I was recently asked to speak to Today Tonight about whether we should be exploring a new paradigm to feeding our pets.
Nutrition is an evolving science. We do not know everything there is to know about feeding dogs & cats. As an integrative veterinarian and natural feeding advocate (including BARF raw feeding with the right candidates) I am convinced many animals do better on a natural diet versus the highly-refined, high starch, mallaird-reaction product containing diets that many pet's in the Western World are fed.
There is no one size fits all approach to animal nutrition however I believe it is very important to focus on species appropriateness, tailored to the individual constitution of the animal (including health status, vitality).
Nutritional Counselling is an important part of the holistic approach to preventive veterinary care and healing from chronic diseases. I recommend that any pet guardian who is caring for an animal who has been unwell for some time (for example, chronic pancreatitis, chronic gut issues, ear infections, skin issues, anxiety) consider exploring a diet transition under the supervision of a Veterinary, ideally, one with a special interest and further training in nutritional therapies.
You can always ask your primary care veterinarian for a referral to a nutritionist or integrative/holistic veterinary, or see if they can get their input on your behalf.
See video here for the story and leave comments below for further insights. I offer Holistic Consultations at All Natural Vet Care in Sydney, as well as distance Telemedicine.