In the world of pet food, convenience often overrides quality. But, when it comes to our fresh-cooked pet meals, dog and cat owners seeking natural, nutrition-focused meals for their furry companions have healthy options that help their pets thrive.

And that’s why we’re thrilled to be the recipients of funding from The City of Toronto’s Retail Accelerator program — it offered not just a $10,000 micro-grant, but also access to invaluable retail training, advisory services and mentorship that is helping Tom&Sawyer reach even more pets. 

With this support, we jumped at the chance to reconnect to our roots and reinvest in Leslieville as sponsors for various local community events, including the Leslieville Beer Fest and the Riverside Dog Lover’s Market. These fun, community-based — and dog-friendly! — initiatives not only highlight our quality pet food meals, but also give pet owners access to our in-house animal nutritionist and other knowledgeable team members who are part of this very community.

For more information about Tom&Sawyer and the Retail Accelerator Program, click here.

Bone broth for dogs and cats can offer a number of nutritional benefits to your furry friends. In fact, over the past few years, bone broth has gained popularity as a valuable addition to your pet’s diet, offering a wealth of essential nutrients. In this article, we will explore the evidence-based advantages of bone broth and why it is a beneficial choice for your dog or cat.

What is Bone Broth?

Bone broth is a nutrient-rich liquid derived from simmering bones, vegetables, and herbs in water for an extended period. The slow cooking process allows the bones to release their beneficial nutrients, resulting in a flavourful and nutritious broth. At Tom&Sawyer, we source our meaty bones from local, Ontario farms that prioritize humane and ethical practices, ensuring that the animals are raised without hormones or antibiotics.

Nutritional Composition of Bone Broth:

Bone broth is a powerhouse of essential nutrients that cater to the specific needs of cats and dogs. It’s important to note that there will be variations in the nutrient profiles of certain bone broths depending on the ingredients that are used.

Let’s delve into the major components of bone broth:

1. Collagen and Gelatin:

Through the simmering process, collagen in the bones is transformed into gelatin. Gelatin contains amino acids, such as glycine and proline, which could contribute to healthy skin, coat, joint health, digestion, immune function, and tissue repair.

2. Glucosamine and Chondroitin:

Bone broth naturally contains glucosamine and chondroitin, known to enhance joint health and mobility. These compounds have previously been studied for their effects on joint health for pets with arthritis.

3. Water Content:

The high water content of bone broth helps maintain proper hydration in pets, particularly during hot weather or recovery from illness. Adequate hydration is crucial for optimal organ function, digestion, and overall well-being.

Benefits of Bone Broth for Dogs and Cats:

1. Digestive Health:

The gelatin in bone broth can promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and strengthens the intestinal lining, contributing to a healthy digestive system. This is particularly beneficial for pets with sensitive stomachs, food allergies, or digestive disorders.

2. Joint Health:

The presence of glucosamine, chondroitin, and collagen in bone broth supports joint health, and have been shown to aid in alleviating symptoms of arthritis and other joint-related issues. Regular consumption could improve mobility and comfort, especially in senior pets.

3. Skin & Coat Health:

Amino acids like glycine and proline found in bone broth play a vital role in maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat. They support collagen production, enhancing skin elasticity and coat strength. Adding bone broth to your pet’s diet reduces dryness, itchiness, and promotes a healthy, lustrous coat.

4. Hydration and Immune Support:

Bone broth acts as a flavourful way to keep your pet hydrated, particularly if they are picky drinkers. Proper hydration is essential for organ function and immune system support. The added nutrients in bone broth boost your pet’s immune system and overall health.

Incorporating Bone Broth into Your Pet’s Diet:

Introduce bone broth gradually into your pet’s diet, starting with small amounts mixed with their regular food. Monitor their response and increase the portion size over time.

Consider serving bone broth alone as a refreshing drink or pouring it over your pet’s regular meals as a delicious topper. This works especially well for encouraging picky eaters to dig in to their food!

To add bone broth to your pup’s daily enrichment, consider freezing bone broth into ice cubes or adding to a food toy (like a kong) and freezing for extended enrichment!

Bone broth offers a wealth of nutritional benefits for both dogs and cats. From supporting digestive health to promoting joint mobility and maintaining a healthy coat, bone broth is a valuable addition to your pet’s diet. We always recommend consulting with your veterinarian before introducing any new food, and responsibly incorporate bone broth to contribute to your pet’s overall well-being and happiness.

Add Tom&Sawyer’s Beef or Chicken Bone Broths to your pet’s meals here. 

As a pet parent, ensuring your dog is healthy and happy should top your list of priorities. This means nurturing not only their physical well-being but also mental health. Stick around and we’ll discuss some easy and unexpected ways you can actively contribute to your dog’s overall wellness.

Nutritious Meals: Tailoring Diet to Maximize your Pooch’s Wellness

Feeding your dog more than just leftovers from lunch is crucial for their health. Each breed, age, and size of a dog requires a different diet so identifying what’s best can be a challenge. What works for puppies might not suit old-timers.

To maintain their overall wellbeing, aim for food high in nutrients like vitamins A and E, calcium, Omega-3 fatty acids, and protein. If you’re unsure where to start or how much to feed them, consulting with an experienced vet can make all the difference.

Unlocking the Power of Supplements for Your Dog’s Health

We’ve just talked about nutrition, but do dogs need vitamins, and can they get everything they need from their food?

Well, the answer is yes, they certainly do, and in fact adding supplements to your pet’s diet can boost their immune system and promote overall health, just as it does for us owners.

There are numerous kinds of supplements available, ones specifically formulated for bones and joints, digestion, skin and coat health or simply multivitamins containing a balanced mix of essential micronutrients.

Once again, every dog is unique so you’ll want to tailor these extras based on age, breed and any disease predispositions. Always remember to speak to your vet before adding any new supplement.

Mental Health Matters: Looking After Your Canine’s Emotional Wellbeing

Don’t underestimate the importance of your dog’s mental health. Animals too can experience stress, anxiety and even depression. Spend quality time with them daily, adopting a combination of active play, training sessions and quiet cuddles to keep them on an even keel.

Also, try not to drastically change their routine, as dogs thrive on predictability. When they’re secure in what’s expected from them, this significantly reduces stress levels.

And don’t forget those trips to new places for fresh sights and smells! It stimulates their minds, keeping them alert and content.

Of course if your dog boosts your own mental health, then getting the assistance of Emotional Pet Support to secure a written prescription letter to let you take your animal with you on public transport is worthwhile. It’s an example of how we have a symbiotic relationship with our pets.

Staying Sleek: The Role of Grooming in Fido’s Holistic Health

When it comes to grooming, more than just keeping your dog looking tidy is the goal. Regular brushing helps to remove loose hairs, dirt and parasite presence while promoting blood circulation for healthier skin. Also, bath times serve as an opportunity to check for any underlying skin issues hiding beneath their coat.

Meanwhile, choosing natural dog grooming products ensures you’re not subjecting your pet’s delicate skin to harsh chemicals, causing irritation or triggering allergies. In short, a well-groomed dog is a comfortable and happy one, so make this essential care routine count.

Exercise Essentials: Balancing Activity Levels for Healthy Dogs

For a dog, physical activity is more than just a fun pastime, as it’s crucial to their well-being. Regular exercise can help prevent weight gain, support healthy joints and promote mental stimulation. Just remember that the amount and type of exercise should be adjusted according to your pet’s breed, age and health status. Some dogs are more active than others.

Create an optimal balance with interactive games like fetch or tug inducing both mental and physical engagement to prevent boredom-related behavior issues. Through this approach you’ll have a healthier (and happier) best friend.

The Secret Life of Playtime: Physical and Psychological Benefits

People often underestimate the importance of play in a pet’s life. However, those interactive sessions with their favorite chew toy or classic games are doing more than just amuse them.

Playtime contributes to your dog’s physical health by keeping them active and agile, supporting heart health and weight management.

On the psychological front, it promotes mental stimulation which keeps dogs sharp well into their senior years. Most importantly, play strengthens the bond between you two, making these moments essential for their overall sense of happiness.

Regular Vet Visits as Key to Prevention and Early Detection

Many pet owners only visit the vet for vaccinations or when something seems amiss. However, regular health checks are crucial in preventative care and early detection of potential issues.

Your vet will monitor weight, vital signs and perform various tests to ensure your furry friend is in good shape. They can also provide personalized advice on diet or exercise based on breed, age or other specific conditions your dog might have. Yes, that means more trips to the clinic but it’s a small price for a healthier, happier pup.

Wrapping Up

Taking care of your furry friend’s health doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. With these simple yet effective tips, you can provide the best overall care for your dog.