Monitoring

The effectiveness of any diet can be grossly evaluated by noting the pet’s body weight, condition and activity level. Laboratory data such as blood work provides gross estimations of the animal’s nutritional status and can be used in association with other observations to evaluate the homemade food. More specifically, the skin and hair should be examined closely as should the eyes. These tissues are more sensitive to nutritional status.

Sled Dog, Brooks Range, AK Regular routine visits to the veterinarian are strongly advised. Be sure to explain that your pet is eating a homemade diet. The vast majority of dogs and cats in the USA are fed a commercially produced, complete, and balanced product and therefore receive 90% of their calories from prepared pet foods. It is reasonable for your veterinarian to assume your pet is fed a commercial pet food.

Consider: if one dog year is equivalent to seven human years, would you visit your doctor for a check-up only once every seven years?

Press to Request a Consultation We can help assess and balance the nutritional profile of a homemade diet for your pet, or we can formulate a homemade diet that meets your pet’s nutritional needs. Click on Chef to request a consultation.