The dog foods that are killing dogs are loaded with not only the obvious harmful hidden chemicals but also natural ingredients you may think are okay yet may severely affect their health over the long run.
Over the years I have helped dogs heal with all sorts of ailments, from separation anxiety, digestive issues, mobility issues, and behavioral issues. The most important thing you can do for your dog’s health, emotional well-being, and longevity is simple. Feed them proper NUTRIENTS. The results will shock you!
What are the “bad dog food” symptoms?
If your dog is experiencing any or several of these symptoms and your vet has not been able to determine a cause, there is a good chance you will need to take a look at your dog’s diet.
- Excessive Shedding
- Raw/Itchy Skin – Dry Nose
- Aggression
- Anxiety
- Low Energy
- Mouth Issues
- Weight Loss/Gain
- Behavioral Issues
- Loss of Appetite
What ingredients to avoid in dog food?
You may be thinking, “I get my dog food from my Vet, it must be healthy.” Many Vets are not “experts” in nutrition. The only way to identify nutritional vs. harmful ingredients is to read and understand labels. The first thing you need to know is in the United States, pet food is regulated by AAFCO, the Association of American Feed Control Officials. Only purchase food that is approved by AAFCO, which should be clearly stated on the dog food label.
Pictured below is some of the common ingredients you find in dog food: (Photo Credit: dogsnaturallymagazine.com)
Harmful Ingredients in Dog Food Can Be Disguised As:
GRAINS A.K.A “THE SILENT KILLER”
Not only is gluten an issue creating chronic inflammation, but you also have to watch for pesticides and GMOs. Grains can be an underlying cause of diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease.
MEAT “BY-PRODUCTS”
Road kill, euthanized pets and horses from shelters, organs from sick diseased animals, and dead zoo animals.
VITAMIN PREMIX (not vitamins)
Added to boost the protein content, made in China and responsible for killing thousands of dogs and cats in 2007. I almost forgot… also can be the cause of cancer.
MEAT “MEAL”
The process is called rendering, where all leftover rancid scraps from dead and diseased animals are heated up. This removes the fat and you are left with MEAT “MEAL.”
ANIMAL FAT OR POULTRY FAT
The fat removed to create meat “MEAL.” (See above)
PROPYLENE GLYCOL
Basically, antifreeze used to maintain moisture. It’s banned from cat food because it kills red blood cells.
Here are a few more of the more dangerous ingredients to look out for that have been connected to Kidney Failure, Arthritis, Joint Issues, Skin Problems, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, and Cancer.
- Carrageenan
- BHA/BHT
- Melamine
- Sodium Hexametaphosphate (often used for tarter control)
- Monosodium Glutamate or MSG
- White Flour
- Corn Syrup
Sadly, there are too many dangerous ingredients to list them all, but a good rule of thumb is if you need to look the ingredient up it’s highly likely not a good choice for your pet.
What is the healthiest dog food?
Raw/Freeze-dried food is the best source of nutrients for your dog. An all-raw food diet can be expensive. Dry food with a raw/freeze-dried topper is a nutrient-rich combination.
For example:
Yes, high nutrient foods are more expensive but so is going to the vet. Changing your pet’s food will extend their lifespan and enhance their quality of life.
What about dog treats?
Dogs live for treats and “ingredient selection” is crucial for their health. Carrot, Cauliflower, and Broccoli are crunchy and delicious. You may be surprised, but your dog will be “rolling over” in no time.
Dog Food Resources
The Farmer’s Dog – https://www.thefarmersdog.com/ – Using decades of pet nutrition research (and a little common sense), their founders worked with top vet nutritionists to create a fresh, convenient pet-food service. Their using quality and safety standards never before seen in the industry — and the result is fresh food that’s safe enough for humans to eat, but that’s nutritionally complete and balanced for dogs.
Just Food for Dogs – https://www.justfoodfordogs.com/ – They’ve made it their mission at JustFoodForDogs to improve the length and quality of life for as many pets as possible—through real food and nutrition—by way of the following core values: Relentlessly Advocating for Pet Health, Being Completely Transparent, Basing Decisions on Scientific Evidence, Driving Change in Our Category, & Honoring Pet Life Through Support of Rescue Efforts.
Champion Pet Foods – https://championpetfoods.com/en – They pioneered Biologically Appropriate, which means their recipes are crafted with purpose and reflect their commitment to mirror the diet nature and evolution intended dogs and cats to eat. Fresh or raw meat, poultry or fish are always the lead ingredients in ORIJEN® and ACANA® recipes to provide pets with peak nutrition, optimal nourishment and ultimate flavor.
Dr. Marty’s Pets – https://drmartypets.com/ – For over 40 years, Dr. Marty has been one of the world’s leading veterinarians. His wide range of experiences has taken me to new frontiers of animal science. But it all started with one mission: To help support your pet’s health through his unique vision of animal nutrition.
Primal Pet Foods – https://primalpetfoods.com – In early 2000, Matt Koss discovered that his dog, Luna, was displaying early signs of renal failure. Matt created his own species appropriate pet food for Luna. After a short time on the new raw diet, not only did her appetite drastically improve, but she also showed an increase in energy and overall happiness.
My whole life I have been happiest in the presence of animals! Let me know how I can help yours. The most common ailments I see; paw licking, separation anxiety, depression, car anxiety, excessive barking, and mobility issues. Making the switch to proper food is a start but many dogs need individual help.
I take a holistic approach and let your animal guide me to what conditions they need to heal; behavioral or other. I use medicinals (herbs), essential oils, minerals, powders, Reiki energy healing, nutritional counseling, and more.
Check out my testimonials at here.
Or contact me at marjipearson@icloud.com or 415-912-8501.