As we know, selecting a high-quality pet food is one of the most important decisions a pet parent can make. To celebrate pets, The Humane Society of the United States has announced the nationwide launch of a cruelty-free, all natural, and certified organic dog food called “Humane Choice.” The HSUS developed this new product to offer consumers a wholesome and nutritious dog food that does not contain animal-based proteins or support the factory farming industry (how cool is this?!).
The Humane Choice recipe is certified organic and is rich in whole vegetables and grains. It has been specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of adult dogs as established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials.
What many may not realize is that dogs are not obligate carnivores and that their protein intake can come from both animal- and plant-based sources. In a recent article, Dr. John Bauer, Professor and M.L. Professor of Clinical Nutrition at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences says, “Dogs are opportunistic carnivores…As for pet dogs, they can easily be converted to vegetarians, and if done properly, it is just as healthy as an omnivorous diet is for a dog.”
In “Your Dog’s Nutritional Needs: A Science Based Guide For Pet Owners,” the National Research Council (part of the National Academies of Science) states that dogs are not strict meat eaters and can adapt “to a wide range of ingredients, texture, and form in terms of what they will eat.” (If any of you would like a PDF of the pamphlet, please email me.)
Currently, Humane Choice is available at select Whole Foods in New York and New Jersey and will be available soon at 328 PETCO Stores nationwide. Click here to see if your local store carries it or you can simply make your purchase at www.PETCO.com/humanechoice.
Having said all of this, though, please consult with your veterinarian before you make any changes to your dog’s diet.
Dog bless.
Via Mary Max