Training for the Active dog
Rebecca Rose, the owner and founder of InClover, began her professional career in biotechnology research and human healthcare. She soon began to wonder if she could create supplements to address many of the health issues that occur in dogs and cats. The resulting supplements were some of the first to be scientifically formulated, and each product was produced with the best possible materials in a human-grade facility. To this day, every InClover supplement is formulated with an integrative approach that considers the complete health of the animal.
What do we like about their products?
- Unlike most supplements (human and pet), In Clover Supplements are scientifically formulated. They conduct gold-standard clinical trials, utilize independent testing to ensure the efficacy of each formulation. They don’t use gimmicks or trendy ingredients, just good science.
- All In Clover products are made in the USA in FDA-registered facilities. In Clover sends samples from potential ingredient suppliers to an independent lab for testing to ensure our quality and purity standards are met. Materials are tested and screened for harmful levels of heavy metals, bacteria, pathogens, molds, yeasts, pesticides, and contaminants.
- All bioactive ingredients undergo additional purity testing by an approved, third-party laboratory in accordance with In Clover’s standard operating procedures. InClover ensures the pureness of each ingredient using a process called Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS). Just as a fingerprint can identify any individual based on a series of unique biomarkers, NIRS can identify every ingredient in a formula by its distinctive chemical markers. This extra step ensures that InClover’s high standards are met by every supplier.
- In Clover products are not heat-treated during production, preventing degradation to the active ingredients during the production process.
Instituted Quality Standards that Shaped an Industry - Rebecca is a founding member of the National Animal Supplement Council Board of Directors. Pet supplements aren’t as highly regulated as those for humans, so Rebecca works with other members of the industry to self-regulate and strengthen supplement standards. At InClover, Rebecca oversees every aspect of each supplement’s production. She meets the growers and creators of the raw materials, audits the facilities that make her products and regularly interacts with customers to get detailed feedback.
As members of the NASC, InClover also participates in a voluntary Secret Shopper Quality Assurance program. Products are randomly pulled from retail shelves and tested by the NASC for ingredient purity and safety. This program adds an extra level of quality assurance by providing additional independent verification of InClover’s testing methods and results. In Clover has earned the right to display the NASC Quality Seal on all our products, passing third party audits in February 2005, December 2007, September 2009, May 2013 and June 2015, August 2017, and January 2020 with an “A” Superior Rating every time. This seal demonstrates a company’s commitment to safety, transparency, and quality above and beyond industry requirements. The NASC also tracks adverse event reports across the entire pet supplement industry, allowing for early identification of any ingredient concerns across a broad spectrum. In Clover is a dedicated participant in this process, adding yet another layer of quality and safety standards to their products. In the event of an ingredient safety issue, the NASC is able to identify and notify any member company that uses that ingredient, ensuring a rapid response and the protection of pets. This level of traceability is not required even in the human dietary supplement industry
- Works to Support Socially Responsible Causes - Part of InClover’s in-office team is a group of adults with various cognitive, physical and developmental challenges. This hard-working crew assembles samples and builds kits including the Optagest 60 stick box and 7 stick pack. InClover is also a regular donor to reputable non-profit organizations improving the lives of abused or abandoned animals and helping to send veterinarian supplies around the world.
Demonstrates a Commitment to Environmentally Responsible Business Practices - As members of the Pet Sustainability Coalition, InClover packages their products in recyclable, BPA-free plastics and reuse shipping materials whenever possible. The company also runs their office off 100-percent wind energy. InClover has earned the Top Impact Award for Supplements from PSC for the past two years and continues on the path towards attaining B-Corporation status, which demonstrates the company has met the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, legal accountability and public transparency.
Michael Florian, the founder of Taplow Feeds and FirstMate Pet Foods, started his career as a commercial fisherman aboard his fishing vessel, the Taplow. First, as a deckhand and eventually, as the owner, he fished for halibut, salmon, and herring, in the North Pacific. It became evident that the depletion of fish stocks was not just an East Coast phenomenon but an issue here in the PNW. It was this concern about fish depletion that lead him to become interested in aquaculture and started Taplow Ventures Ltd., manufacturing fish feed for the salmon farming industry in British Columbia. Keeping the name ‘Taplow’, he called his food and business Taplow Feeds. The initial years of providing feed to the salmon farms proved to be interesting and he learned a lot. During his first years in the industry, dogs were on the farm sites to guard the stock against predators. However, the guard dogs enjoyed feeding themselves with the high-quality fish feed. The owners of the farms were concerned about their expensive fish feed inventory and asked us to develop a dog food that would satisfy the dogs and keep them away from the high protein fish feed.
In 1989, Michael and his staff, including professional nutritionist Dr. Brad Hicks, went back to work and developed a high-quality food for dogs. FirstMate was born. Since then FirstMate has grown into a worldwide brand. Taplow Feeds continues to manufacture fish feed and uses the same, high-quality ingredients used to feed salmon to make their FirstMate and Kasik's pet foods. Their manufacturing facility has grown into a large, modern facility located in Chilliwack, just outside of Vancouver. The modern machinery and advanced technology assure quality control. From the beginning, Michael realized that he wanted control of production and ingredient supply. He did not wish to become just a marketing company and has always stayed true to these roots. He always had pets and wanted to ensure that they, and all FirstMate customers, had access to great food. Most recently, Taplow Feeds purchased a human-grade cannery in British Columbia, Canada. Now owns and operates both a dry and canned facilities.
It has now been over 26 plus years since the company’s founding, it continues to be a leader in simple and great quality nutrition for dogs and cats. They have loyal employees and suppliers, but above all, they have loyal customers.
What do we like about their products?
- FirstMates executive vice presidents is a DVM, and pet nutritionist with Sc (Zoology), MSc (Veterinary Pathology) from the University of Guelph, DVM from the Ontario Veterinary College, 20 years experience in pet nutrition.
They believe to produce a truly superior product, you need to have control over the ingredient sourcing and the manufacturing process. That is why FirstMate has invested in owning and operating a dry facility and human-grade cannery.
Vacume Infusion of fats and essential oils and temperature-sensitive ingredients. These are added after the kibble has been cooled and "sucks" them into the kibble reducing the chance of oxidation.
All kibble is processed at a low temperature of 194 degrees vs. the typical 205-280 degrees. This makes it more digestable and has less degradation of nutrients and less production of toxins from high heat processing.
Canned meats are not precooked. They are cooked once in the can itself, which helps to improve the palatability of our canned diets naturally. The end result is a loose pate that is easily mixed with kibble or can be used as a standalone, complete and balanced diet.
The meat meals are not processed using high temperature flame drying (as most meals are). Instead, FirstMate and Kasiks meat meals are produced using a much gentler steam drying process. Using lower processing temperatures helps to ensure that the quality of the protein remains intact and continues to be an easily digestible source of nutrition.
Supplements We Use:
Supplements We Use:
Digestive Health
Digestive Health
Optagest
Optagest
All pets can benefit from supplementation of their food with prebiotics (the food for the healthy bacteria in the intestinal tract) and added enzymes that help the body break down the food into absorbable nutrients. We are just starting to learn the importance of the "microbiome" (the microorganisms in the intestinal tract and their combined genetic material).
Currently, we are finding definitive evidence that it is very important to numerous biological processes of the animal it is contained in. Until we understand even more about it a great starting point is ensuring it is healthy by providing food and an environment that supports its health. Prebiotics provide food for microorganisms and digestive enzymes help reduce waste products that can be harmful to the bacterial environment of the intestinal microbiome. In addition to this, we know that 70% of the immune system is actually within the digestive tract supplementation with prebiotics boosts the pet's immune system as well.
Active Ingredients:
Inulin (organic) Prebiotic Naturally produced by plants, Inulin is high in fiber and low in calories. It stimulates the growth of good bacteria (Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli) in the gut. It also slows digestion which enables the body to better absorb nutrients from the food.
Aspergillus oryzae fermentation solubles A source of Amylase. Amylase enzyme that helps digest carbohydrates like those found in dry pet food. Protease enzyme that breaks down protein and peptides in pet food. Also breaks down fur to prevent the formation of hairballs.
Rhizopus oryzae fermentation solubles A source of Lipase. Breaks down fats such as omega fatty acids so they can be used in the body.
Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation solubles - A source of cellulase. Helps digest cellulose (source of fiber).
Optagest is a pure powder that is sprinkled over food. Only the active components listed above are in Optagest. There are no fillers, no binders, no sugars, no flavors….nothing else.
We Recommend for:
- Helping maintain intestinal balance during stressful events like traveling or when owners are away.
- Restoring intestinal balance during antibiotic use (during and after)
- Supporting the digestive system when changing food brands
- Stool issues - Constipation, Diarrhea, or Inconsistency
- Immune Support 70% of a pet's immune system is in the GI tract. A healthy GI tract will support a healthy immune system.
- Gas is produced by bad bacteria using up nondigested or waste products from food that was not digested completely.
- Overall Good Health - all animals can benefit from having optimal digestion, a healthy microbiome, bioavailable nutrients, and a healthy immune system
- All pets consuming processed foods Even minimally processed diets can benefit from the support of the immune system and the microbiome but the higher the processing tier of the food the greater the need is for the support of the GI tract and the value of the digestive enzymes to ensure good nutrient availability.
Joint Health
Joint Health
Connectin
Connectin
Connectin is the only clinically proven retail joint supplement for dogs. It has been proven by independent research to deliver noticeable results in mobility within an average of 15 days.
Connectin has 3 patents, proving it is an effective, beneficial formula based on science.
Connectin delivers Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and Hyaluronic Acid as the 3 key building blocks important for joints in dogs WITH 9 powerful herbs to serve as an effective delivery system.
Active Ingredients:
Glucosamine HCl 99% (Shellfish) Used in the body to form a cushion that surrounds the joints. A Glucosamine HCl deficiency causes this cushion to become thin and stiff resulting in inflammation and pain. Pharmaceutical grade. Glucosamine is naturally found in healthy cartilage. When combined with chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid, it creates the perfect recipe for healthy, comfortable joints.
Mucopolysaccharides (porcine source of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid). Natural source of rich chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid, glucosamine, and collagen. Produced using a gentle enzymatic process to increase the bioavailability of the joint building blocks. Chondroitin Sulfate is found naturally in healthy cartilage. It acts like a rubber band, supporting elasticity in the joint so your pet can jump and leap with energy and ease. Hyaluronic Acid If glucosamine acts as a joint’s cushion, and chondroitin acts as a joint’s rubber band, hyaluronic acid is the joint’s lubricant. Together, these ingredients support mobility and joint comfort throughout your pet’s life.
Alfalfa Leaf Powder Has antioxidant properties which help to reduce inflammation and pain. Alfalfa preserves cell integrity by neutralizing free radicals, which are toxic molecules that can damage healthy cells and cause disease. High nutritional value: contains a concentrated amount of calcium, vitamin K and vitamin C.
Black Cohosh Root Contains glycosides and isoferulic acids that help manage pain, inflammation, and symptoms of arthritis.
Cayenne Pepper Powder Capsicum decreases activity of the pain receptors in the brain. It also increases the flow of blood throughout the body.
Celery Seed Decreases uric acid and fluids that cause pain and inflammation in arthritis
Devil’s Claw Powder Provides relief from joint and muscle pain while also enhancing mobility. Used for centuries to treat arthritis. Known as arthritis tea.
Ginger Root Powder Ginger contains very potent anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols. Reduces pain and stiffness in the joint. Also has antioxidant activities to fight free radicals
Nettle Leaf Powder Stimulates circulation to reduce inflammation and contains antioxidants boron, calcium, and silicon which ease pain and strengthen bones.
Turmeric Root Powder Contains curcumin and curcuminoids that act to decrease inflammation and relieve pain. Also enhances antioxidant enzymes.
Yucca schidigera Root Powder Acts as a natural steroid to reduce inflammation as well as arthritic symptoms.
We recommend it for:
Connectin is different from other joint support supplements in that it not only provides the typical nutraceuticals for joint health, it COMBINES them with a herbal support delivery system, making it truly effective and one of a kind.
- Signs of Arthritis: Reduced Mobility, Activity, or History of Injury
- Joint Injury
- Large and Giant breed dogs are predisposed to joint injury, supplying these dogs with Connectin as a preventative measure can help to avoid issues.
- Post-surgical after repair of the musculoskeletal system (joints, bones, tendons)
- Preventative in chondrodystrophic breeds that are prone to disc diseases, such as Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, and Shih Tzus.
- Dogs in competitive sports and training.
- Senior pets
Dental Health
Dental Health
BioBrilliant
BioBrilliant
BioBrilliant™ is a clinically tested, natural alternative to tooth brushing that is enjoyable for animals and their humans. They use the highest quality goat milk whey to re-mineralize the enamel. This begins with goats that are pastured on chemical-free and naturally enriched fields (right in Chehalis, WA!!!). Keeping the microbiome of the soil healthy translates to healthy milk. Twice daily their milk is harvested and goes through a natural lactofermentation process to separate the whey. Slow drying of the whey optimizes the bioavailability of minerals and nutrients in BioBrilliant. The kelp is ocean-farmed, harvested, and slowly dried the same day to keep the nutrients bioavailable in the final product. This product has also undergone PCR and RDA abrasivity testing to ensure the animal’s naturally thin enamel layer is supported.
Active Ingredients:
Goat Milk Whey. In addition to being a source of high-quality minerals for enamel remineralization, intake of goat milk whey is inversely proportional to gum disease, promoting the natural repair of surrounding tissues.
Green Tea, Prebiotic, Coconut, and Anise. BioBrilliant combines whole food antibacterials to slow the formation of plaque on the teeth and at the gum line.
Kelp. Ascophyllum nodosum kelp used in BioBrilliant is harvested in the cold waters off the coast of Maine and processed that same day. Tests have shown this is the most nutrient-rich kelp. The main mechanism of action in the mouth is to stop the plaque from sticking to the teeth. Additionally, it dissolves the plaque so it is easily removed from the tooth surface.
Enzymes, including papain, amylase, and glucose oxidase, shown to prevent the accumulation of plaque and whiten teeth.
Calcium Bentonite has an important role in teeth and bone health. It boosts remineralization and fortifies teeth against oral bacteria.
Yucca shidigera is an anti-inflammatory. Gum inflammation in response to bacterial plaque accumulation is a key risk for periodontal, systemic bloodstream, and organ diseases.
BioBrilliant is a pure powder that is sprinkled over food. Only the active components listed above are in BioBrilliant. With no fillers, no binders, no sugars, no flavors….nothing else.
We recommend it for:
- All dogs over the age of 6 months (or when adult teeth are present). Start early to prevent dental disease.
ProTip: Combine BioBrilliant with Smile or Grin and your pet's favorite chew for added benefits to combat dental issues.
Grin
Grin
A preventative treat and a fun way to add dental health to your daily routine.
Active Ingredients:
Green Tea, Prebiotic, Propolis (beeswax), Neopeta cataria (catnip), and Anise. Smile combines antibacterials to slow the formation of plaque on the teeth and at the gum line.
Chlorophyll. The plant chlorophyll supports overall mouth health and eliminates bad breath.
We recommend it for:
- All dogs over the age of 6 months (or when adult teeth are present). Start early to prevent dental disease.
ProTip: Use Smile with BioBrilliant.
Skin and Coat Health
Skin and Coat Health
BioRadiant
BioRadiant
Active Ingredients:
Omega 3 Fatty Acids, DHA from algae, and EPA from fish. BioRadiant combines pure, sustainable algal-derived DHA for the most available and bioactive DHA Omega 3 with concentrated EPA from fish oil.
Biotin and Zinc. Clinically tested levels of Biotin and Zinc provide healthy skin at the cellular level. Electron microscopy showed healing with biotin and zinc. This is useful for pets experiencing excessive itching, hot spots, or injury.
Curcumin (turmeric extract 95%), Prebiotic (organic inulin), Coconut, and Carrot. These curated whole food nutrients are rich in antibacterial, antifungal, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatories. They provide medium-chain triglycerides, immunoglobulins, microflora balance, and Vitamin A which are critical for rapidly dividing skin cells and hair follicles.
Sweet Potato and Anise are excellent sources of B Vitamins and minerals critical to skin health.
BioRadiant is a pure powder that is sprinkled over food. Only the active components listed above are in BioRadiant. There are no fillers, no binders, no sugars, no flavors….nothing else.
We recommend it for:
- Dry flaky skin, dull coat
- Itching
- Redness
- Skin injury
- Inflammation ("Hot Skin/Spots")
ProTip: Use BioRadiant in place of fish oil as an alternative for a shiny coat with added skin health benefits. Use with BioResiliant for animals who have allergies, ongoing skin issues, or itching.
BioResilliant
BioResilliant
Allergies can be complex and difficult to pin down a cause. Most allergens are proteins from plants in the environment, insects, and food. The immune system identifies an allergen as harmful, even though it isn’t. When your pet comes in contact with the allergen, the release of histamines causes inflammation and discomfort. BioResiliant goes to the cause of the body’s over response, decreases histamines, and inflammation while supporting whole health and a strong immune system.
Active Ingredients:
Quercetin blocks histamines and pro-inflammatory compounds.Bromelain is an enzyme that speeds up the reaction time of quercetin. Bromelain also regulates the allergy response.
Mangosteen works in synergy by decreasing inflammation and the release of histamines.
Turkey Tail Mushroom, Curcumin (turmeric extract 95%), and Prebiotic (organic inulin) work in concert to support the immune system. They block inflammation and protect gut health.
Coconut, Anise, and Sweet Potato provide the body with whole food vitamins and minerals for a healthy, strong system.
BioResiliant is a pure powder that is sprinkled over food. Only the active components listed above are in BioResiliant. With no fillers, no binders, no sugars, no flavors….nothing else.
We recommend it for:
- Animals with atopy, environmental, seasonal, insect, or food allergies
- Dogs who would benefit from anti-inflammatory and immune support.
ProTip: Recommend BioResiliant with BioRadiant and Optagest for skin injuries or added immune support. Especially helpful for owners wanting to discontinue Apoquel.
Weight Control and Heart Health
Weight Control and Heart Health
BioVibrant
BioVibrant
Why is BioVibrant important:
The heart is a working muscle continuously requiring energy and nutrients. The heart requires a steady supply of energy, taurine, and L-carnitine. The heart obtains most of its energy from the oxidation of fatty acids. Because of L-carnitine’s role in transporting fatty acids, the heart has a high demand for L-carnitine. Since the heart is not able to produce its own L-carnitine, it must rely on other sources to supply its daily needs. Taurine has powerful effects on the heart and blood vessels. Taurine regulates oxidative stress and lowers the risk of heart issues. It’s not surprising then, that a greater concentration of taurine and L-carnitine are found within the healthy heart muscle when compared to other organs.
Senior Pets
BioVibrant is a beneficial supplement for all life stages. Sometimes senior pets require a bit more support from us to keep their vibrance. Advances in health and nutrition have led to increasing life expectancies. The American Veterinary Medical Association’s 2007 US Pet Ownership & Demographics Sourcebook stated that the percentage of the US dog and cat population age 6 or older increased to 44% in 2006. With this growing trend, there is an important need to invest in maintaining and improving the quality of life of our senior pets.
Available taurine and L-carnitine in the body decreases with age for three main reasons:
1. The availability of the free taurine and L-carnitine (the active form) pool decreases because food intake normally decreases with age.
2. The dietary make-up transitions to a diet of reduced red meat intake.
3. The body’s ability to produce taurine and L-carnitine begins to drop.
Obese Pets
According to a 2016 study conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, 59% of cats and 54% of dogs are classified as overweight. About half of these animals are obese- more than 30% above ideal weight. The same mechanisms of converting fat to energy found in BioVibrant will help to regulate the weight and muscle mass in dogs and cats.
DCM
With increased attention on dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) due to recent FDA comments. BioVibrant gives peace of mind to pet owners who want supplementation for their pet’s taurine needs.
How BioVibrant was developed:
In 2017, Rebecca was contacted by a veterinary cardiologist to develop a heart-healthy supplement. Heart health is important and may be overlooked by the pet owner due to the often vague symptoms. Veterinary cardiologists can be seen as a barrier, standing between the pet getting a dental or going under other anesthesia for a procedure. The cardiologist who contacted me wanted to be able to give clients a supplement for a stronger heart and vascular system. This would be valuable not only for her patients, who need support to be able to undergo various procedures, but also for dogs and cats who are senior, overweight, diabetic, or want to continue an active lifestyle. That was the first of many meetings and ultimately led to BioVibrant.
Active Ingredients:
L-carnitine is an amino acid that promotes balanced blood flow and cardiac energy. L-carnitine promotes glucose oxidation and carbohydrate metabolism. Supplementation with L-carnitine provides a protective strategy against cardiomyopathy.
Methionine is an essential amino acid. Methionine is a precursor used by the body in the manufacture of taurine. Deficiencies of methionine, which are found to be associated with a poor-quality dietary protein intake, can result in taurine and cysteine deficiencies.
Cysteine is an amino acid with powerful antioxidant protection and immune-boosting effects to support heart health. Cysteine helps with detoxification and is a precursor for the production of taurine in the body.
Taurine is an amino acid that is good for heart health. It is found primarily in meat. It is abundant in organ meat, the brain, the eye, and muscle tissue. It is essential in breaking down fats in food. Taurine is an important amino acid for cardiac function as well as serving as a brain neurotransmitter.
BioVibrant is a pure powder that is sprinkled over food. Only the active components listed above are in BioVibrant. With no fillers, no binders, no sugars, no flavors….nothing else.
We recommend it for:
- Senior
- Overweight pets
- Pets preparing for a surgical procedure
- Cardiac disease
- Active dogs
- Dogs at risk for DCM or who's owners are concerned about DCM
Food We Feed
Food We Feed
Grain free - ALL FORMULAS
Grain free - ALL FORMULAS
FirstMate grain-free is a truly limited ingredient diet with one carbohydrate source and one protein source. Because they only use one carbohydrate source and do not "fractionate" the carbs potato is often listed first on the ingredient deck even though over 70% of the protein is from the meat source.
The back of each package has the breakdown of the protein percentages from meat, vegetables, and carbohydrates.
Digestive upset concerns and allergies.
Formulated for rotational feeding.
Moderate levels of protein and fat.
Chicken with Blueberries (Regular and Small Bite options)
Chicken with Blueberries (Regular and Small Bite options)
Truly a great source of the superfood blueberries! They have an inclusion rate of 5% where most formulas will have this ingredient after the salt/vitamins/minerals meaning its inclusion is far under 1%
Owners have reported these formulas to reduce tear staining in about 80% of the pets, believed to be attributed to blueberries creating a more neutral pH balance in these pets and the antibacterial antioxidants.
Pacific Ocean Fish
Pacific Ocean Fish
All wild-caught mackerel family fish - low mercury fish, high in Omega 3 fatty acids, whole fish nutrition not just the parts left over after human consumption pieces are removed. This makes these formulas highly digestible.
Pacific Ocean Fish Formula - Great option for pets with food intolerances
The different lifestage formulations vary in protein and fat to optimize for each pet's individual needs.
Large breed has larger kibble size to slow down eating
Senior/weight control is a great option for pets with liver or kidney disease that require a lower protein diet as requested by their vet. It also contains a low-fat level at just 8% making it an option for dogs prone to pancreatitis.
High Performance
High Performance
High-performance food is a great option for extremely active dogs or pregnant and lactating females.
This is the food fed exclusively to the high-energy hunting breeds that Cory owns. A great option for those dogs that are hard to keep weight on or that are actively hunted at least 2-3 times a week.