Whole Foods for Dogs and Cats

HUMAN-GRADE MEALS FOR OUR FURRY

Best Friends

by Ruth Roberts

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.

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

 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.

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

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

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

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

 Avoid processed foods and artificial ingredients.

 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, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN, 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.

Calendar Of Events

NOTE: Events were accurate at the time the magazine went to press – please call ahead to check for date or time changes. All calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Review submissions guidelines at NaturalAwakeningsSWPA.com or email Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsSWPA.com for more information.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1

Yoga for Recovery with Carol Huncik – 6-7pm. In person and online, hosted by Tuned Wellness. For those in recovery or other issues. Friends and family welcome. Gentle yoga that is trauma-informed, with breathwork with meditation. All levels. Let’s find peace! $14. Email for questions and zoom link: CarolHuncik@gmail.com. Tuned wellness, 3925 Reed Blvd, Murrysville. Park in back, follow signs.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4

Youth Writers Camp – 11am-1pm. Online series hosted by August Wilson African American Cultural Center. 4 Feb, 25 Mar, 8 Apr, 13 May. Students analyze the August Wilson play, Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, set in the post-Great Migration years. Students gain understanding of what causes individuals to be able or unable to establish a sense of selfawareness; reflect on their own purpose/values/ and self-identity to further deepen their understanding of self. $15/session at awc.CulturalDistrict.org/production/84012/list_performancesC. 412-339-1011.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5

Savethe Date

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5

Snow Moon Soul Fest at Visions Reiki and Soul Spa – 10am-4pm. Hosted by Visions Reiki and Soul Spa. Enjoy a variety of energy healing experiences, workshops, speakers, and vendors at this one-day soul festival. Tickets $35 at Eventbrite.com/e/snow-moon-soul-fest-at-Visions-Reiki-and-Soul-Spa-Tickets. Visions Reiki and Soul Spa, 206 Alexander Ave, Strabane.

Shavasana – Cozy Yoga with Monette – 7:158:30pm Online Only. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh Yoga. Livestream drop in $12. Class packages available. Info at HIPYoga.org.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7

Livestream Sunrise Yoga with Dionne – 6-6:50am. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh Yoga. Join Dionne for a wake-up session of yoga. Livestream drop in $12. Class packages available. Info at HIPYoga.org.

Selecting the Best Vegetable Varieties for the Home Garden – 8:30-9:30pm. Online class hosted by AbleVeg. Learn to select varieties perfect for your garden while you learn about seed terminology and how to determine when to plant. Having your own garden gives you access to both traditional and unique varieties of vegetables that you rarely find in conventional stores. Tickets $7 at Eventbrite. Info at AbleVeg.com or find them on Facebook.

WEDNESDAY,

FEBRUARY 8

Yoga for Recovery with Carol Huncik – 6-7pm. In person and online, hosted by Tuned Wellness. For those in recovery or other issues. Friends and fam- ily welcome. Gentle yoga that is trauma-informed, with breathwork with meditation. All levels. Let’s find peace! $14. Email for questions and zoom link: CarolHuncik@gmail.com. Tuned wellness, 3925 Reed Blvd, Murrysville. Park in back, follow signs. Vishoka Meditation I with Naomi Schademan –2-3pm. Part I of II. Hosted by HIP Yoga. While each session can be taken as a standalone course, it is ideal to further your study by attending both. Imagine a life free from pain and sorrow, infused with joy and tranquility. Ancient yogis called it Vishoka. The key is precise meditative techniques to unite mind and breath, healing and rejuvenating every level of our being. Part II is set for 15 Feb. $90. Register at HipYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10

CyberSecurity Seminar “Common Internet Scams” – 10-11am. Hosted by Monroeville Senior Citizen Center. Join the students of Forbes Road CTC’s Computer Networking & Security Program for seminars on cyber security. Bagels & coffee will be served. $2/person. Offers free WiFi. 6000 Gateway Campus Blvd, Monroeville. 412-856-7825.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 12

Identifying Trees in Winter – 2-3pm. Hosted by West Virginia Botanic Garden. Retired Core Arboretum manager and lifelong tree junkie Jon Weems gives tips on identifying trees in winter. $5/members, $15/non-members. Register at FlipCause.com/ secure/cause_pdetails/MTYxMzU5. West Virginia Botanic Garden, 1061 Tyrone Rd, Morgantown WV. Shavasana - Cozy Yoga with Monette – 7:158:30pm Online Only. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh Yoga. Livestream drop in $12. Class packages available. Info at HIPYoga.org.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13

Resiliency of the Heart in Healing from Trauma – 6:30-8:30pm. Online event hosted by OMA Center for Mind, Body, and Spirit; Shine Your Light LLC; and Sacred Centered You. Join the panel discussion on Healing from Trauma and various techniques used to heal and move forward. Resiliency is a significant part of the journey of healing, surviving, and transcending adversity. Donations welcome. Register at OMAPittsburgh.org/event/Resiliency-Of-The-Heart.

Annual Pittsburgh Opera Fashion Show: Laced/ Unlaced – 6:30-11pm. Hosted by Pittsburgh Opera. An evening of uninhibited fashion. A showcase of elegance in partnership with Sky Douglass House of Couture Designs and Pulchra Intimates. Silken operatic voices add dramatic dimensions to these sleek and scandalous designs, promising that Laced/ Unlaced will be a scintillating experience like no other. General Admission $45, Student $15, VIP

$175 at donate2.app/PittsburghOpera/FashionShow23. Pre-show cocktail hour at the Bitz Opera Factory, 2425 Liberty Ave.

James Herriot: Simple Life of the World’s Most Famous Veterinarian – 7-8pm. Online presentation hosted by Peters Township Public Library. Join Claire Evans, Anglophile, as she recounts the life and times of Alf Wight, a veterinarian who recounted heartwarming animal stories under the pen name James Herriot. His stories inspired a movie and several television series. Register at PTlib.org/creatures for the zoom link. Peters Township Public Library, 616 East McMurray Rd, McMurray. 724-941-9430.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY

14

Livestream Sunrise Yoga with Dionne – 6-6:50am. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh Yoga. Join Dionne for a wake-up session of yoga. Livestream drop in $12. Class packages available. Info at HIPYoga.org.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15

Vishoka Meditation II with Naomi Schademan –2-3pm. Part II of II. Hosted by HIP Yoga. While each session can be taken as a standalone course, it is ideal to further your study by attending both. Imagine a life free from pain and sorrow, infused with joy and tranquility. Ancient yogis called it Vishoka. The key is precise meditative techniques to unite mind and breath, healing and rejuvenating every level of our being. Part I was conducted on 8 Feb. $90. Register at HipYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Yoga for Recovery with Carol Huncik – 6-7pm. In person and online, hosted by Tuned Wellness. For those in recovery or other issues. Friends and family welcome. Gentle yoga that is trauma-informed, with breathwork with meditation. All levels. Let’s find peace! $14. Email for questions and zoom link: CarolHuncik@gmail.com. Tuned wellness, 3925 Reed Blvd, Murrysville. Park in back, follow signs.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16

Seed Exchange – 6:30-7:30pm. Hosted by Peters Township Public Library. Save money, reduce waste, discover new varieties, share with fellow gardeners. Swap seeds! Please bring clean seeds in labeled envelopes. Envelopes will be available. Those who are bringing seeds may begin at 6:30. Those without seeds to exchange but who would like seeds can begin at 7pm. Registration required at PTLib.org/swap. Info from Sydney Krawiec at SKrawiec@pt-library.org.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21

Livestream Sunrise Yoga with Dionne – 6-6:50am. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh Yoga. Join Dionne for a wake-up session of yoga. Livestream drop in $12. Class packages available. Info at HIPYoga.org.

Backyard Chickens for Beginners – 8:30-9:30pm. Online event hosted by AbleVeg. Learn to set up a space to care for backyard chickens, learn about the varieties of chickens and how to keep your flock happy and healthy. Chickens are excellent pets and fun to care for. Tickets $7 at Eventbrite. Info at AbleVeg.com or find them on Facebook.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22

Yoga for Recovery with Carol Huncik – 6-7pm. In person and online, hosted by Tuned Wellness. For those in recovery or other issues. Friends and family welcome. Gentle yoga that is trauma-informed, with breathwork with meditation. All levels. Let’s find peace! $14. Email for questions and zoom link: CarolHuncik@gmail.com. Tuned wellness, 3925 Reed Blvd, Murrysville. Park in back, follow signs.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26

Genograms-Go Beyond the Family Tree to Find Your Peace – 1-4pm. Workshop hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh Yoga. Energy psychology practitioner and yoga instructor Sanna Carapellotti helps you create a Genogram to track your family’s story, love patterns, and hardships to discover yourself and find peace. Free yourself to change your future. $57. Info HIPyoga.org/events/category/workshops/.

Ongoing Events

Sunday

Hatha I Yoga – 10-10:45am. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Thai Cooking Class – 1-2:30pm or 3:30-5pm one Sunday/month thru May. Hosted by Thai Me Up. Learn to make quick, simple, delicious food at home. 10 students/class. $50. Register by calling 412-488-8893 or go to Thai Me Up, 118 S 23rd St. Spiritual Sounds – 4-5pm. Hosted by Salt of the Earth. First Sunday each month thru July. Enchanting and energetic healing with cleansing and grounding crystal singing bowl vibrations. Michele combines crystal bowls, reiki, and guided meditation. Tickets $45 at Clients.MindBodyOnline.com/ classic/ws. Salt of the Earth. 504 Valley Brook Rd, McMurray. 724-260-0472.

Sunday’s Restorative Rejuvenation – 5-6:30pm. 3rd Sun. Hosted by Morgantown Power Yoga. All levels welcome. Learn to use breath, props, and focused awareness to decrease stress and anxiety in the body and the mind. Compliment your power yoga practice with restorative rejuvenation. $25. 235 Spruce St, Morgantown, WV. Tickets: Clients.MindBodyOnline.com.

Hatha I Yoga – 7-7:45pm. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

monday tuesday

Hatha I Yoga – 10-11am and 6:30-7:30pm. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Hatha II Yoga – 12:20-12:50. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. New lunchtime class with Christianne. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org, 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

1 Hood Power Hour – 7-8pm. A virtual forum hosted by 1 Hood Power to discuss all things political in SWPA and beyond. A virtual public affairs forum featuring elected officials, policymakers and thought leaders. 617-517-7600. Facebook.com/1HoodPower.

Hatha I Yoga – 8:45-9:30am. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434. wednesday thursday

Sensory Friendly Afternoon – 1-5pm. Second Tuesdays monthly thru Nov 2023. Hosted by Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. Individuals with autism spectrum disorders and sensory issues enjoy a comfortable and accepting museum experience Lights and sounds are adjusted, there are designated quiet areas, and sensory kits with noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, and fidgets are available. Regular rates of admission apply. Info, PittsburghKids.org/visit/ accessibility. Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, 10 Children’s Way.

Beginners Yoga – 7:30-7:45pm. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga. org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Hatha I Yoga – 1-1:45pm. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Yoga for Balance and Harmony – 1-1:45pm. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

THRIVE Carmichaels Community Garden Project Meeting – 6-7pm every second Wed. Hosted by Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern PA. Attend in person or via Zoom. Fellowship Hall, 101 W South St, Carmichaels. Info 724-223-5477.

Keep Calm and Carry Yarn – 6-9pm. 18 and over. 2nd Wednesday thru November. Hosted by HackPittsburgh. If you knit, crochet, spin, do needlepoint or any yarny craft, join our monthly Stitch & Bitch. Free to members, $2 donation requested but not required. Entry to venue is on Jumonville St. GPS: (40.437892-79.977705). Official address 1936 Fifth Ave. Info@HackPittsburgh.org.

Mid-Week Reset – 7-7:45pm. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga. org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Yoga and Sound Bath – 7-8:15pm. 1st Wed. With Susannah Azzaro. $25. Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh, 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Yoga Classes – 9:30-10:30am. 1st & 2nd Thurs. Hosted by Spruce Street United Methodist Church. All ages and abilities with variations to accommodate health and movement issues, with students sitting or standing next to a chair. Emphasis on meditative practices. Wear comfortable clothing. 386 Spruce St, Morgantown, W Virginia. 304-292-3359.

Hatha I Yoga – 10-10:45am. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Movement and Breath Meditation – 1-1:45pm. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Hatha II Yoga – 6-6:45pm. Hosted by Himalayan friday saturday

Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Hatha II Yoga – 8:45-9:30am. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga. org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Hatha I Yoga – 10-10:45am. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

First Friday Walk/Hike – 10-11:30am. Hosted by Allegheny Land Trust at various interesting parks and green areas around greater Pittsburgh. For info on location, focus, and cost go to AlleghenyLandTrust. networkforgood.com/events. 412-741-2750.

Friday Family Walk – 10am-Noon. Hosted by West Virginia Botanic Garden. First Friday of every month. Enjoy a short story followed by a walk around the Garden, conclude with a simple craft. Trail accommodates off road strollers. Members/free, $15/donation per family suggested. Preregistration required: wvbg. org or Forms.donorsnap.com/form.

Friday 101 – Carnegie Science Center Fab Lab Public Workshops – 1-2pm. Hosted by BNY Mellon Fab Lab Carnegie Science Center. Take a crash course in maker technology – learn the basics of 3D printing, laser cutting, vinyl cutting, and more. $30/nonmembers, $25/members. One Allegheny Ave. 412-237-3400. Register: CarnegieScienceCenter.org.

Hatha I Yoga – 10-10:45am. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

All-Levels Vinyasa Flow with Sarah – 10-11am. Hosted by Gritstone Climbing and Fitness. Get your Zen on and bliss out with this gentle yet challenging flow. Member/nonmember pricing and packages available. Tickets at ClimbGritstone.com. 1901 Eljadid St, Morgantown, WV.

Hygge Hykes with Forbes State Forest – 10amNoon, 2nd Sat thru Feb. Hosted by Forbes State Forest. Hygge (pronounced Hoo-Gah) is the Danish principle, feeling, and lifestyle that encompasses wellness, comfort, and coziness. The activity is free but registration is required. Location will be revealed upon registration. 724-238-1200. RMahony@pa.gov.

Morgantown WV Indoor Farmer’s/Grower’s Winter Market – 10am-Noon. Select Sat thru April 15. Monongalia County Center, 270 Mylan Park Ln, Morgantown, WV. Info at MorgantownFarmersMarket.org/markets.html.

3D Printer Workshop – Noon-2pm. Hosted by Prototype PGH. Learn to use the Elegoo UV Photocuring 3D resin printer. $10 at Eventbrite. 460 Melwood Ave, Oakland. Info: PrototypePGH.com.

Prototype PGH – Monthly Open House – Noon2pm Second Sat of the month. Meet with members of our team to ask questions about Prototype and the events, workshops and services offered. Donations appreciated to cover free events and workshops. 460 Melwood Ave #208. RSVP on our Facebook page.