Where Are You in the Evolution of a Pet Parent?
Have you ever taken the time to think about where you started as a pet parent and where you are today? You may have noticed our poster in store that outlines the Evolution of the Pet Parent because we believe in the ongoing evolution of pet parenting. Just like us, our furry family deserves the best care and that often means evolving and adapting our approach to their nutrition. We wanted to share the various steps in the evolution of pet parenting and we invite you to explore the stages of pet parent evolution and discover where you currently stand on this journey and where you can be. We believe this is a path of empowerment and growth and we're always here to support you every step of the way no matter which step of your journey you're in!
The Faithful: Where We All Start
Description: The Faithful Pet Parent follows the traditional approach of feeding kibble, often recommended by vets and supported by extensive and excessive marketing from big pet food companies. This approach has been passed down through generations. The Faithful Pet Parent absolutely loves their pet and trusts that kibble is the best choice, often unaware of alternative options.
Step Forward: Consider adding fresh food from your own fridge to your pet’s diet for a healthier twist. Simple additions like gently cooked vegetables, eggs, lean meats, or small amounts of fruits can provide essential nutrients and variety, making mealtime more enjoyable and nutritious for your pet. Even one tablespoon of fresh food can make a difference!
The Curious: When We Question
Description: The Curious Pet Parent starts to question the status quo around feeding kibble. They begin to explore and research alternative feeding options, recognizing that a diet consisting solely of kibble might not provide all the necessary nutrients. By incorporating real food into their pet’s diet, such as fresh vegetables, lean meats, eggs and raw dairy, they seek to offer more variety and balanced nutrition. This stage is marked by a growing awareness and a desire to improve their pet’s overall well-being through dietary changes.
Step Forward: Regularly check the labels of your pet’s food and treats to make informed choices. Look for high-quality ingredients, avoiding artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers. Pay attention to the nutritional information to ensure your pet is getting the right balance of proteins, fats, and fresh food. This practice helps you understand what you're feeding your pet and allows you to make healthier choices that contribute to their overall well-being.
The Flexible: Why We Learn More
Description: The Flexible Pet Parent ignores marketing hype and conducts their own research. They seek out reputable sources of information and consult with holistic veterinarians or pet nutrition experts. By reducing the amount of processed food and regularly incorporating more fresh, whole foods like vegetables, fruits, and lean meats, they notice significant improvements in their pet’s health. Benefits can include increased energy levels, a shinier coat, better digestion, and overall vitality. This stage reflects a commitment to providing a balanced, nutrient-rich diet that supports their pet's long-term well-being.
Step Forward: Incorporate more fresh food and offer a rotation in your pet’s diet to maintain their interest and health. Introduce a variety of fresh ingredients such as lean meats, fish, vegetables, and fruits. Regularly rotating different protein sources and vegetables helps prevent nutritional imbalances and keeps your pet excited about mealtime. This diversity in their diet ensures they receive a wide range of nutrients, promoting better overall health and well-being.
The Adventurous: What We Change
Description: The Adventurous Pet Parent delves into understanding their pet’s biological dietary needs. They research species-appropriate diets and learn about the natural dietary habits of their pets. By providing a diverse diet rich in whole foods such as raw or lightly cooked meats, vegetables, and fruits, they ensure their pets receive optimal nutrition. They also include healthy treats and supplements to address specific health needs and promote overall wellness. Regular rotation of different foods keeps mealtime interesting and helps prevent nutrient deficiencies, reflecting a proactive and informed approach to pet nutrition.
Step Forward: Aim to eliminate all ultra-processed pet food and treats from your pet’s diet. Focus on providing natural, whole foods that are minimally processed and free from artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers. Opt for fresh ingredients like raw or cooked meats, vegetables, and fruits. By doing so, you ensure that your pet receives the highest quality nutrition, promoting their overall health and longevity. This shift can lead to noticeable improvements in their energy levels, coat condition, and digestive health.
The Determined: Who We Want to Be
Description: The Determined Pet Parent embodies all the knowledge and practices of the Adventurous stage. They understand that feeding their pet isn’t complicated – Mother Nature has provided the blueprint! By focusing on natural, species-appropriate diets, they avoid ultra-processed kibble entirely. They confidently provide their pets with fresh, whole foods and beneficial supplements. Moreover, they actively share their knowledge and experiences with other pet parents, fostering a community of informed and empowered individuals dedicated to their pets’ health and well-being.
Step Forward: Continue to share your insights and support other pet parents in their journey towards better pet nutrition. Engage in conversations, join pet nutrition forums, and participate in community events to spread your knowledge. By offering advice and sharing your experiences, you can help others make informed decisions about their pets' diets. Your support can inspire fellow pet parents to explore healthier options and contribute to a collective effort towards improving the well-being of pets everywhere.