Often, pets encounter health challenges when their diets lack essential nutrients. Additionally, commercial pet foods rarely supply the vital supplements and vitamins necessary to combat diseases. This disparity raises concerns about the overall well-being of our beloved furry friends.
The following 5 truths about commercial dog and cat food will help you gain valuable insights into the dynamics of pet nutrition. Unveiling these truths can empower you with the knowledge needed to safeguard your pet's health effectively. Keep reading to discover actionable steps and tips that will enable you to provide the care your furry companion truly deserves, ensuring a healthier and happier life.
Truth # 1 - Pet Food Recalls Occur Nearly Every Month
Staying informed about pet food recalls is crucial for pet owners to ensure the safety and well-being of their beloved companions. A recent recall on October 30, 2023, due to salmonella contamination underscores the importance of staying vigilant in monitoring the landscape of commercial pet food safety.
This event serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety of pet food. In 2006, a significant recall encompassed over 130 brands of dog and cat food, triggered by tainted wheat gluten, resulting in the unfortunate death of 1 in 6 pets and widespread illness in thousands of others.
Major news outlets and reputable medical journals, including the New York Times and the American Veterinary Medical Association, extensively covered this recall, emphasizing the urgency of staying informed about the evolving landscape of commercial pet food safety. Despite the general expectation of safety in store-bought pet food, these incidents highlight the unpredictable nature of the industry, prompting pet owners to remain vigilant in their choices for the well-being of their beloved companions.
Stay informed about the latest pet food recalls by visiting the Dog Food Advisor's recall page: https://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/dog-food-recalls/
Truth # 2 - Pet Food is Mostly Made up of Grains
The majority of commercially produced pet food still includes over 65% grains, grain fillers, fibers, and grain byproducts. This closely mirrors the human diet, which often consists of highly processed, grain-based foods. Nutritionists commonly highlight that corn-based ingredients and simple carbohydrates in pet food essentially equate to sugar.
Recent shifts in human nutrition have steered away from demonizing fats, acknowledging that studies promoting a nationwide high-carb diet were flawed and influenced by the sugar industry. It appears that sugar, not fat, is the culprit behind chronic inflammation, obesity, and cognitive issues.
This poses a significant concern, given that dogs and cats require protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-rich ingredients for optimal health. However, commercial dog food tends to neglect these essential elements in favor of cheaper-to-produce simple carbohydrates.
Truth # 3 - Ingredient Labels are Frequently Inaccurate
A recent investigation published in the journal Food Control aimed to uncover the ingredients present in 52 brands of widely produced dog and cat food. The results revealed that 40% of these pet foods included protein sources that were not disclosed on their ingredient lists. In one instance, the protein source couldn't even be identified.
This implies that determining the actual components of your pet's food is nearly impossible. Unless you're prepared to subject your pet's food to laboratory analysis, understanding its composition remains uncertain.
Truth # 4 - You Can Feed Your Pet "People Food"
Feeding your pet the same food you eat is completely fine, as long as the food offers the essential vitamins and nourishment necessary for optimal health in dogs or cats. I wholeheartedly endorse the idea of providing pets with "people food," but it's crucial to adhere to specific food groups. Enhance your pet's well-being by focusing on three key categories:
Proteins: Opt for sources like turkey breast, pork shoulder, beef, and white fish.
Brassica Vegetables: Include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, collards, kale, and kohlrabi for added health benefits.
Non-Brassica Vegetables: Incorporate zucchini, green beans, squash, pumpkin, and seasonal vegetables for a well-rounded diet.
Be cautious to avoid foods that are harmful to pets, such as chocolate, grapes, onions, and certain artificial sweeteners, which can be toxic and pose serious health risks.
Truth # 5 - You Can do Something About Dangerous Pet Food
Solve the crisis in pet food by cooking for your pets. It's easier than you might think!
I understand the crucial role a pet's diet plays in their overall health. That's why I love The Original CrockPet Diet. Created by an Integrative Veterinarian, this diet aims to offer fellow pet enthusiasts peace of mind when it comes to food safety and health optimization. This approach safeguards our dogs or cats from potential pet food recalls and harmful ingredients, ensuring their well-being is a top priority.
While most pet foods receive approval from the Food and Drug Administration, there's no mandate for billion-dollar pet food companies to include beneficial ingredients, essential vitamins, or disease-fighting supplements.
If you ever feel limited in your options and powerless, The Original CrockPet Diet allows you to:
Add years to your pet's life without worrying about potential harm.
Combat obesity-related diseases by opting for wholesome foods over factory-made, corn-based pet food.
Alleviate the painful symptoms that afflict sick and older cats and dogs, reduce the risk of cancer and kidney diseases.
Sidestep the potential hazards of tainted ingredients commonly found in store-bought pet food.
Discover the Veterinarian-Developed Pet Food Solution and Give Your Dog or Cat a Longer, Happier Life.
The Complete CrockPet Starter Kit for Cats
The Complete CrockPet Starter Kit for Dogs
If you have additional questions or need personalized guidance for your beloved pet, I'm here to help. Book a call with me, and let's discuss how to best care for your furry friend. Your pet's well-being is my priority, and I'm dedicated to providing the support and expertise you need. Click here to schedule your consultation today. Together, we can ensure your pet leads a happy, healthy life.
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