Fascinating Health Benefits to Animals from Certain Types of Sea Kelp

I've spent the past few years following various studies, research and findings into human and animal  nutrition. In particular there have been several major universities studying how some plant-based ingredients can provide health benefits not previously understood in animals. Through my work as a consultant in the pet industry I've had the opportunity to spend time with some of the world's leading nutritionists, animal physiologists, scientists and university professors. It is an honor and privilege to work so closely with women and men who have spent their entire careers studying animal and human health.

Perhaps what has impressed me so much are some of the research of how changes in our diets can have such an enormous impact in overall health. In particular the role of dietary fiber and what it can do to populate the gastrointestinal tract with prebiotics. I've recently written extensively about probiotics and their impact to the microbiome. There are many plant varieties that can offer prebiotic benefits to people and animals.  Whole grains, legumes (beans) pumpkin, chicory root, flaxseed, peas and more. Another fascinating plant is sea kelp. Through my studies few years ago, I learned about a particular variety of sea kelp called "Ascophyllum nodosum" that is grown and harvested off the coast of Nova Scotia, Canada. In my opinion, the benefits to dogs and cats of this particular variety are truly amazing.

There are four categories of key health supporting qualities of this sea kelp for animals. To find out more about the research we considered in formulating Lucy Pet Formulas for Life ™ with P.B.F Prebiotic Balanced Fiber ™, look further at these studies below.

1. Gastro Intestinal Health: The unique fiber profile of this kelp acts as a prebiotic, supporting normal digestive function.
2. Immune Defense System: The insoluble fiber and polyphenol compounds support the immune system in a unique way.
3. Antioxidant protection: Studies indicate that the Polyphenolics, Flavonoids and Fucoxanthan act as antioxidants within the gastro intestinal tract, which is an important system function.
4. Stress Reduction, particularly from heat: The bioactive molecules in Ascophyllum nodosum kelp support the animals natural ability to resist stress. We thought this was a wonderful benefit to animals.

It is so exciting to be able to incorporate what I learned about the benefits of this sea kelp into the new dog and cat foods we developed at Lucy Pet Products. The Lucy Pet Formulas for Life utilize some truly amazing nutritional studies that I believe can truly make a difference in the life of dogs and cats. If you are looking for a food for your dog or cat that has some of the latest, cutting edge technology in its formulations, check out these amazing foods we developed. They cost more that some of the other foods on the market, but believe me they are worth it. Anything we can do to help our beloved fur kids live longer is worth it in my opinion.

ALPHA: Grain-Free Nutrition for Dogs & Cats

***Please note: this is NOT a paid post.

Regular readers of this blog know that I work for Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance Pet Foods. We make what I believe are the finest quality foods and treats for dogs and cats. I'm excited about a new product line we just launched called 'Alpha'. I helped work on this, which is why I'm so psyched to see it now at petco stores. It is all-natural, completely grain-free line of food, with moderate protein levels using high multiple quality protein sources. Each formula includes prebiotics to maintain optimal digestion. In addition, we use garbanzo beans, which are an excellent source of protein, rich in fiber too.

So why am I writing a post on my personal blog about a product? Well because I am EXCITED ABOUT IT and also love working for a company that is genuinely interested in making all-natural pet foods that can help dogs and cats live longer, healthier lives. 

If you didn't already know, we have a well-respected zoological division that makes specialized diets for large cats, carnivorous birds, reptiles and other animals. Our team of nutritionists work closely with zoos and reserves to keep animals healthy and well nourished. If we're trusted by zoos and reserves, imagine what our pet foods can do for your dog or cat! I'm continually impressed that our company has this zoological expertise on nutrition too. I don't know of any other pet food company that has that expertise.

So yes it is true that I am writing this post to help spread the word about our newest grain-free formulas; I'm also doing it because I helped work on this project and an excited to see it finally online at petco.com and in petco stores nationwide. If you have a chance, check it out and let me know what you think! Or better yet try a bag for your dog or cat. Click this banner below to read more:

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Free Pet Nutrition Workshop Sat 11/14

NOTE: At work, I've been involved in the development of these pet nutrition workshops, so I decided to add a post about it on my personal blog. I hope you can attend. Just go to any PETCO store nationwide. We have over 1,000 stores in 50 states, so it shouldn't be too hard for most of you to find a PETCO store if you live in the US.

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All PETCO stores nationwide will host a free pet nutrition workshop facilitated by specially trained in-store nutrition experts on Saturday, November 14 at 2 p.m. During the 30-minute workshop, pet parents will learn about the nutritional needs of their dogs and cats, have a chance to discuss the benefits of good pet nutrition, receive an assessment of their individual pet's nutrition needs and understand the difference between basic, premium and natural pet food categories. Pet parents who attend the event will receive educational materials and free food samples from food suppliers Natural Balance, Wellness and Halo.

WHEN: Saturday Nov. 14th at 2 p.m.
WHERE: All PETCO locations nationwide
WHY: Your pets deserve the very best nutrition to help them live longer, be healthier and happier too!
I hope you can attend this Saturday.
-Rick Rockhill

The Amazing Andi Brown

I've been working in the pet industry now for over ten years and have met many interesting people. Perhaps one of the most dynamic individuals I know is Andi Brown (see photo left), author of The Whole Pet Diet. Aside from being a top selling author, Andi is the founder of a pet product company called Halo, Purely for Pets that makes all natural holistic pet products. Andi has a passion for animals and believes strongly in the benefits of a holistic approach to animal health. I first met Andi about 8 years ago at a pet industry trade show, where she convinced me to taste her canned dog food, Spot's Stew. Since it's made in a USDA approved kitchen and has only fresh chicken and vegetables, I willingly tasted it, and it wasn't bad at all. Anyway, that's how I know Andi. (By the way, if you want to know where to find Spot's Stew see the bottom of this post, but this is NOT intended to be a commercial plug)
Andi was in town for the Wags for Wishes pet event in San Diego, so we had some time to meet for dinner and catch up on things. Since the recent pet food recall, Andi has been in high demand with the media to talk about her opinions on pet food and alternatives for concerned pet owners. She has been on the speaking circuit doing satellite tours and interviews with major networks and local TV affiliates, and doing seminars too. It was great to catch up with Andi and hear about how much she is dong to educate the public on alternatives for not only pet food, but also overall pet health. Her opinions about commercial pet food are controversial, but reflect her personal beliefs, which she is entitled to have. The book is an interesting read and people can form their own opinions. Whether the reader forms the same opinion or not, what's important is that people ask what's in the food they feed their dog or cat, and read ingredient labels. There really are long term benefits to feeding high quality, premium, natural and organic pet foods. Anyway, I'll get off my soap box now.

Above: Enjoying a cocktail with Andi before dinner

Please note:

I want to disclose that I have buying responsibility for Spot's Stew at PETCO. This is not a commercial post. If you are interested, Spot's Stew is available at all PETCO stores and online too. I am not being paid to say that either!

This post is about my personal opinions, experiences and a topic I am interested in. From time to time I express a personal opinion about natural, holistic and organic dog and cat food brands. As the author, I am writing this with no affiliation to my employer, although I am a dog food merchandise manager and have an excellent knowledge of pet foods. There are many kinds of natural, holistic, organic and super premium dog and cat foods available.

-Rick Rockhill

Rick Rockhill

The beautiful San Jacinto Mountains, seen from my "Vintage Palms" residence in Palm Springs.

Hi, I'm Rick Rockhill and welcome to my lame blog about nothing. I live in Palm Springs California. The photo to the right is me with "The Whole Pet Diet" author, Andi Brown. Its a crazy photo of me, but I was having fun that night so I have a big smile on my face. I'm somewhat old-fashioned, raised to respect family, good manners, core values and a belief that pets are members of the family. At times, I am somewhat eccentric, with my collection of ascots, and Brooks Brothers wardrobe, but I am very down to earth. I'm a chocoholic and firmly believe that a day without chocolate is not a good day at all. My favorite is www.fanniemay.com Since I am boring you with my favorites, I might as well mention that I enjoy full-bodied red wines (Cabs & Zins). My partner John and I enjoy visiting Sonoma and Napa Valley to explore new wines whenever possible.
The photo of me to the left is from August 18th, 2006, when I threw the "ceremonial first pitch" out at PETCO Park. I was very honored to have the opportunity and cherish the experience. It was an amazing experience.

I have a keen appreciation for things that echo the past: old architecture, traditional cultural norms, and people over 70 years old-they have a unique perspective of life. I have a huge amount of respect and admiration for our armed forces serving at home and abroad. They deserve our respect and thanks for defending our freedom.

Since John and I moved to Palm Springs http://www.palm-springs.org/ , I've developed an appreciation for "modernist" or "mid-century" architecture. I love the wonderful old neighborhoods here with history and character. I'm fascinated by the Palm Springs "old Hollywood"history, when the likes of Frank Sinatra, Cary Grant, Joan Crawford, Ava Gardner, Bob Hope, Lana Turner and others made the desert their playground. It was a really a cool time for our desert community. Below is a great photo of Joan Crawford, Judy Garland and Jane Wyman sharing a laugh while in Palm Springs many years ago...

I am proud to be part of a great community that has a fantastic social life, with highly philanthropic people who are generous to a fault, who dedicate their time and money to advance society and culture. Palm Springs truly is unlike anywhere else.

John and I have a great life here in the desert, with two fantastic "kids"- Koshimi (dog) and Owen (cat).

I love both my dog and cat, they bring me so much joy and happiness. Unconditional love that only a pet can bring! I like working for PETCO because we can bring out pets to work and also because most people there are passionate about pets and really "get it".

Here is a photo of my grand mother Julia, and my neice Isabella. I am so proud of both my beautiful nieces, Isabella and Elizabeth (below)who live in Rhode Island. They are so wonderful, I miss them very much. Isabella- if you read this Uncle Ricky says "hello" and "I love you very much!"

I consider myself a moderate republican; "compassionate conservative": fiscally conservative and socially moderate. And yes, I've voted republican for just about every election so far and I'm glad I did!

FREE PUBLIC SERVICE

So here's something completely random: a scene from the new James Bond film "Casino Royale". This is 007, Daniel Craig (Bond) emerging from the water. I'm including this strictly for research purposes, in case anyone is wondering what the new James Bond looks like. Therefore, this truly is is a public service.

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Now here's some boring dog food stuff:

I'm really excited about a project I've worked on at PETCO, teaming up with one of our vendors, Castor and Pollux to develop a holistic food called Natural Ultramix. Its a really an excellent natural/holistic pet food with six protein sources and raw fruits and vegetables mixed in with the kibble. Conveniently, you can buy it at any PETCO store or at www.petco.com

We carry several other really excellent natural pet foods such as Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance, Castor and Pollux Natural Ultramix, Solid Gold, Organix, and Halo Spot's Stew.

And now, a shameless plug for Natural Ultramix: Superior Protein SourcesNatural chicken is #1 on our ingredients list with five additional highly bioavailable proteins for optimal digestibility and great taste. Provides essential amino acids and the nutrients needed to help promote your dog's wellness by supporting a healthy skin and coat, strong, lean muscle mass and vitality.
Natural Fruits & VeggiesPure, wholesome fruits and vegetables provide valuable nutrients, vitamins, minerals, enzymes and antioxidants for your dog. We simply dry the carrots, bananas, papaya, apples and blueberries and then blend with the Ultramix kibble. Don't be fooled by other diets that feature fruits and veggies in the ingredients list - you can't even see them in the kibble! And because they're usually processed under high heat they retain only minimal nutritional value...not so with NATURAL ULTRAMIX!
Rich Sources of CarbohydratesPotatoes, ground whole barley and grains provide essential vitamins and minerals as well as a balanced source of sustainable energy.
Essential Vitamins & MineralsFortified with essential vitamins and minerals and balanced to meet the needs of your adult dog.
Additional BenefitsFlaxseed, Glucosamine and Chondroitin (naturally sourced from chicken cartilage), and Omega Fatty Acids. Combined to promote wellness and help maximize the time you'll spend with your best friend. Natural Ultramix is great because it has:

No By-Products
No Fillers
No Wheat
No Corn
No Growth Hormones
No Artificial Preservatives, Colors or Flavors

- Rick Rockhill