For pet owners seeking guidance for pet nutrition, we recognize that good nutrition is important for pets at all stages of their lives. This starts with young puppies and kittens. A balanced diet rich in protein and healthy fats will help build your young pet’s bones, support healthy muscle development, support a strong immune system, and keep your pet’s skin and coat shining.
request an appointmentCarbohydrates are also an important source of energy for growing pets that are very active. During a nutritional counseling appointment, our veterinarian will make specific dietary recommendations for your puppy or kitten. For example, large breed puppies will need to eat specially formulated large breed pet food. This special diet helps large breed puppies safely gain weight at a slow pace that will not strain the joints or increase the risk for hip dysplasia.
As pets age, their nutritional needs may change. An older, sedentary dog will not have the same food requirements as a young, active puppy. Consequently, your pet’s diet should also change to meet these evolving food requirements. Not all pet foods are created equal or appropriate for your pet. For example, older pets may benefit from specially formulated senior dietary foods that support joint health. Our veterinarian can recommend specific foods to best meet your pet’s evolving health needs.
If your pet is overweight, our pet nutrition program can help your pet safely lose the extra pounds. A few extra pounds can have a significant impact on your dog or cat’s overall health. Pets that are overweight or obese are at increased risk for heart disease, joint and mobility problems, diabetes and general poor health. Losing these extra pounds can significantly lower your pet’s risk for these problems. Our veterinary can help your pet safely lose the extra pounds.
Pets that frequently scratch, itch or bite their skin may suffer from a food allergy. Common food ingredients including beef, chicken, soy, corn, wheat, barley, eggs and dairy may be responsible for your pet’s allergy. Our veterinary hospital team will design an elimination diet to help identify the ingredients that are triggering your pet’s food allergy. Once these ingredients have been identified, we will create a custom food plan that replaces these ingredients with safe food choices. For example, venison, kangaroo, brown rice and sweet potato are popular and effective food substitutes.
Our veterinary hospital is proud to offer our comprehensive pet nutrition program. Contact our team today to learn more!