You would think that over time, we would experience greater health and greater longevity for our pets with increased science and research. But according to stats released by the AKC, the truth is the exact opposite. Longevity in cats and dogs with some breeds has been cut by 50%. Golden Retrievers used to live to 18, and now that has become 9 years of age. Additional striking stats include that over 50% of dogs that live past the age of 10 will develop cancer. And most animals begin with kidney disease by age 7, when kidney disease decades ago was not ever an issue! We have been failing our animals. Why?
The overwhelming evidence and belief is that with the introduction of kibble in the 1970’s, the slow erosion of health of our cats and dogs began it’s downturn. Theories suggest that though ingredients may be natural, in the heating and processing of the food, toxins are released and captured withing the kibble that slowly degenerate our animals. And the pet food industry is not regulated, so reliability of information is a big question.
The industry of Holistic Animal Health Care is one of the leading industries in America today, blending Eastern and Western medicine much like people. This includes chiropractor, herbs, the study of microbiome, nutrition, acupuncture, and homeopathy. And the first 3 things that are suggested to bring health and longevity to our pets is nutrition, nutrition, nutrition! There is a strong swing to people providing raw and whole foods for their animals. This is a return to their natural history as pack animals, and I believe, the beginning of return of health and longevity. Who of us would feed our children processed foods day after day and consider it good practice?? I think many of our western veterinarians have sipped a little too much Kool-Aid and towed the kibble line. Sounds like industry to me.