We are seeing more cancer, neurologic conditions and kidney disease, and there is evidence that the increase in these diseases may be due to harmful ingredients in commercial, meat-based foods.
Chendongshan/Shutterstock.com
natural pet
~Armaiti May
Kibble Quandary A Fresh Look at Pet Food by Julie Peterson
E
ating healthy is a family affair, and that includes the family pet. However, what works for humans may be less than optimal for Fluffy or Fido, as each requires a species-specific, nutritionally balanced regimen. Most pet parents opt for commercial dog or cat food that comes in a bag or a can, but many are beginning to consider more natural options. “Kibble is often the most economical way to feed your pet. But its processed state makes it the least optimal,” says Angie Krause, DVM, at Boulder Holistic Vet, in Colorado. Canned food is also heavily processed and potentially toxic. In 2017, Clean Label Project, a nonprofit testing laboratory, completed a study of 1,084 pet food products, screening them for more than 130 toxins and contaminants linked to cancer and other conditions. Results showed cadmium, a heavy metal, in 94 percent of the products, along with arsenic and lead. Contaminants aren’t the only concern. “Up to 50 percent of commercial foods are composed of meat meal and by-
products,” says Armaiti May, DVM, owner of Dr. May’s Veterinary House Calls, in Los Angeles. These can include meat from dead, dying, diseased or disabled animals, and even rendered dogs and cats from animal
shelters, says May. “We are seeing more cancer, neurologic conditions and kidney disease, and there is evidence that the increase in these diseases may be due to harmful ingredients in commercial, meatbased foods.”
Healthy Alternative Diets
Owners that switch from commercial foods report their animals display thicker coats, brighter eyes and greater energy. However, dogs and cats require specific ranges of vitamins, minerals, fats and carbohydrates, so it’s important to ensure that nutritional needs are met and a healthy balance is maintained.
n Home-Cooked Pet food recalls have prompted some families to start cooking for their charges, but
Thermography is “Health Discovery” a very important part of your preventive wellness program.
Radiation Free Breast and Full Body Thermography for Both Women & Men
Find out if you have inflammation before it becomes a problem. Non-Invasive-Pain Free Imaging World class state of the art Infrared technology high quality images. All reports approved and written by Board Certified M.D.s
FREE Dry Brush for new clients only ~ Visit Website for Test Locations in NJ, NY & PA ~
Call for your appointment today! 855-667-9338
Lisa Mack, CCT, HHC • LisasThermographyAndWellness.com March 2020
37
