Whole Foods for Dogs and Cats

HUMAN-GRADE MEALS FOR OUR FURRY BEST FRIENDS

by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN

Research. North America dominated the market, accounting for a 49.9 percent share of worldwide revenue that year.

The immense popularity of commercial pet food can be attributed to numerous reasons. Socioeconomic factors make buying processed pet food affordable; nutritional science makes it look sophisticated; veterinarians endorse it and marketing agencies persuade guardians that it is the best option. Many pet guardians may be concerned that table scraps are not as healthy for their pet as kibble. As a result, most dogs and cats consume commercial diets, many of which include byproducts from the human food industry.

Kelly Swanson, a University of Illinois professor and the author of a 2018 nutrition study published in the Journal of

Animal Science, told Science Daily, “A lot of companies test for complete and balanced nutrition but don’t go beyond that.” She further noted that her study evaluated certain diets by looking at additional factors: “Would dogs like them? Were they digestible? Would they increase activity?”

Leveling Up a Pet’s Diet

Because they are unprocessed and unrefined, pet diets made of whole foods contain more intact nutrients and provide more fiber for digestive health, which can help with constipation, diarrhea or both. According to a 2021 study published in the Journal of Animal Science, some types of fresh, “human-grade” food may be simpler for pets to digest than dry, commercial kibble.

Our very own Diane Murray, of Tampa, shares Bodhi, a 9-y-o Staffordshire Terrier (aka pit bull). Bodhi is known for his love of walks and traveling with his human companions. Diane states, “He makes my life better every day!”

Email your favorite pet picture to Debbey at dwilson@natampa.com.

A recent study examined the gut microbiome of pet and stray dogs from South Africa, India and Loas and compared their gut microbiomes to those of dogs that lived 1,000 years ago. The researchers found that the varied diet of the stray dogs of Loas had the most robust microbiome and that it was comparable to the diet consumed by ancient dogs. Like in humans, a healthy and balanced gut microbiome is important for digestion and to fight inflammation.

While there are some foods that pets should avoid, such as alcohol, dairy, chocolate and grapes, many types of meat and vegetables that humans eat can be served to their pets. Because whole-food ingredients like chicken, pork, lamb, beef and chicken eggs are readily available at local grocery stores, it’s easy to get started. The key is ensuring that a pet gets a balance of protein, fat and carbohydrates. There are plenty of homemade pet food recipes available online that consider this balance. The needs of a pet will vary based on species, age, weight and overall health, so consulting with a veterinarian is recommended to keep the pet’s health on track.

Tips for Homemade Pet Food Success

n If it is in the budget, choose grass-fed or pasture-raised meats, which have a healthy omega-3 to omega-6 ratio and are anti-inflammatory.

n The diet should include calcium, iron, zinc and other essential nutrients based on species and individual needs. Consult a veterinarian for guidance.

n Although dogs do not require carbohydrates in their diet, they can digest them. Dogs use dietary carbohydrates to maintain and replace glycogen levels.

n Introducing vegetable fiber—kale, collard greens and fruit such as apples—to a dog’s digestive system helps prevent gas pain.

n Obtain ingredients from organic sources whenever possible, because they contain no pesticides or chemicals that could harm a pet’s health.

n Avoid processed foods and artificial ingredients.

n Look for pet foods without preservatives, byproducts, fillers or food dyes.

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (aafco.org/consumers) offers a wealth of information and guidance regarding commercial pet foods and ingredients. While they do not have a whole foods classification, they do provide information about natural and organic pet foods.

Feeding pets whole food is a great way to help them stay healthy and happy. Make their food at home using fresh ingredients, or look for commercial brands that incorporate whole foods in their products. A pet’s best health starts in the bowl.

Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4

Sun Health Expo (Słoneczne Targi Zdrowia)10am-6pm. First-ever Polish health and wellbeing event in Tampa Bay area, featuring vendors and speakers with natural and holistic therapies from Poland and beyond. Free admission. The Karol Hotel, 2675 Ulmerton Rd., Clearwater. Info, SloneczneTargiZdrowia.com.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5

Full Moon Ceremony - 6:30-8pm. Celebrate with Yoga Flow and Yin under the full moon in the garden. Plus a gift bag with goodies and a special crystal of the month. $25. Bohemian Gypsea, 12 West Orange St., Tarpon Springs, 727-853-5091.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9

Metaphysical Coffee Talk with Kathleena6-7pm. Manifesting, Goal Setting and Miracles. $11/Suggested donation. Bohemian Gypsea, 12 West Orange St., Tarpon Springs, 727-853-5091.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11

Living a Life from Love Rather than Fear, with Legan Lyons - 2-4pm. Learn how to shift from scarcity to abundance no matter what your situation. $25. Bohemian Gypsea, 12 West Orange St., Tarpon Springs, 727-853-5091.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14 ST. VALENTINE’S DAY

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15

Free Hypnosis-NLP Webinar: Sleep Learning & Healing - 7:30-8:30pm. Interactive webinar with Certified Master Trainer Patricia V. Scott, PhD. With 30+ years of experience as a Medical Hypnotherapist & NLP Master Practitioner and Trainer, Patti shares practical, easy to use techniques with Q&A (usually held the 3rd Weds. monthly w/ various topics). Register by 5pm for log-in details: 727-943-5003, UPHypnosis.com.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17

Thai Yoga Class for Couples, with Ronni Ford - 6pm. Share and experience the Art of Thai Yoga, stretching together! $30/per couple. Studio 3, 210 Patricia Ave., Dunedin. Sign-up, 340-626-9642, RonniFordyeh@gmail.com.

Drum Circle with Jake - 6-7:30pm. Enjoy this casual, energetic atmosphere while you play your drums or other instruments or just enjoy others. We will be by a cozy fire. No fee. Bohemian Gypsea, 12 West Orange St., Tarpon Springs, 727-853-5091.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19

Reiki II Training - 10:30am-2:30pm. Join Rev. Michele to continue on the healing path of reiki and receive level II training and attunement. $225. The Violet Butterfly, 35154 US Hwy 19 North, Palm Harbor, 727-386-4535, TheVioletButterflymhc.com

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25

Medical Hypnotherapy Specialty Certification (Online) - 1-6pm. Prerequisite: 200 hours prior hypnosis training. Patricia V. Scott, PhD, Certified Master Trainer for the International Medical & Dental Hypnotherapy Association, teaches medical applications to work with referrals. Dates: Feb. 25-26; March 11-12 & 25-26; April 29-30 (plus practicums and exams). Register by 2/5: $695 or $595 (UPHI Mbr); After: $795 or $695 (Mbr). UPHypnosis.com.

FL LMT Renewal - Get all of your required CEs in a fun game show environment. Florida Law, Ethics and Boundaries, Prevention of Medical Errors. Mix & match $25/per class. Attend in person or via Zoom. Info & registration, Diane 813-500-1899, TheEffortlessSolution@gmail.com

Plan Ahead

SATURDAY, MARCH 18

Hypnosis International Certification Begins - Receive 3 certifications: International Association of Counselors & Therapists, UPHI & IHF, with Patricia V. Scott, PhD (Certified Master Trainer). Training “live” (Oldsmar) and/or online (Zoom). Learn basic and advanced techniques, medical uses, regression, parts-integration, timeline techniques, smoking cessation, weight/diet control, NLP & more. Enroll by 2/15: $3095 or $2895 (UPHI Mbr); After: $3395/$3095. 727-943-5003. UPHypnosis.com.

SUNDAY, MARCH 19

Extreme Communication: Connecting to the Other Side - 3:30pm. Hosted by Michele Belcastro of The Violet Butterfly, join Lisa Miliaresis, medium and author, as she channels in a gallery setting. Embrace the opportunity to connect to loved ones on the other side. $50. The Violet Butterfly Metaphysical Healing Center, 35154 US Hwy 19 North, Palm Harbor. Register at TheVioletButterflymhc.com or 727-386-4535. For more information on Lisa’s services, visit 2Communicate.net.

SATURDAY, MARCH 25

Foot Massage Skills - 2-5 pm. Learn how to give a wonderful foot massage in this fun, hands-on, experiential class. Sign up with a friend for a $5 discount. $25. FL LMT CEs available. Attend in person or via Zoom. Info & registration Diane 813-500-1899, TheEffortlessSolution@gmail.com

Ongoing Events

SUNDAY

Sunday Celebration Services - 11am. Unity Palm Harbor is building a beautiful community. Join in for uplifting, heart-centered celebration every Sunday. 1960 Tampa Rd., Palm Harbor, 727-784 7911, UnityOfPalmHarbor.org

Restorative Yoga - 7pm. Awaken and heal through contemplative self-awareness and personalized instruction, facilitated by Intuitive Healer Ronni Ford. $15 Drop-in rate with a reservation. RonniFordyeh@gmail.com.

Monday

Yoga - 6pm (also Tues., Thurs., Fri., Sat.) Join in on the yoga experience with our new instructor, Alexa! Having moved down from the Boston area, she is excited to bring her brand of yoga to the area. Bring your mat or use one of ours, but do come down and join in the calming world of yoga. $15/session; package alternatives available. 6251 Park Blvd., Ste. 9, Pinellas Park. Reserve your space, 727-346-5875.

Tuesday

Meditation Practice & Study Group - 6:30-8pm. Tuesdays & Sundays. For beginners & experienced. Join Dr. Castellani in his integral awareness approach to effortless meditation, melding methods of Mantra, Mindfulness & Core-consciousness Awareness. $5/class. 809 S. Hillcrest Ave., Clearwater. Info 716-816-5464.

WEDNESDAY

A Course in Miracles Study Group -10am. Unity Palm Harbor, 1960 Tampa Rd., Palm Harbor, 727784 7911, UnityOfPalmHarbor.org

Feldenkrais with Bonnie K - 11am. Online! Awareness through Movement classes: Lessons (in chairs/ on floor) are designed to quiet non-working habitual patterns, invite you into a process for learning and offer experiences for more efficient movement. Ongoing classes-movement lessons w/replays. More info, 941-360-2248, FeldenkraisInSarasota. com. Register, FeldenkraisinSarasota.com/SarasotaClasses-Feldenkrais/

Yoga Session: Hatha Yoga with a Therapist -6:307:30ish pm. Join Elizabeth Rice, LCSW ACE CFI, for a yoga session that will not only strengthen your mind-body connection, but will help you to get in deeper touch with your inner calm. Space is limited, reserve now. $15/per session. 6251 Park Blvd., Ste. 9, Pinellas Park. 727-346-5875.

Gong Meditation and Sound Journey - 7pm. (2nd Weds. monthly) Facilitated by Gregg Akin, Sound Healer. Unity Palm Harbor, 1960 Tampa Rd., Palm Harbor, 727-784 7911, UnityOfPalmHarbor.org

THURSDAY

Psychic Playground - (2 nd & 4 th Thursdays) 6-7:30pm. Join Anna-Victoria to develop your psychic talents. $25. The Violet Butterfly, 35154 US Hwy 19 North, Palm Harbor, 727-386-4535, TheVioletButterflymhc.com