Deconstructing Pet Food Options

I was at a board meeting for Turtle Nest Village (nothing to do with turtles–helps youth who have "aged out" of foster care). I’m the Vice Chair of the board and, speaking out of turn, I asked everyone what they feed their pets. I heard a chorus of: "it’s not on the list," "I only buy from the high-end pet store," and "I get my food from the vet." Now, the board is composed of extraordinarily educated, intelligent, successful philanthropists (then there’s me) who adore their pets. However, they were willing to skim over this issue, possibly putting their beloved companions in danger (naturally, I attempted to educate them and recommended options–and no, I didn’t tell them their animals should be vegans. My priority is that they stay alive and healthy.).

Let’s deconstruct the responses:

• It’s not on the list. The tireless people at Pet Connection (and other places) have been tracking this debacle since the beginning, and just because a food isn’t on the official FDA or Menu Foods list doesn’t mean you’re in the clear.
• I buy only from the high-end pet store. The Pet Food List, which tells you which foods aren’t on the list, is invaluable as it tells you who outsources the manufacture and packing of their food. Most brands sold at high-end stores are on this list. But most are also outsourced, and some even use Menu. And very few of the foods are more than 65% organic (and I mean VERY few). And then there’s the reliance on soy, wheat, and corn, and the profusion of grain flours rather than whole grains (and too much grain, in most cases–particularly in vegetarian and vegan foods).
• I get my food from the vet. This was, for me, the most distressing response. Most of the foods available at most vets were on the original list! I happen to be the luckiest animal person on the planet because not only do I have a remarkable homeopath (Dr. Nancy Keller), but my traditional vet (especially for a traditional vet), Dr. David Cox, is awesome. He is open-minded, doesn’t jump to an invasive solution before exploring non-invasive ones, knows my dogs are vegans, and is happy to work with Dr. Keller. His practice does sell some crappy food, but it also sells some good food. I am the customer, and I am aware of that. So is he. He fields any of my questions, listens to constructive criticism, thoroughly explains everything to me, and entertains new ideas. That’s the kind of vet you want.

Think of your pet, her food, and her doctor the same way you think of your own. You want the highest quality that will facilitate the living of a long and healthy life. Ask questions, do your research, and don’t take anything at face value!