Why should I pay for a Quality Pet Food?

I have heard dog owners complain that their dogs eat sticks, grass, leaves, shoes and other assorted items so why bother with good dog food? They will eat anything and often do.

First of all, puppies should have a baby-proofed house and yard and be supervised. Surgery is sometimes required to retrieve items puppies have ingested.

Secondly, providing your animal with an appropriate and good diet is essential to long life and good health. It is similar to allowing your children to eat what they want rather than what you know is good for them.

Owners have told me, “My dog or cat won’t eat good food. They like the cheapest, smelliest and poorest quality food out there.” That is like saying “My child will only eat Big Macs, Snickers and Sugar Frosted Flakes!” You are in control of what your animal gets to eat.

Dogs have a sweet tooth. That is why they have been known to lick anti-freeze off of a parking spot. It is poisonous. Be careful of what you are allowing your pet to eat everyday.

If you want to be a responsible pet owner you can learn what to look for in buying your pet’s food.

Do look for meat or fish as the first ingredient listed on your pet’s food bag.

Do look for rice, oatmeal and beet pulp for fiber.

Do look for Omega 3 and Omega 6 oils.

Do look for essential amino acids – Methionine and Lysine.

Do look for natural minerals and vitamins.

Do require Glucosamine to be included.



But, Don’t risk buying pet food with:

Artificial colors.

Chemicals like ethoxyquin as a preservative.

BHA or BHT – possibly Cancer causing preservatives

Crude Fiber such as peanut hulls, rice bran, soy hulls or wheat bran which can damage the digestive tract.

Dyes

Soy

Sweeteners

You can buy quality pet food that will see your animal through all stages of his life. You should find a highly digestible, nutrient dense food that your pet will love. Back yard clean should be easier with a quality food, too.

Find a good quality food, feed it to your pet on a consistent basis and you will notice a better coat, less digestive problems and overall better health.