Can I Feed My Pet Vegetarian Food?

Pets

Q I'm a vegetarian and would prefer to feed my dog a plant-based diet, especially with all the uncertainty surrounding pet food. Is a vegetarian diet healthy for my pet? —Joanna

A Dogs are omnivores and can maintain their health eating a vegetarian diet. They are different than carnivorous animals, such as cats, that require animal protein. However dogs have a shorter digestive system than humans and cannot process as much raw fiber. If your dog experiences diarrhea, or digestive upset, briefly cook vegetables to break down the tough cellulose layer.

It is important to feed dogs a variety of ingredients to ensure they receive enough protein and to maintain their health. The diets of many vegetarian dogs tend to be low in important nutrients such as protein, calcium, B12, vitamin D, and phosphorus. Eggs and lentils are excellent protein sources.

Raw and cooked vegetables (dogs love raw carrots), apples, brown rice, and sprouted grains should also be included in their diet. Add a little omega-3 fish oil and ground flax for a healthier coat. Use a multivitamin supplement designed for dogs to help insure all their nutritional requirements are met.

A variety of canned foods are also available for vegetarian dogs. Be sure to avoid feeding your pet sugar, chocolate and other toxic foods.

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Lisa Tsakos
Lisa has been in her own practice for over 15 years and specializes in weight management. She teaches natural nutrition in both corporate and educational environments and is a shining example of someone who practices what she teaches. Lisa is a nutritionist and educator specializing in weight management. After losing weight several years ago through a more natural diet and by improving her digestion, she committed to sharing her new-found knowledge and returned to school to study nutrition. Over the past decade, her Nu-Vitality Weight Program has helped employees at numerous corporations lose thousands of pounds. In addition, Lisa regularly consults for groups and individuals with unique nutritional needs such as police officers and athletes. Lisa has been featured on the Discovery Channel, numerous radio programs and is a contributor to various publications. Additionally, she teaches nutrition at multiple post-secondary schools, has taught natural food cooking workshops, and authored two books.