A few nights ago, I was scrolling through the news and one article in particular stood out to me. The article explained a Minnesota based pork processing plant reopening for business after a two-week shut down due to the COVID-19 outbreak. After conducting more research, I learned that several large poultry and beef processing plants have temporarily or permanently closed due to the pandemic.
Coincidentally, when I went to buy another bag of dog food, I faced one of the most dreaded circumstances for a dog owner--empty shelves. If you are finding the same empty shelves as I am, do not worry! This may seem like a horrible situation, but fear not, because your pup can actually benefit from this shortage!
How the Shortage can Benefit your Pup
Believe it or not, dogs are very similar to humans when it comes to dieting. Like humans, dogs should get a variety of nutrients, which can vary based on the breed, size, age, and other factors. Since a gradual change in diet can actually be healthy for dogs, it is more than okay to switch up your dog’s diet during this time. However, when changing to a new food, there are many things to consider including allergies, ingredients, nutrition, ratings, and so much more. If you are having trouble deciding which food is best for your companion, ask your vet or a trusted nutritionist!
How to Transition your Pup to New Food
Different types of food have different nutrients and ingredients which can vary greatly from food to food. Because of this, if you transition your dog’s food too quickly, it can cause your furry friend to experience gas or an upset stomach. It is crucial that you only mix in a small amount of the new food on the first day, and gradually increase the amount of new food per day until your pup is fully transitioned. For example, day one should be at least 75% old food and 25% new food, but this can vary based on your pet’s needs. Visit the PetSmart, Petco, or other trusted website for a more in depth breakdown of this transition. If your pup is still having trouble with the transition, contact your vet.
Nutrition your Pup Should be Getting
There are many factors that incorporate into what types of nutrients your pup needs. Proper nutrition can help improve sensitive skin, stomach issues, bad bread, energy, and so much more. A certain food might work phenomenal for one pet, but may not work for another. Do not get discouraged! Each pup is different and has different needs that must be satisfied.
The six basic nutrients that your dog should receive from dry dog food is water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. The specifications of each of these basic needs is a controversial issue, so be sure to conduct your own research or ask for advice from a trusted source, such as a pet nutritionist.
Based on the research I have conducted, I like to avoid fillers, such as corn and rice bran, artificial preservatives, such as BHA and BHT, and unnamed meats. I also like to ensure the first ingredient of my pup’s food is meat as dogs hold several carnivorous traits. If unsure of a certain ingredient or food, consult a professional!
More Tips & Tricks for New Food
Try to limit the amount of treats you give your pup in the first 12 weeks after you transition to a new food. This will help ensure that your dog gets a proper transition and if your pup does get sick, there are less factors to consider.
Make sure to check the ingredients of the food, especially if your dog has any allergies or intolerances.
It can take up to 12 weeks to figure out if your pup’s new diet is a good fit for your dog.
Some dogs can be sensitive to wheat, beef, dairy, eggs and chicken located in their food. If you suspect any allergies or intolerances to an ingredient in food, contact your vet.
I hope this shortage gives you an opportunity to switch up your pup's diet to incorporate different nutrition your dog may be lacking. Some dogs even enjoy switching up the flavors and getting something new (because who wants to eat the same thing everyday)! When transitioning foods, always keep an extra eye on your dog, looking for reactions or intolerances. Stay tuned for this Wednesday’s blog where we will be starting a series Behind the Bark!
Keep calm and wag on!
Dog Food Ingredients To Always Avoid | List Of Bad Dog Food Ingredients. (n.d.). Retrieved May 10, 2020, from https://www.dogfoodinsider.com/dog-food-ingredients-always-avoid/
Nutrition - General Feeding Guidelines for Dogs | VCA Animal Hospital. (n.d.). Retrieved May 10, 2020, from https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/nutrition-general-feeding-guidelines-for-dogs
Nutritional Needs for Different Dog Ages | Hill’s Pet. (n.d.). Retrieved May 10, 2020, from https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/routine-care/needs-of-adult-dogs
Pork processing resumes at JBS plant shut down by pandemic | MPR News. (n.d.). Retrieved May 10, 2020, from https://www.mprnews.org/story/2020/05/06/pork-processing-to-resume-at-plant-shut-down-by-pandemic
Switching Dog Food: Why, When & How | PetSmart. (n.d.). Retrieved May 10, 2020, from https://www.petsmart.com/learning-center/dog-care/when-should-i-change-my-dogs-diet/A0085.html
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