OPINION
Pet owners are responsible for their pets’ proper nutrition. Too often we hear questions about specific brands of pet food wanting a yes or no answer. The same goes for treat brands and then there are table scraps. Bottom-line, daily Kcal (calorie) calculations are important before brand discussion, although a proper assessment may identify the need for changes.
My own search to ensure proper calories led me to this tool from Pet Nutrition Alliance. Simply reading food and treat labels while using the calculator allowed me to establish a baseline for my new puppy, a neighbor’s obese rescue dog and with a colleague changing brands for his pet.
Establishing a baseline for Kcals per day is the tip here. Every client can do this at home or can have a child learn by running the calculations BEFORE a vet visit or telehealth call. From there, the veterinary team can provide the right nutrition counseling.
Source: Pet Nutrition Alliance. Link. This tool is easily sent to clients via text, email or in newsletters. The collaborating alliance members include the who’s who of animal health associations <Link>.
INSIGHTS: Help owners realize their responsibilities using tools like the PNA calculators to build their capabilities. Once the Kcals are understood, realistic decisions about brands, poop volume and palatability can be pursued.
Also see: Pet treats have plenty of room for growth in 2021, Petfood Industry, February 2021. Link. Pet treats are driving disproportionate share of growth despite being less than one-fifth of the pet food market.