Objective:
Can raw beef bones help dogs naturally clean their teeth? This study aimed to find out how two types of raw bones—cortical bone (CB) and spongy bone (SB)—reduce dental tartar (calculus) in adult dogs.

Method:
Eight adorable 3-year-old Beagle dogs took part in this study. Over two testing periods, each dog got a raw beef bone daily:

1. CB bones (harder, medullary bone): Given for 12 days.
2. SB bones (softer, spongy bone): Given for 20 days.

Researchers tracked how much dental tartar was reduced using special imaging software.

Results (Prepare to Be Amazed!):

• CB Bones (12 days):
  • In just 3 days, tartar was reduced by 35.5%!
  • By the end of the study, tartar had dropped by an incredible 70.6%!
• SB Bones (20 days):
  • In only 3 days, tartar was reduced by 56.5%!
  • By day 12, tartar reduction hit 81.6%.
  • At day 20, tartar was nearly gone, with an 87.8% reduction!

The spongy bones (SB) worked faster and more effectively overall. Plus, the dogs safely chewed and consumed the bones without any issues like tooth fractures or blockages.

Conclusion:
Raw beef bones, especially spongy ones, are a fun, natural, and effective way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy. Goodbye tartar, hello sparkling smiles!

Scan Here to Read the Full Study

Try adding raw bones to your dog’s routine and watch their teeth shine while they enjoy every chew!

The post SCIENCE: Raw Beef Bones Help Clean Dogs’ Teeth! first appeared on Self Serve Pet Spa.

Method:
After her diagnosis in 2011, her dedicated owner declined standard treatments like steroids and chemotherapy, worried about their harsh side effects. Initially, her diet was switched to raw vegetables and cooked fish, but the tumor continued to grow. In 2013, the owner made a bold decision to try a ketogenic diet—a carbohydrate-free, calorie-restricted meal plan featuring chicken, oils, and a radish as a treat. Using a dog food calculator, calories were carefully reduced by 40%.

Results:
This patient’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. Despite her tumor initially reaching 3–4 cm in size and becoming invasive, it began to shrink after switching to the ketogenic diet. Over the following months, the tumor disappeared entirely. She stayed active, alert, and happy during this time, even losing 2.5 kg as part of the process. This incredible dog lived a long, full life, passing peacefully in 2019 at the age of 15—six years after her initial diagnosis—with no signs of the tumor returning.

Conclusion:
This heartwarming case is the first of its kind, showing how a non-toxic ketogenic diet helped resolve a malignant mast cell tumor in a dog. By reducing glucose, which cancer cells rely on, this therapy may have starved the tumor. It’s an encouraging breakthrough that could lead to safer, more holistic cancer care for dogs.

Breeds at Higher Risk for MCT:
Some breeds are more likely to develop mast cell tumors, including:

• Shar Peis
• American Staffordshire Terriers
• Flat-faced breeds like Boston Terriers, Boxers, Bulldogs, and Pugs
• Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers

Scan Here to View the Full Study

This story is a powerful reminder of how much love, dedication, and hope can achieve. Dietary interventions may not be the answer for every pet, but this case opens the door to new possibilities for giving our furry friends a better chance at life.

The post SCIENCE: Triumph Over Canine Cancer with Ketogenic Metabolic Therapy (KMT) first appeared on Self Serve Pet Spa.

As the warm seasons approach, you and your furry friend might feel the sting of seasonal allergies. Tenderly care for them by adding these heartwarming superfoods to their daily bowl:

• Bone Broth
• Goat’s Milk
• Green Juju Frozen Greens Toppers
• Cooling proteins (Rabbit, Duck, Mackerel, Cod, Sardine)
• Functional Mushrooms (Reishi, Shiitake, Lion’s Mane, Chaga, Turkey Tail, Ashwagandha, etc)
• Fish Oil
• Probiotics
• Colostrum
• Honey

Don’t hesitate to ask our caring staff where to find these immune-boosting ingredients in our shop.

The post Combat Seasonal Allergies In Pets: Boost Their Immune System With Superfoods! first appeared on Self Serve Pet Spa.

• Lack of Transparency: Big corporations may prioritize profits over transparency, making it challenging to know the true ingredients and sourcing of your pet’s food.
• Lower Quality Ingredients: Cost-cutting measures by large corporations may lead to the use of lower-quality ingredients in pet food, potentially compromising your pet’s health. See recent findings 02/2024.
• Limited Nutritional Value: Mass-produced pet foods owned by big corporations may lack the necessary nutritional value, leading to potential health issues for your pet in the long run.
• Ethical Concerns: Some consumers may have ethical concerns about supporting large corporations that prioritize profits over animal welfare and sustainability.
• Reduced Personalization: Marketing-driven decisions by corporations may result in less personalized options for pet food, limiting choices that meet specific dietary needs or preferences.
• Risk of Recalls: Inadequate quality control and production standards in mass-produced pet foods can increase the risk of recalls due to contamination or safety issues. This is an older report from 2020 showing which companies lead the way in pounds of pet food recalled (link).
• Impact on Small Businesses: The dominance of big corporations in the pet food industry can overshadow smaller, independent pet food companies, limiting consumer choices and diversity in the market.
• Environmental Impact: Large-scale production methods employed by big corporations may have a significant environmental impact, including resource depletion, pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions.
• Conflict of Interest: When a company owns both veterinary clinics and pet food companies, it can lead to a conflict of interest where recommendations at the clinic may be influenced by the products the company sells, potentially compromising the quality of care provided to pets.

Who owns your pet food 2023/2024?

1. Nestle; 2022 Earnings $19.38 Billion
   1. Purina: Beneful, Beyond, Purina One, Bakers, Lily’s Kitchen, Terra Canis, Alpo, Fancy Feast, Felix, Friskie’s, Cat Chow, Dentalife, Kit and Kaboodle, Chef Michael’s, Zukes, Pioneer Woman
   2. Castor & Pollux: Organix & Merrick
   3. Land O Lakes: Purina Livestock Feeds and Horse Feed
2. Mars; 2022 Earnings $19.5 Billion
   1. PEDIGREE, Waltham Center for Pet Nutrition, WHISKAS, ROYAL CANIN, Acana, Little Cesar, Chappie, CRAVE, Craemier, Greenies, Eukanuba, Iams, James Wellloved, KITEKAT, Lovebug!, Misfits, Temptations, Nom Nom, Nutro Nutrition, Orijen, Peewee, Sheba, Dreamies
   2. Horse: Buckeye, Spillers, Winergy
   3. Veterinary Clinics: VCA Veterinary Clinics, Banfield Pet Hospital
3. Colgate-Palmolive; 2022 Earnings $3.7 Billion
   1. Hills Science Diet, Hills Prescription Diet, Science Diet, Prescription Diet, Ideal Balance, Healthy Advantage
4. Schell & Kampeter – Diamond; 2022 Earnings $1.5 Billion
   1. Diamond, Diamond Naturals, Taste of the Wild, Nutra Nuggets, Professional+, Diamond Pro89, Diamond CARE, Diamond Naturals Grain-Free, Nutra-Gold
   2. Co-pack: Kirkland (Costco), 4Health (Tractor Supply), Chicken Soup for the Soul Pet Food, Canidae, Solid Gold (some), many more.
5. Post Holdings, Inc (purchased 14 brands in 2023)
   1. Rachel Ray Nutrish, Nature’s Recipe, 9Lives, Kibbles ‘n Bits, Gravy Train, Perfection Pet Foods
6. General Mills; 2022 Earnings $2.3 Billion
   1. Blue Buffalo, Blue Wilderness, Blue Freedom, Blue Basic, Life Protect, Blue True Solution, Blue Natural Veterinary Diet

USA-based information. Brands change owners. Private companies often sell out to bigger corporations. 

Switch to one of our independent pet food brands and see the difference in less than 60 days!

The post Shocking Truth: Could a Marketing Company Be Behind Your Pet’s Food? first appeared on Self Serve Pet Spa.

Everyday Stuff

These are the “don’t forget to get” items!

• Collar – Collars are a stylish way to express your dog’s personality, and a place to attach their tag.
• 4/6ft leash – Learning to walk on a leash will expand your puppy’s world and allow walks, a great form of enrichment and exercise.
• Harness – A harness is the safest and most comfortable tool for a dog to walk in.
• Dog ID Tag – ID tags are the best way to ensure that if your pup gets lost and picked up by someone else, the finders can contact you.
• Toys – Puppies need to play! Using toys to tug, fetch, or chew enriches your dog and burns energy.
• Poop bags – Anywhere you take your puppy, they may poop. Cleaning up after them is easy with leak proof bags.

Food & Treats

Good nutrition is a major part of overall health & avoiding hefty vet bills. Start now, don’t wait until your puppy has health problems – preventive medicine is the best medicine!

• Food – Healthy, natural food leads to a healthy, thriving puppy. Feed a healthy diet to prevent instead of trying to fix them. We have you covered with raw pet food, lightly cooked food, freeze dried, dehydrated, wet and kibble! See our list of brands!
• Food bowl – Stainless steel is the safest material to feed your puppy out of.
• Water bowl – Make sure to provide fresh, clean water to your puppy at all times.
• Pumpkin/Goat’s milk – Puppies may get tummy aches. An extra boost of fiber and/or pre and probiotics can help “firm things up” on their way out if needed.
• Treats – the most effective way to train a dog is using treats; bonus points if they’re healthy!
• Bones/Chews – Chewing raw bones allows dogs to scrape the plaque off their own teeth, and they are also a healthy and tasty treat.

Grooming

Every dog needs to be groomed in order to be healthy and avoid excessive shedding.

• Self Serve Pet Spa – do it all here!
• Shampoo – Dogs need shampoo created specifically for dogs, otherwise they may have a reaction.
• Dog brush/comb – Depending on your dog’s coat, it’s ideal to brush them daily or weekly to keep the coat clean and shiny.
• Nail clippers – Teaching a puppy to accept a nail trim at a young age is the easiest way to avoid problems with it as an adult dog.
• Ear cleaner – Removing dirt and buildup from the ears is important to avoid ear infections.

Dental

It is very important to keep your pet’s teeth healthy and clean. Periodontal disease is very common and can lead to other issues.

• Raw marrow bones – Nature’s natural toothbrush! Studies have shown they work, this includes raw bones and feeding a raw pet food diet!
• Toothbrush/Toothpaste – These are ideal for removing plaque and tartar buildup, and important to introduce to puppies at a young age. Using toothpaste freshens breath and cleans teeth.
• Dental treats – Dental treats should be given once daily, can help prevent plaque buildup and lessen what you must brush clean.

Training

Training is best started as a puppy

• Kennel/Crate – Most dogs will, at some point, need to be in a kennel for some reason or another; introducing it as a puppy familiarizes the experience and takes away the fear. Need help getting it home? Order it online and get it delivered!
• Dog bed – A private spot of their own is important to any dog; additionally, a “place” command can help a puppy learn to relax in their own space.
• Treat pouch – Treat pouches provide easy access to the best reinforcer.
• Bitter Apple – Bitter Apple is a sour spray you can apply to just about anything you don’t want your puppy to put in their mouth.

Cleanup

Dogs don’t clean up after themselves!:

• Carpet cleaner – Accidents happen; carpet cleaner will make cleaning up after them much easier.
• Pee pads – Puppies have small bladders, so many cannot make it through the night without going out. Pee pads prevent you from going outside in the middle of the night.
• Pooper scooper – cleaning up the backyard poop is made easier with a scooper

Did you adopt this puppy from a local rescue or shelter? Bring your adoption papers for a free wash and ask us about your free adoption basket!

The post Discover Comprehensive Puppy Supplies with Our Expert Guidance first appeared on Self Serve Pet Spa.

Sample Service Fee Applied Towards Next Purchase: Your sample service fee can be seamlessly applied towards your next purchase as a credit, making it a win-win situation!

Customized Experience: Have specific needs for your furry friend? No worries! Simply leave a note when checking out, and our team will go above and beyond to fulfill your requirements.

Benefits of Feeding Better: We believe in the power of quality nutrition for your pets. Here’s why feeding better makes all the difference:

• Feed Less: Quality nutrition means your pet gets more nutrients with less food.
• Healthier, Shinier Skin and Coat: Witness the transformation with a radiant coat that reflects optimal health.
• Reduce Itching and Body Odor: Say goodbye to excessive itching and unpleasant odors. Your dog will smell fresh and clean!
• Less Shedding: Keep your home cleaner with reduced shedding, thanks to a balanced diet.
• Enhanced Activity Levels and Mood: Watch your furry friend thrive with increased energy and a happier disposition.
• Preventative Health Benefits: By feeding better, you could potentially reduce or even eliminate common issues like ear infections.

Give your beloved pets the gift of better nutrition and experience the remarkable benefits firsthand! Try our sample service today and embark on a journey towards a healthier, happier pet!

The post Discover Your Pet’s Favorites: Try a Sample Delivered or Pick Up In-Store! first appeared on Self Serve Pet Spa.

Wellness Point Two

Natural Cat Food

Our natural cat food contains no by-products, corn, wheat, or soy. Crafted from high-quality, whole-food ingredients, it offers easily digestible nutrients. Opting for natural cat food promotes long-term health, reducing the risk of obesity and diabetes. It’s a testament to your commitment to your cat’s well-being.

Raw Cat Food

Raw cat food emphasizes whole-food ingredients and high moisture content, offering various benefits:

• Superior Nutrition: Delivering essential nutrients in their most bioavailable form, promoting optimal health.
• Allergen-Free: Avoiding common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy to reduce allergic reactions.
• Enhanced Hydration: Supporting hydration crucial for urinary tract health and overall well-being.
• Improved Digestive Health: Promoting healthy digestion and nutrient absorption with easily digestible ingredients.
• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of obesity-related issues..

Choosing raw cat food reflects a commitment to their well-being, ensuring they thrive with every meal.

Freeze-Dried Cat Food

Freeze-dried cat food offers a convenient and nutritious option to raw food. Raw food is freeze-dried, preserving nutrients without moisture. No refrigeration needed; simply add water, wait, and serve. It’s an easy way to provide a balanced meal.

Canned Cat Food

Canned food offers various flavors to meet your cat’s needs while keeping high moisture. It has a long shelf life and easy storage, making feeding hassle-free. Open, portion, and serve for a balanced meal every time.

Kibble (Dry Cat Food)

Natural Kibble may not offer all the advantages of raw cat food, it still provides several benefits for feline health and well-being:

• Convenience: Easy to store and feed, suitable for busy schedules.
• Nutrition: Formulated for complete health with essential nutrients.
• Cost-Effective: More affordable than raw food, suitable for multiple cats.

While natural kibble may not replicate the benefits of a raw diet entirely, our kibble still offers a convenient and nutritionally sound option for cat owners looking to provide their pets with a healthy and balanced diet.

Wellness Point Three

Cat Supplements

Explore the vital advantages of natural cat supplements. More than just products, they are essential for your cat’s holistic health. Incorporating these supplements provides crucial support for immune function, digestion, joint health, and skin and coat. Some also offer emotional benefits, promoting calmness and reducing stress. Understanding their importance empowers informed decisions for your cat’s well-being.

The post Cat Wellness: Premium Diets, Supplements, Gear first appeared on Self Serve Pet Spa.