Hi Evy,
Thanks for getting us back on auto-ship, the ‘second’ bag arrived just as the first was running low. I’ll tell you a funny story that shows how much our dogs, especially Scout, loves Kumpi. You are welcome to use (and edit) this story-should you wish.
You may recall since we obtained Scout, our 4th dog, we had Kumpi auto-shipped more frequently. Over several months we had an inventory building up and asked you to hold back until the dogs got caught up. A few weeks later when we were ready to auto-ship again and I e-mailed but nothing arrived. I realized I screwed up my new computer outgoing e-mail settings so you didn’t get my request when I intended (and of course they were down to the last kibble anyway ‘cause Dad is used to always having Kumpi on hand thanks to your awesome auto-ship!).
Four hungry dogs aren’t a happy bunch so off I went to our local premium dog food boutique, where I purchased a bag of XXX Oven Baked Fish flavor. Upon filling their bowls with the XXX I saw 4 scowling faces and no tail wagging. They clearly couldn’t believe I expected them to eat this! Thankfully, I soon fixed my e-mail to Evy and Kumpi was on the way.
When the Kumpi arrived I put the bag on the kitchen floor near the kibble dispenser. We ate dinner and chatted, watched some TV and the dogs got chewies. After a long while I noticed Scout wasn’t pasted to my side as usual. When I went to find her, there she was in the kitchen next to her bag of Kumpi! We could not budge the girl! She growled at the other dogs and when we stopped laughing and filled their bowls with Kumpi they all happily gobbled down the kibbles. Scout was especially pleased and all have wagging tails once again.
Kumpi has been great food for all our dogs. Not only do they actually enjoy eating it, each one has been extremely healthy, their fur is very soft and glossy but never oily to touch. Kaiser, our Belgian Malinois is 12 years old now and although he’s gray on his muzzle, he gets many compliments on how beautiful and soft he is. Trixie is about 8 and her jet blue-black fur is soft and gorgeous. Their pads are always in good order, eyes bright, ears clean and they smell good. I truly believe a quality diet is an essential step in providing quality care for our pets.
Thanks for re-starting the auto-ship for us again. I couldn’t have taken anymore of their disappointment!
Merry Christmas to you,
Kelley
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Merry Christmas To Evy from Lucy and Snoopie
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
DEAR MOM DOGGIE PACK LEADER,
MY MAMA IS TIRED AS WE ARE SO ACTIVE NOW. SHE DOES NOT CRINKLE HER FACE BECAUSE I DO NOT HAVE THAT FUNNY GAS SMELL ANYMORE! SHE HAS BATHED ME AND MY PIT BULL SISTER - WHO IS MAKING ME CRAZY! SHE RUNS AND RUNS AND GOES ALL DAY- I DID NOT KEEP UP WITH HER AT FIRST.
BUT I DO NOW! I MAY BE 10 HUMAN YEARS OLD - BUT MY HIP IS BETTER AND I AM RUNNING LIKE A SPRITE YOUNG DOG! MY MOM IS ALMOST OUT OF OUR FOOD - AND I DO NOT THINK I WANT TO EAT XXX OR SOME BODY'S KIBBLES WITH RAT NITS IN THEM!
LUCY IS NIBBLE "ING" MY HIND QUARTER TO GO BACK OUT. LUCY EATS KUMPI AND MAKES SUCH A MESS! SHE GOBBLES AND THEN LOOKS UP AT MOM AND KUMPI THAT IS NOT INSIDE HER MOUTH - IS ALL OVER THE FLOOR - MOM JUST LAUGHS AND WALKS ON!
SINCE WE DO NOT HAVE METHANE GAS COMING OUT OF US LIKE BEFORE KUMPI- MOM LETS US IN THE FAMILY ROOM. AND GUESS WHAT? NO MORE AIR SPRAY ! I DONT LIKE THAT , IT TICKLES MY NOSE AND I USED TO SNEEZE! NOW MY BLACK HAIR IS SUPER SHINY AND DOES NOT FALLOUT SO MUCH AS BEFORE. I THOUGHT I MAY NEED ROGAINE - BUT IT WAS THAT TERRIBLE NASTY FOOD SOLD IN STORES AS SAFE - AND I KNOW IT WAS ALL BAD BAD STUFF!
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO THE QUEEN PACK LEADER!
SNOOPIE AND LUCY
DEAR MOM DOGGIE PACK LEADER,
MY MAMA IS TIRED AS WE ARE SO ACTIVE NOW. SHE DOES NOT CRINKLE HER FACE BECAUSE I DO NOT HAVE THAT FUNNY GAS SMELL ANYMORE! SHE HAS BATHED ME AND MY PIT BULL SISTER - WHO IS MAKING ME CRAZY! SHE RUNS AND RUNS AND GOES ALL DAY- I DID NOT KEEP UP WITH HER AT FIRST.
BUT I DO NOW! I MAY BE 10 HUMAN YEARS OLD - BUT MY HIP IS BETTER AND I AM RUNNING LIKE A SPRITE YOUNG DOG! MY MOM IS ALMOST OUT OF OUR FOOD - AND I DO NOT THINK I WANT TO EAT XXX OR SOME BODY'S KIBBLES WITH RAT NITS IN THEM!
LUCY IS NIBBLE "ING" MY HIND QUARTER TO GO BACK OUT. LUCY EATS KUMPI AND MAKES SUCH A MESS! SHE GOBBLES AND THEN LOOKS UP AT MOM AND KUMPI THAT IS NOT INSIDE HER MOUTH - IS ALL OVER THE FLOOR - MOM JUST LAUGHS AND WALKS ON!
SINCE WE DO NOT HAVE METHANE GAS COMING OUT OF US LIKE BEFORE KUMPI- MOM LETS US IN THE FAMILY ROOM. AND GUESS WHAT? NO MORE AIR SPRAY ! I DONT LIKE THAT , IT TICKLES MY NOSE AND I USED TO SNEEZE! NOW MY BLACK HAIR IS SUPER SHINY AND DOES NOT FALLOUT SO MUCH AS BEFORE. I THOUGHT I MAY NEED ROGAINE - BUT IT WAS THAT TERRIBLE NASTY FOOD SOLD IN STORES AS SAFE - AND I KNOW IT WAS ALL BAD BAD STUFF!
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO THE QUEEN PACK LEADER!
SNOOPIE AND LUCY
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Cat Food
Tommy, Buster, and Felix are still thriving on it. No hairballs, ever. Nice soft coats, real shiny. Felix (age 10) is very, very playful and has become much more friendly and social since he doesn't have the "itchies" anymore. (I don't know if you remember, but he was always dandruffy and itchy on other kibble, I didn't realize it must have been allergies, the vets told me he had dry skin -- KumpiKat cleared that up right away for him). Over the last 6 mos or so, he has begun playing with his toys and hunting catnip bananas! He carts the bananas around the house and scolds them when he puts them back where they belong.
Thank you for keeping us in your thoughts!
Wishing you all the best,
Autumn
Thank you for keeping us in your thoughts!
Wishing you all the best,
Autumn
Dog Food Testimonials from Linda
I've been meaning to write for some time (please read this to Evy!!!!) about my best friend's experience with dog food ... her Schipperke, Teddy, has ALWAYS had problems with his stools ... runny, etc., and she had to "wipe"!!!! She's a better man than I am ... not sure I could deal with that constantly! Anyway, I gave her some of the Kumpi and she is THRILLED!!!!!!!!! No more wiping; firm stool, and he is thriving! She is VERY grateful (but has no computer). She, my friend with two Shih Tzus, and I (with my Rat Terrier) split the bag each order.
We all three thank you for a superior product! Thank God we found you after the Menu Foods debacle. Still awaiting a judgment/settlement/something with THAT. Wish I'd had Kumpi before Boots died from their product.
Linda
We all three thank you for a superior product! Thank God we found you after the Menu Foods debacle. Still awaiting a judgment/settlement/something with THAT. Wish I'd had Kumpi before Boots died from their product.
Linda
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Cat Food Question RE: Hairball, Dental, Etc.
I read in the materials you supplied me (when I purchased the standard KumpiKat) that KumpiKat is also available in a dental formula as well as a fur ball formula. My question is: Can they be mixed together or rotated from day to day or do I have to finish 1 whole bag before starting another? One of my cats needs the dental formula & the other needs the fur ball formula. Some clarification please....
Diana Marie
Dear Diana Marie ~
I am sorry for the misunderstanding - the literature means that KumpiKat covers it all! Poor cats didn't have ONE food to do the job until KumpiKat. People feel like they need to choose between hairball, dental, sensitive stomach, indoor, outdoor (next thing you know they'll have an upstairs and a downstairs formula!) - KumpiKat addresses it all by being a very pure food that is made from ingredients that are tested thoroughly. I know that phrase gets bantered about, but both the dog and cat food are hormone, steroid and antibiotic free. They are wholesome. The vomiting stops partially due to the digestive enzymes which create a good healthy natural thirst in a cat. Some people freak out a bit when they see their cat drinking so much on KumpiKat, but it is a good and long lasting thing. The hair follicle roots are finally getting saturated with essential fatty acids and don't break off as easily. That is what cuts back the hairballs.
Thanks so much for writing :)
Evy
Diana Marie
Dear Diana Marie ~
I am sorry for the misunderstanding - the literature means that KumpiKat covers it all! Poor cats didn't have ONE food to do the job until KumpiKat. People feel like they need to choose between hairball, dental, sensitive stomach, indoor, outdoor (next thing you know they'll have an upstairs and a downstairs formula!) - KumpiKat addresses it all by being a very pure food that is made from ingredients that are tested thoroughly. I know that phrase gets bantered about, but both the dog and cat food are hormone, steroid and antibiotic free. They are wholesome. The vomiting stops partially due to the digestive enzymes which create a good healthy natural thirst in a cat. Some people freak out a bit when they see their cat drinking so much on KumpiKat, but it is a good and long lasting thing. The hair follicle roots are finally getting saturated with essential fatty acids and don't break off as easily. That is what cuts back the hairballs.
Thanks so much for writing :)
Evy
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Why The Premium Pet Food Industry Started Cornphobia
WHY THE PET FOOD INDUSTRY STARTED CORNPHOBIA
Some of the first dog food companies that thrived were Science Diet, Iams, Eukanuba and Purina; that was some pretty stiff competition! A common denominator to their dog food formula was corn. The popular marketing game of ‘they have it and we do not’ began the gloomy demonizing of corn. Competitors have tried to gain a place in this lucrative market. By taking
advantage of first ingredient myths, their sleight of hand ‘facts’ have fooled people away from powerfully supplemented dog foods with corn. Science is on our side, and we at Kumpi are on your side!!
Fear: Corn is not digestible.
Fact: This is an easy ploy to use, since people most commonly relate to corn in its raw form. What is used in dog food is ground cornmeal, which provides essential amino acids, fiber and is 89.3% digestible. Additionally, over 60% of the naturally occurring fat in corn is Omega 6 aka Linoleic Acid – an essential source of oils to help saturate healthy hair follicles. It is
also a powerhouse antioxidant. You don’t buy rice oil, oatmeal oil or wheat oil – you buy corn oil. Having problems with the dry climate in Colorado and keeping a shiny coat on your dog? Try a food with corn in it!
Fear: Corn is just cheap filler.
Fact: “Corn is nutritionally superior grain compared with others used in pet foods because it contains a balance of nutrients not found in other grains.”
(Small Animal Clinical Nutrition 4th Edition)
Since you cannot tell by reading a label, I agree that some companies do use cheap corn. Our nutritionist purposefully formulated our product line using only whole grains. They are carefully selected US grains that are harvested from the field and tested for any adulteration before acceptance. Used in their pure natural grain form just like it was, wholesome in the field; do not confuse the ‘zirconia’ on many labels for the ‘diamond’ non-GMO corn used in Kumpi dog foods. I can tell you it is expensive since I pay the bill!
Fear: Corn is a likely allergen.
(The American Heritage Science Dictionary)
Allergy: An abnormally high immunologic sensitivity to certain stimuli such as drugs, foods, environmental irritants, microorganisms, or physical conditions such as temperature extremes. These stimuli act as antigens, provoking an immunological response involving the release of inflammatory substances, such as histamine, in the body. Allergies may be innate or acquired in genetically predisposed individuals. Common symptoms include sneezing, itching, and skin rashes, though in some individuals symptoms can be severe.
Fact: A survey of veterinary dermatologists felt that wheat and soy were more likely candidates for true allergic reactions than corn.
Before jumping on the bandwagon against corn used as a carbohydrate in a diet, you need to understand there is one cause for allergic reactions and that is a problem with an immune system. There are many triggers for an "allergic type" reaction, some include: genetic predisposition for inhalant atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, vaccines reactions (Purdue Study-
Vaccine Mediated Responses), candida albicans, flea bite or insect bite, thyroid and/or hormones and in rare cases, food allergies.
Diet is the issue in less than 10% of these cases. Just when they need nutritional stability the most, too often the dog suffers from environmental, seasonal or genetic problems while you are following the advice of playing Russian Roulette with ‘process of elimination’ diets. Get them relief as quickly as possible by having some simple blood work done.
Fear: Grain free is better for pets.
Fact: There is no superiority between the source ‘grain free’ foods use for starch than any other. Plus, high protein levels dangerously increase the ash phosphorous and calcium content. ‘Grain free’ does not mean carb free.
I’m a dog professional of 35+ years who started a company to protect my dog from this industry. KUMPI products offer the science of nutrition. Don’t confuse science with the science fiction of marketing and advertising.
Some of the first dog food companies that thrived were Science Diet, Iams, Eukanuba and Purina; that was some pretty stiff competition! A common denominator to their dog food formula was corn. The popular marketing game of ‘they have it and we do not’ began the gloomy demonizing of corn. Competitors have tried to gain a place in this lucrative market. By taking
advantage of first ingredient myths, their sleight of hand ‘facts’ have fooled people away from powerfully supplemented dog foods with corn. Science is on our side, and we at Kumpi are on your side!!
Fear: Corn is not digestible.
Fact: This is an easy ploy to use, since people most commonly relate to corn in its raw form. What is used in dog food is ground cornmeal, which provides essential amino acids, fiber and is 89.3% digestible. Additionally, over 60% of the naturally occurring fat in corn is Omega 6 aka Linoleic Acid – an essential source of oils to help saturate healthy hair follicles. It is
also a powerhouse antioxidant. You don’t buy rice oil, oatmeal oil or wheat oil – you buy corn oil. Having problems with the dry climate in Colorado and keeping a shiny coat on your dog? Try a food with corn in it!
Fear: Corn is just cheap filler.
Fact: “Corn is nutritionally superior grain compared with others used in pet foods because it contains a balance of nutrients not found in other grains.”
(Small Animal Clinical Nutrition 4th Edition)
Since you cannot tell by reading a label, I agree that some companies do use cheap corn. Our nutritionist purposefully formulated our product line using only whole grains. They are carefully selected US grains that are harvested from the field and tested for any adulteration before acceptance. Used in their pure natural grain form just like it was, wholesome in the field; do not confuse the ‘zirconia’ on many labels for the ‘diamond’ non-GMO corn used in Kumpi dog foods. I can tell you it is expensive since I pay the bill!
Fear: Corn is a likely allergen.
(The American Heritage Science Dictionary)
Allergy: An abnormally high immunologic sensitivity to certain stimuli such as drugs, foods, environmental irritants, microorganisms, or physical conditions such as temperature extremes. These stimuli act as antigens, provoking an immunological response involving the release of inflammatory substances, such as histamine, in the body. Allergies may be innate or acquired in genetically predisposed individuals. Common symptoms include sneezing, itching, and skin rashes, though in some individuals symptoms can be severe.
Fact: A survey of veterinary dermatologists felt that wheat and soy were more likely candidates for true allergic reactions than corn.
Before jumping on the bandwagon against corn used as a carbohydrate in a diet, you need to understand there is one cause for allergic reactions and that is a problem with an immune system. There are many triggers for an "allergic type" reaction, some include: genetic predisposition for inhalant atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, vaccines reactions (Purdue Study-
Vaccine Mediated Responses), candida albicans, flea bite or insect bite, thyroid and/or hormones and in rare cases, food allergies.
Diet is the issue in less than 10% of these cases. Just when they need nutritional stability the most, too often the dog suffers from environmental, seasonal or genetic problems while you are following the advice of playing Russian Roulette with ‘process of elimination’ diets. Get them relief as quickly as possible by having some simple blood work done.
Fear: Grain free is better for pets.
Fact: There is no superiority between the source ‘grain free’ foods use for starch than any other. Plus, high protein levels dangerously increase the ash phosphorous and calcium content. ‘Grain free’ does not mean carb free.
I’m a dog professional of 35+ years who started a company to protect my dog from this industry. KUMPI products offer the science of nutrition. Don’t confuse science with the science fiction of marketing and advertising.
Dog Food Testimonial
Compliment! My 12 year old shep mix Jaks has finished his first bag of Kumpi. Vet visit this morning to follow up on a Lyme DX of December. My Vet warned me that he would most likely still show + in the titer....to her suprise and mine his Lyme is almost fully resolved. My Vet was amazed at my boys coat as well. He looks great! I attribute his excellent condition to his organic health as highly influenced by KUMPI. My Vet may enquire about retailing Kumpi from their office. Canines in the NE are constantly challenged by various tick borne diseases, notably Lyme- they need all the help that they can get and Kumpi is their allie !
Very pleased! Just re-ordered. Thank You, Evy.
Martha
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I just wanted to send a quick note and let you know how much Kumpi has significantly helped one of our two dogs. For four years our Pointer/Terrier rescue has had anal gland issues. Basically, he was leaking a brown, disgusting liquid all of the time. Since we started using Kumpi, this problem has gone away COMPLETELY!! We have had multiple vets look at him and were considering a $1500 surgery until we started him on your food. We can not thank you enough.
Sincerly,
Kristin & Matt
Charlotte, NC
Very pleased! Just re-ordered. Thank You, Evy.
Martha
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
I just wanted to send a quick note and let you know how much Kumpi has significantly helped one of our two dogs. For four years our Pointer/Terrier rescue has had anal gland issues. Basically, he was leaking a brown, disgusting liquid all of the time. Since we started using Kumpi, this problem has gone away COMPLETELY!! We have had multiple vets look at him and were considering a $1500 surgery until we started him on your food. We can not thank you enough.
Sincerly,
Kristin & Matt
Charlotte, NC
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Happy KumpiKat Tales
Hi Evy!
Oh my gosh. Wow. I just saw Doc do something that he hasn't done in awhile...this afternoon, my 11-year-old formerly lazy kitty was playing with his little red ball like a kitten, picking it up in his mouth and tossing it up in the air, batting it around and running after it like he did when he was a lot younger! Wow. I think we broke through the barrier here, Evy. I'm so excited!
Sincerely,
Anita
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Evy,
Since you asked me to report to you on the results of our feeding the cats Kumpi their reaction, that they seem to like this food. We have four cats and Mixi and Spot who were always barfing are no longer vomiting. Moreover, Mixi’s stool is no longer runny – it’s normal! The only thing that we have changed with the cats is their diet, so Kumpi must be having a favorable effect. For that we are most grateful. So it looks as though we will now be KumpiKustomers.
Sincerely,
Sue
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Hi Evy, my cats can't wait! Two of my four are now Kumpi lovers, I'm slowly convincing my two stubborn girls to switch over, then we'll be ordering the 20 lb. bags. I had high hopes for Kumpi Kat and it has completely met my expectations. Here's a little about us, because I want you to know how fabulous this food has been for my kitties.
I've been a cat owner for 15 years (my two older cats are gone, and I now have a pair of two year olds (sisters) and ten month olds, an unrelated boy and girl (all Humane Society or strays). So, I'm familiar with pet food brands and usually purchased Science Diet & Iams. The recent pet food recall not only concerned me, it reminded me of my dislike of by-products and so much corn meal in my cats' food. But since it seemed most brands contained them, I didn't feel like I had a lot of choices.
Several weeks ago I decided once and for all to find a truly different food, to solve an immediate problem with a cat who was vomiting, and another cat who had long lasting effects from being sick.
First, my only boy cat, a little orange tabby named Yukon, came to me as a three month old shelter kitten, and very, very sick with a respiratory infection that was so difficult to get rid of. I found out later, sadly, it killed all the other kittens who had been in the same kennel the day I adopted Yukon, including two of his litter mates. His growth was stunted and his fur has never been very soft or shiny, no matter what I fed him. In just a few weeks on Kumpi Kat Yukon has grown more than he has in months. He's bigger than two of the three girl cats now! It's happened so fast, that it still surprises me each time I see him, because he looks like a different kitty. :) I wish I had "before and after" pictures! His fur is soft and shiny and he's even MORE of a cuddle muffin than he was before. He LOVES his Kumpi and turns his nose up at anything else. It's been so exciting to see.
Then, several weeks ago, my long haired cat, Taimyr, was vomiting and it didn't resolve with a hairball. I knew it was time to take her to the vet when she vomited right back into her food bowl while trying to eat. (This was pre-Kumpi). None of the other cats were sick, so I knew something was very wrong. Taimyr stopped eating and an x-ray showed a mass in her abdomen. She had to have surgery on May 12th and they removed a three inch long, 1 inch diameter mass of hair in her intestine. Poor kitty! Her fur is the longest I've seen and I tried to keep up with the grooming, but obviously not well enoughy. We think she has Maine Coon in her family tree, as her hair brushes the ground. My husband nicknamed her "Musk Ox".
Because Taimyr had become anorexic during this, they sent her home with a nasal feeding tube and I had to give her "kitty Ensure" every two hours. She was listless and sad, but not enough to pull her tube out early! I got the go ahead from the vet to give her solid food, and she has been happily eating Kumpi Kat ever since. The vet had drilled into me how difficult it can be to get an anorexic cat to eat again, but she took right away to the Kumpi. Also, at a follow up appointment with a different vet, the vet almost removed Taimyr's stitches too soon because her abdomen has healed so well! She's a happy, alert and feisty kitty again. I really believe its the superior protein and nutrition that has helped her recover so quickly. She gets her stitches out later today and will get out of "purgatory" (the spare bedroom) to be with the other cats again, and its been hard to contain her because she has so much energy. I'm SO happy I found such a nutritious food to give her during her recovery.
Thanks for making such a great product, and expect to see more orders from us in the future. :)
Take care,
Melissa
Oh my gosh. Wow. I just saw Doc do something that he hasn't done in awhile...this afternoon, my 11-year-old formerly lazy kitty was playing with his little red ball like a kitten, picking it up in his mouth and tossing it up in the air, batting it around and running after it like he did when he was a lot younger! Wow. I think we broke through the barrier here, Evy. I'm so excited!
Sincerely,
Anita
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Evy,
Since you asked me to report to you on the results of our feeding the cats Kumpi their reaction, that they seem to like this food. We have four cats and Mixi and Spot who were always barfing are no longer vomiting. Moreover, Mixi’s stool is no longer runny – it’s normal! The only thing that we have changed with the cats is their diet, so Kumpi must be having a favorable effect. For that we are most grateful. So it looks as though we will now be KumpiKustomers.
Sincerely,
Sue
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Hi Evy, my cats can't wait! Two of my four are now Kumpi lovers, I'm slowly convincing my two stubborn girls to switch over, then we'll be ordering the 20 lb. bags. I had high hopes for Kumpi Kat and it has completely met my expectations. Here's a little about us, because I want you to know how fabulous this food has been for my kitties.
I've been a cat owner for 15 years (my two older cats are gone, and I now have a pair of two year olds (sisters) and ten month olds, an unrelated boy and girl (all Humane Society or strays). So, I'm familiar with pet food brands and usually purchased Science Diet & Iams. The recent pet food recall not only concerned me, it reminded me of my dislike of by-products and so much corn meal in my cats' food. But since it seemed most brands contained them, I didn't feel like I had a lot of choices.
Several weeks ago I decided once and for all to find a truly different food, to solve an immediate problem with a cat who was vomiting, and another cat who had long lasting effects from being sick.
First, my only boy cat, a little orange tabby named Yukon, came to me as a three month old shelter kitten, and very, very sick with a respiratory infection that was so difficult to get rid of. I found out later, sadly, it killed all the other kittens who had been in the same kennel the day I adopted Yukon, including two of his litter mates. His growth was stunted and his fur has never been very soft or shiny, no matter what I fed him. In just a few weeks on Kumpi Kat Yukon has grown more than he has in months. He's bigger than two of the three girl cats now! It's happened so fast, that it still surprises me each time I see him, because he looks like a different kitty. :) I wish I had "before and after" pictures! His fur is soft and shiny and he's even MORE of a cuddle muffin than he was before. He LOVES his Kumpi and turns his nose up at anything else. It's been so exciting to see.
Then, several weeks ago, my long haired cat, Taimyr, was vomiting and it didn't resolve with a hairball. I knew it was time to take her to the vet when she vomited right back into her food bowl while trying to eat. (This was pre-Kumpi). None of the other cats were sick, so I knew something was very wrong. Taimyr stopped eating and an x-ray showed a mass in her abdomen. She had to have surgery on May 12th and they removed a three inch long, 1 inch diameter mass of hair in her intestine. Poor kitty! Her fur is the longest I've seen and I tried to keep up with the grooming, but obviously not well enoughy. We think she has Maine Coon in her family tree, as her hair brushes the ground. My husband nicknamed her "Musk Ox".
Because Taimyr had become anorexic during this, they sent her home with a nasal feeding tube and I had to give her "kitty Ensure" every two hours. She was listless and sad, but not enough to pull her tube out early! I got the go ahead from the vet to give her solid food, and she has been happily eating Kumpi Kat ever since. The vet had drilled into me how difficult it can be to get an anorexic cat to eat again, but she took right away to the Kumpi. Also, at a follow up appointment with a different vet, the vet almost removed Taimyr's stitches too soon because her abdomen has healed so well! She's a happy, alert and feisty kitty again. I really believe its the superior protein and nutrition that has helped her recover so quickly. She gets her stitches out later today and will get out of "purgatory" (the spare bedroom) to be with the other cats again, and its been hard to contain her because she has so much energy. I'm SO happy I found such a nutritious food to give her during her recovery.
Thanks for making such a great product, and expect to see more orders from us in the future. :)
Take care,
Melissa
Friday, June 8, 2007
Dog Food Testimonials
A lot of companies try to sell you their food claiming that your dog will love it, that it will cure whatever ails your dog, and so on. Of all the brands of food I have tried over the years (too many to count), Kumpi is the only one that has actually performed as promised. Marshall DOES love it! And even though he has only been eating it for three weeks, I am already noticing significant changes. His skin is clearing up, no more hot spots. He’s not scratching away at his ears any more. He’s moving better. He’s initiating play with my other dogs, pouncing, bowing, and chasing them around the yard. His whole demeanor is changing. At nearly five years old, he seems to be experiencing his second puppyhood! I’m pleasantly surprised, thrilled even, at the effect that Kumpi is having on him.
Again, I can’t thank you enough for producing such a wonderful product. I’ll keep you posted, and I’ll try to send along photos too so you can see how he’s improving. It’s truly amazing.
With sincere appreciation,
Donna
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My westie recently suffered from an infection in his spinal and brain fluids and he began having seizures. His limbs became very weak so that he had trouble walking and climbing stairs. After being on Kumpi for a short time he began to look stronger and could run up the stairs again. His coat looks and feel so much better and I can see more oils in it which help condition a westie's bad skin. Both of my westies are on Kumpi and they love it. They never leave any in the bowl. Also I've noticed less gas and smaller feces. The yard is easier to clean up now. Thanks Kumpi team. I've been spreading the word about this wonderful product for both dogs and cats.
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Evy,
Just wanted to let you know we are all doing good with the Kumpi!!
Shelby's knees: I noticed yesterday there was less swelling in the joints and she seems to be a little perkier, she is loving the food and eating it very well!
The 4 Kitties are all loving the food and doing good. I noticed they are starting to blow thier coats, so they look a little rough, but activity wise, they are all playful and happy!
I saw the newest news about tainted food and honestly didn't event fret about it for my babies.
Thank you Evy for the peace of mind, a huge hug for you and your furbabies!
Karen
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Maddie has improved tremendously since starting on Kumpi food in December, just after Christmas. She has hip dysplasia and arthritis and had trouble getting to her feet when she was lying down. She no longer has that problem. She jumps up in the morning when I walk in the door from work with that "Feed me" look on her face. My wife and I can't thank you enough!
Billie
Again, I can’t thank you enough for producing such a wonderful product. I’ll keep you posted, and I’ll try to send along photos too so you can see how he’s improving. It’s truly amazing.
With sincere appreciation,
Donna
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My westie recently suffered from an infection in his spinal and brain fluids and he began having seizures. His limbs became very weak so that he had trouble walking and climbing stairs. After being on Kumpi for a short time he began to look stronger and could run up the stairs again. His coat looks and feel so much better and I can see more oils in it which help condition a westie's bad skin. Both of my westies are on Kumpi and they love it. They never leave any in the bowl. Also I've noticed less gas and smaller feces. The yard is easier to clean up now. Thanks Kumpi team. I've been spreading the word about this wonderful product for both dogs and cats.
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Evy,
Just wanted to let you know we are all doing good with the Kumpi!!
Shelby's knees: I noticed yesterday there was less swelling in the joints and she seems to be a little perkier, she is loving the food and eating it very well!
The 4 Kitties are all loving the food and doing good. I noticed they are starting to blow thier coats, so they look a little rough, but activity wise, they are all playful and happy!
I saw the newest news about tainted food and honestly didn't event fret about it for my babies.
Thank you Evy for the peace of mind, a huge hug for you and your furbabies!
Karen
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Maddie has improved tremendously since starting on Kumpi food in December, just after Christmas. She has hip dysplasia and arthritis and had trouble getting to her feet when she was lying down. She no longer has that problem. She jumps up in the morning when I walk in the door from work with that "Feed me" look on her face. My wife and I can't thank you enough!
Billie
Thursday, June 7, 2007
Potential Detox on Kumpi Products
Evy,
Amazing food!
Our dogs have got through doggie "detox". CRAZY! They just looked terrible for the first few days that we fed the food, and then it began to work some magic. Their poo went through some drastic changes in color, consistency and quantity, and then it evened out.
They totally blew all of their old coat out, and the new stuff is 100% smooth, silky and shiney! Two of them are still detoxing, and I should take photos of their coats to send you. We love it!
Sincerely,
Michaelanne
Consumer,
Some dogs will experience temporary problems that seem to deal with detoxification.
Diarrhea may be an issue for a short period of time, seemingly being a way of cleansing the intestinal tract. The ‘bad bacteria’ are being flushed out and supplementing the food with canned pumpkin (1/4 cup per 50 lbs. body weight) helps them through. Some may drink excessively and that is a NORMAL part of the potential detoxification, as is flatulence. If it exceeds one week, please call but also do not worry! Undergoing multiple surgeries, frequent medication and/or transitioning from a previously poor diet may prolong the process. There are too many variables to cover here :)
Hair breakage may occur. The follicular structure of the hair was less than optimal, too dry and the oils being introduced from the diet change are demonstrably impacting. Since many owners have adjusted to seeing a ‘good’ coat and not a LUSTROUS coat, don’t assume that Kumpi is causing damage. The opposite is true!
The number of daily stools may increase. The digestive system may be ‘waking up’ and if you consider this issue in the human parallel, you know that this is GOOD news. Many dogs (and people) carry undigested food in their intestine (the organ which is the primary origin of disease) which ferments and causes gasses to build. This increase in stools is temporary, although I know dogs who have taken up to a month to resolve this situation.
When it comes to cats - the food is very rich in digestive enzymes and pre/probiotics and really gets the intestine working. This often creates a natural thirst to keep the intestine lubricated, so if they start drinking more water that again is a good sign. Please note that changing a cats diet too often in a short period of time can have detrimental effects on their urinary tract. As the recalls progressed I have talked with too many people who fearfully switched from food to food rapidly - and these were premium brands - only to find out their cat developed UTI problems. When you find a dry food you are happy with, it is best to stay with it :)
The process of restoration takes time – but it happens and it’s worth it!
Evy Serpa
President
Kumpi Pet Foods
303.693.6533
Amazing food!
Our dogs have got through doggie "detox". CRAZY! They just looked terrible for the first few days that we fed the food, and then it began to work some magic. Their poo went through some drastic changes in color, consistency and quantity, and then it evened out.
They totally blew all of their old coat out, and the new stuff is 100% smooth, silky and shiney! Two of them are still detoxing, and I should take photos of their coats to send you. We love it!
Sincerely,
Michaelanne
Consumer,
Some dogs will experience temporary problems that seem to deal with detoxification.
Diarrhea may be an issue for a short period of time, seemingly being a way of cleansing the intestinal tract. The ‘bad bacteria’ are being flushed out and supplementing the food with canned pumpkin (1/4 cup per 50 lbs. body weight) helps them through. Some may drink excessively and that is a NORMAL part of the potential detoxification, as is flatulence. If it exceeds one week, please call but also do not worry! Undergoing multiple surgeries, frequent medication and/or transitioning from a previously poor diet may prolong the process. There are too many variables to cover here :)
Hair breakage may occur. The follicular structure of the hair was less than optimal, too dry and the oils being introduced from the diet change are demonstrably impacting. Since many owners have adjusted to seeing a ‘good’ coat and not a LUSTROUS coat, don’t assume that Kumpi is causing damage. The opposite is true!
The number of daily stools may increase. The digestive system may be ‘waking up’ and if you consider this issue in the human parallel, you know that this is GOOD news. Many dogs (and people) carry undigested food in their intestine (the organ which is the primary origin of disease) which ferments and causes gasses to build. This increase in stools is temporary, although I know dogs who have taken up to a month to resolve this situation.
When it comes to cats - the food is very rich in digestive enzymes and pre/probiotics and really gets the intestine working. This often creates a natural thirst to keep the intestine lubricated, so if they start drinking more water that again is a good sign. Please note that changing a cats diet too often in a short period of time can have detrimental effects on their urinary tract. As the recalls progressed I have talked with too many people who fearfully switched from food to food rapidly - and these were premium brands - only to find out their cat developed UTI problems. When you find a dry food you are happy with, it is best to stay with it :)
The process of restoration takes time – but it happens and it’s worth it!
Evy Serpa
President
Kumpi Pet Foods
303.693.6533
Monday, June 4, 2007
Is Grain Free Starch Free?
There is a lot of buzz about grain free foods and I can't help but wonder if anyone has stopped to realize that these grain free foods aren't starch free - at least none of the dry foods that I have seen. It seems a bit misleading to me since starch is starch, whether is comes from a 'grain' or a potato, millet, tapioca, whatever source.
Grains have been wrongly demonized, but is it all part of the marketing game in the pet food industry. When I read how high the protein level is in some foods I just cringe. Are people stopping to consider the increase in ash and phosphorous when feeding those diets; and the risks that pose?
Buyer beware of the latest trends. I actually was reading about a pet food line that was claiming superiority in it's grain free aspect since dogs and cats don't have digestive enzymes in their mouth. Ok, that is true; but they don't have digestive enzymes in their mouths like we do since they don't chew; they are secreted in the intestines. Also, if a pet food adds therapeutic amounts of digestive enzymes and pre/probiotics to their product, the carbs do their job and digest really well.
I am saddened, but not surprised, at how some companies are seizing on the fear in the pet food consumer since the recalls. It isn't the job of a pet food company to follow trends and then market and supply to those. We should be offering diets with true science behind them that yield results, regardless of what the label looks like. That is the goal I am fulfilling with Kumpi products. The label may not be politically correct, but there is so much you cannot see reflected in a label and so much a company can hide behind.
I am suggesting that you don't take my word or the word of what you read online. Select a product from a company that you trust to not kill your pet - and then take YOUR word for what is the best food for your cat or dog. Take THEIR word in how they respond, feel and act. Supplementation in pet food takes too much of a back seat. If you try a bag of Kumpi cat or dog food (and I promise you, it has been tested to the hilt) let the results speak to you. If you aren't satisfied, you get a full refund; but that is how my little company has grown, one dog and cat at a time. People see tangible results; they share with their friends.
Wouldn't you rather try a product that doesn't spend your hard earned money on advertising and fancy packaging? To answer the many emails that I have gotten regarding whether or not Kumpi will ever offer a grain free product, the answer is no. I'm not going to follow the holy grail of consumer trends. We set the standard and offer the best, plain and simple.
Also, if you are feeding grain free, wouldn't it be best to feed just every few days since feral animals rarely eat on a daily basis. But then again, you can begin to damage internal organs if you don't feed them within a 48 hour sweep. It's a vicious cycle, but remember that the 'prey model' predator wasn't curling up at it's master's feet who did the hunting.
Just some thoughts I wanted to share.
Grains have been wrongly demonized, but is it all part of the marketing game in the pet food industry. When I read how high the protein level is in some foods I just cringe. Are people stopping to consider the increase in ash and phosphorous when feeding those diets; and the risks that pose?
Buyer beware of the latest trends. I actually was reading about a pet food line that was claiming superiority in it's grain free aspect since dogs and cats don't have digestive enzymes in their mouth. Ok, that is true; but they don't have digestive enzymes in their mouths like we do since they don't chew; they are secreted in the intestines. Also, if a pet food adds therapeutic amounts of digestive enzymes and pre/probiotics to their product, the carbs do their job and digest really well.
I am saddened, but not surprised, at how some companies are seizing on the fear in the pet food consumer since the recalls. It isn't the job of a pet food company to follow trends and then market and supply to those. We should be offering diets with true science behind them that yield results, regardless of what the label looks like. That is the goal I am fulfilling with Kumpi products. The label may not be politically correct, but there is so much you cannot see reflected in a label and so much a company can hide behind.
I am suggesting that you don't take my word or the word of what you read online. Select a product from a company that you trust to not kill your pet - and then take YOUR word for what is the best food for your cat or dog. Take THEIR word in how they respond, feel and act. Supplementation in pet food takes too much of a back seat. If you try a bag of Kumpi cat or dog food (and I promise you, it has been tested to the hilt) let the results speak to you. If you aren't satisfied, you get a full refund; but that is how my little company has grown, one dog and cat at a time. People see tangible results; they share with their friends.
Wouldn't you rather try a product that doesn't spend your hard earned money on advertising and fancy packaging? To answer the many emails that I have gotten regarding whether or not Kumpi will ever offer a grain free product, the answer is no. I'm not going to follow the holy grail of consumer trends. We set the standard and offer the best, plain and simple.
Also, if you are feeding grain free, wouldn't it be best to feed just every few days since feral animals rarely eat on a daily basis. But then again, you can begin to damage internal organs if you don't feed them within a 48 hour sweep. It's a vicious cycle, but remember that the 'prey model' predator wasn't curling up at it's master's feet who did the hunting.
Just some thoughts I wanted to share.
Friday, June 1, 2007
Carbs, Fats, Proteins - So Many Opinions!!
On Jun 1, 2007, at 1:06 AM, dee
Hi,
Thanks so much for taking your time to reply. The raw people have just the opposite opinion on grains, especially corn, that it is so hard to weigh through the different opinions. They claim that dogs and cats get energy from lipids not the carbs. I know there are other nutritionalist who like grains in dogs as well as those barf diehards, basing their studies on the wolf.
I like your philosphy, and will read your blog to further educate, not only myself, but others that I advise for the good of their beloved animals.
thanks so much,
dee
Hiya Dee ~
It is my understanding that carbs and protein are energy sources; fat is an energy contributor, but it's most significant contribution in a diet is calories. The science of nutrition for dogs and cats is complex. Our product line was formulated by a man who draws from over 35 years of experience and research in that field. He is motivated by science and understands the chemistry of the ingredients as well. Balance between carbs, protein and fat in appropriate ratios is dictated by the NRC (National Research Council) and additionally, there are models for nutrient analysis for dog and cat foods provided by AAFCO that must be met. He is well familiar with both and follows their protocol. His ear is always to the ground for new research and scientific substantive data; consumer trends mean nothing to either of us.
I appreciate how difficult it is to sort through all of the information and opinions on pet food. While there is wisdom in doing your own research, I encourage everyone to ultimately listen to what their own eyes see and their own hands feel when they are using a product. At a certain point (once you have confidence in a product line or feeding style like barf or raw) you need to set aside the opinions of everyone else and listen to your own from the results on your own pet.
Thanks for your emails !
Evy
Evy
Hi Evy againI read your blog and it is very honest and forthright. thank you for that straightforwardness. It is rare in talking to companies....Would you tell me why the pet food grade food coming from human grade was rejected as human grade I get quite scared about this. I heard that the food rejected was b/c of diseased etc problems and therefore goes to the pet food?
Is this true? No one has explained what pet food grade consist of.
thanks again for your time,
dee
Dee ~
Pet food grade is merely what cannot be 'dressed' from an animal that is up for slaughter to put in a butcher case. It has nothing to do with the animal being diseased. A good example is a chicken breast that is shaped in such a fashion that it doesn't cut easily for packaging. These are animals that are being butchered for human consumption, but not all of the meat 'dresses up' well for sale. I am a bit suspicious when I read that a pet food company claims to use human grade and am wondering if they are stretching the truth a bit about really using the pet grade, but just wanting it to sound better.
I'll get on to answering your other email here in a moment.
Thanks ~
Hi,
Thanks so much for taking your time to reply. The raw people have just the opposite opinion on grains, especially corn, that it is so hard to weigh through the different opinions. They claim that dogs and cats get energy from lipids not the carbs. I know there are other nutritionalist who like grains in dogs as well as those barf diehards, basing their studies on the wolf.
I like your philosphy, and will read your blog to further educate, not only myself, but others that I advise for the good of their beloved animals.
thanks so much,
dee
Hiya Dee ~
It is my understanding that carbs and protein are energy sources; fat is an energy contributor, but it's most significant contribution in a diet is calories. The science of nutrition for dogs and cats is complex. Our product line was formulated by a man who draws from over 35 years of experience and research in that field. He is motivated by science and understands the chemistry of the ingredients as well. Balance between carbs, protein and fat in appropriate ratios is dictated by the NRC (National Research Council) and additionally, there are models for nutrient analysis for dog and cat foods provided by AAFCO that must be met. He is well familiar with both and follows their protocol. His ear is always to the ground for new research and scientific substantive data; consumer trends mean nothing to either of us.
I appreciate how difficult it is to sort through all of the information and opinions on pet food. While there is wisdom in doing your own research, I encourage everyone to ultimately listen to what their own eyes see and their own hands feel when they are using a product. At a certain point (once you have confidence in a product line or feeding style like barf or raw) you need to set aside the opinions of everyone else and listen to your own from the results on your own pet.
Thanks for your emails !
Evy
Evy
Hi Evy againI read your blog and it is very honest and forthright. thank you for that straightforwardness. It is rare in talking to companies....Would you tell me why the pet food grade food coming from human grade was rejected as human grade I get quite scared about this. I heard that the food rejected was b/c of diseased etc problems and therefore goes to the pet food?
Is this true? No one has explained what pet food grade consist of.
thanks again for your time,
dee
Dee ~
Pet food grade is merely what cannot be 'dressed' from an animal that is up for slaughter to put in a butcher case. It has nothing to do with the animal being diseased. A good example is a chicken breast that is shaped in such a fashion that it doesn't cut easily for packaging. These are animals that are being butchered for human consumption, but not all of the meat 'dresses up' well for sale. I am a bit suspicious when I read that a pet food company claims to use human grade and am wondering if they are stretching the truth a bit about really using the pet grade, but just wanting it to sound better.
I'll get on to answering your other email here in a moment.
Thanks ~
June Miscellaneous
Hello Evy,
I was wondering, I don't know if I missed it on your site somewhere, you may have mentioned it, but I am wondering, what is the cooking process involved in making Kumpi? Also, do you recommend adding fresh fruits and veggies and meat in addition to the kibble? Some say it offsets the formula that is why I am asking. One more question, if I may, what are the %'s of the omegas in Kumpi?
I appreciate all of your efforts,
Marisabel
Dear Marisabel ~
Hi there! The cooking process for Kumpi is just that; the food is cooked and extruded. When it comes to adding to any dry kibble that is really broad spectrum. Activity level, what fruits and veggies and meat? and is there an existing medical condition that would cause anything added to be detrimental? Plus, some critters have cast iron tummies it seems while others get gassy just watching a fast food commercial. Too many dynamics involved for me to answer that without having you realize there are many factors that come into play. With most diets, keeping to dry kibble for 90% of the daily diet the formula should stand well and do it's job; and that is regarding the issue of offsetting the formula. Occasionally while I am eating some chicken breast meat I will give tiny pieces to my cat and dog. Ditto with apples, except my dog seems to think that bananas should definitely remain people food :) Do I buy special fruits, veggies and meats for my pets? No, I don't.
The % of Omegas is on it's way when my nutritionist completes the nutrient analysis for the dog food. The cat food nutrient analysis is over at kumpikat.com. My mega public thanks to him for taking the time from his already busy schedule to help me out with the information that people seek after the recalls. He is not under my employ, he does his work for me on a contract basis. He has many irons in the fire right now (last we talked he was working on a formula for some deer food) and is enjoying the seasonal graduations, proms and weddings that come with this time of year.
And just a final thought about how Kumpi is cooked. I have been to the plant and watched the process several times; but asking me about the exact details of 'how' would be like asking me how my mechanic dropped a new transmission into my company van. I don't know how he did it; he loosened some parts there and then.....well, I'm not sure. That is his area of expertise and why I pay him to do it. The same thing is true of how Kumpi products are made. The details of the process are so complicated and amazing to watch; all I need to know is what a good job they do of providing me with quality kibble!
Cat lovers....you may enjoy Lars diary over at this link: http://www.catster.com/cats/524858#diary and check out the May blogs for KumpiKat cat food testimonials!
Keep checking this post for emails that contain multiple questions and don't fit a specific category :)
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
I was wondering, I don't know if I missed it on your site somewhere, you may have mentioned it, but I am wondering, what is the cooking process involved in making Kumpi? Also, do you recommend adding fresh fruits and veggies and meat in addition to the kibble? Some say it offsets the formula that is why I am asking. One more question, if I may, what are the %'s of the omegas in Kumpi?
I appreciate all of your efforts,
Marisabel
Dear Marisabel ~
Hi there! The cooking process for Kumpi is just that; the food is cooked and extruded. When it comes to adding to any dry kibble that is really broad spectrum. Activity level, what fruits and veggies and meat? and is there an existing medical condition that would cause anything added to be detrimental? Plus, some critters have cast iron tummies it seems while others get gassy just watching a fast food commercial. Too many dynamics involved for me to answer that without having you realize there are many factors that come into play. With most diets, keeping to dry kibble for 90% of the daily diet the formula should stand well and do it's job; and that is regarding the issue of offsetting the formula. Occasionally while I am eating some chicken breast meat I will give tiny pieces to my cat and dog. Ditto with apples, except my dog seems to think that bananas should definitely remain people food :) Do I buy special fruits, veggies and meats for my pets? No, I don't.
The % of Omegas is on it's way when my nutritionist completes the nutrient analysis for the dog food. The cat food nutrient analysis is over at kumpikat.com. My mega public thanks to him for taking the time from his already busy schedule to help me out with the information that people seek after the recalls. He is not under my employ, he does his work for me on a contract basis. He has many irons in the fire right now (last we talked he was working on a formula for some deer food) and is enjoying the seasonal graduations, proms and weddings that come with this time of year.
And just a final thought about how Kumpi is cooked. I have been to the plant and watched the process several times; but asking me about the exact details of 'how' would be like asking me how my mechanic dropped a new transmission into my company van. I don't know how he did it; he loosened some parts there and then.....well, I'm not sure. That is his area of expertise and why I pay him to do it. The same thing is true of how Kumpi products are made. The details of the process are so complicated and amazing to watch; all I need to know is what a good job they do of providing me with quality kibble!
Cat lovers....you may enjoy Lars diary over at this link: http://www.catster.com/cats/524858#diary and check out the May blogs for KumpiKat cat food testimonials!
Keep checking this post for emails that contain multiple questions and don't fit a specific category :)
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Is It Really Human Grade Ingredients?
Subject: pet food grade
Hi Evy again,
I read your blog and it is very honest and forthright. thank you for that straightforwardness. It is rare in talking to companies.
Would you tell me why the pet food grade food coming from human grade was rejected as human grade. I get quite scared about this. I heard that the food rejected was b/c of diseased etc problems and therefore goes to the pet food? Is this true? No one has explained what pet food grade consist of. thanks again for your time,
dee
Dee ~
Pet food grade is merely what cannot be 'dressed' from an animal that is up for slaughter to put in a butcher case. It has nothing to do with the animal being diseased. A good example is a chicken breast that is shaped in such a fashion that it doesn't cut easily for packaging. These are animals that are being butchered for human consumption, but not all of the meat 'dresses up' well for sale. I am a bit suspicious when I read that a pet food company claims to use human grade and am wondering if they are stretching the truth a bit about really using the pet grade, but just wanting it to sound better.
I'll get on to answering your other email here in a moment.
Thanks ~
Evy
(Dear Reader....please refer to my May blog on this subject for more information)
Hi Evy again,
I read your blog and it is very honest and forthright. thank you for that straightforwardness. It is rare in talking to companies.
Would you tell me why the pet food grade food coming from human grade was rejected as human grade. I get quite scared about this. I heard that the food rejected was b/c of diseased etc problems and therefore goes to the pet food? Is this true? No one has explained what pet food grade consist of. thanks again for your time,
dee
Dee ~
Pet food grade is merely what cannot be 'dressed' from an animal that is up for slaughter to put in a butcher case. It has nothing to do with the animal being diseased. A good example is a chicken breast that is shaped in such a fashion that it doesn't cut easily for packaging. These are animals that are being butchered for human consumption, but not all of the meat 'dresses up' well for sale. I am a bit suspicious when I read that a pet food company claims to use human grade and am wondering if they are stretching the truth a bit about really using the pet grade, but just wanting it to sound better.
I'll get on to answering your other email here in a moment.
Thanks ~
Evy
(Dear Reader....please refer to my May blog on this subject for more information)
Cornphobia & WHY The First Ingredient??
THE CORN USED IN KUMPI DOG FOOD IS NON-GMO
My journey through the last nine years of owning a pet food company has been eye-opening to say the least. I understand the scrutiny every company is under right now and appreciate the people who are aware of how expansive the wet food recall was; and that dry food is under deep suspicion as well.
There are many times my dog food is passed over for having corn in it and even worse in the mind of the consumer, it is the first ingredient. Give me a bit to explain this to you, because it makes total sense to me.
A dog needs carbs - that is just a fact. Rice, potatoes, oatmeal, rye, millet, wheat, sorghum - these are just some of the sources to get that starch from. The 'grain free diets' are still using some form of starch for carbs.
Digestibility seems to be one of the problems folks have with corn. If you go to the faq part of my website, you will see the results from a scientific study that shows corn grain is 89.3% digestible. That is exactly what corn meal is - the whole grain that is fine ground. It has been potentially confusing since raw corn comes to mind when seeing corn meal on an ingredient label; even then, what is visible in even our own stool doesn't mean that the corn hasn't done it's job in servicing the body. It merely indicates that the fat and carbs have been squeezed out during digestion and you're looking at the hull that the body didn't need.
Allergic reactions to corn is another thing that draws suspicion for some (wheat and soy are more likely allergens. Less than 10% of allergic reactions in pets are due to diet. I strongly advocate having blood work performed on a pet if they are displaying allergic symptoms. Right at a time when their body is needing nutritional stability the most, people are sometimes advised to do 'process of elimination' diets. They buy a food without corn and see if the symptoms persist. They buy a food without chicken and see if the symptoms persist. On and on, while the poor pet is needing stable nourishment. One thing that makes this process very inefficient is that when you buy a food, you have no knowledge on what grade of different ingredients have been used. If your dog has problems with a grade five corn product - corn was potentially not the issue - the low grade of the ingredient was the harm. And I can write about this with confidence, since so many people have given me feedback about wanting to try Kumpi dog food, since their friend's dog did so well on it; they were concerned because process of elimination led them to believe corn was the culprit. They borrowed some of their friend's food and started blending it slowly with their current dog food, only to find their dog did wonderfully!!! Biggest moral of the story for this paragraph - if your pet displays allergic symptoms, have blood work done to find out what the allergy is. If it is seasonal or environmental you can keep the nutrition stable (whatever you choose to feed) and get on with helping their body out per your veterinarians protocol and your pet's test results.
The first ingredient. I'd like to draw from a quote by Dr. Elizabeth Hodgkins who was on the initial senatorial panel for the pet food hearings. She posted an incredible rebuttal to the comments made by The Pet Food Industry representative. Here is part of her comments.
"An example of ingredients splitting: Pet food companies who wish to disguise the amount of cereals in their products will list several different cereals instead of using just one (not top quality cereals either) so that what meat IS in their products will legally be listed as the one of the first ingredients. In many, if not most of these foods, cereal actually makes up the majority of the food, but consumers see 'chicken' as one of the top 2-3 ingredients and think that chicken is a predominant component of the food. This is 'smoke and mirrors.' "
When Kumpi dog food was first formulated, my nutritionist said I had two choices; to look like the best food (regarding the ingredient label) or be the best food. That's a no-brainer for me since this was first pursued for my own dog; then for my student's dogs. What the label read like didn't make any difference to me. The irony is that having a grain as a first ingredient gave him the ability to put in that much more meat. Huh???? Ok, look at it this way - if you were formulating one ton of food (2000 lbs):
First Ingredient is MEAT - 301 lbs.
Second Ingredient is GRAIN - 300 lbs.
Third Ingredient is GRAIN - 300 lbs.
Fourth Ingredient is GRAIN - 300 lbs.
(fat, fiber, etc. rest of the formula) - 5799 lbs.
We've got our one ton recipe ready to go. Meat is the first ingredient. But there is far more grain in the food when you add things up. This is part of the smoke and mirrors that Dr. Hodgkins is referring to. Also on my website is the startling difference between "chicken" and "chicken meal" - but I digress.
Corn has to be the first ingredient to get as much meat as we can into the dog food!! It is not a cheap filler. (I know - I pay the bills.)
The beauty of corn meal? Over 60% of the naturally occurring fat in corn is Omega 6 aka Linoleic Acid, a powerful anti-oxidant. The Omega 6 factor is also part of what helps create a healthy hair follicle.
Plus, there's more to a pet food than base ingredients; there is the supplementation factor as well. But that's another blog :)
My journey through the last nine years of owning a pet food company has been eye-opening to say the least. I understand the scrutiny every company is under right now and appreciate the people who are aware of how expansive the wet food recall was; and that dry food is under deep suspicion as well.
There are many times my dog food is passed over for having corn in it and even worse in the mind of the consumer, it is the first ingredient. Give me a bit to explain this to you, because it makes total sense to me.
A dog needs carbs - that is just a fact. Rice, potatoes, oatmeal, rye, millet, wheat, sorghum - these are just some of the sources to get that starch from. The 'grain free diets' are still using some form of starch for carbs.
Digestibility seems to be one of the problems folks have with corn. If you go to the faq part of my website, you will see the results from a scientific study that shows corn grain is 89.3% digestible. That is exactly what corn meal is - the whole grain that is fine ground. It has been potentially confusing since raw corn comes to mind when seeing corn meal on an ingredient label; even then, what is visible in even our own stool doesn't mean that the corn hasn't done it's job in servicing the body. It merely indicates that the fat and carbs have been squeezed out during digestion and you're looking at the hull that the body didn't need.
Allergic reactions to corn is another thing that draws suspicion for some (wheat and soy are more likely allergens. Less than 10% of allergic reactions in pets are due to diet. I strongly advocate having blood work performed on a pet if they are displaying allergic symptoms. Right at a time when their body is needing nutritional stability the most, people are sometimes advised to do 'process of elimination' diets. They buy a food without corn and see if the symptoms persist. They buy a food without chicken and see if the symptoms persist. On and on, while the poor pet is needing stable nourishment. One thing that makes this process very inefficient is that when you buy a food, you have no knowledge on what grade of different ingredients have been used. If your dog has problems with a grade five corn product - corn was potentially not the issue - the low grade of the ingredient was the harm. And I can write about this with confidence, since so many people have given me feedback about wanting to try Kumpi dog food, since their friend's dog did so well on it; they were concerned because process of elimination led them to believe corn was the culprit. They borrowed some of their friend's food and started blending it slowly with their current dog food, only to find their dog did wonderfully!!! Biggest moral of the story for this paragraph - if your pet displays allergic symptoms, have blood work done to find out what the allergy is. If it is seasonal or environmental you can keep the nutrition stable (whatever you choose to feed) and get on with helping their body out per your veterinarians protocol and your pet's test results.
The first ingredient. I'd like to draw from a quote by Dr. Elizabeth Hodgkins who was on the initial senatorial panel for the pet food hearings. She posted an incredible rebuttal to the comments made by The Pet Food Industry representative. Here is part of her comments.
"An example of ingredients splitting: Pet food companies who wish to disguise the amount of cereals in their products will list several different cereals instead of using just one (not top quality cereals either) so that what meat IS in their products will legally be listed as the one of the first ingredients. In many, if not most of these foods, cereal actually makes up the majority of the food, but consumers see 'chicken' as one of the top 2-3 ingredients and think that chicken is a predominant component of the food. This is 'smoke and mirrors.' "
When Kumpi dog food was first formulated, my nutritionist said I had two choices; to look like the best food (regarding the ingredient label) or be the best food. That's a no-brainer for me since this was first pursued for my own dog; then for my student's dogs. What the label read like didn't make any difference to me. The irony is that having a grain as a first ingredient gave him the ability to put in that much more meat. Huh???? Ok, look at it this way - if you were formulating one ton of food (2000 lbs):
First Ingredient is MEAT - 301 lbs.
Second Ingredient is GRAIN - 300 lbs.
Third Ingredient is GRAIN - 300 lbs.
Fourth Ingredient is GRAIN - 300 lbs.
(fat, fiber, etc. rest of the formula) - 5799 lbs.
We've got our one ton recipe ready to go. Meat is the first ingredient. But there is far more grain in the food when you add things up. This is part of the smoke and mirrors that Dr. Hodgkins is referring to. Also on my website is the startling difference between "chicken" and "chicken meal" - but I digress.
Corn has to be the first ingredient to get as much meat as we can into the dog food!! It is not a cheap filler. (I know - I pay the bills.)
The beauty of corn meal? Over 60% of the naturally occurring fat in corn is Omega 6 aka Linoleic Acid, a powerful anti-oxidant. The Omega 6 factor is also part of what helps create a healthy hair follicle.
Plus, there's more to a pet food than base ingredients; there is the supplementation factor as well. But that's another blog :)
Monday, May 28, 2007
RE: Euthanized Pets In Pet Food
Good Afternoon Evy,
It’s interesting to note that if a firm uses meat or meat by-products in a product that is not derived from cattle, swine, sheep, goats or a combination of these, then according to AAFCO regs., they are required to designate the animal from which the meat is derived in the ingredients list.
If I come across any other info. on this topic, I’ll send it your way.
Respectfully,
Chandra
Chandra Hardwick
Colorado Department of Agriculture
Feed Program Administrator
2331 West 31st Ave.
Denver, CO 80211
303-477-0081
It’s interesting to note that if a firm uses meat or meat by-products in a product that is not derived from cattle, swine, sheep, goats or a combination of these, then according to AAFCO regs., they are required to designate the animal from which the meat is derived in the ingredients list.
If I come across any other info. on this topic, I’ll send it your way.
Respectfully,
Chandra
Chandra Hardwick
Colorado Department of Agriculture
Feed Program Administrator
2331 West 31st Ave.
Denver, CO 80211
303-477-0081
Yucca Schidigera
Botanical Name: Yucca schidigera
Rich in anti-inflammatory phytosterols
Yucca contains natural steroidal-like saponins that are effective anti-inflammatories and anti-spasmodics known to reduce pain associated with arthritis and has been used with success for allergies and to strengthen the immune system. Yucca is used today to treat inflammation caused by degenerative diseases like arthritis and rheumatism. Rich in Vitamin A, B-complex and Vitamin C, Yucca is also a good source of calcium, copper, manganese, potassium and phosphorus. Originally used for both food and medicine, Yucca's natural steroid properties, Saponins, have been known to reduce inflammation and obstructions of the joints. Yucca also contains antibacterial and antifungal properties that contribute to the cleansing of the colon, purifying the blood and helping keep the kindeys and liver free of toxins.
Yucca is used to treat migraine headaches, arthritis, hypertension, colitis, hypercholesterolemia, stomach disorders, diabetes, poor circulation, and liver and gallbladder disorders. Yucca in combination with a good diet and exercise may be effective for normalizing triglycerides, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
Kumpi Pet Foods offers this information in response to inquires about the use of yucca schidigera in our products. This is not meant to be perceived as a medical claim. AAFCO protocol requires any company to restrict their comments about the medical efficacy of this ingredient.
Rich in anti-inflammatory phytosterols
Yucca contains natural steroidal-like saponins that are effective anti-inflammatories and anti-spasmodics known to reduce pain associated with arthritis and has been used with success for allergies and to strengthen the immune system. Yucca is used today to treat inflammation caused by degenerative diseases like arthritis and rheumatism. Rich in Vitamin A, B-complex and Vitamin C, Yucca is also a good source of calcium, copper, manganese, potassium and phosphorus. Originally used for both food and medicine, Yucca's natural steroid properties, Saponins, have been known to reduce inflammation and obstructions of the joints. Yucca also contains antibacterial and antifungal properties that contribute to the cleansing of the colon, purifying the blood and helping keep the kindeys and liver free of toxins.
Yucca is used to treat migraine headaches, arthritis, hypertension, colitis, hypercholesterolemia, stomach disorders, diabetes, poor circulation, and liver and gallbladder disorders. Yucca in combination with a good diet and exercise may be effective for normalizing triglycerides, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
Kumpi Pet Foods offers this information in response to inquires about the use of yucca schidigera in our products. This is not meant to be perceived as a medical claim. AAFCO protocol requires any company to restrict their comments about the medical efficacy of this ingredient.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Human Grade Ingredients In Pet Food
There are three primary classifications of meat in the industry when referring to fresh, live kill.
Human Grade: the meat that will end up on grocery shelves in the form of steaks, ribs, briskets, loins, etc.
Pet Food Grade: the meat used from the above mentioned live kill animal that doesn't end up on grocery shelves.
Feed Grade: not suitable for human consumption.
I can't help but wonder how many companies are stretching the verbage by using the Pet Food Grade meat that didn't end up on grocery shelves, but try to insinuate that since their meat came from an animal that was qualified as Human Grade, but they are using the Pet Grade, which came from a "human grade" animal.
That's been a long ongoing battle in the industry right now. There is not the manpower in the FDA or AAFCO to regulate every company to specify that they indeed are spending the extra money for the Human Grade meat - and from the price of pet food, I'd venture to say their costs would have to be MUCh higher if they were. It seems that they are stretching the truth here. And this information comes from talking directly with the actual suppliers of meat to the pet food industry.
I use Pet Grade that comes from the animals initially used for Human Grade products, but will not mislead my consumer by saying I use human grade, even though the quality of Pet Grade is just as high.
See how large the skirts are this industry has to hide behind and the spins they can put on things? Issues like this are just the tip of the iceberg. This is NOT a highly regulated industry and the American pet owner gets feed a lot of advertising/marketing to give them false senses of security.
How about this one?? The company that says "we use USDA Inspected Beef" - and then proceed to use 4D beef (dead, dying, diseased, disabled) - hey, they weren't lying that the beef was USDA inspected - it was just rejected.
Human Grade: the meat that will end up on grocery shelves in the form of steaks, ribs, briskets, loins, etc.
Pet Food Grade: the meat used from the above mentioned live kill animal that doesn't end up on grocery shelves.
Feed Grade: not suitable for human consumption.
I can't help but wonder how many companies are stretching the verbage by using the Pet Food Grade meat that didn't end up on grocery shelves, but try to insinuate that since their meat came from an animal that was qualified as Human Grade, but they are using the Pet Grade, which came from a "human grade" animal.
That's been a long ongoing battle in the industry right now. There is not the manpower in the FDA or AAFCO to regulate every company to specify that they indeed are spending the extra money for the Human Grade meat - and from the price of pet food, I'd venture to say their costs would have to be MUCh higher if they were. It seems that they are stretching the truth here. And this information comes from talking directly with the actual suppliers of meat to the pet food industry.
I use Pet Grade that comes from the animals initially used for Human Grade products, but will not mislead my consumer by saying I use human grade, even though the quality of Pet Grade is just as high.
See how large the skirts are this industry has to hide behind and the spins they can put on things? Issues like this are just the tip of the iceberg. This is NOT a highly regulated industry and the American pet owner gets feed a lot of advertising/marketing to give them false senses of security.
How about this one?? The company that says "we use USDA Inspected Beef" - and then proceed to use 4D beef (dead, dying, diseased, disabled) - hey, they weren't lying that the beef was USDA inspected - it was just rejected.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Canned Pet Food Comments
Thanks for writing me back Evy. Sorry Ive been a pest. Im just worried about my babies. I have always fed just dry, but I just have one cat Frank who has to have a treat of something else!! Can you tell me why your nutritionist thinks canned is causing problems? Is it the way it is manufactured..bacteria...etc..? I am clueless on the subject and would really like to know his thoughts, since my frankie LOVES it and I want the best for my kitties. Also I know your nutritionist is super busy, and I know you are too, but the next time you talk to him, could you also ask him what he thinks of giving a spoonful a meat baby food (just turkey and turkey broth, no onion/garlic) mixed with water for a treat everyday? Frank and Cooper really seem to love that. A vet tech told me it could cause pancreatis, then another told me it was fine. I dont want to hurt my kitties, and the vet is NO HELP in this question other than recommending horrible food!
Dear Cat Lover ~
Pet nutrition is an 'absolute' science with very little room for give when it comes to pet food. AAFCO and the NRC (National Research Council) have established both minimums and maximums for many of the minerals and vitamins used in pet food. When people start introducing other things it is hard to give an educated opinion as to whether it is 'good' or 'bad' for the pet. I give Tonga just the tiniest piece of white chicken meat that I've cooked for myself as her treat. Cats especially do have a delicate system and I hate to sound like a broken record, but nutrition is science, science has studied min/max impact of vitamins and minerals; going outside those bounds with other foods throws off the whole balance, or has the potential to I should say.
The genesis of canned pet food was putting to use what legally can't be put into dry food. That, along with the probabilities of contamination and the lack of quality control has my nutritionist sitting with a big thumbs down. As I read through the posts folks make about canned pet food, you can really see what he is talking about. Getting consistency is really hard and so is quality - and his opinion to me stands as gold, since I've heard from too many pet owners, both dog and cat, how they have changed from 'premium' foods over to Kumpi products and finally found the results they were looking for.
Just an FYI for you to think about.....the major reason wet foods appeal to dogs and cats so much are how the nasal receptors are reacting to the high amount of molecules quickly evaporating off the wet product. The smell is more pungent and is why they tend to dig into it. That being said, remember that pets are much like people, with personal proclivities. But overall, you will find that to be the case.
I personally wouldn't touch canned pet food and also don't want to play with the balance Mark has established with the product line. I've seen enough and heard enough to abide by that, but also respect people who make a different choice. You can see online the choices people have made and the different issues their cats are suffering with. A good and solid dry food that controls the vitamin/mineral intake with a tiny treat now and then is the safest thing I understand to be the best. My cat at 16 is doing sooooo well without canned, I believe Mark's science to be valid and is the route I advise folks to take.
I do always appreciate hearing from you!
Evy
Dear Cat Lover ~
Pet nutrition is an 'absolute' science with very little room for give when it comes to pet food. AAFCO and the NRC (National Research Council) have established both minimums and maximums for many of the minerals and vitamins used in pet food. When people start introducing other things it is hard to give an educated opinion as to whether it is 'good' or 'bad' for the pet. I give Tonga just the tiniest piece of white chicken meat that I've cooked for myself as her treat. Cats especially do have a delicate system and I hate to sound like a broken record, but nutrition is science, science has studied min/max impact of vitamins and minerals; going outside those bounds with other foods throws off the whole balance, or has the potential to I should say.
The genesis of canned pet food was putting to use what legally can't be put into dry food. That, along with the probabilities of contamination and the lack of quality control has my nutritionist sitting with a big thumbs down. As I read through the posts folks make about canned pet food, you can really see what he is talking about. Getting consistency is really hard and so is quality - and his opinion to me stands as gold, since I've heard from too many pet owners, both dog and cat, how they have changed from 'premium' foods over to Kumpi products and finally found the results they were looking for.
Just an FYI for you to think about.....the major reason wet foods appeal to dogs and cats so much are how the nasal receptors are reacting to the high amount of molecules quickly evaporating off the wet product. The smell is more pungent and is why they tend to dig into it. That being said, remember that pets are much like people, with personal proclivities. But overall, you will find that to be the case.
I personally wouldn't touch canned pet food and also don't want to play with the balance Mark has established with the product line. I've seen enough and heard enough to abide by that, but also respect people who make a different choice. You can see online the choices people have made and the different issues their cats are suffering with. A good and solid dry food that controls the vitamin/mineral intake with a tiny treat now and then is the safest thing I understand to be the best. My cat at 16 is doing sooooo well without canned, I believe Mark's science to be valid and is the route I advise folks to take.
I do always appreciate hearing from you!
Evy
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Kumpi Retailers
Dear Denise ~
Thanks so much for the order and I also did get your email about distributor possibilities in NY. Honestly, none of the people out of state are people that I approached. They all approached me. Above and beyond that, I need for them to have a personal relationship/trust with the food and I need the chance to get to know them myself a bit.
The moment the foods leaves my charge (I have it shipped directly from my manufacturer to me) I need to know that the food won't be sitting in direct sunlight or exposed to extreme heat (the fats can get compromised) and that the product is being cared for as well as I do. It takes a long chain of events to make sure that the food someone buys that says "Kumpi" on it is of the best quality possible.
My background is in dog behavior and I know that most stores are being bombarded weekly with pet foods that are seeking shelf space. I am not like the 'corporate' products and that is one other part of me not being like them. It takes more than money and space to sell Kumpi. I know all of my out of state retailers and respect them immensely.
I know it may sound like a peculiar 'business plan' but I wasn't 'planning' on the growth of the company being so strong through grassroots. I feel a strong need to keep it protected. My confidence level in my product line is immense and my trust of the people who sell it needs to be as strong.
Hope this makes sense to you :))
Blessings ~
Evy
Thanks so much for the order and I also did get your email about distributor possibilities in NY. Honestly, none of the people out of state are people that I approached. They all approached me. Above and beyond that, I need for them to have a personal relationship/trust with the food and I need the chance to get to know them myself a bit.
The moment the foods leaves my charge (I have it shipped directly from my manufacturer to me) I need to know that the food won't be sitting in direct sunlight or exposed to extreme heat (the fats can get compromised) and that the product is being cared for as well as I do. It takes a long chain of events to make sure that the food someone buys that says "Kumpi" on it is of the best quality possible.
My background is in dog behavior and I know that most stores are being bombarded weekly with pet foods that are seeking shelf space. I am not like the 'corporate' products and that is one other part of me not being like them. It takes more than money and space to sell Kumpi. I know all of my out of state retailers and respect them immensely.
I know it may sound like a peculiar 'business plan' but I wasn't 'planning' on the growth of the company being so strong through grassroots. I feel a strong need to keep it protected. My confidence level in my product line is immense and my trust of the people who sell it needs to be as strong.
Hope this makes sense to you :))
Blessings ~
Evy
Kumpi Dog Food Testimonials
Hi Evy,
We made it through the gastrointestinal portion of the detox program with relatively few incidents--thank heavens. The replacing of the coats is still in full swing--wow!! It's ok though because my house is a total mess with the kitchen gutted to be redone, so a little extra fur floating around is nothing...
An interesting note though. Since Homer, our bloodhound, went off of his prednisone back in December, I haven't been able to get him to lose the extra weight he gained. However, I weighed him last week and he is down to 120 lbs. That's a loss of over 10 pounds!!! He looks so much better without the "bloated" look and only has about 5 more to go. He is back to acting like a puppy much of the day, which is a sort of mixed blessing. He was a very mischevious puppy, so I'm back on 24/7 babysitting duties so he doesn't eat anything he shouldn't....
Their new coats are definitely softer; I'm sure they're shinier too, but it's kind of hard to see because they always have a layer of dust on them from the outside. (We have clay here so either it's total mush when it's wet or very hard and dusty when it's dry.)
They are all thriving on the food and run around the yard playing again, which thrills me. I can't thank you enough for offering your food. Especially with the ever-expanding recall list, it's good to have peace of mind. Thanks again for all of your help and offering your product over the internet.
Take care,
Margaret (and Lucy, Joe, Thumbs & Homer)
(May 16th)
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I wish you could see what your food has done for Harley, our eight year old German Shepherd. He is the littermate of Hannah, our female that we lost two years ago to hemangiosarcoma. While he was definitely not in poor health, he had occasional bouts of IBS, his nose would crack and dry out, sebaceous cysts, etc. Now, there is no IBS, the one little cyst he had on his back has dried up and disappeared, his teeth are getting whiter, and his nose has cleared up and is soft. Also, he now "prances" when we walk. What a dramatic difference!!
Thanks so much for all you do for our furry children!!!
Best regards,
Rich
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Compliment! My 12 year old shep mix Jaks has finished his first bag of Kumpi. Vet visit this morning to follow up on a Lyme DX of December. My Vet warned me that he would most likely still show + in the titer....to her suprise and mine his Lyme is almost fully resolved. My Vet was amazed at my boys coat as well. He looks great! I attribute his excellent condition to his organic health as highly influenced by KUMPI. My Vet may enquire about retailing Kumpi from their office. Canines in the NE are constantly challenged by various tick borne diseases, notably Lyme- they need all the help that they can get and Kumpi is their allie !
Very pleased! Just re-ordered. Thank You, Evy.
Martha
We made it through the gastrointestinal portion of the detox program with relatively few incidents--thank heavens. The replacing of the coats is still in full swing--wow!! It's ok though because my house is a total mess with the kitchen gutted to be redone, so a little extra fur floating around is nothing...
An interesting note though. Since Homer, our bloodhound, went off of his prednisone back in December, I haven't been able to get him to lose the extra weight he gained. However, I weighed him last week and he is down to 120 lbs. That's a loss of over 10 pounds!!! He looks so much better without the "bloated" look and only has about 5 more to go. He is back to acting like a puppy much of the day, which is a sort of mixed blessing. He was a very mischevious puppy, so I'm back on 24/7 babysitting duties so he doesn't eat anything he shouldn't....
Their new coats are definitely softer; I'm sure they're shinier too, but it's kind of hard to see because they always have a layer of dust on them from the outside. (We have clay here so either it's total mush when it's wet or very hard and dusty when it's dry.)
They are all thriving on the food and run around the yard playing again, which thrills me. I can't thank you enough for offering your food. Especially with the ever-expanding recall list, it's good to have peace of mind. Thanks again for all of your help and offering your product over the internet.
Take care,
Margaret (and Lucy, Joe, Thumbs & Homer)
(May 16th)
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
I wish you could see what your food has done for Harley, our eight year old German Shepherd. He is the littermate of Hannah, our female that we lost two years ago to hemangiosarcoma. While he was definitely not in poor health, he had occasional bouts of IBS, his nose would crack and dry out, sebaceous cysts, etc. Now, there is no IBS, the one little cyst he had on his back has dried up and disappeared, his teeth are getting whiter, and his nose has cleared up and is soft. Also, he now "prances" when we walk. What a dramatic difference!!
Thanks so much for all you do for our furry children!!!
Best regards,
Rich
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Compliment! My 12 year old shep mix Jaks has finished his first bag of Kumpi. Vet visit this morning to follow up on a Lyme DX of December. My Vet warned me that he would most likely still show + in the titer....to her suprise and mine his Lyme is almost fully resolved. My Vet was amazed at my boys coat as well. He looks great! I attribute his excellent condition to his organic health as highly influenced by KUMPI. My Vet may enquire about retailing Kumpi from their office. Canines in the NE are constantly challenged by various tick borne diseases, notably Lyme- they need all the help that they can get and Kumpi is their allie !
Very pleased! Just re-ordered. Thank You, Evy.
Martha
Thursday, May 17, 2007
KumpiKat Testimonials
Love the cat food! All four of my cats are crazy about it. It is very rare for them all to agree on one brand but this is the one. I have an insulin dependant diabetic (Annie), an overweight three legged( Izzy- Hebrew for great gift), a 16 year old( Pooky) and a for the most part ( health wise anyway) normal one ( TC for too cute or terrible cat depending on the day). They are all rescue cats. We also have 3 rescue dogs. Your products are great. Thanks for making them available to all of us.
Blessing and peace,
Beverley
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I just wanted to tell you that my 3 cats LOVE Kumpi! With all the recall insanity, I've changed their food a few times and they have been reluctantly eating everything else. When the Kumpi arrived they were all over the box before I even opened it! I am very pleased. My girl who has been vomiting for a long time hasn't in the past week or so, my one overweight guy loves the fod, but isn't overeating, and the picky one can't get enough. Thank you so much! I'm glad I found out about Kumpi through the Itchmo forums. We will be ordering again soon. Yoiu have fans all the way up here in Vermont!
Thanks for all you do,
Michelle
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The recent pet food recall not only concerned me, it reminded me of my dislike of by-products and so much corn meal in my cats' food. But since it seemed most brands contained them, I didn't feel like I had a lot of choices.
Several weeks ago I decided once and for all to find a truly different food, to solve an immediate problem with a cat who was vomiting, and another cat who had long lasting effects from being sick.
First, my only boy cat, a little orange tabby named Yukon, came to me as a three month old shelter kitten, and very, very sick with a respiratory infection that was so difficult to get rid of. I found out later, sadly, it killed all the other kittens who had been in the same kennel the day I adopted Yukon, including two of his litter mates. His growth was stunted and his fur has never been very soft or shiny, no matter what I fed him. In just a few weeks on Kumpi Kat Yukon has grown more than he has in months. He's bigger than two of the three girl cats now! It's happened so fast, that it still surprises me each time I see him, because he looks like a different kitty. :) I wish I had "before and after" pictures! His fur is soft and shiny and he's even MORE of a cuddle muffin than he was before. He LOVES his Kumpi and turns his nose up at anything else. It's been so exciting to see.
Then, several weeks ago, my long haired cat, Taimyr, was vomiting and it didn't resolve with a hairball. I knew it was time to take her to the vet when she vomited right back into her food bowl while trying to eat. (This was pre-Kumpi). None of the other cats were sick, so I knew something was very wrong. Taimyr stopped eating and an x-ray showed a mass in her abdomen. She had to have surgery on May 12th and they removed a three inch long, 1 inch diameter mass of hair in her intestine. Poor kitty! Her fur is the longest I've seen and I tried to keep up with the grooming, but obviously not well enoughy. We think she has Maine Coon in her family tree, as her hair brushes the ground. My husband nicknamed her "Musk Ox".
Because Taimyr had become anorexic during this, they sent her home with a nasal feeding tube and I had to give her "kitty Ensure" every two hours. She was listless and sad, but not enough to pull her tube out early! I got the go ahead from the vet to give her solid food, and she has been happily eating Kumpi Kat ever since. The vet had drilled into me how difficult it can be to get an anorexic cat to eat again, but she took right away to the Kumpi. Also, at a follow up appointment with a different vet, the vet almost removed Taimyr's stitches too soon because her abdomen has healed so well! She's a happy, alert and feisty kitty again. I really believe its the superior protein and nutrition that has helped her recover so quickly. She gets her stitches out later today and will get out of "purgatory" (the spare bedroom) to be with the other cats again, and its been hard to contain her because she has so much energy. I'm SO happy I found such a nutritious food to give her during her recovery.
Thanks for making such a great product, and expect to see more orders from us in the future. :)
Take care,
Melissa
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My dear Evy,
I so appreciate your note here! I've recommended your foods to a number of my neighbors, I know one has already ordered, and another neighbor will when she returns from vacation. I have a petsitting business here, so I'm carrying the Kumpi message with me, along with samples, to all of my folks.
You know, your bag of KumpiKat only states that "significant" results may be seen in just ONE bag. I know that only Our Lord Jesus can guarantee us all miracles. So I'll just say that this first bag of KumpiKat produced "...just this side of miraculous results!"
Our four cats, Spud, Wilbur, Harry and Frieda, seem to have reclaimed their "inner-kitten." We first began to notice the change in their coats, and for four long-haired cats, that's a lot of coat! All four are rescue cats, so I just figured that how they look - is just how they look - end of story. Nope, these critters are amazing!
The most wonderful thing, if you can stand another "cat-poop" story, is the change for our dear Spud. Spud is now 5 years old, we adopted him from our shelter here when he was just about 3 weeks old. A farmer found him along the side of one of our country roads next to a potato field (hence - "Spud") the guy driving by thought the kitten was a tiny potato along side of the road, but the potato MOVED! Thank Our Lord!! But when the little guy was brought to the shelter the immediate decision was to euthanasia him, he was simply too small, completely dehydrated, and was not going to make it. I'm on the list out there for the "hopeless cases, but what-if-there's-a-miracle." Anyway, after serious nursing him just to survive, it was clear he'd always have colon problems, and very serious ones. Well, not since KumpiKat!!! For the first time in FIVE YEARS that little Spud can do real poop - and all on his own! Evy, we can't thank you enough for your tireless labor of love for producing nutritious and healing food for all pets.
I feel the spirit truly feel that the spirit of your own dear Kumpi dog lives on and gives new health and life to so many. Kumpi may be an angel now, but you carry the message for him, and I thank you for that.
Phoebe
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Hello Evy,
My furballs have been on your KumpiKat for 2 months plus...after reading your testimonials, I realized that my Chloe's eyes do not run or get infected anymore since she's been eating Kumpi...furthermore, all my cats have slimmed down, their coats are incredible shiny...and their vomitting is next to nil, except for the occasional hairball.
Amazing...thanks you!
Susan Hoch
Blessing and peace,
Beverley
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I just wanted to tell you that my 3 cats LOVE Kumpi! With all the recall insanity, I've changed their food a few times and they have been reluctantly eating everything else. When the Kumpi arrived they were all over the box before I even opened it! I am very pleased. My girl who has been vomiting for a long time hasn't in the past week or so, my one overweight guy loves the fod, but isn't overeating, and the picky one can't get enough. Thank you so much! I'm glad I found out about Kumpi through the Itchmo forums. We will be ordering again soon. Yoiu have fans all the way up here in Vermont!
Thanks for all you do,
Michelle
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The recent pet food recall not only concerned me, it reminded me of my dislike of by-products and so much corn meal in my cats' food. But since it seemed most brands contained them, I didn't feel like I had a lot of choices.
Several weeks ago I decided once and for all to find a truly different food, to solve an immediate problem with a cat who was vomiting, and another cat who had long lasting effects from being sick.
First, my only boy cat, a little orange tabby named Yukon, came to me as a three month old shelter kitten, and very, very sick with a respiratory infection that was so difficult to get rid of. I found out later, sadly, it killed all the other kittens who had been in the same kennel the day I adopted Yukon, including two of his litter mates. His growth was stunted and his fur has never been very soft or shiny, no matter what I fed him. In just a few weeks on Kumpi Kat Yukon has grown more than he has in months. He's bigger than two of the three girl cats now! It's happened so fast, that it still surprises me each time I see him, because he looks like a different kitty. :) I wish I had "before and after" pictures! His fur is soft and shiny and he's even MORE of a cuddle muffin than he was before. He LOVES his Kumpi and turns his nose up at anything else. It's been so exciting to see.
Then, several weeks ago, my long haired cat, Taimyr, was vomiting and it didn't resolve with a hairball. I knew it was time to take her to the vet when she vomited right back into her food bowl while trying to eat. (This was pre-Kumpi). None of the other cats were sick, so I knew something was very wrong. Taimyr stopped eating and an x-ray showed a mass in her abdomen. She had to have surgery on May 12th and they removed a three inch long, 1 inch diameter mass of hair in her intestine. Poor kitty! Her fur is the longest I've seen and I tried to keep up with the grooming, but obviously not well enoughy. We think she has Maine Coon in her family tree, as her hair brushes the ground. My husband nicknamed her "Musk Ox".
Because Taimyr had become anorexic during this, they sent her home with a nasal feeding tube and I had to give her "kitty Ensure" every two hours. She was listless and sad, but not enough to pull her tube out early! I got the go ahead from the vet to give her solid food, and she has been happily eating Kumpi Kat ever since. The vet had drilled into me how difficult it can be to get an anorexic cat to eat again, but she took right away to the Kumpi. Also, at a follow up appointment with a different vet, the vet almost removed Taimyr's stitches too soon because her abdomen has healed so well! She's a happy, alert and feisty kitty again. I really believe its the superior protein and nutrition that has helped her recover so quickly. She gets her stitches out later today and will get out of "purgatory" (the spare bedroom) to be with the other cats again, and its been hard to contain her because she has so much energy. I'm SO happy I found such a nutritious food to give her during her recovery.
Thanks for making such a great product, and expect to see more orders from us in the future. :)
Take care,
Melissa
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My dear Evy,
I so appreciate your note here! I've recommended your foods to a number of my neighbors, I know one has already ordered, and another neighbor will when she returns from vacation. I have a petsitting business here, so I'm carrying the Kumpi message with me, along with samples, to all of my folks.
You know, your bag of KumpiKat only states that "significant" results may be seen in just ONE bag. I know that only Our Lord Jesus can guarantee us all miracles. So I'll just say that this first bag of KumpiKat produced "...just this side of miraculous results!"
Our four cats, Spud, Wilbur, Harry and Frieda, seem to have reclaimed their "inner-kitten." We first began to notice the change in their coats, and for four long-haired cats, that's a lot of coat! All four are rescue cats, so I just figured that how they look - is just how they look - end of story. Nope, these critters are amazing!
The most wonderful thing, if you can stand another "cat-poop" story, is the change for our dear Spud. Spud is now 5 years old, we adopted him from our shelter here when he was just about 3 weeks old. A farmer found him along the side of one of our country roads next to a potato field (hence - "Spud") the guy driving by thought the kitten was a tiny potato along side of the road, but the potato MOVED! Thank Our Lord!! But when the little guy was brought to the shelter the immediate decision was to euthanasia him, he was simply too small, completely dehydrated, and was not going to make it. I'm on the list out there for the "hopeless cases, but what-if-there's-a-miracle." Anyway, after serious nursing him just to survive, it was clear he'd always have colon problems, and very serious ones. Well, not since KumpiKat!!! For the first time in FIVE YEARS that little Spud can do real poop - and all on his own! Evy, we can't thank you enough for your tireless labor of love for producing nutritious and healing food for all pets.
I feel the spirit truly feel that the spirit of your own dear Kumpi dog lives on and gives new health and life to so many. Kumpi may be an angel now, but you carry the message for him, and I thank you for that.
Phoebe
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Hello Evy,
My furballs have been on your KumpiKat for 2 months plus...after reading your testimonials, I realized that my Chloe's eyes do not run or get infected anymore since she's been eating Kumpi...furthermore, all my cats have slimmed down, their coats are incredible shiny...and their vomitting is next to nil, except for the occasional hairball.
Amazing...thanks you!
Susan Hoch
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Dog Food Nutrient Request
I need a detailed analysis on the adult formula please. Not noted on your site. Thank You.
Tina
Dear Tina ~
My nutritionist needs about forty extra hours a week right now :)
He is in high demand with other projects and doing a nutrient analysis on the dog food like he did on the cat food is on his list. Schedules are running tight for quality people in the pet food industry right now.
I'm looking forward to him getting it done too, but he is not an employee of my company; he does contract work for me.
Thanks!
Evy
Evy
This is extremely disapointing, Though I detest AFFCO and the Center for testing they use for testing, It is required by Law that an anaylysis be done before your product ever go on the market. I will advise all those who have asked me to inquire to steer clear of your products until such a time as more inforemation is available. Due to the recent incidious recall on pet so called foods, (i feed a raaw diet) people are refusing to go out and buy anything Nnot highly recomendfed The 30+ chat groups that I deal with will all be adbised. Thank you for your time.
**I wrote Tina and asked her permission to post her emails**
Evy
yers you may and may i say I would love to see the analysis when you get it. of all you kibbles.
where you get your ingredients as well how you came up with this recipe
even a basic one would help...............can you also advise as to where you buy your ingredients from??
I dknow you deal allot with the K9 dogs.Police etc. In fact one of the Top breeders we deal with is
a great GSD breeder.
the reason i take such an interest is 30cyears of dogs and everything my husband and I have been through with them
from Cancer, hip dysplasia, unknown muscle degeneration disease, I read books, attend seminars & am what my freinds say the true pessimist or Devils advocate of pet kibble. (or cement as I call them)
Have many wonderful Canadian raw feeder friends as well nutritionists friends.
At this time I only refer people to one dry food company, if i can get honesty and information , I would love to also be able to refer a second.
Dear Tina ~
The analysis required by AAFCO is already posted on the websites - kumpikat.com and kumpi.com - where the ingredients are listed. The kumpi.com page has a statement about origin sources. Nothing is sourced from China. I did not come up with a recipe, I contracted with a multi-species nutritionist who has done zoological formulation as well as domestic formulas. I have worked in the field of dog behavior for over 35 years and share your concerns. It was a combination of watching students return with puppies to take the class a second time, sharing how the dog they took through the program the first time had died of cancer between six and nine years of age; and losing my own GSD just after his fifth birthday to cancer that caused me to fire corporate America and begin my own company. My other career was in full bloom and 'starting a pet food company' was the last thing on my mind. I understand your opinion about the industry on the whole and respect your choice to feed raw. Just to let you know, I do not ship to Canada and only conduct business in the lower continental US.
The initial analysis required by the Dept of Ag in the state of Colorado is requested as a one time thing, so they have proof that the formulation of a product will produce what is required for the guaranteed analysis on protein, fat, fiber and moisture, as well as conforming to the nutrient profile as set forth in the AAFCO manual. Those were performed over eight years ago and I don't readily have the information as to which lab performed the test. What is important is that the food tested to AAFCO's specifications, I am registered with the state and they test the food in the state of Colorado each year, for every product on shelves to make sure that we meet the guaranteed analysis of protein, fat, fiber and moisture.
As I mentioned in another email, you will find a full nutrient analysis (not to be confused with the guaranteed analysis, which is already on both sites) on KumpiKat at that website and have asked my nutritionist to provide one for the dog food site as well. Right now, the time of quality people is at a high premium and I can't promise when that will be provided.
It sounds like you too are heart and soul with GSD's and it's wonderful that you study about the physiology as deeply as you and your husband have. Thanks for writing!
Evy
Tina
Dear Tina ~
My nutritionist needs about forty extra hours a week right now :)
He is in high demand with other projects and doing a nutrient analysis on the dog food like he did on the cat food is on his list. Schedules are running tight for quality people in the pet food industry right now.
I'm looking forward to him getting it done too, but he is not an employee of my company; he does contract work for me.
Thanks!
Evy
Evy
This is extremely disapointing, Though I detest AFFCO and the Center for testing they use for testing, It is required by Law that an anaylysis be done before your product ever go on the market. I will advise all those who have asked me to inquire to steer clear of your products until such a time as more inforemation is available. Due to the recent incidious recall on pet so called foods, (i feed a raaw diet) people are refusing to go out and buy anything Nnot highly recomendfed The 30+ chat groups that I deal with will all be adbised. Thank you for your time.
**I wrote Tina and asked her permission to post her emails**
Evy
yers you may and may i say I would love to see the analysis when you get it. of all you kibbles.
where you get your ingredients as well how you came up with this recipe
even a basic one would help...............can you also advise as to where you buy your ingredients from??
I dknow you deal allot with the K9 dogs.Police etc. In fact one of the Top breeders we deal with is
a great GSD breeder.
the reason i take such an interest is 30cyears of dogs and everything my husband and I have been through with them
from Cancer, hip dysplasia, unknown muscle degeneration disease, I read books, attend seminars & am what my freinds say the true pessimist or Devils advocate of pet kibble. (or cement as I call them)
Have many wonderful Canadian raw feeder friends as well nutritionists friends.
At this time I only refer people to one dry food company, if i can get honesty and information , I would love to also be able to refer a second.
Dear Tina ~
The analysis required by AAFCO is already posted on the websites - kumpikat.com and kumpi.com - where the ingredients are listed. The kumpi.com page has a statement about origin sources. Nothing is sourced from China. I did not come up with a recipe, I contracted with a multi-species nutritionist who has done zoological formulation as well as domestic formulas. I have worked in the field of dog behavior for over 35 years and share your concerns. It was a combination of watching students return with puppies to take the class a second time, sharing how the dog they took through the program the first time had died of cancer between six and nine years of age; and losing my own GSD just after his fifth birthday to cancer that caused me to fire corporate America and begin my own company. My other career was in full bloom and 'starting a pet food company' was the last thing on my mind. I understand your opinion about the industry on the whole and respect your choice to feed raw. Just to let you know, I do not ship to Canada and only conduct business in the lower continental US.
The initial analysis required by the Dept of Ag in the state of Colorado is requested as a one time thing, so they have proof that the formulation of a product will produce what is required for the guaranteed analysis on protein, fat, fiber and moisture, as well as conforming to the nutrient profile as set forth in the AAFCO manual. Those were performed over eight years ago and I don't readily have the information as to which lab performed the test. What is important is that the food tested to AAFCO's specifications, I am registered with the state and they test the food in the state of Colorado each year, for every product on shelves to make sure that we meet the guaranteed analysis of protein, fat, fiber and moisture.
As I mentioned in another email, you will find a full nutrient analysis (not to be confused with the guaranteed analysis, which is already on both sites) on KumpiKat at that website and have asked my nutritionist to provide one for the dog food site as well. Right now, the time of quality people is at a high premium and I can't promise when that will be provided.
It sounds like you too are heart and soul with GSD's and it's wonderful that you study about the physiology as deeply as you and your husband have. Thanks for writing!
Evy
Getting Started
To keep all of my online blogging to one place, I have decided to start my own blog. This gives me the opportunity to post questions I receive (by express permission from the sender only) and my answers, so folks can read all the comments I have about particular issues.
If you can take the time to read the contents at kumpi.com and become familiar with the history of the company and some basic information, that will help a lot! There has been understandable anxiety among pet owners since the recalls began and I've spent many hours on the phone talking with victims - both who have lost pets and those living with some who are living compromised lives with uncertain futures. Along with you, I never thought the day would come that something as simple as buying pet food would create such fear and panic. I have seen it the emails I've received and heard it reflected in the phone calls as well.
Strong safeguards are in place for my product line - I have an incredible team behind me with a fantastic manufacturer and nutritionist. Not only have the 'dries' for the ingredients that my pet food tested negative for melamine - sample products of KumpiKat and Kumpi dog food have tested negative for melamine, cyanuric acid, aminopterin, amilorine, amiloride and aflatoxin as well. These tests have been conducted by Accutrace Testing:
http://accutracetesting.com/
and testing will continue as new food is manufactured. Accutrace Testing is an independent third party laboratory and an excellent resource for anyone who would like to have their pet food tested - any brand, wet or dry. Special rates are offered to the general public. Pet food companies are not privy to any discounts.
Since I wasn't trying to start a pet food company in the first place, I hope you realize that the only real difference between me and most of you is that I know a bit more about what goes into the whole process. I began this company while still enjoying my first career of working in the field of dog behavior. It has grown by grass roots and was really started for my own comfort zone, to have absolute control over my the diet of my own dog and cat.
I have loved pets my whole life and Kumpi Pet Foods is my passion. Thanks for reading and I hope you check back from time to time!
If you can take the time to read the contents at kumpi.com and become familiar with the history of the company and some basic information, that will help a lot! There has been understandable anxiety among pet owners since the recalls began and I've spent many hours on the phone talking with victims - both who have lost pets and those living with some who are living compromised lives with uncertain futures. Along with you, I never thought the day would come that something as simple as buying pet food would create such fear and panic. I have seen it the emails I've received and heard it reflected in the phone calls as well.
Strong safeguards are in place for my product line - I have an incredible team behind me with a fantastic manufacturer and nutritionist. Not only have the 'dries' for the ingredients that my pet food tested negative for melamine - sample products of KumpiKat and Kumpi dog food have tested negative for melamine, cyanuric acid, aminopterin, amilorine, amiloride and aflatoxin as well. These tests have been conducted by Accutrace Testing:
http://accutracetesting.com/
and testing will continue as new food is manufactured. Accutrace Testing is an independent third party laboratory and an excellent resource for anyone who would like to have their pet food tested - any brand, wet or dry. Special rates are offered to the general public. Pet food companies are not privy to any discounts.
Since I wasn't trying to start a pet food company in the first place, I hope you realize that the only real difference between me and most of you is that I know a bit more about what goes into the whole process. I began this company while still enjoying my first career of working in the field of dog behavior. It has grown by grass roots and was really started for my own comfort zone, to have absolute control over my the diet of my own dog and cat.
I have loved pets my whole life and Kumpi Pet Foods is my passion. Thanks for reading and I hope you check back from time to time!
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