Two of the largest impacts of the pet food industry discovering the benefit of using the entire animal so that nothing is wasted are the benefits both fiscally and health wise. I come from a long line of spiritualists who believe deeply in honoring and respecting the animals we consume. Making use of the entire animal the way nature intended, with little to no waste, is one way to show our appreciation for their sacrifice that gives us life. So that’s the spiritually humane side of things, but let’s talk about what the health benefits are for each organ using the humble chicken.
- Liver is chock-full of vitamin A, which supports healthy vision among many other benefits, vitamin B12 and iron to boost energy, plus vitamin C, folate, selenium and copper(any animal liver is filled with these health benefits).
- Gizzard is rich in cartilage, zinc, vitamin B12 and iron. It's also a natural source of glucosamine, which helps support joint health.
- Chicken hearts are technically muscle meat, but they also are excellent sources of B vitamins, iron and essential fatty acids, keeping your dog's coat silky smooth. It also contains phosphorus, which helps build and strengthen your dog's skeletal system.
- Chicken necks are rich in protein, and naturally high in chondroitin and glucosamine, which supports joint health and mobility. Raw or frozen chicken necks are also great for your dog's dental health, as the necks vertebrate naturally clean your pup's teeth as they gnaw.
- Chicken feet are around 70% collagen, a structural protein that helps keep skin, tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments strong and flexible. Collagen can also help with tissue regeneration, which may reduce arthritis symptoms, improve knee pain, and increase bone density in older pets.
Currently at End of the Leash, we have partnered with a small family farm that raises organic, free-range chickens. This farm allows them to be outside all day and they get to hunt insects and do things chickens love to do. When it's time for them to go to that great chicken coop in the sky, there is very little waste behind that is not used. What we are fortunate to offer you is a frozen package of the entire organ system from one single chicken.
So, how exactly can you incorporate this into mealtimes? Organs should compromise between 10-15% of your pets’ diet, the rest should be muscle and ground bone if you are feeding all raw. If you don't currently feed raw, offer small portions of the organ pack as a meal topper to boost your pet's bowl. If you have questions, feel free to stop in and chat with one of our staff!
We have a limited number of these frozen packs available, so come and get your chicken, while supplies last.