Archive for the ‘Pet’ Category

How Much Food Should You Feed Your Pet?

Wednesday, July 15th, 2026
How Much Food Should You Feed Your Pet? Certainly not as much as the fat gray and white cat pictured here (though he is precious.)

How Much Food Should You Feed Your Pet? Certainly not as much as the fat gray and white cat pictured here (though he is precious.)

Figuring out the right amount of food for your pet is one of the most common challenges for owners. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and health problems, while underfeeding can leave them lacking vital energy. The correct portion size depends on a few key factors, not just what the bag says.

Start by looking at the feeding chart on your pet’s food bag. This guide offers a great starting point based on your pet’s weight. However, you must adjust this amount based on their specific needs. A young, active dog who runs all day needs more calories than a senior dog who mostly naps. Your pet’s age, breed, and daily activity level all play a huge role in determining their ideal portion.

The quality of the food also matters. Premium pet foods are more nutrient-dense than budget brands. This means you can often feed smaller portions because each bite packs more nutritional power. Your pet gets better nutrition from less food, which supports a healthy weight and good digestion. High-quality ingredients lead to less waste in your yard and a healthier animal overall.

To get it just right, use a measuring cup for every meal. This prevents accidental overfeeding. Pay attention to your pet’s body condition. You should be able to feel their ribs but not see them. If you are unsure, the team at Kissimmee Valley Feed can help. We carry a wide selection of premium foods and can offer personalized advice to keep your pet healthy and happy. Stop by today for a free consultation

How to Keep Your Pets Hydrated and Healthy This Summer

Monday, June 15th, 2026

Dog at beach wearing sunglasses - looking hydrated and healthy in summer!Wondering how to keep your pets hydrated and healthy this summer? Florida’s summer heat can be tough on our pets. Unlike us, dogs and cats can’t sweat effectively to cool down, making them vulnerable to dehydration and heatstroke. As temperatures climb, you must take extra steps to keep your furry friends safe, cool, and well-hydrated.

First, always provide access to fresh, cool water. This is the most important step. Place multiple water bowls around your home and yard, especially in shaded spots. Change the water daily to keep it clean and appealing. For pets who spend time outdoors, a large, durable water trough ensures they won’t run out. On walks, always carry a portable water bottle and bowl for your dog.

You can also boost hydration with “watery” foods. Adding wet pet food to your pet’s diet is an easy way to increase their fluid intake. You can also offer hydrating treats like frozen bone broth popsicles or small pieces of watermelon (with seeds removed). These make for a fun and refreshing snack on a hot day.

Knowing the signs of dehydration is critical. Look for a dry nose, thick saliva, sunken eyes, and low energy. A simple test is to gently lift the skin on the back of their neck. If it doesn’t snap back quickly, your pet may be dehydrated and need immediate care.

At Kissimmee Valley Feed, we have everything you need to keep your pets safe this summer. We carry durable water bowls, travel water bottles, and a wide selection of premium wet foods to support hydration. Stop by our store, and let us help you prepare for the heat.

Stock Up on Absorbine UltraShield Fly Sprays

Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026

Stock Up on Absorbine UltraShield Fly Sprays this fly season! Summer means longer rides and more time at the barn, but it also brings every horse owner’s biggest annoyance: flies. You want your horse to stay focused and comfortable, whether you are competing in the ring or enjoying a quiet trail ride. That means you need serious, reliable protection.

Enter Absorbine’s award-winning UltraShield fly sprays. Horse owners and top competitors everywhere depend on this trusted lineup for a reason. It delivers proven, heavy-duty fly control that keeps your horse comfortable all day long. When you need to completely eliminate fly frustrations and give your horse the long-lasting relief they deserve, just reach for UltraShield.

We want you and your horse to enjoy a peaceful, bite-free season. That is why we carry a full selection of these powerful repellents. Stop by and check out exactly what we have available:

Do not let pesky insects ruin your barn time or distract your horse. Visit Kissimmee Valley Feed today to stock up on the best fly protection around before the bugs take over. Your horse will absolutely thank you!

Spring Garden Hazards for Pets

Sunday, February 15th, 2026

Spring Garden HazardsSpring Garden Hazards: As spring arrives and the first buds appear, gardening can be a relaxing and healthy way to pass the time.  But it can also pose some potential risks to our cat and dog friends. With care and some knowledge, these risks can be avoided.  Here is a list of potential spring garden hazards.

Fertilizers and Pesticides:

Fertilizers containing blood meal, bone meal, feather meal or iron can be tasty for dogs and particularly dangerous. Ingestion of large amounts of meal containing products can form concretions in the stomach resulting in obstruction and severe pancreatitis.  Likewise, those containing iron can lead to iron poisoning causing vomiting, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, shock, tremors, and potential cardiac and liver effects.  Consider using natural fertilizers available many garden supply stores or local farms.  Ingestion of pesticides or insecticides containing organophosphates can be life threatening even in small amounts.

Mulch:

Cocoa mulch is made from the discarded shells and hulls of the cocoa bean.  Its chocolate like smell can be particularly attractive to dogs. Similarly, like chocolate, this mulch contains theobromine and caffeine.  The amount of toxin present can vary from product to product.  Symptoms of toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, seizures and in extreme cases, death.  Keep pets safe by closely supervising them or using safer alternatives to cocoa mulch.  They include rubber mulch, cedar mulch, leaves, pine needles or untreated wood chips.  While these are safer alternatives, please remember these can still be ingested and cause an obstruction.

Compost:

Gardeners love compost for its nutrient value and many have their own pile.  Compost can be toxic to pets and wildlife and should always be fenced off.  As organic matter decomposes in the compost pile, molds can grow.  Consequently, these molds can produce tremorgenic mycotoxins.  As a result, when ingested symptoms can occur within 30 minutes and include agitation, panting, drooling, vomiting, tremors, and seizures.  However, with supportive care the prognosis is good.

Snail and Slug Bates:

These are available in pellets, granules, powder or liquid.  Most contain metaldehyde which is very dangerous to dogs and cats.  As a result, symptoms can occur within 1-2 hours of ingestion and include salivation, restlessness, vomiting, tremors, seizures and increase body temperature.  Without veterinary care the symptoms can last for days and be fatal, for instance.  Gopher, mole and other vermin bates contain strychnine and are highly toxic.

Flowers and Plants: 

Many plants can be toxic to pets.  Some can have only mild symptoms of gastrointestinal upset to severe liver or kidney failure and death.  For example, the following is an incomplete list of common plants.

  • Severe toxicity:  Sego palm, Azalea/Rhododendron, Caster bean, Cyclamen, Oleander and Yew.
  • Moderate Toxicity:  Aloe Vera, Amaryllis, Begonia, Chrysanthemum, Daffodil, Hosta, Morning glory and Poinsettia.
  • Mild toxicity:  Baby’s breath, Carnation, Gladiola and Tomato plant.

Citronella candles:

Ingestion of citronella candles, used to deter mosquitos, can cause gastrointestinal inflammation including vomiting and diarrhea.

Above all, if you think your pet has ingested a toxic substance, contact your veterinarian for advice and treatment.  Additionally, you can contact the ASPCA Hotline at 1-888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Hotline at 1-800-213-6680.  Both charge a fee for their service.  Several pet poison apps are available, as well.

In conclusion, contact or visit Kissimmee Valley Feed for natural lawn and garden products.

Article provided by Nutrena.

Why Is Pet Nutrition Important? A Guide for New Pet Owners

Sunday, February 15th, 2026

photo of a kitty and dog close together - they look happy! Read this Guide for New Pet Owners and yours will too!Bringing a new pet home feels exciting. You buy a comfy bed, a leash, and toys. But the food you choose is more important than anything else. Proper nutrition helps your pet grow strong and healthy. It affects their energy, weight, and even how happy they feel.

Walking down the pet food aisle can be confusing. So many bags say “natural” or “grain-free.” Don’t get overwhelmed. Start by understanding what your pet truly needs.

Pets need energy, protein, vitamins, minerals, and fats. These nutrients help them play, grow, and stay well. Good food gives them a shiny coat, helps their bones, and fights illness. If they don’t get what they need, they may get sick or slow down.

Not all pet food is created equal. Some budget foods use fillers and by-products. These don’t offer much nutrition. Your pet needs to eat more of it to feel full, which can lead to weight problems.

Premium brands like Fromm (which we carry!) use quality meat and real ingredients. Look for food where meat—like chicken or salmon—is the first item on the list. Avoid foods with lots of corn or generic meat by-products. Fromm skips artificial preservatives too. They make recipes for all ages. You get peace of mind knowing exactly what’s in the bag.

For new owners, stick to these tips:

  • Pick food for your pet’s age—puppy, adult, or senior.
  • Read the first five ingredients on the label.
  • Choose a formula that fits your pet’s size and breed.

Need help choosing? Visit Kissimmee Valley Feed Store #2 in St. Cloud. Our team will answer your questions and recommend the best food. Give your new friend a healthy start—ask for a sample and see the difference premium nutrition makes. You can check out some of the products we carry here.

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Owner: Samantha Holloway
1501 Eastern AveSaint Cloud, FL 34769
Phone: 407-957-4100
Fax:407-957-0450

2nd Store
215 13th Street St. Cloud, FL 34769

Contact Info
Phone: 407-892-4040
Store Hours
Mon - Sat 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
Sun Closed