Dog Nutrition and Wellness Information
-how and why we pick our products-
After much research, I have found that many of the products available for our dogs are dangerous and/or very unhealthy. There are many ingredients in treats and foods that have been linked to cancer and other diseases. Many dogs have allergies to common ingredients. Many chews may cause an obstruction and lead to expensive surgery, or even death. As owner of Unleashed, I spend hours reading labels and researching chews to provide only the best, and safest products for my dogs and yours. Here are some of my findings on the good, the bad and the ugly in the dog food world.
What are you really feeding your pet?
Ingredients commonly found in pet foods and treats (even some “natural” and “premium” brands), but you won't find at Unleashed:
1. Propylene Glycol- also used as antifreeze- may cause skin and eye irritation; respiratory, immuno, and neurotoxicity; Central Nervous System depression; kidney damage- is banned in cat food.
2. By-products/Digest/Meat (non-specific) - waste consisting of animal carcasses not for human consumption- can include feet, heads, intestines, feathers- also called 4-D animals: "dead, dying, diseased or disabled"- not required to contain any real meat; may contain dogs, cats, euthanized animals (including the pentobarbital used to euthanize them), and road kill.
3. Chemical Preservatives (BHA, BHT, EQ)- carcinogens (cause cancer)- also may cause hives, fever, headache, wheezing, and asthma; may affect kidneys, thyroid, stomach, and reproduction; can cause endocrine, gastrointestinal, liver, respiratory, skin, immuno and neurotoxicity, and aggressive behavior; is banned in some countries.
4. Rawhide and Pig Ears- may cause cancer, sore throat, intestinal blockage and acute pancreatitis. No standard processing exists- companies may use arsenic, lead, mercury, chromium salts, and formaldehyde.
Rawhide For Dogs Holds Hidden Danger
Safety Concerns About Pet Chews
5. Corn- An inexpensive source of fiber that serves as a filler ingredient to add bulk. No nutritional value; a common allergen in dogs.
6. Artificial Flavors/Colors- may cause cancer and kidney problems; unnecessary additives.
7.ExcessiveSalt- enough occurs naturally- excess may lead to high blood pressure and cardiovascular toxicity.
8.RefinedSugars- an unnecessary ingredient, added to make the product more attractive. Continuous intake can promote hypoglycemia, obesity, nervousness, cataracts, tooth decay, arthritis and allergies; very addictive.
9. Soybean- poor quality filler used to boost the protein content; may contain MSG; difficult to digest and assimilate, esp. for dogs; known to cause gas build-up in the digestive tract and bloat.
These are just a few of the many undesirable ingredients found in many foods and treats, including some “natural” and “premium” quality brands! Read your labels!! We do, and guarantee that you will not find these things in our products here at Unleashed®.
Interesting articles
News article and video on Greenies:
"At least 13 dogs have died after being fed the top-selling pet treat in the country, owners and veterinarians have told CNN . . ."
Watch the video report by CNN.
From the FDA:
From the Animal Protection Institute:
This page is always under construction. More will be added.