A good diet is key to keeping pets healthy. Michael Robinson, a veterinarian with Pack Animal Care and one of our 2026 Top Vets, shares tips for managing weight and nutritional intake.
How can owners keep their pets at a healthy weight?
Avoid routine portioning. We should all get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day — your pet’s daily portion likely assumes that. However, when it’s too cold outside or life is overwhelming and your activity lapses, feed slightly less food/treats. Try to make your pet earn their extra calories.
What do you look for in pet food — and what do you avoid?
An appropriate AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) statement for my pet’s life stage is a must. After that, I look for a brand that sources ingredients within the U.S. and transparently conveys those ingredients without manipulative or misleading advertising — and backs up their inclusion with published clinical research. I always avoid grain-free diets due to their proven connection to acquired heart disease in dogs. Grains are appropriate ingredients but shouldn’t ever be the primary ingredient.
Are there benefits to home-prepared food? Is this something you recommend?
Home-prepared food massively increases desirability. However, it often requires more prep time and cost, and most importantly, it can compromise complete and balanced nutrition. I support a client’s choice to cook at home, but because our dietary needs differ from those of our pets, I always insist that recipes are evaluated by a board-certified nutritionist service (such as balanceit.com). Soft diets don’t remove dental plaque as well as kibble, therefore bi-weekly tooth-brushing should also be prioritized.
What are some common mistakes owners make when it comes to helping a pet lose weight?
Thinking they can do it alone. Successful weight loss is a journey, and everyone in your pet’s life should “buy in” and help out. Kibble counting is ineffective if [another household member] is actually sneaking treats to your dog behind your back. Also, ask your veterinarian to adjust the diet if you’re not hitting pre-established goals.
Feature image, Nuzza11/stock.adobe.com
This story originally ran in our July issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
