Our pets are part of our families, so naturally we want to make thoughtful choices about the food, treats, supplements, and other products we bring into their lives.
When shopping for products that help our pets, it is always a good idea to look beyond the front of the package and read the ingredient list, directions, and intended use. Product labels can sometimes be confusing, and learning more about what we buy can help us make better-informed decisions for the animals we love.
For me, caring for animals is very personal. My pets have always been much more than animals living in my house. Each one has a personality, habits, and a completely different way of communicating.
The Animals Who Have Filled My Home With Love
Zeus
Zeus had his own special way of talking to me. He would let me know when it was time for breakfast, when he wanted to go outside, and when he was ready to play.
My husband trained Zeus as my service dog, and over the years we developed an incredibly close bond. He became very attentive to changes in my behavior and knew when I needed him nearby.
Zeus was more than a pet to me. He was my companion, protector, and an important part of our family. Sometimes I used to joke that one day he was going to start talking to me like a human because he already seemed to understand so much.
Joey
Joey—well, Joey is a mess!
He definitely knows how to tell me when he is ready for breakfast, and he even watches television. He will sit beside me and watch an entire movie.
Joey seems to have a different bark for every situation. He lets us know when someone is coming up the driveway, when he notices something unusual outside, when he has treed a squirrel or possum, and even when he is ready for bed or simply wants attention.
Life is rarely boring with Joey around.
Starr — My Kitty Kat
My daughter first spotted Starr in a tree. She climbed up, brought her down, and suddenly we had a tiny six-week-old kitten.
Of course, I kept her.
Starr is very timid around people she doesn’t know, so visitors may never see her. With me, however, she is completely different. She gives me plenty of love and attention, crawls all over me, and sleeps on top of me.
When I roll over during the night, she simply walks across me until I settle into another position and then finds herself another comfortable spot.
Cats can sometimes be difficult to read, but Starr certainly knows how to let me know when she wants affection.
Paying Attention to Our Pets
Because animals can’t tell us exactly what they’re feeling, we learn to pay attention to changes in their behavior, appetite, energy, and everyday habits.
Digestive issues are one example. Anyone who has been in the room after a dog passes gas knows just how quickly everybody can suddenly decide they need some fresh air!
Occasional gas can happen for many reasons, including diet and eating habits. Persistent gas, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, pain, or other unusual symptoms should be discussed with a veterinarian.
As I continue learning about products that help our pets, I like to look at what each product is designed to do and whether it makes sense for my animals.
Learning About Products That Help Our Pets: byom
One product I discovered while looking into digestive wellness is byom.
byom is promoted as a product designed to support digestive and gut wellness. If you are considering a supplement for your pet, take the time to review the manufacturer’s current directions and ingredients and make sure the particular product is intended for animals.
It is also a good idea to talk with your veterinarian before adding a new supplement to your pet’s routine, particularly if your animal has an existing health condition, takes medication, or is experiencing ongoing digestive problems. Learn more about byom here.
Wellness Products for the People Who Love Them
Taking care of our animals also reminds us that we need to take care of ourselves. I have explored several wellness products for my own daily routine and have shared more information about them elsewhere on Freedom By Wendy.
- BRAN: Learn more about this wellness product and how it is designed to complement an everyday wellness routine.
- byom: Explore additional information about digestive and gut wellness.
- tuün: Learn about this wearable product and the ideas behind its design.
These products should be used according to the manufacturer’s current instructions. A product intended for people should not automatically be given to a dog, cat, or other animal unless the manufacturer specifically identifies it for that use and your veterinarian considers it appropriate.
Give Them the Best Life We Can
Our animals depend on us for food, shelter, attention, exercise, companionship, and care. In return, they give us something that is difficult to put into words.
Every animal has a personality of its own. Zeus, Joey, and Starr have certainly shown me that.
Whether you are researching pet food, treats, supplements, toys, or other products that help our pets, take a little time to read labels, research unfamiliar ingredients, follow product directions, and ask your veterinarian questions when something doesn’t seem right.
The goal isn’t to buy every new product we discover. It is to learn, make informed choices, and give the animals we love the happiest and healthiest lives we can.
We are always discovering and sharing new ideas at Freedom By Wendy. If you would like to learn more about the resources, products, and benefits available through our community, contact us here.
This page is for general informational purposes and is not veterinary or medical advice. Products and supplements are not substitutes for appropriate professional care.