At Capitaland Animal Hospital we understand how important nutrition is for the health and well-being of your pets. With so many options available, selecting the right pet food can seem overwhelming. To help you make an informed decision, we recommend choosing a pet food that meets the following criteria:
- Veterinary Nutritionist on Staff: Expertise in animal nutrition is crucial, and we advise selecting a brand that employs veterinary nutritionists. These specialists have an in-depth knowledge of what your pets truly need for a healthy and balanced diet.
- In-House Manufacturing: A manufacturer that oversees its food production from start to finish ensures strict quality control and safety standards. This direct approach guarantees that the food your pet consumes is of the highest quality.
- Feeding Trials and AAFCO Statement: It’s essential that the pet food be substantiated using feeding trials that meet the protocols established by the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). These trials are designed to ensure that the food provides complete and balanced nutrition for your pet, which includes nutrient digestibility and interaction. Although a food may contain certain nutrients, there is no assurance those nutrients can be digested and used by the animal without feeding trials. Furthermore, AAFCO ensures the safety of diets. According to Dr. K, the AAFCO statement is the most important piece of information on a pet food label, yet it is one of the hardest to find. This statement is a key indicator of the food’s nutritional completeness and quality.
- Availability of Technical Data: This criterion simply refers to the willingness of the pet food company to provide/discuss the technical data of their product and whether they are meeting the above criteria. The company should be open about their ingredients (without revealing proprietary formula), its product testing, staff expertise, etc.
In addition, we do not recommend grain-free diets to dogs. These diets became a fad when gluten-free options became prominent in human nutrition. Grain-free diets have been associated with a dangerous cardiac condition that has yet to be fully diagnosed. Additionally, grains have rarely been implicated as a problem for dogs.
By choosing a pet food that meets the above guidelines, you can feel confident you’re providing your pet with a nutritious and safe diet that supports their overall health and longevity. Trust in our recommendation and support your pet’s health with the right nutrition. Please contact us if you want specific pet food recommendations.