Grain Free Dog & Cat Formulas

Interested in hearing some interesting stuff about Grain-Free dog and cat foods? Check out this short video from Dick and Jimmy Van Patten:

Natural Balance Alpha Formulas with Dick and Jimmy Van Patten from Natural Balance on Vimeo.

ALPHA: Grain-Free Nutrition for Dogs & Cats

***Please note: this is NOT a paid post.

Regular readers of this blog know that I work for Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance Pet Foods. We make what I believe are the finest quality foods and treats for dogs and cats. I'm excited about a new product line we just launched called 'Alpha'. I helped work on this, which is why I'm so psyched to see it now at petco stores. It is all-natural, completely grain-free line of food, with moderate protein levels using high multiple quality protein sources. Each formula includes prebiotics to maintain optimal digestion. In addition, we use garbanzo beans, which are an excellent source of protein, rich in fiber too.

So why am I writing a post on my personal blog about a product? Well because I am EXCITED ABOUT IT and also love working for a company that is genuinely interested in making all-natural pet foods that can help dogs and cats live longer, healthier lives. 

If you didn't already know, we have a well-respected zoological division that makes specialized diets for large cats, carnivorous birds, reptiles and other animals. Our team of nutritionists work closely with zoos and reserves to keep animals healthy and well nourished. If we're trusted by zoos and reserves, imagine what our pet foods can do for your dog or cat! I'm continually impressed that our company has this zoological expertise on nutrition too. I don't know of any other pet food company that has that expertise.

So yes it is true that I am writing this post to help spread the word about our newest grain-free formulas; I'm also doing it because I helped work on this project and an excited to see it finally online at petco.com and in petco stores nationwide. If you have a chance, check it out and let me know what you think! Or better yet try a bag for your dog or cat. Click this banner below to read more:

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Book Review: Barkonomics, tips for frugal fidos

Working in the pet industry for the past 14 years, I've had direct experience with just about every category of pet supplies and pet foods on the market today. I've worked closely with manufacturers, nutritionists, vets and experts who develop, formulate and bring some amazing pet products to consumers. I know first hand the development costs of such endeavors, and I can tell you it can be very expensive to bring a product to market. That's just one reason why the cost of pet supplies can be surprisingly high when you have your first experience shopping for a new pet. 

Shelters and animal rescue groups do great job explaining the potential costs to care for a healthy pet annually. Depending on the size of the pet, it can range anywhere from $400 to $800 per year, at a minimum. For some pet parents that can be a burden. Shelters disclose that so newly adopted pets are not abandoned when the consumer realizes how much the basics can cost.

There are a number of great books available about caring for your pet. One relatively new title is 'Barkonomics: tips for frugal fidos' written by Paris Permenter and John Bigley, the team from DogTipper.com


When I attended BarkWorld Expo last year I saw first hand how well revered DogTipper.com is among pet bloggers and passionate pet parents. I've been following Dog Tipper on Twitter for some time, when they announced their new book it caught my interest. I wrote to one of the authors and invited her to be a guest on The Palm Springs Savant & Co radio show. (In full disclosure, they provided a complimentary copy of 'Barkonomics' to read before the show.) My radio show tends to attract a number of pet people, so I knew that the topic of finding ways to save money to better afford pet care would be a popular segment.

Barkonomics is a handy reference book, boasting more than 300 ways to save money in pet care and supplies. It includes everything from Do It Yourself ideas, finding coupons in e-newsletters form your favorite pet retailers, to stretching your pet shampoo. 

The one chapter I diverge from is on making your own dog food. It is a popular topic among message boards and many blogs, so I fully understand why they included this section in their book. While dog food is not rocket science, in my opinion it can be risky to feed a dog a homemade food long-term. Regular readers of this blog know that I work for Natural Balance, so of course I am partial to recommending our brand of dog food. A home made meal snack here or there is fine, but in my opinion- for your dog's primary meal, feed an all-natural, complete and balanced, nutritionally complete pet food available in a pet specialty store. I believe it is the best way to know it has everything your dog will need to remain healthy. To their credit, the authors provide tips on how to find deals on pet food, so you can still save money if you are a smart shopper!

Barkonomics has a well organized Table of Contents and Appendix that make this a valuable book to have on hand. I especially liked the section on Training and Exercise.

I applaud the authors for taking a responsible stand offering the 'Five Dog Expenses to Never Cut', which are: 1. Spay & Neuter, 2. Quality Dog Food, 3. Core vaccines, 4. Heartworm Preventative, and 5. Annual Health Exam.

Barkonomics is available for purchase on Amazon.com, other online bookstores or through DogTipper.com or local independent bookstores.

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Simple Pleasures of Being Home

This morning I woke up with someone's paw sticking in my back. Sheldon had stretched out like a person during the night and made himself completely comfortable. His arms were out straight across, reaching toward my spine. Duncan, in the meantime had also extended his legs the length of the bed and had his head on the pillow. His face was turned toward me, ears spread out lavishly, with his eyes closed. Then there was Owen, curled up at my feet, snoozing away. A collection of their favorite plush toys were strewn haphazardly on the bed; they must have brought them to bed when I had fallen asleep earlier- so cute, I thought to myself. I was sort of stuck into a position in my own bed, but when I glanced at the three of the kids all happily resting together, I realized once again how good it was to be home. I gazed out the window watching the palm trees sway in the gentle morning breeze. The first light of sunrise was breaking on the beautiful San Jacinto mountains, spreading hues of pink and orange. I smiled broadly and counted my blessings for the wonderful life I have, grateful that I recognize the simple pleasures of home.
-Rick Rockhill

The News....Part II

A few days ago I wrote a post entitled The News...Part I. Today is the follow up: "The News...Part II", rather appropriately entitled, don't you think? Anyway, now for the rest of the story, as they say. News of my departure from Pet Co spread quickly within the pet industry. My phone rang all weekend long with calls from a variety of well-wishers, and some folks just curious about the rumor of me leaving. I can honestly say that over the past 25 years of my retail career, I've enjoyed working in the pet industry the most. Although, I really do miss the confectionery (chocolate) industry a great deal, but let's face it, having a dog or cat in your life is far more fulfilling than a box of chocolates. As I mentioned in Part I, the nifty part of this transition is that although I am changing employers, I will remain part of the pet industry- in particular the pet specialty industry. Pet specialty stores are the best place to buy food and stuff for your pet, so remember that the next time you need something for your kitty cat or dog. Don't be fooled by those slick brands in the grocery store or giant mart store, they don't carry foods that offer the best nutrition. Speaking of nutrition, perhaps its time I share the news of where I am headed. I am excited to share that I will be working for Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance Pet Foods. Now if you followed my posts about the Rose Parade, you may recall that Natural Balance is the company who had the cool float with the snowboarding bulldogs. Don't worry, I won't turn my personal blog into a advertisement for Natural Balance. But I won't be shy about it either. Honestly there are a lot of really great quality natural pet foods, if you ever want my personal opinion for your pet's diet send me an e-mail. I know just about every brand there is, and I'll give you my objective opinion. I'm excited about going to work for Natural Balance. I'm excited to carry on the mission of promoting the highest quality natural foods for dogs and cats. You may have noticed that I am passionate about the topic of feeding pets the best food possible. I sincerely believe that being passionate about what you do makes all the difference. That is my big lesson learned over the past 25 years of my career. Whatever you do- be sure you LOVE IT. It has made all the difference for me. Demonstrate your passion everyday and smile. It's amazing how your energy, passion and positive attitude will affect and influence others. But here is the real secret: it can change the course of events in your own life. You may recall from The News...Part I that I mentioned reading The Mental Equivalent by Emmet Fox. I learned that when you think positive thoughts and exude positive energy, it will bring good luck and good karma. I hope you can apply these little tips to your life.
-Rick Rockhill

Free Pet Nutrition Workshop Sat 11/14

NOTE: At work, I've been involved in the development of these pet nutrition workshops, so I decided to add a post about it on my personal blog. I hope you can attend. Just go to any PETCO store nationwide. We have over 1,000 stores in 50 states, so it shouldn't be too hard for most of you to find a PETCO store if you live in the US.

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All PETCO stores nationwide will host a free pet nutrition workshop facilitated by specially trained in-store nutrition experts on Saturday, November 14 at 2 p.m. During the 30-minute workshop, pet parents will learn about the nutritional needs of their dogs and cats, have a chance to discuss the benefits of good pet nutrition, receive an assessment of their individual pet's nutrition needs and understand the difference between basic, premium and natural pet food categories. Pet parents who attend the event will receive educational materials and free food samples from food suppliers Natural Balance, Wellness and Halo.

WHEN: Saturday Nov. 14th at 2 p.m.
WHERE: All PETCO locations nationwide
WHY: Your pets deserve the very best nutrition to help them live longer, be healthier and happier too!
I hope you can attend this Saturday.
-Rick Rockhill

Helping Your Pets Live Longer

Today my company's blog posted an article about our Pledge to Premium Pet Nutriton. This is part of a larger goal to educate consumers about why feeding a high quality pet food can really make a difference in the quality of life of a dog or cat. As is the case with people, what you put into your body has an impact on your health and well-being. That’s why choosing a high quality premium or natural food really makes a difference over the life of your pet. Pets lives are too short as it is, so if better nutrition can help my pets live longer and have fewer health problems, I’m there! Last December it was so hard for me when we had to put down my beloved Koshimi, but he lived a long life (16 years), mainly because we always fed him a really good natural food. Which is why I feed Sheldon, Duncan and Owen one of the best quality foods available so they too can live a long life. How do you know if your pet's food is high quality? Well, just read the ingredient panel on the bag.

It should start with high a specific protein, like chicken, lamb, salmon, turkey, duck, venison, etc. Never buy a food that says something generic like “poultry” or “meat”. You should know what kind of specific protein is being used in your pet’s food.


The next ingredients should be things you recognize and understand. Look for other specific proteins, like a fish, egg, pea protein, etc. All good foods also have fat to provide energy. Most have a carbohydrate source such as rice, or potato, etc. Look for other ingredients you recognize such as flaxseed, blueberries, cranberries, tomato, eggs, etc. Most pet foods will also contain some vitamins and minerals toward the end of the ingredient list. Those help ensure it is nutritionally complete and balanced. A really high quality food should never contain any artificial preservatives, colors, flavors or chemicals. There has been lots of controversy around ingredients such as wheat, corn and soy. Unless a vet has diagnosed a specific food allergy, most pets aren’t allergic to wheat corn or soy. Technically those are not bad ingredients, but in my personal opinion I prefer a specific meat or fish protein in the first few ingredients. Anyway, that’s my opinion for those of you interested. If you want to know more, check this out.

Furry Friends are Fun

This morning I was watching the two poodles and cat run around the house like complete maniacs, chasing each other, playing and having an all-around great time together. It made me smile seeing them so happy together.At times it was like a high speed train, just blur of fur whiring past, with the occasional squeal, elongated me-ows and gentle barks as the three of them ran back and forth. Whenever I thought it was getting a bit too rowdy, I’d shout out their names and tell them to calm down. They would slam on the brakes and stare at me as if I were crazy. I could almost hear them say “Aww dad, we’re just playing!”. Just a short while later, the three of them were curled up together asleep, resting in total bliss, content with the companionship of each other. It reminded me how important companionship really is throughout the animal kingdom. Most people, dogs, cats, birds, baboons, whatever- all seek companionship. I can’t imagine our lives without a pet. When things get stressful, there is nothing like a kitty asleep in your lap to calm you down. Or being greeted by a wagging tail by a grateful dog to see you again. The stress just drains right out and makes you feel grounded again.



If you don't have the companionship of a pet today get one. You'll be amazed how much they enrich your life. The shelters have so many dogs and cats that need a good home right now, there are plenty from which to choose to meet your lifestyle and home. So don't be lonely or bored- do what the rest of the animal kingdom does, find a furry friend and snuggle!
-Rick Rockhill

Philatelic Friday: Cats on Stamps!

Welcome to another installment of my weekly Philatelic Friday series. This week's topic is Cats on Stamps! As many of you know, I have a Persian kitty named Owen who allows me to live in his home. I love to watch Owen in action. He stands guard, loves to hunt, perches like a hawk, and meows incessantly when something is on his mind. Owen is a very cuddly kitty; he frequently cuddles up in my lap, or sits on my laptop keyboard to help me blog. So it was an easy choice to feature cats as the topic for this week's post about stamps. This first feature above left is a series from Antigua & Barbuda. I thought these stamps were a fun way to kick off the post. For all you cat lovers out there, I hope you enjoy this week's post!

above: USA cat stamp

above: Thailand cat stamp

above: Comoro Island cat stamps

above: Krgyzstan cat stamp

above: Poland cat stamp

above: USA Cat in the Hat stamp

above: Finland cat stamp

above: Azerbaycan cat stamp

How was that for a nice international collection of cat stamps? Which one do you like best? C'mon, leave a message, it is FREE and EASY TOO!

-Rick Rockhill