Choosing the right food for your pet is crucial for their health and well-being. With so many pet food brands out there, it can be challenging to know which one is best.
Let’s explore some key considerations to help you make an informed choice.
Key Criteria for Selecting a Brand:
- Nutritionist Involvement: Look for brands that employ a qualified nutritionist, ideally with a PhD in Animal Nutrition or board certification by reputable organizations like the American College of Veterinary Nutrition (ACVN) or the European College of Veterinary Comparative Nutrition (ECVCN).
- Formulation Expertise: Check who formulates the diet. It’s a complex process requiring input from veterinary nutritionists and experienced formulators with a background in food science and technology.
- Quality Control: Ensure the brand has rigorous quality control processes for both ingredients and finished products. They should conduct thorough nutrient, bacteria, and toxin level testing before, during, and after manufacturing.
- Research Commitment: While not mandatory, companies that conduct product research or nutrition studies demonstrate a dedication to animal health.
What to Look for on the Label:
- Complete Diet: Ensure the diet is labeled as suitable for your pet’s specific life stage (growth, reproduction, adult, or neutered). Diets labeled as “short-term,” “intermittent,” or “complimentary” should make up less than 10% of your pet’s daily intake.
- Contact Information: Check if the pet food company is easily reachable. Know whether they manufacture the food themselves or use a third-party manufacturer.
Understanding Raw Food Trends:
There’s a growing trend of feeding pets raw food. However, studies haven’t proven that raw food is superior to commercial pet foods. Pets on raw diets may shed bacteria like Salmonella, E. Coli, and Campylobacter, which pose health risks to both pets and humans. If opting for raw food, choose a supplier approved by relevant authorities and practice strict hygiene.
Considerations and Recommendations:
It’s essential to be vigilant about your pet’s food choices. Recent studies have shown discrepancies in the nutrient content of pet foods. We recommend brands like Hills Pet Nutrition for their adherence to quality standards and rigorous testing.
If you have any questions about your pet’s diet, feel free to reach out to us via email or phone. Your pet’s health is our priority.
