Chris Packham has announced that his dogs, Sid and Nancy, will be going plant-based for Veganuary. Partnering with vegan dog food brand Omni for the month, Packham appeared on Good Morning Britain to discuss the decision and highlight the environmental and animal welfare concerns associated with the pet food industry.

Research has shown that premium, meat-rich diets for dogs can have a larger carbon footprint than their owners, contributing to one percent of all greenhouse gas emissions in the UK. Packham emphasized that well-formulated plant-based diets can be nutritionally sound for dogs, with studies showing positive health outcomes. The vegan pet food market is expected to grow significantly, and some experts believe that plant-based diets can also be safe for cats.

As awareness of the environmental impact of pet food grows, more pet owners are considering plant-based options for their companions. With support from organizations like the British Veterinary Association, balanced plant-based diets for dogs are becoming increasingly accepted as a viable and sustainable choice.