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{includeCarousel("DentalBlog")} At Korna Pet, we're dedicated to sourcing the healthiest choices for your beloved pets. Join us in our latest blog where we uncover essential tips and strategies for maintaining your pet's dental health, ensuring happiness & healthiness for you and your pet.  Maintaining good dental health is not just about fresh breath and a sparkling smile; it's crucial for your pet's overall well-being. Just like humans, pets can suffer from dental issues that, if left unchecked, can lead to more serious health problems. From bad breath to in extreme cases, organ damage, dental health plays a significant role in your furry friend's quality of life. Signs of Dental Disease One of the first signs of dental problems in pets is bad breath. While it might be common for pets to have some level of bad breath, persistent foul odors can indicate underlying issues. Other signs to watch out for include bleeding gums, tooth loss, crust on teeth, changes in chewing habits, and excessive drooling. These symptoms can signify dental disease, which affects a staggering 80-90% of dogs over the age of three. The Role of Plaque and Tartar Plaque, a sticky film composed of bacteria, saliva, and food particles, forms naturally on teeth. If not removed regularly, plaque can harden into tartar within 24-72 hours. Tartar buildup not only causes cosmetic issues like discoloration but also leads to gum inflammation (gingivitis) and can eventually result in tooth loss and systemic health problems. Daily Care and Professional Cleaning To prevent dental issues, daily dental care is essential. While brushing your pet's teeth daily is ideal, aiming for 2-3 times a week can still make a significant difference. Use toothbrushes and toothpastes specifically designed for pets, as human products can be harmful if ingested. Professional dental cleanings are also recommended at least once a year to remove tartar and address any developing issues. Tools and Techniques for Dental Care Start introducing dental care routines to your pet early to make it easier in the long run. There are various toothbrush designs available for pets, including finger brushes that can be gentler for small dogs and cats. Never use fluoride and xylitol as these are toxic. Steer clear of toothpastes that contain silica, which can harm enamel, and avoid those with excessive baking soda, as its high alkaline content may disrupt stomach pH. Additional Strategies for Dental Health In addition to regular brushing and professional cleanings, there are other strategies to enhance your pet's dental health: Diet A raw diet can be beneficial for dental health as it reduces plaque buildup compared to high-carbohydrate diets. Additionally, certain additives like Plaque Off, which contains kelp and probiotics, can support oral hygiene. {includeCarousel("DentalDiet")} DIY Remedies Natural remedies like parsley and peppermint for fresh breath, coconut oil for antibacterial protection, and oil of oregano for its antimicrobial properties can complement your pet's dental care routine. The Role of Chewing in Pet Dental Health Chewing isn't just a pastime for pets—it's a crucial part of their dental care routine. Pets that regularly chew on appropriate items tend to accumulate less plaque, contributing to better oral hygiene overall. When they gnaw on chew toys or treats, the abrasive action helps scrape away plaque buildup, preventing it from hardening into tartar. Choosing the Right Chew Toys Not all chew toys are created equal. The shape and texture of a chew toy can significantly impact its effectiveness in cleaning your pet's teeth. Opt for chew toys with ridges, bumps, and grooves. These features help target difficult-to-reach spots and enhance dental hygiene by providing more surface area for plaque removal. Contrary to popular belief, a softer chew that allows your pet's teeth to sink in can be just as effective as a hard chew. Types of Edible Chews: Bully Sticks & Dried Chews Meat chews are the most popular! They can include different textures for extra scraping.  Crumps Plaque Busters Crumps Plaque Busters add oyster shell for abrasion Himalayan Yak Milk Chews Yak Milk Chews contain probiotics and enzymes that enhance dental health. {includeCarousel("DentalDryChew")} Raw Bones Chewing on bones helps clean teeth by scraping. The meat and cartilage can also help to give a good floss. Additionally, these bones contain enzymes that help prevent plaque build-up. As marrow bones are strong enough to hold up a whole cow, they aren’t recommended for pets with weak teeth.  {includeCarousel("DentalRawChew")} Your pet's dental health is a cornerstone of their overall wellness. By establishing a regular dental care routine, including brushing, professional cleanings, and using dental-friendly toys and treats, you can help prevent dental disease and ensure your pet enjoys a healthy and happy life. Start small, be consistent, and consult your veterinarian for personalized advice on maintaining your pet's dental hygiene. With proper care, you can keep your pet smiling brightly for years to come!

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At Korna Pet, we are always on a quest to find the healthiest options for your fur family. So join us in our latest blog as we dig deep into the world of raw pet food, and its benefits. We also explore and address some common concerns surrounding Raw food for cats and dogs. Read on to find out more about how you can provide the best possible nutrition for your pets. Why We Offer Only the Best in Pet Food We prioritize your pet's health by stocking only the highest quality, natural, and whole foods. No fillers, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives can be found on our shelves, giving you confidence in every choice you make with Korna Pet. Our Strict Ingredient Policy Every product and treat undergoes stringent scrutiny, ensuring no grains, rice, unnecessary by-products, or artificial fillers. We only approve fully digestible items, keeping a limit on binders and ensuring a diet as close to natural as possible. We make sure that your pets stay happy and healthy and thrive on the nutrition they receive. Types of Food We Offer Explore a wide range of food types including raw, kibble, canned, freeze-dried, dehydrated, and air-dried options. We understand each pet is unique, and we strive to offer diverse choices to meet their specific needs. Raw Food: What is it? Raw pet food, a highly digestible and nutritious option, is stored frozen and contains muscle meat, bones, organ meat, and vegetables. Each raw meal is carefully balanced, needing no supplementation, providing pets with the protein and fat they require. The Benefits of Raw Food The absence of fillers, binding agents, and processing retains the food's nutrients, keeping proteins intact and ensuring a healthier meal. It promises several benefits like better dental health, improved digestion, weight management, increased energy, and overall vitality: Nutrient-Rich Goodness One of the standout features of raw pet food is the absence of fillers, binding agents, and extensive processing. This means your pet gets a meal rich in essential nutrients, with proteins remaining intact and readily available for absorption. The raw nature of the food ensures that your pet receives the maximum nutritional value from every bite. Dental Health Delight Dental issues are a common concern for pet owners, but a raw food diet can be a game-changer. Chewing on raw bones and meat helps keep your pet's teeth clean and strong. The natural abrasiveness of raw food acts like a toothbrush, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and dental problems. Say goodbye to doggy breath and hello to a healthier, happier smile. Digestive Dynamo A raw diet is a friend to your pet's digestive system. The absence of artificial additives and preservatives makes it easier for your pet's stomach to process the food. This can be especially beneficial for pets with sensitive stomachs or those prone to allergies. A well-functioning digestive system means less likelihood of upset stomachs, vomiting, or diarrhea – a win-win for both pets and their owners. Weight Management Wonder Weight management is a critical aspect of pet health, and raw food can play a pivotal role. The natural, balanced composition of raw pet food helps regulate your pet's weight by providing essential nutrients without unnecessary fillers. This can be particularly helpful for pets struggling with obesity or those needing a specialized diet to maintain a healthy weight. Energizing Elixir Have you noticed a dip in your pet's energy levels? Raw food might be the solution. The nutrient-dense composition of raw pet food fuels your furry friend with the energy they need for play, exercise, and overall vitality. You'll witness a zest for life as your pet becomes more active, alert, and engaged in their surroundings. Overall Vitality Boost Ultimately, the benefits of raw pet food contribute to a boost in overall vitality. From a shinier coat and healthier skin to increased immune system resilience, raw feeding can transform your pet from the inside out. As pet owners, we relish the opportunity to witness our companions thriving, and a raw food diet provides the nutrients necessary for that radiant well-being. Tackling Concerns About Raw Food Safety Pets have a lower chance of getting sick from raw food. This is because they have a shorter and more acidic digestive system. People often worry about raw food. However, it's important to know that pets are less likely to get sick from it. Proper care and handling further minimize these risks, ensuring the health and happiness of both pets and their owners. Addressing Veterinary Concerns Some in the veterinarian community have voiced concerns, but it is important to know that numerous non-raw pet foods have been recalled. These recalls indicate a larger issue within the industry. The raw food movement stands strong with minimal risks and maximum nutritional benefits. The Raw Food Difference So join in the raw food revolution with confidence! The raw diet is a winner for its high nutrient content, and lack of artificial and harmful ingredients. The benefits of raw pet food are not just a passing trend – they are an investment in your pet's health and happiness. Consider making the switch to raw feeding and watch as your furry friend flourishes with a shiny coat, strong teeth, a robust digestive system, and boundless energy. It's time to unleash the power of raw pet food and give your pet the nutrition they deserve.   At Korna Pet, we are committed to ensuring your pets receive the best, guiding you in making informed choices for your furry loved ones. We’re here to help on your pet’s journey to a healthier, happier life.  If you’d like to learn more about Raw pet food and feeding options, get in touch with our knowledgeable team, we’d love to hear from you!

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A Healthy Food Choice for Your Pet   With so many pet food options available in the market, making an informed decision for your furry friend's nutritional needs is essential. Among these conventional cooked options, gently cooked pet food stands out a mile for its health benefits. As the name suggests, this food is cooked at lower temperatures to preserve the nutrients better than traditional cooking methods. It's an excellent choice for both cats and dogs due to increased digestibility, improved nutrient absorption, reduced risk of sensitivities, and increased palatability.  What is Gently Cooked Pet Food, and Why It’s Great for Your Pets?   Gently cooked pet food is a relatively new addition to the pet food market. It's prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients slowly cooked at low temperatures (sous vide). This method helps retain more nutrients, leading to a nutritionally balanced and easily digestible meal for your pets.  There are some considerable benefits for your pet:  Digestion: The increased moisture, and lack of fillers makes gently cooked easy on the digestive system. The ease of digestibility means that your pet can absorb the nutrients more effectively, improving their overall health and well-being.   Sensitivities: Many pet owners also report a reduction in sensitivities with this diet. The immune system is in the gut! With more efficient digestion, our pets save energy for their immune system to work its magic.    Flavour: Let's not forget the taste! Cats and dogs love the taste of real, fresh food that's gently cooked, and a better-tasting diet can result in increased food consumption.  Now, let's talk about gently cooked pet food and how it compares to other pet food types, like canned food and kibble. While canned food and kibble are convenient, they often contain fillers and additives that can affect your pet's health. In contrast, gently cooked food is prepared with fresh, wholesome ingredients, making it a healthier alternative.   Now that you know the benefits of gently cooked food, you might be wondering, where do you find it? Although not raw, gently cooked foods can be found in our freezer sections, you can visit Korna Pet in-store to browse our extensive range and talk to our knowledgeable team. Or order online for convenient, fast delivery.   Guide to Transitioning Your Pet from Canned to Gently Cooked Food  Transitioning your pet from canned food to a gently cooked diet has many health benefits. However, you know your pet best.   For a healthy pet, rotating flavours or types of food can give your pet a significantly wider variety of nutrients. It can also help to keep your pet excited by mealtime. Many pet parents rotate or mix foods to provide extra enrichment.  If sudden changes to the diet cause digestive issues for your pet, probiotics or digestive enzymes can help the process. You may also want to try a slow and steady approach, transitioning over a 7–10 day period.    Cats are notorious for being picky eaters! Taste, texture, and temperature can all play a part. With no bones, you can warm it slightly before feeding.   At Korna Pet, we provide quality, gently cooked pet food and the knowledge to help make this transition as smooth as possible. Our mission is to ensure that your pets are fed, well-nourished, and happy and we look forward to being a part of your pet's journey toward a healthier diet and lifestyle!   

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  Are you a pet parent who wants the best for your furry friend? Korna Pet has always believed that our dogs and cats should eat whole, natural foods similar to what we would eat ourselves. This is the best way to keep them healthy: no fillers, no by-products, and absolutely no artificial colours, flavours, additives, or preservatives.  At Korna Pet, we have a wide range of pet foods, from raw frozen, gently cooked frozen, freeze-dried, dehydrated, canned, and kibble options. The choice is yours, and the health and happiness of your pet is our top priority.  Our journey   Korna Pet's journey started with the Pae family emigrating from South Korea to Vancouver in 1995, hoping to create better opportunities for their family. They bought an existing Vancouver pet store called Paws & Claws Pantry, which a few years later morphed into Natural Plus Pet Supplies, Ltd.  By July 7, 2007, the store had relocated from 1644 Bridgman Ave to our current address at 1174 Marine Dr. We also rebranded to Korna Natural Pet Supplies Ltd, reflecting our passion for natural and healthy pet food and products.  Giving back to our Korna Pet family   Family is important at Korna Pet, and our customers mean the world to us - your loyalty deserves rewards! With our Pet Loyalty Program, pet owners can accumulate points every time they buy, redeeming them for discounts on future purchases. We designed our Korna Pet Family Benefits as a manageable way to make pet parenting a little easier on the wallet.  It’s our way of saying 'Thank you' for choosing us as your preferred Vancouver pet supply store.    Here’s how it works....  Frequent Buyer Program: As a Korna Pet Loyalty member, enjoy all our Frequent Buyer Program perks, including specials like 'buy 12 and get 1 free'. We handle all the tracking, so no need to worry about punch cards or paperwork!  Loyalty Points: For every non-sale item purchased, earn one point per dollar spent. Collect points and choose your rewards:   200 points for $8 off,   500 points for $25 off  1000 points for $60 off  Very Important Pet (VIP) Membership: Our VIP members receive exclusive access to special promotions and discounts. To become a VIP, you must have visited within the past 90 days and earned a minimum of 500 lifetime points.  Birthdays: Celebrate your pet's birthday week with us and receive a special gift. Plus, on your birthday, we have a little something for you too!  Seniors Day: On the last Thursday of every month, seniors (60+) receive a 10% discount on all regular-priced items at our store.  Full program details are available in the FAQs section of our website.  Our knowledgeable staff is always here to help you with in-store and online customer service queries about pet products. We look forward to welcoming you into our Korna Pet family and helping you with healthier choices for your pet food options.    Remember – a healthy pet is a happy pet! 

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Inflammation and our Pets   Inflammation and our Pets   Our pets are part of our lives; they are like members of our families. It is our obligation to take care of our furry companions and make sure they stay healthy, happy, and safe. Dogs and cats often suffer from inflammation, and it is a common factor that can affect their health and make them sick and unhealthy. Inflammation is basically a complex biological response of the body against any foreign attack. This article will discuss inflammation in pets, where it occurs, how it affects our pets, and what we can do about it. What is inflammation? Inflammation is a response of a healthy immune system to harmful stimuli like viruses and bacteria. It also helps the body heal injuries. When the immune system detects any pathogens or cell damage, the blood flow to that area increases. The extra fluid and white blood cells are sent to the surrounding tissues. Inflammation can occur anywhere on the body with symptoms of swelling, redness, and heat. Inflammation in the gut The gut's natural microbiome is made up of yeast, bacteria, and other cellular organisms that aid in the digestive system's normal functioning. This microbiome also plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy immune system. In certain conditions, this defence system is broken, and the barrier becomes permeable, allowing antigens and pathogens to enter the lining of the intestines. As a result, the immune system triggers a response, and the result will be inflammation and irritation in the intestinal wall. Causes of Gut inflammation Whenever the digestive system is affected, the first thing to do is take a close look at their diet and the gut microbiome. Pet foods that contain meat by-products, high carbohydrate content, artificial sweeteners, flavours, and preservatives are considered poor quality foods. If they are fed a low-quality diet or highly processed dry food, the result will be inflammation in your pet's stomach, poor intestinal mobility, decreased acid levels, and acid reflux symptoms. Some causes of inflammation of the gut in pets are: Unknown parasitic or bacterial infection Allergic reaction to any chemical in processed food or medication Genetic predisposition Defective lymphoid tissue Hyper-immune response Symptoms of gut inflammation The most common symptoms that will appear as a result of gut inflammation are Vomiting Diarrhea Lethargy Weight loss Fever Anorexia Inflammation in the skin The immune system plays a vital role in maintaining the body's overall health. The skin is involved in many immune responses. The different cells present in the skin release substances that widen the blood vessels. As a result, the immune response will reach that area and cause inflammation. Causes of skin inflammation There are several causes of skin inflammation in pets. Most importantly, it occurs due to: Allergic reactions An allergic skin reaction occurs when the immune system overreacts to any foreign material and causes inflammation of the skin. These allergic skins happen when an animal ingests a substance to which they are allergic or when they inhale a substance in the air such as dust and pollen. When animals experience such an allergic reaction, they will lick, rub, scratch, and bite. Immune system dysfunction Sometimes inflammation of the skin occurs when the immune system does not work properly and considers an immune response to be normal and causes severe damage and inflammation. Inflammatory skin disorders and hypersensitivity are the most common problem caused by reactions of the immune system. Viral, Bacterial and fungal infection Sometimes, allergic skin reactions occur due to viral, bacterial, and fungal infections and cause impetigo, dermatitis, and ringworm problems. Poor quality diet Nutrition plays an essential role in maintaining your pet's skin and coat. Most skin allergies occur when your pet is fed a low-quality diet for a long period of time. Similarly, skin inflammation also occurs due to low-quality dry food or incorrectly supplemented pet food. Symptoms of skin inflammation Symptoms and severity of skin inflammation vary depending on the severity of the allergic reaction. But the most common symptoms of skin allergies are: Itching Itchy ears Excessive licking on paws Biting at the skin Hair loss Red, inflamed skin Excessive chewing Visible rashes Swollen face  Hives and other bumps  Inflammation in the joints Inflammation in the joints means that your pets have arthritis. Joint inflammation is a prevalent problem in pets, especially when injured or during old age. Mostly, pet owners can easily identify joint inflammation because its symptoms are similar to those of arthritis in humans. Any damage or change of cartilage within a joint leads to inflammation in their joints. Inflammation occurs when the surface of the joint rubs against each other or when the joint becomes rough. Movement of the joint becomes limited due to stiffness caused by inflammation. Usually, joints are lubricated with fluid, and the bones are covered with a thin layer of cartilage. The normal joint glides freely and smoothly without discomfort or friction. Causes of joint inflammation Inflammation in the pet's joint is caused by many reasons, including congenital disorders like luxating patella. Obesity puts unnecessary stress on the joints of dogs and cats that also contribute to inflammation. If the joint is injured, it will not work correctly and can also lead to joint inflammation. As mentioned above, when counting the causes that provoke inflammation, we cannot neglect a poor quality diet. Poor quality diets affect the health of pets and cause weakness and inflammation of the joints. Signs and symptoms of joint inflammation Joint inflammation in pets is the same as arthritis in humans. The pet will experience the same signs and symptoms in inflammation as a human in arthritis. If you see your pet in pain or slowing down, talk to your vet. Symptoms of inflammation include: Stiffness Swelling of the joint Pain Unwillingness or unable to stand up Lameness Mood changes Licking the affected joints Remedies for inflammation in pets Many types of anti-inflammatory medications are used to cure inflammation in pets. Still, mainly the treatment of inflammation depends on the cause of the inflammation. Antihistamines, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and corticosteroids are the common vet-prescribed medications. Certain prebiotics and probiotics are also used to treat inflammation in pets. In intestinal inflammation, different types of prebiotics and probiotics are added to pets' diets. The positive results obtained are a better intestinal microflora, better digestion of food, a higher feeding efficiency, a better weight gain, and a better effect of the medicine. In natural sources, probiotics are present in kefir or goat milk. In case of skin inflammation, you can add salmon oil to their diet. It will improve your pet's immune system, decrease inflammation, and the omega 3 present in salmon oil will keep their skin and coat healthy. If your dog or cats suffer from joint inflammation, you can also add chondroitin, glucosamine, and salmon oil to their diet. Naturally, chondroitin and glucosamine are present in the green-lipped mussel. These supplements can improve the health of tissues and cartilage and improve the health of their joints. Conclusion Inflammation can affect your pets' health and cause serious damage to their skin, joints, and intestines. However, these problems can be prevented by using high-quality food and supplements like prebiotics, probiotics, salmon oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin in their diet.   If you have any questions about inflammation, we are here to help.   KORNA Natural Pet Supplies LTD.

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