There are three primary types of allergies that we see in pets: food allergies, flea allergies, and environmental allergies. If you notice your furball getting itchy during spring, summer, or fall, they’re most likely suffering from seasonal allergies or flea allergies. If your pet seems to have allergies all year round, it may be an issue with their food. I won’t focus on food allergies here, but if you suspect that your pet may have issues with their food, you may want to consider switching to a grain-free dog or cat food.

Seasonal allergies and flea allergies in pets typically take the form of skin irritation, mostly itchy and scratchy skin. Common symptoms include itching, biting, scratching, chewing and even ear or skin infections. Your pet may also rub against vertical surfaces. You may notice that your pup or kitty’s skin is turning red, or that they are losing hair.

Often, there are different allergies in play when your pet begins to exhibit allergy symptoms. It’s only when that combination hits a certain level that allergies become an issue.

The Itch Threshold: When Allergies Combine to Cause Scratching

All pets have an itch threshold, which is the point where sources of itching add up to enough irritation to cause the irresistible urge to scratch. Many different factors can contribute to the threshold: seasonal allergies, food allergies, dry skin, external parasites, and infections. One allergy alone may not cause your pup or kitty to scratch himself; so, if your pup or kitty is scratching, it may be due to a number of factors, not just one allergen. Every animal has a different threshold. That’s why it is important to investigate the cause, as well as different forms of treatment, which can take time.

Take, for example, a dog with both food allergies and ragweed allergies. He may be able to eat the food that he is allergic to without displaying any allergic reaction; however, once ragweed season comes around, the combination of the ragweed and the food allergy may push that dog above his threshold, causing him to itch. As the pet parent, you may blame ragweed as the issue; however, if the food allergy were treated, ragweed season might not affect him, or at least not as severely.

Nutrition and the Itch Threshold

 You can help raise your pet’s itch threshold by improving his or her nutrition, easing stress, and controlling external parasites. Nutrition that comes from healthy, natural dog and cat food like Freshpet can help decrease inflammation, boost the immune system, and heal skin issues. Because Freshpet is fresh and less processed, it retains more of the nutrients found in many essential ingredients, allowing pets to get more of the vitamins and minerals needed to improve the itch threshold and fight allergens.

In addition, you may want to consider feeding a natural diet that is lower in food allergens. Freshpet contains only high quality carbohydrates, never corn or wheat, and all of their Vital recipes are entirely grain-free.

Always speak to your vet before making a change to your pet’s diet, use flea and tick prevention year round, and be sure to ask your vet to test your pet for allergies to help determine the root cause. I hope with these tips your pup or kitty will be on their way to less itching and scratching soon!

Today is the first day of our new #TriviaTuesday game on Twitter.  Test your smarts about a variety of pet-related topics, with a chance to win a Freshpet coupon for fresh food for your dogs and cats! So join us on our twitter page for a chance to try something fun, and maybe even learn something new.

Here is how it works:

1. On the second Tuesday of each month, visit Freshpet on Twitter (@Freshpet) for our #TriviaTuesday contests.
2. Up to one hour before the start of #TriviaTuesday, we will post the trivia topic
3. @Freshpet will tweet three different Trivia questions beginning at 5PMEST
4. Tweet us your guess (be sure to include @Freshpet in your reply)
5. Guess quickly! The first fan to answer the question correctly will win a coupon for Freshpet
6. We will publish a post with the correct response, along with the winner, before we move to the next question.

All prizes will be sent via mail and winners will be asked to contact Freshpet directly via email (online@freshpet.com) or direct message.

We’re so excited to get started with all of you.  Good luck and have a pawesome time!

10.  Warmer Weather!

The warm weather can cheer the chilliest of spirits, but it makes caring for your fur-kid even more enjoyable. If you’re like us, you love taking a walk in the park with your pup. And meow’s the time to even let your kitty bask in the outdoors (if they like that sort of thing).

9. April Showers

There’s something so enjoyable about snuggling up to your kitty on a rainy day, or stomping through puddles with your pooch. Pets just make rainy days brighter. Even those of us who dislike the rain can appreciate our fur-kids’ greeting us on our way in the door after battling the weather.

8. Baseball is back

Bark if you love baseball! Baseball season is one of our favorite time’s of year, and it’s made even better by the fact that many parks are allowing fans to bring their pups to games. Plus, 162 games watched from the comfort of your home are only made better by the constant, loving presence of your furry family.

7. Earth Day

Though we shouldn’t need a reminder, Earth Day is a great day to put new habits into practice towards sustainability and green living! Saving electricity / gas / cleaning up the neighborhood – all activities that are made much more fun with a pup or kitty around.

6. The Freshpet Truck is back!

In the New York metro area, start to see more of our Freshpet Food Truck for dogs and cats in action!

5. More patches of sunshine near the window

Sometimes it’s the little things, like lounging under a patch of light streaming in through the window. April is sure to deliver the first of many springtime warm patches, something that only pet parents truly can appreciate.

4. Plant life in bloom

The flora and the fauna start to peek out, which inspires us to dress up in fresh bright colors.

3.  Farmers Markets

We love fresh produce, we love healthy eats, and we definitely love places that we can flock to with our furballs. Farmers Markets are back, and we’re definitely into it. Pet parent bonus: you may find an adoptable pup or kitty while you’re there. There is always room for one more!

2. Ice Cream season begins

For some of us, ice cream season never really ends; but for those of us who save cold treats for warmer weather, time to grab a cone (or a cup) for the first time in months. A tasty treat for your pooch as well? Well, that’s quite the bonus. Check out our ice creams and yogurts here.

1. April is National Pet Month!

An entire month to celebrate our fur babies? Why yes, that is a great reason to love April indeed.

Easter Basket Finds

Treat your pooches or kitties to their very own Easter baskets, filled with treats that are sure to please.

For dogs, start with our fresh Dog Joy treats, like Dog Joy Turkey Bacon, Dog Joy Sweet Potatoes, or Dog Joy Ready to Bake Cookies. The bright packaging ties in well with the colors of the season, and the delicious taste and wholesome ingredients are sure to be a hit with your fur-kids! Just remember to hide them only about 10-15 minutes before the basket search begins- and keep the treats in the fridge prior. Add in a holiday-themed doggy toy for extra fun, like these bunny and peep-shaped toys.

For kitties, fill the basket with a selection of our Freshpet Select Roasted Meals for cats or Vital Complete Meals for cats, plus our Freshpet Select cat food in cups. And don’t forget brightly colored toys like these felt catnip balls and Easter Bunny catnip toys.

Avoid the Easter grass in these baskets, however; this plastic decorative is non-digestible for pets and can cause blocking in the stomach or intestines.

Easter Egg Hunt

Who says egg hunts are only for kids? Set one up for your pooches outdoors, or bring the fun indoors for your kitties. Simply scatter and hide treats, then enjoy helping your fur-kids find them all. Be sure to adjust their calorie intake accordingly for that day (though a little extra love for one day never hurts). Our Dog Joy Chicken or Beef Treats are the perfect size for a hunt. For cats, conceal Freshpet Select Roasted Meals around the house!

Keep your pups and kitties safe by keeping a close eye on them. Avoid placing treats into plastic eggs as these can be choking hazards.

You can also hide a few egg-shaped toys for your furballs to locate, like these crocheted squeaky toys, perfect for pups!

If you’ve dyed eggs at home, treat your pets to an extra punch of protein by sharing a few pieces of a peeled hard-boiled egg with them. Many dogs and cats love the taste of fresh cooked eggs, and these snacks are a safe treat for all.

Other Springtime Gift  Ideas

We’ve rounded up a few adorable gift ideas to celebrate the warm weather, the re-introduction of bright colors into our lives, and of course, our love of our pets.

• What kitty could resist this adorable bow tie collar? Available in many festive colors.
• Freshen-up your pet’s look with a new leash and collar combo made just for the season.
• Grab a harness for your pup for those long walks ahead, with bright spring prints to keep him or her looking stylish.

From all of us at Freshpet, we hope you enjoy the onset of beautiful weather and the Easter holiday!

Roasted Meals Omelets

Start off your pup’s breakfast the right way, this hearty meal will surely leave your pup begging for more!  The benefits of this protein-packed meal are great for your furry one!  And, everything you need is most likely already in your refrigerator at home:  eggs, cheese, and Freshpet Select Roasted Meals.  This is a great way to spend a Saturday morning with your loved ones.

Many kitties will enjoy this meal too, but be sure to skip the cheese if you have kitties with sensitive stomachs.  Many adult cats grow up to be lactose intolerant. If you are not sure, give your cat a small piece of cheese to try first to ensure it does not upset his or her stomach.

Fido’s Bacon Wrapped Weenies

Get your pup in on the action during your next party! Inspired by a classic spanish tapas dish, this simple recipe only needs Dog Joy Chicken Treats and Dog Joy Turkey Bacon.  Simply place the Chicken Treat at the end of the Turkey Bacon strip and begin to roll.  When finished, stick it with a tooth pick to keep it together, and viola! You have a bacon wrapped weenie. Check out our Vine to see this technique in action, and don’t be afraid to get creative! Try substituting our Chicken Treats for Dog Joy Beef Treats for a slightly different take on a great snack.

This treat is a perfect little appetizer or snack for a special occasion or a pooch party!

Fresh & Meaty Cupcake

Create your own fresh cupcake to celebrate with your pooch! Lightly microwave the Freshpet Slice & Serve roll of your choice until soft. Then, place in a cupcake liner inside cupcake pan then refrigerate for a bit to keep the cupcake shape. Freshpet parent Yvonne C. tops hers off with frosting made of yogurt and peanut butter!

Fresh Soft-Bite Cookies

Are you a fur parent that loves to go above and beyond for your little ones? Then this soft-bite cookie is the recipe for you.  Semi-homemade, this recipe takes baking for your pet to the next level, and we are sure there will be a stampede to the kitchen while these cookies are baking in the oven!  The Freshpet ingredient card is the key to your pup’s heart; it has everything listed that you will need along with the proper cooking instructions. Just start with the Slice & Serve roll of your choice, mix the ingredients, and bake for a meaty, moist treat your pooch is sure to love.

We hope you enjoy these fun, creative ways to spice up your Freshpet food and really treat your fur kids to something special. Do you have any other suggestions? If so, email us at online@freshpet.com. We’d love to hear it!

Happy cooking!

What can a diet do?

Diet is an important aspect of every pet’s life and is helpful in not only treating cancer, but preventing it as well. The basic principle of cancer nutrition is to reduce simple sugars and complex carbohydrates in our pets’ diets. Instead, look for foods that favor protein and non-saturated fats as the main energy sources. Fats contain more calories per gram than protein and carbohydrates, which is an advantage when animals already have cancer and can only handle eating small servings of food. When cancer is diagnosed, talk with your veterinarian about making changes to your pet’s diet. He or she knows your pet’s medical history, and can recommend a food that is well-suited for his condition.

Ideally, your vet will recommend a food rich in protein, fruits and vegetables with less processing, such as Freshpet. Many ingredients in Freshpet have medicinal benefits for your beloved companion, and can save the time and effort needed to cook a meal at home for your pet. Freshpet’s all natural products are filled with high-quality proteins and vitamin-rich fruits and vegetables. Vital recipes in particular are grain-free and contain 80% or more protein and 10% fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables like cranberries, pomegranate, and spinach also reduce the acid load, which is important because cancer progresses more in an acidic environment. Once you receive the go-ahead from your vet, remember to transition your pet’s food slowly to avoid stomach upsets, especially critical in pets with cancer. I recommend that pet parents gradually add Freshpet to their old diet, and slowly transition to using just Freshpet, adjusting the ratios over a period of about two weeks.

Supplements can make a difference

If your pet is undergoing cancer treatment such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, there are supplements that can come from or be added to your pet’s diet to help reduce risks associated with these powerful treatments. I often consider recommending additional antioxidants, such as Vitamins A, C, and E. Antioxidants aid mostly in the prevention of cancer. When the consumption of antioxidants is inadequate, it has been hypothesized that this can lead to DNA damage, malignant transformation, and eventually has led to tumor development in numerous animals.

High quality protein and amino acids are also required for dogs with cancer. Glutamine, which is commonly found in n-3 fatty acids from fish and flaxseed oils, has been shown to increase disease-free intervals and survival time. Adding n-3 fatty acids as a supplement, or upping these by feeding a fish-based diet or one containing flaxseed oil like Freshpet Deli Fresh slice and serve rolls, must be carefully evaluated in each cancer case.

Finally, supplements like curcumin, vet-approved mushrooms, and artemisinin can also inhibit cancer growth. Curcurmin is known as the anti-cancer nutrient, and is sold as an easy-to-conceal supplement, as well as part of the spice turmeric. Artemisinin is known to be toxic to cancer cells while preserving healthy cells, and can be given orally in pill form. Extract from Yunzhi mushrooms has also been found to help pets with cancer live longer.

Remember, your veterinarian knows your pup or kitty best – be sure to check in with him or her before adding supplements or making dietary changes. We hope for a speedy recovery for any of our pets and pet parents fighting this difficult disease.

Our winner will be announced on Friday, March 8th.

[yop_poll id="2"]

MELISSA F., nominated by Pamela W. 

“Melissa F. is devoted to her dogs and to improving conditions for all animals. Mel is a long time dog foster parent. When she saw Daisy, a yellow lab who had been a breeding dog at a puppy mill, cowering in the shelter, she knew she had to help. As a foster parent and then adopter, Mel brought Daisy out of her shell, slowly helping her to learn how to cope with the world. A short time later, Mel adopted Jasper, also a puppy mill dog.

Her final dog, Cupcake, was also a fearful foster.  When Cupcake escaped her leash and ended up lost for several weeks, Mel coordinated a massive volunteer effort to find her. After several weeks, Cupcake was found with the help of someone who saw one of hundreds of posters Mel put up in the area where Cupcake was lost. With Cupcake’s return, Mel knew she had to adopt the foster dog into her family.

Mel is devoted to her dogs, taking them regularly to the dog park, building their confidence and enriching their lives. She also helps other pet parents through her blog No Dog About It. She has given me tremendous support and advice when I’ve fostered a fearful dog.

I can’t think of anyone who is a more outstanding Freshpet Parent.”

TIFFANY P., nominated by Herbie

“Tiffany is an outstanding Freshpet Parent to our baby kitten, Casper. In March, she picked Casper up at a gas station when she noticed a box along the side of the road. Unfortunately, there were two other kittens; however, they had already gotten out of the box and had been hit by passing drivers. Lucky for baby Casper, he was very small and hadn’t gotten out. Tiffany decided to rescue tiny Casper.

Today, Casper is almost 1 year old and has already faced health problems. Although Tiffany is a full time college student, she also works part time to help provide care for Casper. She does everything for Casper and he has really become a big part of our family as well as a huge part of Tiffany’s life. While doing research for great healthy foods for cats she saw many great things from Freshpet. Although Casper is a very picky eater, he loves Freshpet; in addition it helps with his irritations and also urinary tract problems.

I believe Tiffany is such a great Freshpet parent because she has given this special kitty such a wonderful life not only by saving his life, but also by helping him cope with his health problems. I think that this is a great way to give back to her because she cares so much for animals, as well as works so hard to provide only the best for our kitten.”

JUSTIN W., nominated by Roxie W.

“My name is Roxie, and I’m a 3 year old English Bulldog. I’m going to tell you why my daddy is the best pet parent in the world! We do EVERYTHING together! We love to watch movies (Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings) and eat together (I especially love it when daddy lets me have some of his breakfast, lunch, dinner or ice cream!!!). My daddy loves outdoor sports and one time mommy took a picture of daddy and me wearing quading goggles together. I want to be just like my daddy! Daddy loves me, even when I’ve done something wrong! One time I ran out of the front door because I wanted to go visit my favorite neighbor. Daddy ran after me as I calmly walked down the sidewalk. I knew I was in trouble so I ran up to my favorite neighbors door and laid down waiting for daddy. He caught up to me, picked me up, and flung me over his shoulder and brought me home! I thought it was so funny and one neighbor asked daddy if I was a sack of potatoes! My daddy also takes good care of me when I’m sick. I got very sick one year with lyme disease. I couldn’t walk or anything! I was in so much pain. Daddy carried me down to the car and held me on the ride to the vet, carried me into the vets office, and comforted me as the vet examined me. I was so scared but daddy made me feel better! Even though I was so sick, I knew I had to eat and drink, and I would only eat and drink if daddy offered it to me. I love to sleep next to my daddy at night. My daddy takes such good care of me, and we have so much fun playing together and relaxing together and just enjoying life. I couldn’t ask for a better daddy and he tells me all the time I am the best daughter! For all of these reasons and so many more my daddy is the best pet parent around!”

Cindy M., nominated by Raul G.

“My fiance Cindy goes above and beyond for cats, both hers and others. She has several special needs kitties that require alot of her time every day, from testing glucose levels and giving insulin shots, to giving subcutaneous fluids, to doling out heart medicines. She also helps transport special needs kitties that need to get from one place to another to get the care they need and she goes out and helps others learn about taking care of their newly diagnosed diabetic cats.

When I saw this contest I knew I had to enter her because of her latest deed. She has been sleeping on the bathroom floor all week with one of her kitties to make sure she doesn’t feel alone while she heals from having surgery recently. Her kitty had a lump removed and subsequently removed her staples. After getting her back to the vet to get re-stapled, Cindy has slept with her every night on the bathroom floor to make sure she doesn’t take them out again and that kitty doesn’t get depressed by being segregated.

There is nothing my fiance wouldn’t do for her kitties.”

LOREN C., nominated by Tanya C.

“I nominated my sister Loren Cross because she is the best pet mom I know. Why you ask? She owns a pitbull named Rosie that she has had since she was 5 weeks old. Since then, she has become a real advocate for the breed in her community. At first, people gave her so many problems because of negative assumptions made about her pit bull. Her condo association even asked her to move because of the dog. My sister fought back by bringing the dog to condo meetings, showing them how well-trained her dog was, and what misconceptions people have about the breed. It took a lot of hard work, but she convinced the condo board that Rosie was not a vicious animal. She even got them to allow other owners to have bully breeds in the condo. She goes everywhere with Rosie to show people how great pitbulls are.”

Please review the contest rules before you vote.

Throughout the years, Petco has been an outstanding supporter of our fresh food. Early on, Petco recognized the importance and significant benefits of feeding dogs and cats fresh/refrigerated food. In fact, Petco was the first retailer to begin selling Freshpet nation-wide, making fresh food more readily available to more dogs and kitties across the country. Our partnership continues to grow as we both work towards a common mission and continue to push the pet care industry forward. We are very excited for what the future will bring to Freshpet and to our friends at Petco… but mostly to all pups and kitties across the country!

Catmoji

Catmoji is a social network, bringing together cat lovers with the best cat content of the internet. The best part? Your avatar IS a cat- and you can customize it to look any way you choose.

Dognition

Based on the book The Genius of Dogs, here you can sign your dog up for a series of intelligence tests that will reveal not only how smart your pooch is, but also how he thinks. According to the experts behind the program, this knowledge is the first step in creating an even stronger connection with your dog –- a connection that can help you be the best owner you can be for your furry friend.

Pup Crawl Lights-up Leash

Stylish and functional, these leashes make your pooch visible up to ¼ of a mile away in the dark with LED lights on both sides.  And, for every purchase, Pup Crawl will donate $1 to a partner animal organization.

iPetCompanion

iPetCompanion is a service that creates a virtual play world with real cats or dogs. Watching real-time camera recordings of the pets, users can have their computers manipulate robotic toys to play with the animals. You don’t need to be a member to take advantage of the fun. Many shelters have implemented the technology, allowing potential adopters to play with orphaned puppies and kitties, while giving the furballs much needed playtime.

For more pet innovation updates, follow us on Twitter @Freshpet.

February is Responsible Pet Parent Month, and in honor of this, we’re looking for the best of the best in pet parents!

Do you know a pet parent who goes above and beyond for their fur balls, and for fur-kind?

If so, nominate them to win the Freshpet World’s Greatest Pet Parent sweepstakes! Submit a friend, co-worker, family member, or community pet advocate below. Freshpet will choose four finalists, and Facebook fans will crown the winner of  a $200 gift card to their favorite fresh food retailer.

Don’t forget to check out the rules!

The entry period for the Freshpet #1 Pet Parent contest has ended. Thank you for your submissions!

Contest Rules