Dogs have such endearing qualities, and they are always happy to please their masters. If dogs could understand the environmental effects of raising livestock for meat, maybe they would want to do something about it. Do you think your pet would be willing to go on a strict vegan diet?
Deciding to switch to a vegetarian diet or vegan lifestyle is a challenge, and humans are not perfect. However, if you had the same vegan meal sitting in front of you every day for breakfast and dinner, you would probably just eat it and go about your business. Dogs might be able to do their part too and reduce their consumption of meat, which will in turn decrease land degradation and pollution from livestock. Now that vegan and vegetarian dog foods are now available, maybe this is an option to consider or at least keep in mind, especially if your dog is allergic to meat or dairy products.
Dogs have sharp teeth and a small intestinal tract—all attributes suggestive of a meat eater—but there are vegan pet foods claiming to provide proper nutrients, vitamins and minerals such as Wysong, Avo Derm and Natural Balance. There are records of dogs living long, healthy lives on a vegetarian/vegan diet, but the effects can be different for each animal. A big concern is making sure that your dog is getting enough B12. On the other hand, vegan pet food doesn’t contain harmful hormones, pesticides and antibiotics found in many commercial pet foods.
Presenting the option to your pet is a great start. However, you should discuss this diet change with your veterinarian and also keep tabs on the dog’s skin, energy level, hair, bladder and bowel movements, etc. Some dogs might be able to handle the new diet without a problem, while others might react differently. If a meat diet is what will keep your dog healthy and living a longer life, it’s important to stick to it, but if you find that a vegan diet is sustainable, maybe this a change you and your pet can make.
