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As many pet owners look to 2016 and resolve to improve themselves physically, the same commitment should be afforded their four-legged companions.  Excess weight can lead to a variety of health issues and negatively affect your pet’s quality-of-life.  As in people, pet obesity is at epidemic levels. Start the year off by evaluating your pet’s body condition.  There are many resources available in the forms of pictures/charts that illustrate optimal body condition for your pet.  A quick hands-on evaluation can give you a reasonable idea of where they fit on those body condition scales. Pet your animal along the sides of the chest.  The ribs should be felt with a minimal amount of fat across them.  If the ribs cannot be felt, there is too much fat over them and evidence of over-condition. Excess fat tends to accumulate in the region of the tail head (area above base of tail). If there is any amount of fat accumulation in that area, chances are your pet is carrying excess weight. When viewed from the side and from above, the chest area should be wider and deeper when compared to the abdominal region.  If such a situation is not consistent with the shape of your pet’s torso it is an indication that the pet may be overweight. Your veterinarian can offer more specific evaluations and give your pet a body condition score.  If deemed overweight, a therapeutic protocol will be provided involving diet and exercise.  Always consult your veterinarian before implementing any feeding or exercise regimens for your pet to ensure that such plans are in the best interest of your companion. Some things to remember:  When measuring the amount of dry food to feed, make sure a "cup" is indeed a measuring cup (your veterinarian can supply you one).  Many times owners will say they feed “only a cup of food” but that cup more closely resembles a horse’s scoop than a measuring cup. Keep in mind that in many instances, feeding recommendations on bags may be generous.  They are ranges only and may be based on feeding trials on intact animals.  Neutered pets require much fewer calories.  When increasing the amount of exercise you pet will receive and after consulting with your veterinarian, implement such increases gradually to avoid causing undue musculoskeletal discomfort or injury.  Take into account your pet’s breed, heat tolerance, and past level of physical activity.  With increased activity, your pet’s body will be experiencing more stress and strain so consider adding a product to support healthy joints. As with people, excess snacking may increase daily caloric intake to unhealthy levels.  If you must provide treats, consider a piece of their normal kibble or healthy snacks like green beans. Optimal body condition is a key component to a healthy lifestyle for your pet.  As many resolve with the new year to improve themselves in some facet of their life, it is a great time to make sure that we are being the best caretakers we can be to our four-legged family members.

When assessing whether or not you have a sick kitten or sick puppy, it is always best to err on the side of caution. In evaluating the health status of a puppy or kitten, some things to consider:  Attitude Is your puppy/kitten bright and alert? Does he appear active and playful or dull and depressed? Signs of potential illness could include excessive sleeping and/or no desire for activity. The ears should be erect and bright and a wagging tail is always a positive sign he feels good.   Appearance How does your puppy/kitten look? Examine the gums to determine if they are the normal pink color, as pale gums could indicate anemia from parasites. The coat should be bright and shiny – a dull, unkempt coat is indicative of an animal that is not in good health.   Appetite Is your puppy/kitten eating well? Growing animals have significant caloric requirements to meet the needs of development, and a puppy/kitten with no interest in food should be a strong indication that all is not well. Chewing slowly (or not at all), turning his nose up at food, or not approaching the bowl when called should be concerning.   Eliminations Are the eliminations of your pet normal? Signs of a sick puppy or sick kitten may be characterized by loose, runny stools or vomiting. Stools should be well-formed with no signs of blood, mucous, or parasites. Vomiting of any kind should create a sense of concern. Frequency of defecation and urination should be assessed for signs of increase episodes. Urinating frequently or in small amounts could be consistent with illness of the urinary tract. Straining to defecate with little or no fecal material produced could indicate constipation. A healthy puppy or kitten should be active and alert throughout most of the day with priorities on eating, playing, making a mess, or napping. If your new pet is behaving otherwise, you should take him to the veterinarian so they can assess the issue. 

Here are a few basic things to consider when your adult dog or cat (or puppy or kitten) is not eating: Degenerative conditions such as arthritis can cause pain and discomfort, affecting the quality of your pet’s life and making eating not a high priority. In older animals, cardiac and kidney disease will greatly affect food intake. Basic management should always be addressed for issues contributing to a poor appetite. Has there been a food change or change in the time or location of regular feedings? Pets are creatures of habit so any disruption can cause them to not want to eat. Are the food and water bowls clean? Has the day-to-day routine in the household changed? Anxiety may affect the appetite. In multi-pet households, assure that all are getting access to food and water bowls. Assess the frequency and amount that your pet is drinking. Excessive drinking and urination could be indicative of a metabolic condition. Such conditions may detrimentally affect the appetite. The character of the stool should be monitored closely as diarrhea may also indicate internal factors causing your pet to not eat. In older pets, cancer can be a significant concern. Examine your animals frequently for any lumps or bumps as they may indicate a significant problem.  A swollen abdomen or increased coughing should be evaluated immediately. Often dry gums and warm-to-the-touch ears can indicate an elevated body temperature, and fevers could be a signal that your pet has an infection. A higher than normal temperature is the immune system’s way of fighting infection more effectively. As with pet owners, fever can cause less than normal food intake. Check your environment closely when your pet is not eating. Puppies and kittens especially may chew and or ingest improper items. Look for evidence of dietary indiscretion, especially if exposure to toxins is possible. Dog not eating? Cat not eating? A good appetite is a major indication of sound physical status of your pet. Especially in younger animals, any evidence that eating and drinking is not adequate should be evaluated immediately through consultation with your veterinarian.

What can my pets eat this holiday season? Can dogs eat apples? Are poinsettias poisonous to cats? Are grapes bad for dogs? Tomlyn veterinarian, Dr. Jim Lowe, will answer some of the season’s most popular pet parent questions. Unlike people, the gastrointestinal tract of animals is not evolved to need a different type of meal multiple times a day as humans are accustomed to. The pH and microbial flora within a dog or cat’s gut is customized to digesting and assimilating the nutrients contained in a consistent ration. That being said, it is the season to be merry and we wish to have our pet family members participate in the joys of the holidays. For many, that includes holiday treats for their four-legged companions. Adding any treat to your pet’s normal diet should be done in moderation and slowly. Moderation may also prevent potential gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea and vomiting.    Foods to Enjoy Foods to Avoid Most berries Citrus fruits Vegetables (cooking them helps digestion) Grapes and raisins Apples (remove seeds) Garlic and onions Whole wheat bread Avocados Bananas and most fruits Processed, pre-packaged fatty treats Cooked, lean meats Table scraps and fatty meats “While not a food, it should be emphasized that dogs and cats should not have access to poinsettias which contain sap that can be very irritating to the oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract,” said Dr. Lowe.   New treats, abrupt changes in diets, or dietary indiscretions can disrupt the pet’s gastrointestinal environment and cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting and diarrhea. Xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in candy, gum, mints, toothpaste and mouthwash, can be extremely dangerous if consumed by dogs, so be sure to keep holiday candies out of paws’ reach. One simple solution is to create a pet treat jar in the kitchen, containing the dry food that your pet normally eats.  By reaching into that jar, feeding a piece of kibble, acknowledging the pet, and creating in them the perception that they are getting something off the counter, you may create a perfect way to treat your companion and include him in the celebration. Happy Holidays to you and your pets from the Tomlyn family! 

A…anxiety related to noise B…barking excessively when crated C…coping with new challenges D…disturbances to normal routine E…electrical storms F…fireworks G…going on road trips H…household destruction I…interactions with visitors J…jumping on visitors K…kenneling/boarding L…loud noises M…moving to new home N…nausea associated with car rides O…open houses P…parties during the holidays Q…quiet excessive barking with your dog R…road trips S…stays in hotels T...travel anxiety on airplanes U…unruly behavior when stressed V…vacuum cleaner anxiety W…wash-the-dog day X…xylophone-playing family member Y…yelling and screaming neighborhood kids Z…zero ability to cope with challenges

Our four-legged companions are family members, and as such, we wish them to be included in all activities around the holiday season.  Some precautions should be taken, however, as the festive season can present new hazards in the life of your pet.  Many types of holiday décor can be dangerous to your pet.  Tinsel, straw, pine needles can provide choking hazards.  Holiday statues, table displays, pillows, etc. can be irresistible to the inquisitive pet and be choking hazards if chewed upon.   Tree ornaments can represent choking hazards or obstructions if swallowed. Bowls of treats are often placed on end tables and entry ways for holiday visitors, offering pet’s access to potentially toxic ingredients. A myriad of plants often seen around the holidays can be potentially dangerous for pets.  Poinsettias contain a sap that can be irritating to the mouth and gastrointestinal tract of dogs and cats. The Christmas cactus can cause a “thorny” issue for your companion. Pine needles can potentially cause gastrointestinal upset. Make sure the Christmas tree is secured well to a wall to avoid toppling should cats view it as the new cat condo.  Also pay attention to placement of ornaments as those dangling baubles can be seen as toys.  Protect light strands from curious pets as chewing can lead to electrical burns.  Never allow your dog or cat to have a turkey bone as they are extremely soft and can splinter easily when chewed.  This also means the trash should be kept secure from pets at all times. In the zeal to decorate for the holidays, it is easy to fail to look at your home from the perspective of your pet.  Tree location and security, access to treats, and exposure to holiday plants should all be evaluated closely to avoid potential issues during the holidays. One final thought.  While the music, the lights, the food, the visitors, and the parties are welcome and offer treasured holiday memories, not all pets enjoy this time of year.  Loud noises, bright lights, strangers, and parties can disrupt your companion’s normal routine and be a coping challenge to them.  Consider a behavioral supplement, like Tomlyn’s Relax and Calm Chews, that will address these issues so that they may enjoy the holidays as well.

One of the wonders of the holidays is the unbelievable variety (and amount) of special foods prepared to celebrate the season.  Failure to pay attention to preventing your pet’s access to these foods can cause your time of celebration to turn into a medical emergency.  The following list contains some common foods dangerous to dogs and cats.  Take note that these foods may also be found as ingredients in main dishes or be encountered by inquisitive pets investigating the trash can.  Alcohol System Affected:  Central Nervous System Toxic Agent:   Ethanol Clinical Signs:  Vomiting, diarrhea, coma, death Chocolate/Coffee System Affected:  Central Nervous System, Cardiovascular System Toxic Agent:  Methylxanthines Clinical Signs:  Abnormal heart rhythms, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures Grapes/Raisins System Affected:  Urinary Toxic Agent:  Unknown Clnicial Signs:  Vomiting, diarrhea, kidney failure Nuts System Affected:  Gastrointestinal Toxic Agent:  Oils, fats Clinical Signs:  Vomiting, diarrhea Onions System Affected:  Gastrointestinal, respiratory Toxic Agent:  Thiosulphate Clinical Signs:  Breathing difficulty, yellow gums, anemia Xylitol System Affected:  Liver Toxic Agent:  Xylitol Clinical Signs:  Vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, hypoglycemia Yeast System Affected:  Gastrointestinal Toxic Agent:  Ethanol Clinical Signs:  Bloating, alcohol intoxications (raw dough)   If you believe your pet has been exposed to any of these agents, contact your veterinarian immediately.    http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets

Want to go beyond the standard adoption?  Consider opening your home and your heart to an older dog or cat.  But their life expectancy is limited? Yes, so you have an opportunity to ensure the last part of this animal’s life is safe, secure, and filled with care. Many of them will have special needs? Exactly, and by adopting you commit to this animal’s care when it is needed most. They aren’t puppies or kittens. Obviously, and most likely do not have those habits of destruction, excessive vocalization, “accidents” in the house, and undiscovered behavioral concerns.   Geriatric dogs and cats may suffer from age-related vision or hearing loss.  With consistency in the arrangement of household furniture, even completely blind animals can navigate safely throughout the home.  Remind visitors (especially young ones) of these diminished senses when approaching your pet so as not to startle them and elicit a negative response from fear. One should consider additional padded bedding as these animals may suffer from musculoskeletal discomfort.  Take this discomfort into consideration when placing food and water bowels so as not to put these items extended lengths away from their favorite spot to rest. In addition to a senior-formulated diet, other nutritional concerns exist.  High levels of omega 3 fatty acids (fish oils) can be anti-inflammatory in nature and may support brain health.  Vitamin supplementation with antioxidants can be discussed with your veterinarian.  Adequate caloric intake is critical and can be provided with highly palatable gels. Many of these animals will have pre-existing medical conditions.  Be comfortable with frequent, regular medication administration as it is your responsibility.  Products are available as means of making administration of pills less stressful for owner and animal alike.  Check bedding frequently for soiling as older female dogs may develop incontinence.  Consider anxiety medications as older dogs may be more sensitive to changes in their environments and day-to-day challenges.  Natural products are available to provide such support.  Discuss these and any other concerns you may have with your veterinarian and then step up… and go beyond.

Tomlyn® Named 2015 CPG Editor’s Choice Award Winner by Informa’s SupplySideTomlyn Named Among Top CPG Products for Innovation and Market ImpactFort Worth, Texas(10/7/15) — Informa Exhibitions has named Pre & Probiotics by Tomlyn as one of the winners for the 2015 SupplySide CPG Editor’s Choice Awards.One 2015 consumer packaged goods (CPG) product was selected by the Supply Side editorial team for achievements in innovation and market impact in each of the 18 different categories. The Tomlyn Pre & Probiotics was namedas the winner in the Pet/Animal Supplement Category.Winners in each of the 18 categorieswere announced at SupplySide West 2015 during the SupplySide CPG Editor’s Choice Awards Presentations, set for October 7 and 8 at the Mandalay Bay Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada.For nearly 20 years, SupplySide has helped dietary supplement, food, beverage, animal nutrition, personal care and cosmetic professionals find information to explore, discover, innovate and market their next best-selling product."This year’s Editor’s Choice Awards judging saw the team narrow down the field from hundreds of products to only five on the short list in each category," said Heather Granato, vice president, content, in Informa’s Health & Nutrition Network. "The winning items stood out for bringing a combination of factors, from taste and delivery method to innovation in ingredients and cutting-edge science. They truly represent category leaders and set a high bar for next year’s program."Tomlyn’s Prebiotic and Probiotic supplements are individual packets for easy administration as wellas packaged for integrity of keeping live cells. The supplements for dogs and cats are made up of an advanced formula with more than 32 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) of probiotics per dog’s packet,16 billion CFUs per cat’s packet and added prebiotics to support the growth of beneficial bacteria. The supplements contain direct-fed microbial structures to supply beneficial microorganisms that occurnaturally in the hindgut of healthy animals with the nutrients they need to begin healthy colonies. These microorganisms include enterococcus faecium, lactobacillus and bifidobacterium breve, among others. Finally, the flavorless, odorless powder is easy to administer by mixing in with a pet’s water or foodonce per day.About TomlynTomlyn, a pet health and wellness company founded in 1976, carries a complete line of scientifically developed, veterinarian-approved pet health products. The company’s wide range of product categories range from: immune support, vitamins and supplements, hairball remedies, joint and hip support, calming aids to all-natural remedies and sanitizers. Known as the maker of Nutri-Cal® and Laxatone®, Tomlyn® is owned by the ninth-largest veterinary pharmaceutical company in the world.About SupplySide West: Hosted by Informa Exhibitions,this annual tradeshow and educational forum is the largest expo of suppliers fueling the healthy global marketplace. SupplySide West is all about the exploration, discovery, innovation and marketing strategy around the development of finished consumer goods that drive the global business economy. The 2015 show was held October 5-9at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. For more information and for future SupplySide events, pleasevisit www.supplysideshow.com.###

What is a prebiotic?A prebiotic is a compound, often a  sugar, that provides nutrition for the beneficial bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract.What is a probiotic? A probiotic is an ingested substance, often a bacteria, that provides support to the gastrointestinal tract.  Bacterial probiotics are commonly used to populate the gastrointestinal tract with healthy bacteria.Why prebiotics and probiotics?Prebiotics and probiotics are indicated for support of a healthy digestive tract.What are some specific indications for pre and probiotics?  Regular maintenance of a healthy digestive tract.  For additional support during disturbances of the gastrointestinal tract. To provide for a smooth transition from one type of food to another. When antibiotics are being administered concurrently. During periods of stress to support a healthy digestive tract (i.e. boarding, travel, etc.) Can prebiotics and probiotics be used on a daily basis?Yes.  Prebiotics and probiotics are very safe.

Why L-lysine? Lysine supplementation supports ocular and respiratory health in cats. Lysine may be used in conjunction with other supportive modalities. What is L-lysine? Lysine is an amino acid providing support for conditions responsive to lysine supplementation. Is L- lysine harmful to dogs? While not harmful, there is no indication of benefits to dogs. What are some indications for L-lysine? L-lysine is indicated for support of ocular and respiratory health in cats. Are there indications for the recommended administration levels of L-lysine to be adjusted? With flare-ups of ocular or respiratory conditions, periods of confinement, or highly stressful situations, your veterinarian may recommend an adjustment to the maintenance level of lysine being administered.? Such changes should be made only after consultation with your veterinary professional who can best assess the current health status of your pet. Can the different forms of L-lysine be used concurrently? Different administration forms of lysine can be used concurrently.? The key is to meet the daily recommended levels of lysine administration.

Dr. Jim Lowe received is Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the Texas A & M University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1995. Having practiced for eighteen years in locales from Texas to Montana, he realized that a technical services position would offer him a much broader platform to educate pet owners regarding the care of their companions. Dr. Jim Lowe received is Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the Texas A & M University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1995. Having practiced for eighteen years in locales from Texas to Montana, he realized that a technical services position would offer him a much broader platform to educate pet owners regarding the care of their companions. His duties include sales and marketing support for the Tomlyn® team as well as Vetoquinol ® USA. Dr. Lowe is married to a veterinary technician who is passionate about caring for animals. Their daughter has a love for all creatures and the family shares its home with one dog, three cats, and a multitude of aquarium fish. Q and A with Dr. Lowe: Where do you mind not waiting? Nowhere. I admit patience is not my strong suit. Who is your favorite all-time singer? George Strait. A troubadour without bells, whistles, fog machines, or laser lights. What was your first job? Grocery sacker. The tips I received kept gas in my truck. What is your favorite all-time movie scene? The final courtroom scene in A FEW GOOD MEN with Tom Cruise and Jack Nicholson “You can’t handle the truth!” A powerful exchange between two individuals with different definitions of honor. One holds honor to mean truth, the other holds it to mean security at any cost. If you could have a super power, what would it be? The power of flight. What is your favorite thing to do on an airplane? Crossword puzzles, especially if I can complete them. 15 hours on a train through a scenic route or a 1 hour plane flight? 15 hours on a train Your favorite potato chip flavor? Salt and vinegar Aside from lettuce, what are your two favorite salad ingredients? Boiled eggs and jalapenos Can you juggle? Yes

In recognition of National Preparedness Month, Tomlyn® reminds you to include your four-legged family members in your emergency plan-of-action  Food Have a 3-5 day supply of your pet’s regular diet stored in a re-sealable container.  During periods of emergency, familiarity is always comforting and will provide some assurances that your pet will maintain an adequate caloric intake. Consider pre-measuring portions in re-sealable bags should others be charged with feeding.  Write specific feeding instructions on these containers. Include a high-calorie supplement for use should feed intake be less than normal.   Water Have plastic containers of your pet’s normal water available for transport.  If stressed, an unfamiliar water source may be confusing to your pet and affect water consumption.  Do not assume that an alternative source of water, if available, will be satisfactory.   Crate/Carrier Assure that your pet’s normal carrier is in good working order.  Oftentimes, fasteners work loose or are lost all together.  Doors may have been wired in place or the carrier may need a good cleaning.  You may have to keep your companion in this carrier for a prolonged period of time and in close proximity to other evacuated pets, so assure its security to protect him. Make sure to place a familiar blanket or toy in the crate.  Again, familiarity brings comfort. For larger dogs, have an extra leash, harness, and collar ready and easily accessible.   Medications  Have a 3-5 day supply of your pet’s medications ready for transport so as not to interrupt the current regimen. Consider taping a list of these medications with administration instructions to the crate.  Make these instructions as specific as possible.  Do not assume you will be the one administering them. Discuss with your veterinarian products available to relieve stress and anxiety.   Veterinary Information  Tape your veterinarian’s contact information to the crate.  Include any allergies and/or personality traits that may be of importance should others be caring for your pet short term (i.e. “aggressive towards other dogs”, “does not like loud noises”, “scared of cars”, etc). While no one likes to think about emergencies, it is important to be ready to react swiftly and efficiently so as not to compound an unfortunate situation.   As caretakers to our four-legged companions, responsibility in any and all situations is on us.  

Pet adoption offers an opportunity to foster the human-animal bond in a unique way.  With shelters over-flowing, there exists large numbers of dogs available to meet the needs of any prospective adoptive parent.  With a few considerations, this process can go very smoothly and ensure a forever home is provided for the canine. Question one when considering adoption is deciding the type of dog one wants to adopt.  While many pure breed canines are available, one should never discount the value in mixed breed dogs.  Such animals tend to be much healthier overall due to a phenomenon called hybrid vigor.  Used primarily in the cattle industry, hybrid vigor affords crossbred animals the best traits of multiple breeds of cattle, building a thriftier individual more adapted to its environment.  Hybrid vigor also minimizes the risk of genetic anomalies or breed-specific health conditions that are seen in pure breed species, especially when indiscriminate breeding practices are in use. Consider the current lifestyle you enjoy and how a new pet will fit into that.  For example, if you are single, live in a one-bedroom apartment on the third floor of an urban complex, and work twelve-hour shifts, a Border Collie may not be the best match for you.  Full of energy, this breed needs a “job” and lots of exercise.  Failure to provide such can lead to separation anxiety and potential damage to your home.  Likewise, if you are looking for a pet to join you on long walks in the park or your jog on the beach, an English Bulldog is the wrong match, especially in hot climates.  Puppies will require many nights of interrupted sleep during the house-breaking period, so factor that into your lifestyle and requirements for rest. While often difficult to obtain, gather as much history as possible about the prospective adopted animal.  History regarding length of time in the shelter, reason for surrender, personality around people and other animals, comfort in the cage/run (especially if that will be the housing situation when you are away), are all questions that should be asked. While puppies are the most popular age group for adoption, consider an older animal.  These age groups are usually much more abundant so there are more to choose from, and many of the behavioral/health issues have already been experienced, addressed, or have passed.  Consider senior-age animals as a compassionate and loving way to assure that the remainder of these older dogs’ lives are in a peaceful and caring environment. Always calculate the added costs involved in pet ownership.  A key financial responsibility often forgotten about is the cost of veterinary care.  Avoid “sticker shock” regarding veterinary services by visiting with your prospective veterinary care provider regarding costs.  This leads back to the decision on type of dog adopted, as some breeds/age groups require more veterinary care than others.  Older dogs are more likely to suffer serious health issues with obligatory increased costs of care.  Your veterinary care provider represents a valuable source of information regarding breed specific concerns while you consider potential dogs to adopt.  Finally, make sure your home is prepared for the new arrival.  “Dog-proof” your home by making sure that he has no access to potentially toxic houseplants or foodstuffs normally kept out on the table.  Assess risks of objects falling from shelves and tables should they be bumped.   Consider closing doors to areas where access is not desired or place baby gates in doorways.  If a puppy is adopted, have many toys available to occupy his chewing time to avoid damage to personal property.  If young children are in the house, assure proper hygiene is maintained after contact with the dog. Responsibility comes with pet adoption; a responsibility to provide a caring home to animals that have often suffered in the past.  With proper planning, the past can remain just that with a safe and bright future for the human-animal bond.

Companies kick off partnership at the State Fair of Texas(FORT WORTH, TX) ––October is Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month and Tomlyn®, a North Texas based pet health and wellness company, has partnered with DFW Rescue Me, a foster-based, volunteer-run nonprofit rescue group, to bring awareness to pet adoption and the importance of keeping a new pet healthy.“We’ll be distributing goodie bags to new pet parents throughout October in hopes of spreading our passion for pet health,” said Tabitha Cromer, Marketing Manager for Tomlyn®.Each goodie bag will include four of Tomlyn®’s most popular and proven products: PILL-MASKER Paste – a bacon-flavored paste; Wheat-, Corn- and BHA-free JOINT & HIP Chews – The Medium & Large Dogs chews contain high levels of Glucosamine (900 mg), MSM (800mg), Chondroitin from Pernacanaliculus (300mg), Creatine (500mg) plus EPA, DHA & Antioxidants RELAX & CALM Chews – contain high levels of L-Tryptophan (helps with restlessness), Chamomile (calming effect on nerves), and Ginger (soothes occasional stomach issues) “It is a great opportunity to introduce new adopters to some wonderful products that will help keep their new pets happy and healthy,” said Jim Wenger, DFW Rescue Me volunteer and board member.DFW Rescue Me expects to adopt out at least 90 dogs through its presence at the State Fair of Texas®, a process that begins with an application and ends with a home visit to ensure the dog is going to an appropriate home.According to the ASPCA, approximately 3.9 million dogs enter shelters each year, and almost one-third of those dogs are euthanized. DFW Rescue Me’s mission is to have a positive impact on those numbers by finding permanent and loving homes for lost, abused and abandoned dogs, and has found homes for 2,024 dogs to date.Tomlyn®and DFW Rescue Me will begin distributing goodie bags to pet parents at the State Fair on Friday, September 25.For more information on Tomlyn® and to find products, visit tomlyn.com. To view available dogs at DFW Rescue Me and to fill out an application to adopt, visit their adoption page. To learn more about the State Fair of Texas, click here.–MORE–About Tomlyn®Tomlyn®, a pet health and wellness company founded in 1976, carries a complete line of scientifically developed, veterinarian-approved pet health products. The company’s wide range of product categories range from: immune support, vitamins and supplements, hairball remedies, joint and hip support, calming aids to all-natural remedies and sanitizers. Known as the maker of Nutri-Cal® and Laxatone®, Tomlyn® is owned by the ninth-largest veterinary pharmaceutical company in the world.## END ##

(FORT WORTH, TX) ––With fall approaching, it is important to be aware of conditions that affect joints in pets, cooler weather being one of them. Reports indicate approximately twenty percent of dogs over one year of age suffer from osteoarthritis and up to 90 percent of cats 12 years and older may have radiographic evidence of disease.Tomlyn veterinarian, Dr. Jim Lowe, offers insight to the signs, treatment and tips for a pet with osteoarthritis.Predisposing factors for osteoarthritis include obesity, larger breed pets, and previous musculoskeletal trauma.  Warning signs of osteoarthritis include exercise intolerance and decreased appetite.  While there is no way to prevent osteoarthritis, proper diet with an emphasis on weight control, frequent, controlled exercise, and joint supplements may slow progression of the disease.Using ramps instead of stairs and placing food and water bowls close to where the pet spends most of its time are ways to accommodate a pet with osteoarthritis. It’s also important to block off staircases to limit attempts of traveling up and down stairs.Pet parents often struggle to get large non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) into their pet’s mouth. With osteoarthritis, pets have to take medicine one to two times per day, making this struggle a stressful, but necessary, one.  Dr. Lowe points out that osteoarthritis can occur in any age or breed and requires life-long administration of medicine, along with additional therapeutic support. To ease this process, Tomlyn’shas developed their Pill-Masker for Dogs and Cats, which comes in two versions: one of which is wheat-free. This alternative to pill pockets is a bacon-flavored paste that fits all pill shapes and sizes, doesn’t dry out and won’t stick to floors or furniture.“The wheat, corn, and BHA-free presentation meets the needs of the consumer with pets requiring special dietary attention,” said Dr. Lowe. “So often the pet owner fails to recognize that when administering medications to such animals that wrapping in cheese or a hot dog to mask the pill can affect the animal.”For more information on Tomlyn, visit the company’swebsite, Facebook and Pinterest pages. Use the locator here to find Tomlyn products near you, and download the product catalog.## END ##About Tomlyn®Tomlyn, a pet health and wellness company founded in 1976, carries a complete line of scientifically developed, veterinarian-approved pet health products. The company’s wide range of product categories range from: immune support, vitamins and supplements, hairball remedies, joint and hip support, calming aids to all-natural remedies and sanitizers. Known as the maker of Nutri-Cal® and Laxatone®, Tomlyn is owned by the ninth-largest veterinary pharmaceutical company in the world.

(FORT WORTH, TX) –– Labor Day holiday is upon us and a Tomlyn veterinarian, Dr. Jim Lowe, has advice for anyone traveling with pets.Tomlyn is a 40-year-old company founded by vets and owned by the ninth largest vet pharmaceutical companies in the world, Vetoquinol. Many of their products contain the highest level of the active ingredient on the market for OTC supplements, and are formulated to exceed industry-mandated standards. “A first aid kit for your pet is a simple, inexpensive way to prevent exacerbating a problem while away from home with your pet,” said Dr. Lowe. “People keep a first aid kit on-hand for human accidents, and it’s just as important to do the same for your pet.”Dr. Lowe suggests five key products to keep in your pet’s first aid kit: Emetic. This is an agent that causes vomiting. While inducing vomiting is not recommended in most circumstances, pets can get into poisonous substances while on vacation. Since the environment is new, pet owners don’t have control over what is around them. Anti-diarrheal agent. Due to changes in routine and diet, pets can experience irregularities and discomfort while on vacation. Anti-diarrheal agents contain kaolin and pectin to dry up the stool and relieve bowel irritation. Wound care materials. A small supply of bandage material (cotton padding, non-adhering wound pads, elastic tape) should be on hand. Additionally, a small bottle of sterile wound irrigation (water, physiologic saline) can be used to flush contaminated wounds of debris and potential pathogens. Topical wound care product. Topical products are available containing antibiotics to control infection and agents for minimizing pain and inflammation. These products are offered in gels and sprays. Allergy medication. In case of allergic reaction, consult with your veterinarian regarding an appropriate antihistamine/allergy medication to have on hand. For more information on Tomlyn, visit the company’s website, and use the locator to find Tomlyn products near you.## END ##About Tomlyn®Tomlyn, a pet health and wellness company founded in 1976, carries a complete line of scientifically developed, veterinarian-approved pet health products. The company’s wide range of product categories range from: immune support, vitamins and supplements, hairball remedies, joint and hip support, calming aids to all-natural remedies and sanitizers. Known as the maker of Nutri-Cal® and Laxatone®, Tomlyn is owned by the ninth-largest veterinary pharmaceutical company in the world.

As much as you look forward to being in your favorite vacation spot, the trip there can be exhausting with anticipation and boredom. If you’re bringing a pet, he can be as restless as a 5-year-old child (minus the “are we there yet” questions every 20 minutes)! To make the trip easier, prepare yourself and your pet for traveling with these five tips for a fun-filled vacation getaway with your pets. Make your pet comfortable. If there is room, bring your fur baby’s pet bed or favorite blankets to make him more comfortable on the car ride or at your final destination. If you’re driving, try not to make him squeeze into the floorboard or at the very back where luggage could potentially fall on him. Remember, safety is just as important for your pet as it is for humans. Whether you roll down the window or crank up the A/C, make sure your pet gets plenty of air. Also, be sure your pet doesn’t travel on a full stomach to avoid carsickness. Distract your pet on long road trips. Get a new toy or treat to occupy your pet’s mind and concentration so that he doesn’t get emotionally stressed from being in the car for an extended period of time. Don’t hand it over until your pet is in the car and you are driving, though. Otherwise, he will have time to get bored with it and instead divert his attention to the long trip ahead. Leave extra time in your schedule. With your pet in tow, it may take longer to get to your destination than it usually does because he will need to stop for bathroom breaks along the way. Make sure to allow extra time in your driving schedule to stop for a walk, fresh air and to use the bathroom. Plan ahead if you’ll be flying with your pet. Most airlines have their own restrictions and guidelines on the number of pets allowed and whether you can carry an animal in the cabin or if you need to check a pet in their carriers. Some airlines may also have excess fees for boarding your pet, usually ranging between $75 and $200. Check your airline’s website for specific details about flying with your pet and what you’ll need to do before arriving for departure. Remember, airports can be a stressful environment for pets that aren’t seasoned travelers and especially for those who have never flown before. Keep the following things in mind to make the trip a little smoother for both of you. If possible, fly direct to your destination to avoid the added stress of your pet having to change planes. Book early to ensure a “seat” for your pet. This is especially important for airlines that limit the number of pets that can travel on a given flight. Invest in a carrier that will make your pet feel safe and comfortable, and attach an ID tag with all of your information just in case. Avoid sedatives, as they can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems in your pet as the plane ascends to higher altitudes. Don’t feed your pet right before the flight. Make sure they have used the bathroom before boarding. Take a few minutes to play with them to steady their nerves. Check, check, check. Before you leave home, run through your last-minute to-do list to make sure you’ve done everything you need to in order to make your trip a memorable one. Grab your Tomlyn Relax & Calm Chews to take the edge off for a more enjoyable car or plane ride. These chews are great for dogs or cats and help your pet overcome environmentally induced stress during the trip. Vacations should be relaxing and fun from beginning to end. You’re on your own when it comes to occupying yourself on the trip, but try these tricks with your pet for a whole new experience in vacationing with your furry friend.

FORT WORTH, Texas, May 20, 2015 – As the weather warms up, cats and ferrets begin to shed their winter coats – which can mean more hairballs. While hairballs are most common in the spring and fall when the weather changes, it’s little consolation for owners who have to clean them up. “Hairballs are not only unpleasant, they can be potentially dangerous if they cause an intestinal blockage,” said Dr. Brian McLaughlin, a veterinarian with pet health and wellness company Tomlyn. ”Your pet may have a hairball if he or she vomits their food frequently.” Hairballs are caused when a pet ingests hair into its digestive tract, usually while grooming. While most are eliminated in the litter box, some sit in the stomach or small intestines and create a “ball” that cannot escape through traditional routes. Some common signs of a hairball include hacking, gagging or vomiting.  There are several ways to prevent or treat hairballs. Grooming to eliminate some fur on a brush can help, as can diverting their attention with play or new toys to prevent them from grooming out of boredom. Finally, consider a supplement, like Tomlyn’s Laxatone for Cats and Ferrets. Laxatone coats the hair stuck in the digestive tract and helps the animal eliminate hairballs in a litter box. The formula, which has been trusted for nearly 40 years, is available as a gel or a chew from Amazon, Petco, and Doctors Foster & Smith.            About Tomlyn® Tomlyn is a pet health and wellness company founded in 1976 that carries a complete line of scientifically developed, veterinarian-approved pet health care products that follow National Animal Supplement Council guidelines. The company has a wide range of product categories, including: immune support, vitamins and high-calorie supplements, hairball remedies, joint and hip support, calming aids, pilling solutions, skin, ears, and eyes, all-natural remedies and sanitizers. Known as the maker of Nutri-Cal®, a high-calorie nutritional supplement, and Laxatone®, for the elimination and prevention of hairballs, Tomlyn is a division of Vétoquinol USA and owned by Vétoquinol SA, the ninth-largest veterinary pharmaceutical company in the world. For more information, visit Tomlyn.com.###

Jolts of thunder and flashes of lightning can send your pet into a tailwind of emotions. As a pet parent, you should prepare a severe weather plan ahead of time by learning how to keep your pet calm and out of harm’s way. Here are a few tricks to help you get started. How to help your pet relax To your pet, storms can be as bad as fireworks on the Fourth of July.  They hear the noises but don’t understand what’s happening.  This allows their level of nervousness to rise and may lead to environmentally-induced stress.  While you can’t avoid severe weather, you can find ways to manage the chaos it can cause for your fur-baby. Have a conversation with your pet while the storm passes because sometimes, the sound of your voice is all they need to feel safe. Give your pet a task that will allow them to focus on something other than the noise, like chewing on a bone or a new toy. If you have adequate warning of bad weather, an hour or so beforehand, give your pet something that has a calming effect on their nerves.  Tomlyn’s Relax & Calm Chews are great for pets who have nervousness, hyperactivity, or discontentment because of environmentally-induced stress.  Just like the name says, these chews help keep your fur-baby relaxed and calm. Prepare for big storms or evacuations If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, flooding or other major storms that may require  evacuation, it’s up to you to make sure your pet has a safe haven in a state of emergency. Make sure your pets know that you will take care of them and create a strategy that comes with plenty of time to spare. If you have a good idea of the path of the storm, consider talking to a relative or friend who isn’t expecting bad weather about keeping your pet until the storm passes. If it’s good enough for you, it’s good enough for your pet. Take them with you to your storm closet or shelter to keep them safe. You should never leave your pet outside in severe weather. Create a place where they can come indoors well before the storm hits. Prepare a pet emergency kit with food, water, treats and medication just in case you can’t find something later. If you’re evacuating, plan ahead by finding a shelter that is pet-friendly. You can find a list of pet-friendly shelters in your state here. If your pet takes special medication or otherwise requires special care, make sure to see your vet before a storm comes. He or she can provide you with your pet’s records or back-up medication in the event you’ll be gone for a while and need to see an out-of-town veterinarian. As with your own preparations, make sure your pet is prepared to be gone for at least a few days if you need to evacuate. This may include packing several days’ worth of food, a pet-friendly water bottle for the car, and a favorite toy or bed so he or she is comfortable wherever you go. Prepare yourself and your pet for the next time a storm strikes. Getting ahead of the game is a great way to ensure that your pet’s safety and happiness is intact when the rainbow finally appears.