As a pet parent, you have a ton of choices when it comes to feeding your furry family member – wet or dry, fresh or frozen, meat or fish. The options almost seem endless. So, how do you know which food is right for your pet, and what if you want to try something new, something that better fits with your lifestyle?
You could try being a Flexitarian!
What does “Flexitarian” mean?
Flexitarian, or flexible vegetarian, refers to foods that are plant-based or mostly plant-based with the occasional inclusion of meat, fish or egg. A flexitarian diet is more flexible than vegetarian and vegan diets by allowing you to limit meat consumption without eliminating it entirely.
The Flexitarian diet still supports a plant-based, planet-conscious lifestyle while maintaining most of your normal habits. If you choose to add “Meatless Monday” into your weekly meal plans, then you’ve dabbled in flexitarianism!
But wait, how does this work for pets? Aren’t dogs supposed to eat meat? They are carnivores, right?
Nutritionally speaking, it’s not really about what ingredients your pet eats… it’s more about the nutrients they consume! The truth is while cats are obligate carnivores and require a nutritional regimen that must include meat, dogs are omnivores and require less protein that can come from both plant-based and meat-based sources.
It’s possible to provide a dog with all the vital nutrients they need through non-meat options. Yes, dogs love the flavor of meat, poultry, fish and eggs but they also thrive on many plant-based proteins. The good news is your dog can digest and use a variety of proteins regardless of their origin!
What brands offer a Flexitarian recipe?
Freely believes that pets can have the opportunity to join their pet parents on a journey toward balance, which is why they created a Whole Grain Flexitarian Recipe for dogs. This limited ingredient diet recipe is a combination of their Whole Grain Turkey and Whole Grain Vegetarian recipes. A wholesome blend of whole grains, eggs, and turkey delivers the balanced protein your dog needs.
Freely has carefully balanced their Flexitarian and Vegetarian recipes to provide all the protein, fat, essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals dogs need as part of their diets. Each plant-forward recipe is carefully formulated to combine purposefully chosen ingredients to provide a healthy option for your canine companion. Whether you’re looking to help the planet or reduce your dependence on animal products, we’re confident their Flexitarian and Vegetarian recipes are great choices for your dog to do the same.
How do I know a Flexitarian diet is the right choice for my pet?
Always consult your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet. After all, just like humans, every pet will have an individualized diet of their own needs!
If you have any questions about your dog’s diet or nutritional needs, please feel free to give our customer service team a call at 1-888-316-7297, or send over an email to help@petflow.com. Our PetFlow family is always here and happy to help! You can also contact Freely and speak with one of their pet nutrition experts. Connect with them by email (nutrition@freelypet.com), phone (833-918-1236), or live chat at freelypet.com.