Veterinarian Dr. Liz Hanson Gives Tips on How to Choose SAFE Treats for Our Pets!

NEW YORK - Nov. 6, 2013 - PRLog -- One of the best parts of being a pet owner is giving our four-legged friend their favorite treat to munch on. But as a responsible owner, it’s up to us to make sure those yummy treats are safe for our dog or cat to consume. Recently, there has been an ongoing crisis involving Jerky Treats for dogs. The FDA still does not know why dogs are getting sick and in some cases, dying.

In general, treats should not make up more than 10-15% of a pet's total diet. While shopping, it may be tempting to assume that since the product is on a store shelf, it must be safe; however this is not always the case.It’s up to us to educate ourselves on what ingredients are healthy for our furry friends.

Veterinarian Dr. Liz Hanson is an outspoken advocate for the need to provide the average consumer with top quality products for their pets at affordable prices. She has conducted a list of tips that explains the best way to choose safe treats for our beloved pets!

1. Whenever possible, treats should be made in USA and made from animals raised in the USA!

NOTE: this claim can be misleading on some brands.  Many products say they are "Made" in the USA – when in fact the poultry or animal is raised abroad and then manufactured/packaged in the USA – this is where the quality can be compromised due to conflicting safety certifications/regulations.  Look for "American or USA-raised chicken" - example: Betsy Farms jerky brand (available at Walmart/Sam's Club).

2.  Start with looking at the ingredient list!

-  The ingredients are listed on the label by weight and so the first few ingredients on the list are usually the most significant and should be especially high in quality.

-  Top quality ingredients are as fresh and pure as possible.

-  The fresher ingredients available to USA food makers are grown in the USA and again, it is highly recommended to choose products from US sources.

-  Ingredients on the label should be an easily recognizable food, with no questions what the source is.  For example, you want to choose a pet treat with "chicken" as an ingredient and NOT "meat meal".

-  Organic ingredients are good because they are more scrutinized from inspectors and have less contaminants.

3.  Ingredients to avoid!

-  Artificial preservatives (ie BHA, BHT, calcium propioinate, ethoxyquin, sodium nitrate)

-  Artificial colors

-  Chemical humectants (i.e. propylene glycol).  This is often used to keep treats moist and chewy.

4.  Healthy (alternative) natural snacks!

-  Green beans, celery, cooked yams, frozen apple, kiwi, watermelon, chicken or tofu hot dog.

-  Avoid onions, garlic, grapes or raisins!

5.  Vet-approved pet treats – ALWAYS ask your vet what is safe for your dog if you have any concerns.

“There’s a lot to consider when choosing pet food and treats,” expresses Dr. Hanson, “I’ve created this list in hopes of giving pet owners peace of mind while purchasing their food. After all, we consider our pets family so it’s important to keep them healthy and safe!”

About Dr. Liz Hanson

Dr. Liz Hanson was born and raised in Southern California. After completing a B.S. degree at the University of California at Davis, she attended Colorado State University School of Veterinary Medicine. Following graduation in 1995, she moved back to Southern California and has enjoyed practicing small animal veterinary medicine in Orange County ever since. Her areas of interest include internal medicine, dermatology, soft tissue surgery, and wellness programs. The bond that is shared between a pet and its owner is what inspired Dr. Hanson to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. “One of the best parts of my job is not only when a patient is cured, but also when I see the joy an owner has when their pet is back to health!” Dr. Hanson has two miniature long-haired Dachshunds, “Peanut” and “Butter”, two leopard geckos, African cichlids, and a cat named “Martini.” When Dr. Hanson is not practicing Veterinary Medicine she and her husband enjoy watching their four sons compete in swimming and golf. She also loves to cook, read, and most of all, travel.

Dr. Hanson's first national television commercial is now airing throughout the United States on behalf of Vet IQ's Vet Guard Plus' vet-grade flea and tick protection that costs a fraction of the price of other similar protective products. In addition, Dr. Hanson has contributed to insightful articles with the Associated Press (http://bigstory.ap.org/article/5-ways-cut-doggone-pet-food-tab) and the upcoming Nov. issue of Family Circle Magazine.  Dr. Hanson was also featured on a segment of "Real Money" on ABC Television's "World News Tonight (https://box848.bluehost.com:2096/3rdparty/squirrelmail/im...) with Diane Sawyer". You may see it online on ABC Real Money here.

About Betsy Farms™

Launched in 2013, Betsy Farms™ offers a line of high-quality jerky recipe treats that dogs love. Each product is made in the U.S.A. with wholesome ingredients sourced in America (all poultry is raised in the U.S.A.). The delicious treats are available in three varieties, including chicken, duck and turkey. Each product is made with real meat and provides protein that all dogs need. The line is available exclusively at Sam’s Club and Walmart. For more information, please visit www.BetsyFarms.com.