The Hidden Cruelty of the Pet Food Industry—And Why Dogs Don’t Need Meat

The pet food industry is causing immense suffering to billions of animals trapped in the factory farming system every year. Despite the belief that dogs need meat to thrive, the idea is based more on marketing than on scientific evidence. In reality, 7 billion land animals are specifically raised and slaughtered for pet food annually, emitting as much greenhouse gas as the entire country of the Philippines. The ingredients in pet food, including premium meat sources and synthetic additives, carry health risks and contribute to environmental destruction.

Contrary to popular belief, dogs do not need meat to thrive. Research shows that dogs genetically evolved to digest and thrive on plant-based foods, debunking the myth that meat-based diets are superior. Plant-based diets have been shown to be just as healthy, if not healthier, than conventional meat-based diets for dogs. By switching one dog to a plant-based diet, individuals can save animals from slaughter, reduce carbon emissions, and provide a healthier diet that meets all essential nutritional needs.