Pet Food Recalls and Food Safety
The massive pet food recalls of 2007 and more recent recalls have created new interest in the subject of pet food. Is it safe? How can we be sure?
Many people decided to feed raw foods (commonly called BARF - Bones and Raw Foods or Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods). Others decided to feed their pets home-cooked meals.
Sounds like a simple solution, but is it?
Dogs and cats aren't small furry humans, each species has very specific nutritional needs. Just like humans, pets need different diets at different stages of their lives and for their lifestyle and fitness needs.
Feeding an inappropriate diet may result in overall poor health, failure to thrive, poor hair coat, low body weight or obesity, and problems with dental, bone, gastrointestinal, neuromuscular and other body systems.
Where can I get help constructing a healthy diet for my pet(s)?
I interviewed two veterinary nutritionists to help answer this question. A veterinary nutritionist is a veterinarian who has undergone additional training and schooling to be credentialed (boarded) by the American College of Veterinary Nutrition (ACVN).
Interview #1: BalanceIT.com
BalanceIT.com is a pet nutrition web site operated by a team of veterinary nutritionists. The site is divided into two sites; one for pet lovers and one for veterinarians.
Read full interview
Interview #2: PetDiets.com
Founded by Rebecca Remillard, PhD, DVM, DACVN, founder of PetDiets.com and Veterinary Nutritional Consultations, Inc.
Read full interview
Have your say:
What are your opinions about pet food recalls and did you change your pet's diet? Read and respond here.
Related Reading:
What is a veterinary specialist?
Photo: Kappy and his bowl by melloveschallah on Flickr
Comments