As featured in AdNews magazine, Watchdog is a mighty defender of consumers against marketing and advertising claims.
This week, Watchdog tests out another pup hanging around the advertising sphere; 'Pawl B. More' the new face of Blackmores Pure Animal Wellbeing, designed to answer any of your questions online.
Pawl: Hello there, I’m Pawl. Pawl B. More. I’m the pet health naturopath here at Blackmores. I’m here to offer advice about your pet’s health and guide you through the benefits of PAW by Blackmores’ range of products. Ask me a question.
AdNews: I’ve never heard of pet multivitamins before. Why would my dog need vitamins?
Pawl: All of us, including dogs, cats and humans, need vitamins and minerals. Pet food provides key nutrients, but sometimes your pet might need extra help. Supplements can help pets with ongoing conditions like arthritis, digestive and skin complaints. Look for vet formulated products designed specifically for pets.
AdNews: How do they differ from human supplements?
Pawl: It’s best to give supplements and medications made especially for pets, unless your vet says otherwise. A lot of research goes into the development of pet products, because our needs are very different. The PAW range by Blackmores is designed especially for pets by vets.
AdNews: How do I know if my pet needs a supplement?
Pawl: All of us, including dogs, cats and humans...
(continues answer from above. Watchdog cuts off Pawl to ask...)
AdNews: What can I do to keep my dog’s general health in check?
Pawl: Dogs have different skin and hair to people, so we need grooming products formulated especially for dogs. Grooming daily removes dirt and allergens and prevents matting. Increase the Omega three and six in your dog’s diet for healthier skin, and use flea control.
AdNews: Okay, but which multivitamin should I use for my dog’s general health?
Pawl: Wow, food! My favourite subject. A healthy diet will depend on your dog’s size, activity level and age. Dogs can eat meat, vegetables and grains.
Watchdog gives up.
FINAL RECKONING
Watchdog really wants to keep things in the family and, for the most part, Blackmores’ first “pet naturopath” does what he’s expected to do: he answers questions and shows you Blackmores products to match. But the one key question we’re all asking right now: why is Watchdog spending $35 for vitamins that most humans wouldn’t spend on themselves?
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