Is Vegan Food Healthy for My Dog? This is perhaps the most common question concerned guardians ask when discussing plant-based food for their dog. It is understandable too. Although our values and motivations play an important role in choosing a vegan food, we also want to be certain that it will be healthy for our companion animals. Let us examine this topic in more detail.
Important Update - June 2020 A new study2 published on Jun 15, 2020 suggests that Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs is NOT related to grain-free diets (the diets rich in legumes). This is a huge relief to vegan pet guardians because legumes (soybeans, lentils, peas) are extensively used in plant-based diets for dogs, and many guardians became worried that their choice of a diet for their companion animal could negatively impact their dog's heart function (Canine DCM is a disease of a dog's heart muscle). However, now there is a peer-reviewed study where researchers reviewed 150 related research papers, and concluded that there is no link between DCM and legumes. Researchers said that DCM is generally linked with genetics or the breed of the...
Mikhail Goussev, the founder of Vecado Plant-Based Pet Foods, spoke with Len Goldberg on the topic of plant-based cat diet on June 9, 2020. Check out our live stream video and below excerpts from the interview, where you will find answers to common questions on the topic. Len Goldberg: Mikhail is the owner of Vecado – a long running vegan company which specializes in distributing vegan food for dogs and cats. Lets start with asking Mikhail the most basic question that people have on their minds regarding the topic. Cats are carnivores, so why would anyone suggest that we would not be feeding them conventional food, comprised of fish and chickens? And instead would be feeding them plants? Mikhail Goussev: ...
What are antioxidants? Antioxidants are natural compounds that inhibit oxidation – a chemical reaction that damages cells and contributes to development of several chronic diseases in dogs, cats and humans. While some antioxidants (such as ‘antioxidant enzymes’) can be produced in the body, other types must be added in dietary form. These include vitamin E, vitamin C, beta-carotene, lutein and selenium. Why are they important? Antioxidants are important because they fight and neutralize free radicals – highly reactive, unstable molecules that damage cell membranes, enzymes and even DNA. Activity of free radicals leads to cell mutation and causes new cells to grow erroneously. For this reason, these molecules play a role in development of several chronic illnesses and premature aging in...
The number of veterinarians knowledgeable and supportive of plant-based diets for cats and dogs is growing daily. These dedicated professionals have created a strong community advising a responsible approach to a vegan diet. They urge dog and cat guardians to choose quality, well-balanced plant-based products, and educate community on benefits of healthy plant-based nutrition. They base their opinions and recommendations on a growing body of research studies as well as their personal experiences from their practices. Here is what they say: Dr. Armaiti May, DVM Armaiti May is a practicing veterinarian and an outspoken vegan advocate, living in Santa Monica, California. Dr. Armaiti May is knowledgeable in plant-based nutrition of dogs and cats believes that if a healthful vegan diet can be...
