In recent years, trends in human foods have been finding their way into pet foods. The same people that look for organic or GMO-free foods for themselves are now searching for the same options for their dogs and cats. Buzzwords like natural, sustainably sourced or minimally processed are used to catch the attention of the discerning shopper. One concept that has been a little slower to catch on in the pet world is the idea of superfoods.

A superfood is defined as a nutrient-rich food considered to be especially beneficial to health and well-being. Our pets have superfoods available to them, although their list may look a little different than a list for humans. While people may do well eating plant-based superfoods, dogs and especially cats, are carnivores. Animal-sourced superfoods are going to be much more bioavailable to them.

Sourcing is the single most important thing to keep in mind when choosing both human and pet superfoods, specifically how the food was grown, raised or fed—for example, whether it was raised in a cage-free building or enjoyed the outdoors in a free-range pasture. Combine any of these superfoods for a great healthy boost.

Pastured Eggs: It doesn’t get much simpler than cracking a raw egg over a pet’s bowl of food. Break up the shell for an extra bonus. Eggs from pasture-raised chickens have higher amounts of vitamins A and D, as well as a healthy ratio of fats for absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Bone Broth:  Bone broth promotes healthy joints, helps to detoxify the liver, can improve gut health and helps prevent leaky gut.

Fermented Foods: The probiotics in fermented foods are beneficial to humans and pets. Fermentation also breaks down (almost predigesting) the food and makes the nutrients more bioavailable.

Raw Dairy:  Raw milk is one of the most complete foods, containing nearly all the nutrients needed to sustain life. Raw goat’s milk is especially beneficial because it tends to be more easily digested. Due to its natural antihistamine properties, goat’s milk may also help alleviate common allergies. Raw goat cheese makes a great snack, and raw, grass-fed butter or ghee is a good fat choice for animals eating a ketogenic diet.  

Bruce and Tami Haines are the owners of Doglicious Spa & Wellness Center, located at 751 Middletown Rd, in Hummelstown. For more information, call 717-482-8578 or visit DogliciousSpa.com.