ReZoom

If recent media reports about contaminated pet food have you thinking twice about what's in your furry friend's bowl, it's probably time to consider your options.Recently, the FDA discovered contaminants inside vegetable proteins imported to the United States from China. Unfortunately, these vegetable proteins were a main ingredient in some pet foods, and many animals suffered as a result, with side effects ranging from kidney failure to death. The resulting pet food recalls encompassed popular U.S. brands like Eubanka, Iams, Nutro Ultra and Master Choice.

Since this scare, many pet owners have become more conscientious than ever when it comes to choosing the right food for their animal.

If you've been considering adding organic food to your pet's diet as a healthier alternative, but are still unsure as to what the buzz is all about, ReZoom is here with some answers to your questions. In order, to understand more about organic dog food, we consulted Dr. L. Phillips Brown, DVM, the corporate veterinarian for Newman's Own Organics.

RZ: What should consumers focus on when purchasing pet food?

Dr. Brown: Consumers should read labels, understand what they're feeding their animals, ask questions when they visit their local pet store, research online and shop smart.

ReZoom: How would you define "organic dog food?"

Dr. Brown: Organic dog food is made without any chemicals, pesticides, insecticides, hormones or antibiotics, and all of the ingredients are certified by third party agencies. In order for [pet food] to be organic, its ingredients must be between 70 and 95 percent organic.

RZ: Do vets recommend organic dog food over other kinds of dog food?

Dr. Brown: Most veterinarians recommend premium dog food or natural dog food rather than organic. The average veterinarian will probably recommend a science diet formula like Hill's or Iams.

RZ: How has the recent scare in pet food affected the sale of organic dog food?

Dr. Brown: I think the sales have increased around 5 or 6 times more, and Newman's was very fortunate because we have a good name and loyal customers. People have been with us for years and they know they can count on us. I also noticed a change with my emails. Before the pet recalls, I would receive about 30 emails a day, and after the pet recalls, I would see around 300 emails on a daily basis.

RZ: What are the benefits of feeding your pet organic dog food?

Dr. Brown: The benefits with organic dog food are limitless. Dogs who eat organic dog food have a healthier longevity, and they digest the food better than regular dog food. Organic dog food is good for any dogs who may have allergies or skin issues and for those that ingested pesticide [as a by-product] from regular dog food.

Editor's Note: While organic pet food sales are soaring in the United States, according to Barbara Haumann of the Organic Trade Association, the organic pet food market still only made up 0.19 percent of total pet food sales in 2005. So, while it may be a choice that's growing in popularity, it is by no means the norm.

At ReZoom, one of the ways we want to help build a better world is by being kinder to the earth. Check in for regular tips and ideas on making your life and home more environmentally friendly.