide Dog Anniversary

Pet Holidays for February 2020

•   Pet Dental Health Month
•   Dog Training Education Month
•   National Cat Health Month
•   Responsible Pet Owners Month
•   Spay / Neuter Awareness Month (AKA Beat the Heat Month)
•   Pet Dental Health Month
•   February 7-14: Have a Heart for Chained Dogs Week
•   February 11–12: Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show
•   February 14: Pet Theft Awareness Day
•   February 20: Love Your Pet Day
•   February 22: National Walk Your Dog Day
•   February 23: International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day
•   February 25: Spay Day USA / World Spay Day

Pet Holidays for March 2020

•   Poison Prevention Awareness Month
•   March 3: It Pets Had Thumbs Day
•   March 9-13: Professional Pet Sitters Week
•   March 13: K-9 Veteran’s Day
•   March 16-22: National Poison Prevention Week
•   March 23: National Puppy Day; Cuddly Kitten Day
•   March 28: Respect Your Cat Day
•   March 30: Take a Walk in the Park Day

Pet Holidays for April 2020

•   Heartworm Awareness Month
•   National Adopt a Greyhound Month
•   National Pet First Aid Awareness Month
•   Prevent Lyme Disease in Dogs Month
•   Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month
•   April 1–7: International Pooper Scooper Week
•   April 1–7: National Raw Feeding Week
•   April 6: National Siamese Cat Day
•   April 6-10: National Dog Bite Prevention Week
•   April 8: National Dog Fighting Awareness Day
•   April 10: National Hug Your Dog Day
•   April 11: National Pet Day
•   April 11: Dog Therapy Appreciation Day
•   April 17-23: National Pet ID Week
•   April 18: Pet Owners Independence Day
•   April 21: Bulldogs Are Beautiful Day
•   April 23: National Lost Dog Awareness Day
•   April 25: International Guide Dog Day
•   April 26: National Kids and Pets Day
•   April 26: Hairball Awareness Day
•   April 27: World Veterinary Day
•   April 28: National Pet Parents Day
•   April 30: National Tabby Day
•   April 30: Adopt a Shelter Pet Day
•   April 30: National Therapy Animal Day

Pet Holidays for May 2020

•   Chip Your Pet Month
•   Pet Cancer Awareness Month
•   National Pet Month
•   Responsible Animal Guardian Month
•   National Service Dog Eye Examination Month
•   Lyme Disease Prevention Month
•   May 1: National Purebred Dog Day
•   May 3: National Specially-abled Pets Day
•   May 3–9: National Pet Week
•   May 3–9: Be Kind to Animals Week
•   May 3: Mayday for Mutts
•   May 4–10: Puppy Mill Action Week
•   May 11: National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day
•   May 14: International Chihuahua Appreciation Day
•   May 30: International Hug Your Cat Day

Pet Holidays for June 2020

•   Adopt a Cat Month (AH) / Adopt a Shelter Cat Month (ASPCA)
•   National Pet Preparedness Month
•   National Microchipping Month
•   June 1–7: Pet Appreciation Week
•   June 4: Hug Your Cat day
•   June 8: National Best Friends Day
•   June 9: World Pet Memorial Day
•   June 22–28: Take Your Pet to Work Week®
•   June 17: Take Your Cat to Work Day™
•   June 19: National Garfield the Cat Day
•   June 26: Take Your Dog to Work Day®
•   June 21: Dog Party Day
•   June 24: Cat World Domination Day

Pet Holidays for July 2020

•   Dog House Repair Month
•   National Lost Pet Prevention Month
•   National Pet Hydration Awareness Month
•   July 1: ID Your Pet Day
•   July 5: Pet Remembrance Day
•   July 11: All-American Pet Photo Day
•   July 15: National Pet Fire Safety Day
•   July 21: National Craft Your Local Shelters Day
•   July 21: No Pet Store Puppies Day
•   July 31: National Mutt Day

Pet Holidays for August 2020

•   National Immunization Awareness Month
•   August 1: DOGust Universal Birthday for Shelter Dogs
•   August 2–8: International Assistance Dog Week
•   August 5: Work Like a Dog Day
•   August 8: International Cat Day
•   August 10: Spoil Your Dog Day
•   August 15: National Check the Chip Day
•   August 17: National Black Cat Appreciation Day
•   August 17: International Homeless Animals Day
•   August 22: National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day
•   August 26: National Dog Day
•   August 28: Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day
•   August 30: National Holistic Pet Day

Pet Holidays for September 2020

•   Happy Healthy Cat Month
•   Guide / Service Dogs Month
•   National Pet Insurance Month
•   Animal Pain Awareness Month
•   Responsible Dog Ownership Month
•   Pet Sitter Education Month
•   September 1: Ginger Cat Appreciation Day
•   September 13: National Pet Memorial Day
•   September 13: National Hug Your Hound Day
•   September 21–27: Adopt a Less-Adoptable Week
•   September 19: Puppy Mill Awareness Day
•   September 19: Responsible Dog Ownership Day
•   September 20-26: National Dog Week
•   September 20-26: Deaf Pet Awareness Week
•   September 23: Dogs in Politics Day
•   September 28: World Rabies Day

Pet Holidays for October 2020

•   National Animal Safety and Protection Month
•   Adopt a Dog Month (AH) / Adopt a Shelter Dog Month (ASPCA)
•   National Pet Wellness Month
•   National Pitbull Awareness Month
•   October 1: National Fire Pup Day
•   October 1: National Black Dog Day
•   October 1–6: National Walk Your Dog Week
•   October 1-6: Animal Welfare Wek
•   October 4: World Animal Day
•   October 4: World Pets Day
•   October 9: Pet Obesity Awareness Day
•   October 16: National Feral Cat Day
•   October 19-23: Veterinary Technician Week
•   October 26: National Pit Bull Awareness Day
•   October 27: National Black Cat Day (UK)
•   October 29: National Cat Day

Pet Holidays for November 2020

•   Adopt a Senior Pet Month
•   National Senior Pet Month
•   Pet Diabetes Month
•   Pet Cancer Awareness Month (AVMA)
•   November 1: National Cook for Your Pets Day
•   November 2-6: National Animal Shelter and Rescue Appreciation Week
•   November 7: National Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day
•   November 17: National Black Cat Day (US)

Pet Holidays for December 2020

•   National Cat Lovers’ Month
•   December 2: National Mutt Day
•   December 15: National Cat Herder’s Day

We’re always looking for an excuse to celebrate our favorite pets and yours! Explore all the Wellness Pet Food treats for cats and dogs here!

3 Reasons to Recycle for Your Pet (And Inspire Others to Do the Same!)

Posted on November 11, 2019December 18, 2020 by Above1 Support

Every November 15 marks America Recycles Day, the holiday created by Keep America Beautiful to celebrate recycling with education, events and activities. An annual opportunity to observe ways we can reduce our impacts and motivate others to do their part, it’s also a time to create new habits we can use to live greener every day.

What does this have to do with our pets? Protecting the planet helps our communities and families, which pets are very much a part of!

Here are some reasons to recycle for your furry family members:

1. It lightens their pawprint

Because domesticated animals are kept (by us, their humans) outside of nature’s regenerative, circular system, the food they eat and the waste they create is not readily renewed or absorbed. Knowing this, it is up to us to make better choices and actively offset our pets’ impacts to make them friendlier to the planet.

One way to lighten their pawprint is to recycle the products and packaging produced by keeping them fed and healthy. Wellness Natural Pet Food makes it easy for pet owners to recycle flexible plastics packaging for free through their network of local recycling solutions, powered by TerraCycle. Just visit the Wellness Pet Food Recycling Program page on TerraCycle.com and search your zip code on the map to find the drop-off point nearest you.

2. It can help other animals

Another positive aspect of recycling through TerraCycle’s national recycling programs is the more you recycle, the more points you can earn in exchange for a cash donation to your favorite environmental nonprofit or pet charity. These are funds you can give to an organization dedicated to rescuing shelter dogs, protecting the natural habitats of wild cats, or fighting against animal abuse.

Recycling through TerraCycle or through your municipal program also helps to save natural resources and keep materials from turning to trash, which in turn can prevent deforestation and reduce ocean pollution. Earth911 is a great resource to see how you can recycle curbside.

3. This is their home

Our pets bring us comfort, companionship and joy, but it is not only for these reasons we should protect the environment in which they eat, sleep, and play. When we don’t recycle, misplaced items can contaminate our water and food, leaching chemicals into the ground and water, imposing increased risks to humans, pets, and public health. Take care to properly manage the world’s resources to make a positive impact and inspire other pet parents to do the same.

For walks with your pal, opt for poop bags made of compostable, plant-based material instead of the conventional oil-based plastic, which some experts say are more likely to break down over time. Cat litter made from natural materials, such as wood, can be composted with the proper precautions, and upcycling toys and accessories out of stuff you already have diverts discarded items from landfills and turns them into fun, new playthings your pet will love.

Our pets, like all animals, are at home on earth, just as we are. Saving valuable material from becoming trash through recycling prevents pollution and the need to mine the environment for resources. We only get one planet. It is up to all of us to take care of it for future generations of people, animals, and plants, and do the work to make it a better place for living things today.

From all of us at TerraCycle: Have a PAWsome America Recycles Day!

Wellness Global Service Day

Posted on October 9, 2019December 17, 2020 by Above1 Support

This past month the entire Wellness organization celebrated Global Service Day! Over 250 Wellies’ spent their time at local shelters and other animal rescue organizations around the world. Teams were spread out all over the U.S , Germany, Japan, Singapore, Australia and Canada.

Take a look at some of the photos!

Great Dog Rescue New England – Woburn, MA

Cape Ann Animal Aid – Gloucester, MA

West Australian Dingo Association, Australia

Salem Animal Rescue League – Salem, NH

Save My Tail, Canada

We’d like to thank all of the organizations who let us spend the day with them. If looking to adopt a new pet, check out the list below.

Lowell Humane Society, Lowell, MA
Salem Animal Rescue League, Salem, NH
Cape Ann Animal Aid, Gloucester, MA
MSPCA at Nevins Farm, Methuen, MA
Animal Rescue League of NH, Bedford, NH
Northeast Animal Shelter, Salem, MA
Paws, Wakefield, MA
Operation Delta Dog, Hollis, NH
Great Dog Rescue of NE, Woburn, MA
Albuquerque Best Friends
Best Friends LA
Burlington Humane Society
California Animal Shelter
Carver-Scott Humane Society, Minnesota
Feline Café of Ottawa
Greenville North Carolina Humane Society
Humane Society of St. Joseph County, Indiana
Hunter T Cronin Cat Room
Best Friends, Kanab Utah
PAWS, Chicago IL
Pets Alive Animal Sanctuary
Salt Lake City Best Friends
Shamroq Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute
Rescue of Queensland, Australia
South Bend Animal Rescue
The Society for the Prevention of Animal Cruelty, Singapore
West Australian Dingo Association, Australia

We know that every home is better with a pet, and so we are so happy to have had a chance to spend time working with a Best Friends Animal Society partner shelter that helps homeless pets find a forever home.

To learn more about our Wellness Foundation, watch a video from our CEO Camelle Kent and Join the Movement visit: https://wellnessfoundation.org/

10 Things That Make Someone a Cat Person

Posted on October 7, 2019December 18, 2020 by Above1 Support

October 29th is a special day. This is the day we celebrate National Cat Day. If you share your life with cats, you most likely believe every day is National Cat Day (or should be), but this special day gives people a chance to educate others about how wonderful cats are. It’s also a day to celebrate what it means to be a cat person.

1. A cat person is someone who loves and appreciates the language of cats.

Cats can make 100 different vocal sounds, as well as having quite an extensive body language. They also rely heavily on scent communication. The cat person loves the cat for the soft purr heard during times of closeness, but also loves that same cat for the unrelenting meow at 5 a.m. in the morning when kitty thinks breakfast is overdue.

2. A cat person enjoys the delicate and exquisitely elegant movements of a cat.

Stealth and speed combine to create beauty in motion. Whether the cat is stalking prey or just walking through a room, the gait is pure poetry. A cat person loves the cat for how beautiful and silent his movements can be and marvels at how a 6 pound cat can also sound like a team of horses galloping down the hallway when chasing a toy. A cat person appreciates the beauty of a ballet and the pratfalls of a comedy.

3. A cat person provides for the unique requirements that enable a cat to live a happy and healthy life.

Many people think cats are low maintenance and that it’s responsible for their appeal for cat people. That is not accurate at all. While cats don’t need to be walked and can be left alone for longer periods, they aren’t second-rate substitutes for dogs. The care of a cat differs in some ways from the care of a dog but still requires commitment, time, patience, love and attention

4. A cat person knows it’s not about shortcuts.

While the cat may enjoy looking out the window at activity in the trees, it’s better to have one’s own tree indoors. A cat person is also good at role playing and can use toys to imitate birds, mice and other critters. It’s not about throwing a ball and having the pet fetch, but rather, mimicking a mouse so the cat can stalk and pounce, using accurate timing, precision and athleticism. A cat person knows playtime is the feline version of playing chess. It’s all about the right moves at the right time.

5. A cat person understands everyone needs some personal space.

Cat people don’t expect the cat to follow close behind and wait for the next command. When the cat is looking away and appears distant, it means he feels safe… he trusts. He’s also doing a favor by keeping watch for any mice, spiders or flies that try to sneak into the room. A cat person knows the cat has a job to do.

6. A cat person understands the cat’s appreciation for viewing life from all angles.

For a cat, life is very vertical. Whether it’s the top of the refrigerator, balancing on the top of a door, sitting on the highest bookshelf, sleeping in the bathroom sink or napping in the dirty clothes hamper in the closet, the cat can find joy in multiple places we wouldn’t view as comfortable.

7. A cat person accepts that cat hair will be found in the most unlikely places.

8. A cat person has an amazing ability to stay in one position for what seems like an intolerable amount of time.

When a cat is curled up in a lap or sleeping close by, the cat person develops the remarkable strength to avoid scratching an itchy nose, sneezing, coughing, or the need to use the bathroom. The only weakness, however, is that the cat person can’t resist the urge to slowly and silently pull out the smartphone and take a picture of the sleeping cat. A cat person knows you can never have too many cat photos.

9. A cat person understands commitment.

With advancements in veterinary medicine, nutrition and a greater understanding of what’s required for happy, healthy lives, cats are living longer. In many cases, long after the kids have grown up and gone off to college, the family cat is still there. Years ago, when the cat was a kitten, a cat person used to struggle to make the bed as the rambunctious little kitty would insist on playing under the sheet. These days, the bed is left unmade so as not to disturb the senior cat still sleeping there. A cat person’s compassion grows deeper as every day gets more precious.

10. A cat person understands love.

Photo by Ramiz Dedaković on Unsplash

On October 29, celebrate your cats, but also celebrate yourself for the wonderful cat person you are!

Wellness Foundation Partners With Best Friends Animal Society

Posted on August 19, 2019December 16, 2020 by Above1 Support

Here at Wellness Pet Food we are committed to making the world a better place for pets everywhere. That’s why we started the Wellness Foundation, with a mission that goes beyond nutrition to help pets be #RaisedWithLove!

As the Official Pet Food Partner of Best Friends, we are proud to provide natural pet food for the animals they rescue, so they have access to the healthiest nutrition possible.

We are also committed to helping the pets at Best Friends find forever homes. And when they do, we want their first meal to be from us, so we send their new families home with FREE Wellness pet food. Because pets deserve nothing less than the most nutrient-dense goodness in every bowl, starting with the first one.

By adopting a pet from responsible, no-kill animal shelters, you’re giving them room to save another pet from unhealthy environments. Adopting not only saves the life of your new pet, but it also makes a spot available for another pet to be at shelters like these.

Are you ready to join the movement?

best friends

12 Ways to Celebrate International Cat Day with Your Cat

Posted on August 7, 2019December 17, 2020 by Above1 Support

Read 12 ways to celebrate International Cat Day on August 8th!

As a cat lover, you view every day as International Cat Day but August 8^th is an opportunity to help spread the word to those who may not know about how wonderful felines really are. This special cat holiday was created in 2002 by the International Fund for Animal Welfare to help raise awareness for cats and to educate people about how to protect them. It’s also an extra day to celebrate your own cats and the relationship you share!

Here are 12 suggestions on ways to celebrate:

1) Extra Playtime

Engage your cat in an interactive play session today. If you normally do play sessions, offer an extra one or two today. Interactive play is a great way for your cat to completely enjoy being the mighty hunter as you move the toy like prey. Don’t forget to let your cat have several successful captures so the game creates confidence and satisfaction. If you have multiple cats, give each one their own special play session with you so no one has to compete.

2) Cat TV

Set up a comfy place for your indoor cat to enjoy watching wildlife. You can do this by installing a bird feeder in the yard for your cat to view from the window. Another option is to play wildlife videos on YouTube. There are many cat-appealing videos online to entertain your favorite feline.

3) Combine Food and Fun

Puzzle feeders (food-dispensing toys) are a great way to add some fun to meals. As hunters, cats are hardwired to hunt for food and by using a puzzle feeder, they get the reward for a job well done. Puzzle feeders are also good for cats who tend to eat too fast. Search online and you’ll find many types of puzzle feeders or you can make your own. One easy puzzle feeder for dry food is to cut holes in an empty water bottle and place a handful of dry food pieces in there. Make sure the holes are bigger than the size of the food. As your cat paws at the plastic bottle, she’ll be rewarded with a few pieces of food. For wet food, you can place a small amount in each compartment of a plastic ice cube tray. Another way to add fun to food is to create treasure hunts. Hide treats or pieces of cat food in small dishes around the house for your cat to discover.

4) Quiet Time Together

Life can get so busy and it’s easy to come home from work and get caught up in all the things that need to be done before going to bed. Your cat has been waiting for you all day and this time together is special. If your cat enjoys sitting on your lap or lounging next to you on the sofa, don’t be too quick to get up and move to the next thing you need to do. Enjoy those moments of just being together. Even if your cat doesn’t enjoy being petted, she may love leaning up against you and being connected.

5) Physical Touch

This includes petting, and, if your cat enjoys it, grooming. Take time this day to focus on how you pet or brush your cat and become aware of those special spots she loves. Does scratching under the chin cause her to purr? Does she love long strokes down the back or does she prefer you to limit your petting to only the back of the head? Be mindful today of the ways in which your cat most enjoys physical touch.

6) Exchange Cat Kisses

Many people believe that when a cat gives you a slow blink, it’s actually a cat kiss. A slow blink says the cat is comfortable and relaxed. If your cat gives you a cat kiss, return it by doing a slow blink in her direction. Keep your gaze soft and don’t stare. A direct stare can be viewed as a threat, but a soft, slow blink is an expression of trust and affection.

7) Break out the Good Catnip

Not all cats react to catnip but if your cat does, have a catnip party. If you only have catnip-filled toys around the house, they’ve probably lost their potency. Stop at the pet supply store and get a container of good quality loose catnip. For the catnip party, you can either rub a toy with the catnip or simply sprinkle the loose, dried leaves on a paper plate and place it on the floor. To release the volatile oil in the dried herb, rub it between your hands before offering to your cat. If your cat doesn’t react to catnip, there are other options, such as silver vine.

8) Get Down on Your Cat’s Level

If you can, sit or lounge on the carpet so you’re at the cat’s level. This is especially nice for cats who are less mobile and don’t tend to jump on furniture or beds. If you spend some time on ground level, you may enjoy some head bunts, chin rubbing or flank rubbing. When your cat gives you a forehead bunt, it’s not only a way of leaving her scent, but also a gesture of affection. This is a common behavior display cats engage in when they are closely bonded. Chin rubbing and flank rubbing are also affectionate gestures.

9) Spruce up the Vertical Environment

Cats live in a vertical world and the more territory you can create that allows them to climb and perch, the better. Vertical territory can be as simple as a sturdy cat tree, some window perches, or you can get a little more creative and install cat shelves and walkways along the wall. Vertical territory doesn’t have to be fancy, it just has to be sturdy, comfortable and easy for a cat to access. If you have multiple cats, the increase in vertical territory can be a big help in maintaining harmony.

10) Create Play Tunnels and Hiding Places

Make tunnels out of paper bags. Cut the bottoms, roll a cuff on each end and then tape some bags together to make a homemade play tunnel. Toss a couple small toys or treats in there for your cat to discover. If you prefer to not make a tunnel out of paper bags, you can purchase soft-side tunnels at your local pet product store. If you have a timid cat, tunnels provide extra hiding options and allows a scared kitty to feel invisible so she can relax.

11) Introduce Interesting Scents

This is especially appealing for indoor cats. Bring in a couple of leaves from outdoors, or maybe a very small branch. If you happen to find a bird feather on the ground, bring that in for your cat to do a scent investigation.

12) Share the Love

Take pictures of your cats to document this special day and share them on social media. It’s a great way to get people talking and sharing about the joy of living with cats. And, who doesn’t love sharing pictures of cats!

10 Ways to Spoil Your Dog

Posted on August 6, 2019December 18, 2020 by Above1 Support

Read the 10 ways to pamper your pup all day long for #SpoilYourDogDay!

Being the loving pet parent that you are, there is no doubt you love and cuddle your dog every day! However it’s time to pull out all of the stops and indulge your dog for #SpoilYourDogDay. We came up with ten puppy-approved ways to spoil your dog silly!

1) Treat Your Dog to Some Extra Treats

treats

While normally we wouldn’t suggest extra treats, by #SpoilYourDogDay is only one day, so throw a few extra treats your dog’s way. If they are healthy treats that your dog loves, then you won’t feel as guilty pulling them out a few extra times and will be able to enjoy the moment as your dog leaps and barks for joy.

2) Indulge Your Dog with a Doggie Massage

Dogs love and benefit from massages just as much as people by improving circulation. Spoil and pamper your dog by watching a YouTube video (or three or four) and learning how to relax you pup!

3) Go Shopping for a New Toy Together

toy

If you have a playful pup, then there is no time like Spoil Your Dog Day than to visit the pet store and to let your dog find a new toy that makes them want to run, jump and flip for joy.

4) Clear Your Afternoon to Your Dog’s Favorite Things

Time is one of the greatest gifts you can give someone you love. Call the office and clear your afternoon then go pick up your dog for a long, impromptu afternoon of all of your favorite things whether it is dining out, strolling the sidewalk, visiting the park or discovering a new hiking trail.

5) Take a Nice, Long Drive Together

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Have you ever noticed how the happiest dogs are the ones hanging out of their owner’s window as they drive down a sprawling stretch of empty roadway? If it’s one of their favorite things, take your dog on an extra-long drive to wherever the heart desires.

6) Upgrade Your Dog’s Accommodations

Don’t you feel like royalty when you get a new mattress or a new set of sheets? Your dog feels the same way. Upgrade his or her food and water dish and bedding to something ultra-cozy and (most importantly) brand new.

7) Go for a Swim Together

swim

One thing about the dog days of Summer is that they are hot, hot, hot. If your dog knows how to swim, take them to a pool or a beach where you can both dive in, swim around and cool off together.

8) Schedule a Doggie Playdate

If you have an outgoing dog who loves hanging out with her friends or at the doggie playground, then schedule a playdate with her favorite canine friends, or take a long afternoon at the dog park. Give her the social hour she deserves.

9) Get a Puppy Pedicure

While not all dogs love visiting the groomer and getting fur washed and nails trimmed, it feels like heaven for some dogs. If your dog loves a spa day, then schedule one on Spoil Your Dog Day and splurge on the deluxe treatment.

10) Let Your Dog Get Dirty

dirty

This last way to spoil your dog may be in sharp contrast to taking your dog for a luxury pampering session, but for the dogs that love to get dirty, nothing will please them more than taking them to the backyard or happy place where they can frolic and roll around in the dirt like no one’s watching.

On Spoil Your Dog Day, we at Wellness Pet Food endorse a few extra treats. Treat your dog guilt free with Wellness Pet Food’s WellBites, WellBars or Puppy Bites snacks. All of Wellness’ snacks are made with natural ingredients, just like our other dog food recipes, so your dog gets treated while staying healthy!

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Date:

06/08/2019