Independent Nutrition Experts Put Your Dog’s and Cat’s Health First

In a world where wellness has become a lifestyle, it’s time we extend that same philosophy to our dogs. We talk about balance, gut health, fresh ingredients, and real food for ourselves, so why would we feed our four-legged companions on anything less?

I was recently asked to advise on two processed food brands, and whether I offer independent canine and feline nutrition advice?  I explained that yes, I am Independent but having studied nutrition with the College of Integrated Veterinary Therapies, I’m from the school of ‘fresh whole food nutrition’. Having studied the biology and physiology of dogs and cats naturally steers me away from sterile to recommending lightly cooked or preferably raw alternatives. 

I choose the brand for my dogs and the brand I feed my cat. They’re selected as being in my opinion the best I can offer my fur-family. Independence technically means freedom from pet food company funding, commission-driven endorsements, and formulaic advice.

Independence also means the ability to discuss processing techniques and the nutrients present or not as the case maybe, putting integrity and your dog’s health, at the heart of every recommendation.

For me feeding a fresh whole food diet is at the core of my nutrition advice, helping pet parents tailor diets for specific health issues, including weight loss, or just for optimum health and vitality.

Real Food. Real Science. Real Health.

Dogs, by design, are primary carnivores. Their physiology, from tooth shape to digestive enzymes, have evolved to break down and thrive on animal fats and proteins. Not cereal fillers or synthetic nutrients. Yet many commercial diets are ultra-processed, either using  heat or freezing or de-hydrating – but they all have one thing in common – sterility. Often bulked up with ingredients that simply keep costs low and shelves full.

Fresh food by contrast is alive with enzymes, amino acids, antioxidants, and naturally occurring vitamins that feed the body and more importantly, the microbiome, exactly as nature intended.

Science concurs that the microbiome is our inner ecosystem of bacteria where true immunity begins with the interrelationship of bacteria. The simple truth is that a sterile, processed diet starves it, whilst a fresh one nourishes it.

And science also agrees that dogs, like people, are what they eat. When we fuel their bodies with whole foods rather than industrial formulas, we’re not just filling their bowls, we’re fuelling their cells, balancing their hormones, supporting their joints, and helping them age well.

Balance, Not Perfection

Not every home can commit to a fully raw diet and that’s fine. Independence is about meeting people where they are. My role is to help you do the best for your dog or cat, within your lifestyle and taking steps gradually.

·       Adding some lightly cooked meat, oily fish, a raw egg, or fresh veg to boost nutritional content, whilst reducing the amount of processed can make a big difference.

·       Swapping synthetic supplements for natural sources of Omega-3 essential fatty acids, key minerals and vitamins.

·       Teaching how to balance home-prepared meals safely.

·       Helping pet owners navigate freezer space, food sourcing, and cost without compromising on quality.

·       Walking pet parents through the change to a fresh whole food diet and a new beginning.

Every small step counts to achieve healthier digestion, glossier coats, calmer energy and even fewer vet visits. Notably helping dogs and cats simply feel better in their skin.

Let Food Be Their Medicine

Ancient wisdom meets modern science in one simple truth: food can heal. Hippocrates said, “Let food be thy medicine,” and that philosophy underpins everything I advise.  Over the years I’ve seen how a fresh, balanced diet can ease allergies, support joint health, cognitive health, build immunity, preventing problems rather than treating them later.

Independent Thinking. Natural Living.

Being an ‘Independent’ isn’t rebellion, it’s integrity. It’s about trusting biology, questioning marketing, and empowering dog owners to make informed, conscious choices. I believe in feeding dogs what they’re meant to eat, not what’s most profitable to sell.

So, whether you’re raw-feeding, lightly cooking, or simply upgrading your dog’s current diet, my goal is the same: to help dogs live with more energy, inner health and longevity.

Wellness doesn’t come from a packet, it comes from nature, balance, and understanding your dog’s true needs.

Feed fresh. Feed consciously. Feed like you care.