National Nutrition Month Goes to the Dogs…and Cats

March is National Nutrition Month and families are thinking about the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating habits to live healthy lifestyles. This year, as pets continue to grow as valued companions, it is also important to think about the role nutrition plays in their lives.

Providing the right nutrition is the single most important thing an owner can do for their pet's health on a daily basis. Proper nutrition can help manage a pet's development and specific needs including common conditions such as a sensitive stomach, skin and coat issues or even more serious topics like joint, kidney and heart health. The right nutrition can promote healthy living and put your pet in the best possible health if they encounter such conditions. Unfortunately, many owners adopt a "one size fits all" approach to feeding that can leave pets open to future health problems.

"Various nutrients, such as high quality proteins, vitamins and antioxidants, can have a huge impact on the development and health of cats and dogs," said Dr. Dennis Jewell, lead nutritionist for Hill's Pet Nutrition. "The key is to feed a precisely balanced food because too much or too little of these nutrients can lead to a lifetime of poor health. For example, higher levels of protein are ideal for helping puppies and kittens grow but can be detrimental to kidney health in older, mature pets."

Pet owners can now experience how nutrient precision can help their pet by visiting feedingisbelieving.com and also apply to become a Feeding is Believing™ "Partner" in the month of April by submitting a 50-word essay about their pet's specific need and a "before" photo. Based on the applications, Hill's veterinarians and nutritionists will identify pet owners who will receive a free 30-day trial of the Hill's® Science Diet® pet food which is precisely balanced to help manage the specific health need of their pet. In addition, pet owners can share and read real stories about how nutrition changed the lives of pets.

About Hill's Pet Nutrition

Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. manufactures Science Diet® brand pet foods, sold through veterinarians and finer pet specialty food stores, and Prescription Diet® therapeutic pet foods, available only through veterinarians. Founded more than 50 years ago by one veterinarian's unique commitment to pet nutrition and well being, Hill's follows its mission to help enrich and lengthen the special relationships between people and their pets by producing the most scientifically advanced, highest quality pet foods available.