The pet food industry is vast, but one segment of its market has seen tremendous growth in the last few years: high-end, premium products. Several factors have helped propel this particular segment to the fore, from competition within the market, to disposable income. Perhaps the strongest driving force is the anthropomorphism of pets ? that they are now, more than ever, considered as family members. Why shouldn’t they dine as such?

This is best exemplified by the kind of pet foods that sell in developed economies. Several studies conducted by Research and Markets show what kind of products are selling, and these foods not only include “human-grade” ingredients, they also promote health benefits. “The emergence of vegetarian and organic pet food, pet food cook books and special pet diets will only serve to reinforce to this trend,” states one report.

So, what’s the difference between “raw” and “dehydrated raw” food? What does it truly mean to have a “holistic” pet diet? Read on and find out.

Holistic
A complete, all-natural diet that incorporates whole ingredients chosen for their nutritious properties and digestibility.

Raw
A nature-inspired diet comprised primarily of uncooked meat and bones. Don’t worry about salmonella: pets have shorter and stronger digestive systems than humans and can withstand the bacteria found in properly handled raw meats.

Dehydrated Raw
A raw diet that is preserved by removing all its moisture. Dehydrating allows the vitamins, minerals and enzymes in the food to remain intact.

Commercial Pet Food
Any of the various nation-wide brands owned by Purina, Mars, Iams or Hills. (Combined, Purina and Mars make roughly 90% of all pet food nationally!)

Species-Specific Protein
A protein source that is identified as a specific species, e.g. ?chicken? instead of ?poultry? or “beef” instead of “meat.”