Factory farming is unhealthy for the planet.
According to U.S. Environmental Protection, 14.5% of global greenhouse gasses come solely from the production of meat. With staggering figures like these, it’s no wonder an increasing number of people are reducing their consumption of meat and animal products.
In an effort to lessen their impact on an ever-changing climate, eco-conscious people are eager to make positive changes. This is certainly evident among the dog-owning populace, as demand for plant-based diets has never been greater. While the concept of plant-based diets for dogs is not new, it has been a largely underserved market for pets in North America.
There are several ways we can help lower the environmental footprint of our beloved canine companions. Going plant-based for your pooch is the best first step.
There is a common misconception that domesticated dogs are more akin to carnivores – this is simply not true. Over the past 10,000-plus years, modern-day canines have evolved to become highly-efficient omnivores. Dogs certainly share some physiological characteristics of carnivores, like short digestive tracts, sharp teeth, and hinged-jaws. However, dogs have specific metabolic traits that differentiate them from carnivores; the ability to synthesize certain vitamins and amino acids, and digest starch.
Historically, plant-based diets have been effective in treating dogs with allergies to animal proteins. However, with the growth of the vegan movement, alongside increased consumer demand for eco-friendly options, pet owners are now turning to earth-friendly, low carbon-footprint options for their four-legged friends.
But is a plant-based diet safe for canines?
Absolutely! If done correctly, of course. Any nutritionally incomplete diet can potentially cause harm. However, a plant-based diet consisting of healthy, wholesome foods, can provide thriving nutrition for dogs. I bet you didn’t know one the world’s oldest living dogs, a Border Collie named Bramble, lived to the age of twenty-five on a vegan diet!
Concerned about your dog getting enough protein? There are numerous protein-packed plant foods. Peas, for example, are a complete protein source that is both highly digestible and easily bioabsorbable for canines. Other high-quality protein sources include quinoa, lentils, chickpeas, and whole grains.
Just like any dog food, when selecting a plant-based dog food, the most important criteria include the quality of ingredients used, the nutrient density per calorie, and also whether or not the food is nutritionally complete and balanced.
Until now, the Canadian pet marketplace has had limited plant-based offerings for dog owners, but that is changing as manufacturers are responding to overwhelming demand. Enter v-planet; a high-quality, completely plant-based dog food recently debuted in Canada after years of success south of our border. V-planet is setting the new benchmark for plant-based dog foods in Canada, as they are passionate about providing optimal nutrition for canines, free from animal cruelty, and with a lower carbon footprint than traditional, meat-based dog foods.
If you’re looking to lower your pooch’s carbon footprint, perhaps it’s time to consider a plant-based dog food. Healthy for the body, healthy for the planet.