Meet John John

Yes, since he was 6 months old he has eaten an entirely human food diet. If I had known then what I know now, I wouldn't have even give him kibble as a puppy! It's as simple as you don't know what you don't know.

Vets are not typically educated nor do they specialize in fresh feeding (according to my friend, who's a vet!). This can make it challenging when you want to get the best information. I listened to my vet and breeder at first, then decided to do my own research. Then, I ultimately decided that fresh food was the way to go for John John because of my lofty goals for his health and happiness.

I have completed dog nutrition courses, done research, and educated myself to become an expert in fresh feeding for your dog. I also have a great relationship with my vet, Dr. Joel Figueroa and he has approved our How to Cook Homemade Dog Food (Vet-Approved, Balanced and Simple).

Dog's are incredibly similar to humans. They need lean proteins, veggies, fruits, and healthy carbs. It's really quite simple. If they eat processed food their entire life (kibble and packaged treats), that is the equivalent of humans eating frozen dinners, fast food, or packaged snacks only! It's no wonder so many dog's have health issues in today's world.

Bottom line is choosing to feed your dog fresh food in any capacity (once a week, twice a week, every day) is going to offer them more nutrients than processed foods. So, if you want your dog to celebrate more birthdays, including fresh foods can help so much. Plus, they'll love it!

This depends on exactly what you are feeding your dog. Dog's are incredibly similar to humans. So, if you are not eating a variety of fruits and veggies, chances are you need to supplement with something, right? Dog's are the same way. If you have a picky eater who doesn't eat veggies or only eats white rice and meat, then supplements are a great idea. Dog's can't only live on white rice and beef, just like we can't either!

The one supplement I recommend for anyone feeding a solely fresh food diet is this bone powder. If you are fresh feeding your dog a variety of dog safe fruits, veggies, lean protein, and healthy carbs you can feel confident with just this one supplement. I list more in our course How to Cook Homemade Dog Food (Vet-Approved, Balanced and Simple).

Onions, garlic, leeks, and chives are all part of the Allium family. They all contain compounds (oxidants) that cause a chemical change (oxidation) to the red blood cell membranes. The red blood cell membranes become fragile due to direct oxidative damage and burst. This can cause dog's GI upset, vomiting, stomach pain, drooling and other issues. These four ingredients in fresh, dried, or powdered forms all can have this affect on dogs, so beware in your kitchen.

More recently some holistic vets and fresh food feeding advocates for dogs are busting the myth and claiming garlic is non-toxic and actually beneficial for dogs. And this may be confusing to you!

There are people feeding dogs fresh garlic daily for immune boosting support, healing, and more. And, some holistic vets have been known to recommend it for health reasons as well.

Here is my stance on garlic for dogs. There are other foods that can offer your dogs immune boosting properties and more (think anything with antioxidants)! So, if you are feeding your dog a balanced diet and they are healthy, just stay the course.

I do not give John John fresh garlic and I don’t plan to. But, you can also do your own research if you want to introduce fresh garlic into your dog’s diet.

If your dog has a specific health issue and you are working with a trusted holistic vet who recommends it, then I feel that's a different story. I would do your research to support their successes with it before making an informed decision that aligns best for you and your dog's needs.

Yes, I do dog food consulting. If you'd like to work with me, please send me an email at hello@mimisorganiceats.com to set up a consultation!