How to Feed Quality Pet Food in Today’s Economy
Your dog or cat deserves to eat clean, quality food. Many just for optimal health, some due to allergies, and some for performance at work or show.
What is quality pet food?
Quality pet food is many things combined. Let’s start with the ingredient sourcing. Quality means hormone free, humanely grown proteins, fruits and veggies that are grown with safe fertilizers for human consumption, quality control that ensures the food is tested repeatedly and stored for years for testing. Why does this matter? Everything that goes into your pet is put to use both the good and the bad. Pets metabolize much faster than we do, therefore, it is important to only allow them to eat what will not hurt them.
Another aspect of pet food are the ingredients that many manufactures use as “fillers”. Corn and wheat both have protein. It is not a useable source of protein for a pet though. Both dogs and cats are carnivores. They are meat eaters and their bodies only digest and use meat protein for muscle and organ use. Corn and wheat are also high allergens for your pets’ causing symptoms like licking their feet to urinary issues, with many in-between.
Carbohydrates……Good or Bad?
That depends on the type and quantity. Carbs have an essential place in pet food whether they are grains, peas or potatoes. The must be in limited quantity and again good quality. Pet food that is highly digestible is not made from leftovers that are not fit for human consumption. They are made from the same quality that your food is.
How can we keep it affordable?
As our grocery prices rise, so do the cost of ingredients for your pet’s food. Remember, your pet eats quality human grade food just like you do.
My best advice is to shop at a local mom and pop type store. They have better connections with the manufactures than franchises or big box stores. They are given coupons and discounts. Many have much better frequent buyer programs also. They can give you solid nutritional advice on what to feed and what other foods have the same options with a lower price point.
How can you help?
Remember, a little sacrifice on your part equals a big win for your pet. You have already made time to find the best for your pet, now let’s find a way to keep that promise. Continuing to feed the foods that are best for your pet’s health, ensures less vet visits and a longer life for your pet. One way I have chosen to sacrifice is to cut out some of my personal extras, like stopping for a coffee or grabbing lunch out. Just eliminating one of these once a week will help combat the rising cost of your pet’s food.
Will your pet thank you?
Absolutely! Many pets never leave their home other than to go outside for a bit each day. They all look forward to meal time and the food they love. Help them live a healthy and enjoyable life by offering them the quality they deserve!
Annette Clark
Certified Pet Nutritionist, Pet Allergy Specialist, Master Groomer
Private Consultation:
