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The Hidden Dangers of the Pet Food Industry and How to Do Better by Our Dogs

Jacob Hayes

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Published in Big Kibble: The Hidden Dangers Of The Pet Food Industry And How To Do Better By Our Dogs

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The pet food industry is a multi-billion dollar business, and like any industry, it has its share of problems. One of the biggest problems is the hidden dangers that lurk in many pet foods. These dangers can include harmful ingredients, such as fillers, preservatives, and artificial flavors, as well as contaminants, such as bacteria and mycotoxins.

Big Kibble: The Hidden Dangers of the Pet Food Industry and How to Do Better by Our Dogs

by Shawn Buckley

4.4 out of 5

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Harmful Ingredients

Many pet foods contain harmful ingredients that can wreak havoc on your dog's health. These ingredients include:

Fillers: Fillers are cheap ingredients that are added to pet food to bulk it up and make it appear more filling. Some common fillers include corn, wheat, and soybeans. Fillers are not nutritious and can actually be harmful to your dog's health. They can cause digestive problems, such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
Preservatives: Preservatives are added to pet food to extend its shelf life. Some common preservatives include BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin. Preservatives can be harmful to your dog's health. They can cause allergies, skin irritation, and even cancer.
Artificial flavors: Artificial flavors are added to pet food to make it more appealing to dogs. Some common artificial flavors include meat flavors, cheese flavors, and bacon flavors. Artificial flavors are not nutritious and can actually be harmful to your dog's health. They can cause allergies, digestive problems, and even cancer.

Contaminants

In addition to harmful ingredients, pet food can also contain contaminants, such as bacteria and mycotoxins. These contaminants can make your dog sick, and in some cases, they can even be fatal.

Bacteria: Bacteria can contaminate pet food during processing or storage. Some common bacteria that can be found in pet food include Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. Bacteria can cause a variety of illnesses in dogs, including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Mycotoxins: Mycotoxins are toxins that are produced by mold. Mold can grow on pet food that is stored in warm, humid conditions. Mycotoxins can cause a variety of health problems in dogs, including liver damage, kidney damage, and cancer.

How to Do Better by Our Dogs

If you're concerned about the hidden dangers of pet food, there are a few things you can do to protect your dog:

Read the ingredient list carefully. Avoid pet foods that contain harmful ingredients, such as fillers, preservatives, and artificial flavors.
Look for pet foods that are made with high-quality ingredients. High-quality ingredients are more nutritious and less likely to contain harmful contaminants.
Store pet food in a cool, dry place. This will help to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.
Wash your dog's food and water bowls regularly. This will help to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Take your dog to the vet regularly for checkups. Your vet can help you to identify any health problems that may be caused by pet food.

The pet food industry is a complex one, and it's important to be aware of the hidden dangers that can lurk in many pet foods. By following the tips in this article, you can help to protect your dog from these dangers and keep him healthy and happy for years to come.

Big Kibble: The Hidden Dangers of the Pet Food Industry and How to Do Better by Our Dogs

by Shawn Buckley

4.4 out of 5