How High-Quality Natural Pet Food Reduces Fido’s Carbon Pawprint

As another Earth Day approaches, many pet guardians are contemplating not only their own carbon footprint, but that of their dogs and cats, too. Just like people, pets have an impact on our environment. It is estimated that the average dog has twice the carbon footprint of an SUV, and the family cat generates the same environmental impact as a Volkswagen Golf sedan.¹ Eco-friendly products, like dog houses made from recycled materials and organic cotton cat toys, are gaining popularity, but did you know that feeding your pet a high-quality, natural food can also reduce his or her carbon footprint?

Confused About Senior Dog Nutrition and Food?

You are not alone! The International Journal of Applied Research in Veterinary Medicine recently published a Survey of Opinions about Nutritional Requirements of Senior Dogs and Analysis of Nutrient Profiles of Commercially Available Diets for Senior Dogs. The authors from the Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine questioned 1309 adults regarding opinions on how to feed senior dogs.

Not surprisingly, researchers found confusion regarding the nutritional requirements of senior pets. The authors also compared 37 commercial senior diets and found a wide variation in the nutrient profiles of the foods.¹ However, there is hope. The research paper does bring up some very good points that will help pet guardians navigate the confusing array of senior pet foods on the market.

Industry Requirements

The authors correctly pointed out that neither the National Research Council nor AAFCO have set nutritional requirements for senior dogs. In its Nutrient Profiles,

Omega-3 Deficiency #1 Reason Pets Develop Flaky Skin

Dry, itchy skin is often seen in dogs and cats. Many pet guardians will try changes in grooming patterns or products with no relief for their pets. When flaky skin persists in pets, dietary factors could be what are keeping your pet from enjoying healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Dietary deficiency is the number one reason that that Dr. Karen Becker sees excessive flaking with pets in her veterinary practice. She recently posted an educational video on the topic, explaining, “Deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids is the specific dietary cause for the flaking to occur. Dogs and cats need an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids.” ¹ Dr. Becker is an integrative wellness veterinarian and was named one of Chicago's Top Ten Vets, according to Chicago Magazine.

Grass-eating Dogs May Be Missing Nutrition

Recently Dr. Wendy Zimmerman, DVM, CVA, of Pet Food Direct, wrote an interesting blog titled, Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?¹ In it she discusses several theories among pet professionals as to why dogs might like to help you trim your lawn. Several possibilities pertain to a pet’s diet and are expanded upon in this post.

Heredity

“Dogs descended from wild canids (wolves/fox etc),” writes Dr. Zimmerman. “Wild wolves/fox will eat the entire “kill” when hunting for food and many of the animals they hunt are herbivores (plant-eating). As the stomach contents of the prey are consumed by the hunter, so is the grass and vegetation eaten by the prey animal. Some suggest that dogs enjoy grass so much because it is inherited from their lineage.”