Since most Americans are more concerned about our health than we've ever been, we should have equal concern for our pets ... especially regarding the ingredients in their food. In theory, we would want the ingredients in our pets' food to be acceptable for human consumption. If byproducts are no longer tolerated in our food, why should they be tolerated in our pets' food? We're also starting to realize that our pets need daily supplements just like we do, in order to take care of their bodies for the inevitable woes of aging. In the span of an animal's life, an early start at good health ensures less vulnerability to degenerative diseases, joints that are less likely to creak with pain and a healthier heart. We love our pets and we want them to live with us for as long as possible.

The very first thing we usually encounter as new pet owners is the issue of food. What should we snatch off the shelves and what should we run away from? Introducing a young animal to the world of food should be a very delicate and sensitive process. We must monitor closely how much food we give our new pet versus how much they are eating. We should be stringent about how quickly we increase the amount of food because we always run the risk of overfeeding.

It's also important to be weary of dyes, chemicals, artificial preservatives as much as possible. For example, BHA ... one of the most common synthetic antioxidant preservatives mainly used to prevent food discoloration and rancidity ... has been found in scientific studies to cause stomach cancer in lab rats at certain doses. In lesser doses, the preservative doesn't have a cancerous effect but there is no telling what BHA can do to the body in small doses over long periods of time.

Protein is crucial in a pet's natural development. Look for foods with whole ingredients such as meat, eggs, fish and dairy rather than byproducts. Unbleached rice is also one of the most digestible carbohydrates and supplies a wonderful source of energy for your pet. Corn and wheat, on the other hand, are much harder to digest. It's also a really good idea to look for antioxidants. In recent years, we have become much more conscious of our antioxidant intake, so why shouldn't we have the same attitude towards our pets? Free radicals also wage war on their bodies so let's fight off those rascals so that we can all live longer together!

Treats can be used to enhance the human-animal bond and to reward pets on good deeds and behavior. They're a fantastic training tool. Our whole philosophy on giving treats is that if we're going to reward our pets, why not reward their taste buds, their minds and their bodies? The idea is to bestow treats with a purpose, not just a biscuit stuffed with artificial flavor and vacant calories. Did you know that there are edible dog bones out there made with so called "edible" plastic? The companies claim this is perfectly safe. Best believe there are plenty of bones out there with other questionable ingredients.

When you are feeding premium pet food, it only makes sense to feed wholesome, premium treats and bones.