Keeping Your Furry Friend Healthy and Happy With Whole Foods
As dog lovers, we all want the best for our furry companions, including their nutrition.
Whether you feed your dog a home-cooked diet, raw diet or high-quality commercial kibble, the following items should be at the top of your mind:
- UNDERSTANDING WHAT INGREDIENTS YOU ARE FEEDING-
Learn how to read the label and don’t be afraid to ask questions to either the clerk selling you the food or the food company itself.
- KNOWING IF THE FOOD IS FREE OF CHEMICALS, ANTIBIOTICS & HORMONES- The list of ingredients may seem wonderful, but where and how the food is sourced matters. Is the meat human-grade?
- OFFERING FOOD THAT IS AS FRESH AND UNPROCESSED AS POSSIBLE- It may not be feasible for you to feed a homecooked or raw diet and that is okay! If you use high-quality kibble as your dog’s nutritional base, please keep in mind that you can supplement with raw/fresh toppers and additives, bones, broth, veggies and fruits.
- ONLY FEEDING INGREDIENTS THAT ARE NON-ALLERGENIC FOR THE DOG CONSUMING IT- This requires you to be a detective sometimes. Dogs don’t always advertise their discomfort. Most owners don’t realize their dog is feeling unwell until they are presenting with ear infections, chronic diarrhea and itchy skin. Try to pay attention to the small behavioural changes. These can give you clues before things get out of control. If you do see signs of physical discomfort, modifying your dog’s diet could be the key. Of course, we always recommend you consult with your veterinarian to rule out any other physiological issues.
Here are two delicious homemade recipes packed with essential nutrients to keep them thriving. If serving raw, these recipes can be modified to suit any sized adult dog by calculating 2-3% of their body weight and dividing it into two. This meal and snack should account for half of the dog’s daily portion.
If you are uncomfortable with raw feeding, you can pre-cook the vegtables and meat prior to mixing togther. If you feed a high quality kibble as a base, you can use this recipe to add fresh componates to your dog's daily diet. Please make sure to modify quanties to account for both the kibble and fresh food rations.
Main Meal Recipe: Turkey Stew (Raw or Cooked)
Ingredients:
1 lb of ground turkey meat (lean protein source)
1 cup green beans (source of vitamins and antioxidants)
1/2 cup carrots (provides fibre, beta-carotene for eye health and other minerals and vitamins)
2 tablespoon fish oil (healthy fats for skin, coat, joints and brain function)
2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (adds hydration, healthy fats, gelatine and nutrients leached from chicken bones)
1 egg including shell (source of protein and calcium)
Instructions:
Chop green beans and carrots into small bite-sized pieces. Combine green beans, carrots, oil, broth and egg into the food processor and mix until blended. In a large mixing bowl, kneed together the ground turkey and the vegetable mixture. Keep refrigerated until ready for serving.
Snack Recipe: Blueberry Liver Bites
Ingredients:
1 cup freeze-dried liver
(source of vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12, C, D, E & K)
1 cup blueberries (antioxidant powerhouse)
Instructions:
Place chunks of freeze-dried liver in a large ziplock bag then roll firmly with a rolling pin to lightly crush the pieces. Rinse the blueberries and shake off excess water in a stainer. Then add in the whole moistened blueberries into the ziplock bag and toss to coat.
Each ingredient in these recipes plays a crucial role in supporting your dog's overall health. From lean protein to essential vitamins and minerals, these meals are designed to provide a balanced diet for your beloved pet. By incorporating these wholesome ingredients into your dog’s diet, you can ensure they receive the necessary nutrients to thrive and lead a happy, healthy life. Variety is key. Make sure to use a variety of fruit and veggie sources daily and rotate proteins from time to time. Monitor your dog’s physical and behavioural health after making changes to their diet or introducing a new food source.
By preparing nutritious meals for your dog, you are not only ensuring they enjoy delicious flavours but are also promoting their physical, mental and emotional well-being. This Turkey Stew offers a balanced mix of lean protein, fibre, and essential vitamins, while the Blueberry Liver Bites provide a tasty snack packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.
Your furry friend will be delighted as they enjoy whole food meals tailored just for them. Set them up for success, starting with the right fuel for their bodies and minds to help them become their best selves. Remember, a healthy diet contributes to a happy dog, so continue to show them love through wholesome fresh ingredients. Your dog will thank you.
Visit us at www.petintel.ca to work with a behaviour and health coach.
Check out the group 'Dog Things to Consider' on Facebook for more tips.
Get Jessica Eden O'Neill's newlt published book here: https://amzn.to/3Q2p4qR
