This post has been sponsored by Petcurean. All opinions are my own and my four-legged best friend.
The other day Mr. S and I were reminiscing about picking up Clem just outside of Los Angeles and driving cross-country back home to Florida. We had always had Old English Sheepdogs (AKA – big furry pigs with iron stomachs). We weren’t prepared for a dog with food sensitivities who can’t digest certain foods without stomach issues (FYI: do NOT feed a new dog Kentucky Fried Chicken when you’re driving cross country in a small luxury car… #experience).
Over the past 12 years I’ve learned a lot about what’s good and what’s not when it comes to Clem’s dietary needs. My best friend Ava (a pet nutritionist), has held my hand through the good and bad, and when I found Petcurean (Ava approved) I latched on and never looked back. I’ve changed formulas as Clem has aged and his needs have changed, but I’m always confident that I’m feeding him the best on the market, with a nutritional formula that meets his needs.
Whether you decide to feed your pet an omnivorous or vegan diet, it’s important to ensure that they’re getting enough protein. Protein is an important part of your pet’s diet for a variety of reasons, one of which is energy. With the long, hot, summer days, it’s an especially important time to make sure that your pet is eating enough protein to sustain throughout the day.
One of Ava’s suggestions was to READ EACH LABEL.
I learned that not all people food is easily digested by my dog. Just like doing an elimination diet to learn what was bothering ME, I had to do for him. Here are some of the ins and outs of what proteins to look for.
Plant-based Proteins:
- Peas: A good source of beta-carotene, niacin, Vitamin B6, folate, phosphorus, and copper. It’s also packed with dietary fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, thiamin and manganese.
- Organic flaxseed and sunflower oil: Both contain omega-6 fatty acids that promote healthy skin and a radiant coat. Flaxseed also boasts omega-3 fatty acids which are important for normal metabolism and optimal health.
- Lentils and Chickpeas: Both are low glycemic carbohydrates that also provide a good source of protein, iron, phosphorus and copper.
Poultry:
- Chicken Meal: A concentrated source of protein containing meat, bones, and cartilage that is dried and preserved naturally. It should never include feathers, heads, feet, or entrails.
- Chicken Fat: Although human diets try to avoid fats, animal fat is good for your pet. Chicken fat is a great source of omega-6 which is considered the most important essential fatty acid for dogs and cats.
- Eggshell Meal: A natural source of calcium to promote bone strength. Eggshell membrane is an added plus!
Pro-Tip: As obligate carnivores, cats must get their protein from animal tissue. For a protein-packed meal and a meaty flavor they’ll love, try out Now Fresh Grain Free.
Fish:
- Cod: A good source of high quality protein, phosphorous, niacin, and Vitamin B-12.
- Dehydrated Cod: A concentrated source of protein that uses the entire raw material. The benefit of dehydrated product is the removal of water, but not the fat.
- Krill: As the “superfood of the sea,” krill is growing in popularity as a protein source. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and astaxanthin, krill is also virtually free of pollutants and heavy metals.
Pro-Tip: Want to try a fish-based kibble? GATHER Wild Ocean features line-caught Alaskan cod and sustainably harvested krill to create a delicious and healthy meal for your dog. FYI: Clem as well as his cousins Jack and Fozzie LOVE this formula.
Whole Meats:
- Deboned Venison, Pork, and Lamb: All are great sources of protein that come from the animal’s clean and de-boned flesh.
- Novelty Proteins: This classification consists of proteins your pet may not have eaten before such as venison, salmon, or duck. Novelty proteins can sometimes help alleviate the symptoms of dietary sensitivities.
Pro-Tip: If your cat or dog has more challenging sensitivities, Petcurean’s GO! offers a wide variety of options that were specifically created for picky eaters, those who need a grain free or higher protein diet, and for those requiring a recipe with unique proteins or a limited number of ingredients.
Remember that my dog’s needs may not be the same as yours
That’s why I love the Petcurean Petfood finder that walks you through the nutritional needs of your dog.
- Learn about which pet food is best for your pets nutrition at Petcurean
- Use their Petfood finder and be certain your dog or cat is eating optimally
