A Holistic Approach to Pet Health

As a dedicated pet owner and a passionate advocate for holistic well-being, I want to share the invaluable lessons I've learned about the remarkable parallels between human and pet health. I aim to inspire you to take practical steps towards a more holistic approach to your beloved furry companions, guided by education and a commitment to their well-being.

Glyphosate Exposure and Its Impact on Our Pets

One alarming discovery I made on this journey was the significant glyphosate exposure that our pets endure. Dogs, for instance, carry 32 times the amount of glyphosate in their urine compared to humans, while cats are burdened with 16 times more. This chemical, widely used in herbicides, farming and lawn care, is also found in high amounts in commercial pet foods, and poses a substantial threat to our pets' health.

Much like humans, glyphosate exposure can result in various health issues, including digestive disturbances, allergy symptoms, cancers, and links to many severe chronic diseases. It is vital to recognize that our pets, like us, are not immune to the environmental toxins that surround them. As responsible pet owners, we must take action to minimize their exposure to these harmful substances.

Big Pet Food: A Parallel to the Human Food Industry

Much like the human food industry, the big pet food industry is marred by corruption, driven by profit rather than health. Manipulated studies funded by pet food corporations often produce skewed results, much to the detriment of our pets. These companies prioritize cost-effectiveness and shelf stability over the true nutritional needs of our furry friends. They use artificial flavors to make kibble more appealing, leading to concerns about the health consequences of such additives—sound familiar??

Kibble: Processed, Profit-Driven, and Potentially Harmful

Kibble, a staple in many pet diets, is a prime example of profit-driven processed food. It is chemically processed, often lacking in essential nutrients, and riddled with glyphosate, causing harm to pets in the long run. While it may seem convenient, it's essential to recognize that it does not provide the holistic nutrition that our pets require. 

Kibble is often laden with fillers like carbohydrates because they are cheap and serve as effective binders. While these fillers can make kibble more affordable and extend its shelf life, they do not align with the natural dietary needs of our pets. Consuming kibble can lead to a host of health issues, including obesity, dental problems, and digestion difficulties.

A closer look at the ingredients in kibble reveals a concerningly high presence of chemicals, synthetic additives and artificial flavors. These do not contribute to the well-being of our pets but serve the profit motives of big pet food (and big pet pharma) companies. Are you seeing the parallels? 

Choosing a Holistic Approach to Pet Nutrition

Now, why opt for a holistic approach to your pet's diet? The answer is rooted in natural dietary needs. Privately funded studies consistently show that pets thrive on a raw food diet. This diet is aligned with their evolutionary adaptations, emphasizing whole foods and natural ingredients over processed, chemically laden alternatives.

Now, let's delve into why I am an advocate for feeding pets a raw diet. The evidence supporting this approach is not only compelling but also deeply rooted in the natural dietary needs of our furry companions. In other words, it is how they were created to eat.

Studies consistently highlight that pets thrive on a raw diet, as it aligns with their evolutionary adaptations. This diet typically consists of 80% muscle meat, 10% bone, and 10% offal, including secreting and non-secreting organs. The health benefits are striking, from improved digestion and coat quality to expedited healing and an overall boost in happiness. As a seasoned raw food pet feeder, I can attest that this diet not only benefits our dogs' digestion and coat but also accelerates healing and contributes to an overall healthier and happier pet.

The crucial takeaway here is that introducing raw elements to your pet's diet is a journey worth embarking on. If feeding 100% raw isn’t an option right now, start by adding a raw meal topper, raw milk kefir or a raw egg yolk to their current food, and let their system adapt gradually to this more natural diet. It’s worth noting that there are some better options out there for a more organic, natural feeding option. As you would with your own food, start by reading labels and doing some added research. 

Tip: Find a holistic vet in your area and ask them for approved foods and resources. Additionally, contact your local farms and inquire on raw dog food options they may be able to provide (such as organs, bones, or extra meat from processing) and connections they may have. This is a great way to help the farmers eliminate waste if possible and ensure your dog gets the best, most natural nutrition.

Switching to a more holistic pet diet might sound like a daunting task, but it is both feasible and rewarding. Begin by questioning the ingredients in your pet's food. Just as you would scrutinize your own food choices, inspect their labels. Look for options that prioritize real, whole foods over processed additives and synthetic ingredients. Opt for high-quality, balanced nutrition that mirrors their natural dietary needs.

Holistic Health: A Comprehensive Approach

Switching to a holistic approach isn't confined to diet alone. It extends to a broader perspective on medical care. In human healthcare, we're increasingly recognizing the importance of tailored and minimalistic approaches to avoid over medication and unnecessary interventions. This philosophy should extend to our pets as well.

Just as you'd carefully consider your own medical care and interventions, question what truly works best for your pet. Engage in open conversations with your veterinarian about their specific needs, and avoid unnecessary interventions. Strive for a balance that prioritizes their health without exposing them to undue risks.

If open conversations are not an option with your current vet, move on and find a more holistically minded vet who is open to serving you and your pet the way you desire. Holistically minded veterinarians respect the biological system. This perspective acknowledges that synthetic vitamins are not as effective as naturally occurring ones and that whole foods and natural diets lead to better health outcomes than a synthetic or chemical intervention. As with any practitioner and medical care provider, remember it is a partnership and ultimately you are in control of your choices and need to feel respected and safe.  Just as I encourage us all to make informed decisions for ourselves and our families, I encourage us to make informed decisions for our pets as well–and stop outsourcing what we don’t need to.

A Holistic Journey for a Healthier, Happier Pet

Transitioning to a holistic approach for your pet is a journey that promises a healthier and happier life for your furry friend. Isn’t that what we want? Be vigilant about their exposure to toxins like glyphosate and make mindful choices about their nutrition. Ultimately, your pet relies on you for their well-being, just as you rely on holistic principles for yours. Embrace this journey as a rewarding opportunity to provide the best care for your beloved companion. Be empowered to nourish their bodies, promote their vitality, and ensure they lead a life filled with joy and good health.