In January of 2022, we hosted Jennifer Coates, DVM for a Facebook live session to explain how meat-free diets for dogs work and the cases where it may be preferable to a traditional diet. With years of experience and expertise in veterinary medicine, animal welfare and conservation, she put together this short informational session to help dog parents understand the nutritional needs of dogs.

Dr. Coates discussed the importance of protein in a dog’s diet, the variety of protein sources, and how essential amino acids are vital to your dog receiving all of their nutritional requirements.

Many factors play into the decision of what type of food to feed your pets. Dr. Coates shared important tips on what to look for when selecting a commercial dog food.
Wild Earth’s Complete Protein Dog Food meets and exceeds AAFCO’s nutritional requirements. Check out our guaranteed analysis here.

Dr. Coates answered several questions from the audience. Check out the clips below to hear the answer to each of the questions.

• 15:37 - Is Starch Good for Dogs?
• 16:31 - Are Food Allergies Common in Dogs?
• 19:45 - Is Can Food vs. Kibble Better?
• 20:42 - What about Pesticides & Fertilizers in Plant Based Foods?
• 21:27 - Can you feed a 1 Year old Dog A Vegan Diet?
• 22:09 - What Ratio of Fresh Home Cooked to Commercial Food Can Ensure Balance?
• 23:24 - How to Talk to Dog Parents/ Vets Who Don't Believe in Plant Based?
• 26:28 - Importance of Taurine in Plant Based Pet Food?
• 27:40 - Do Dogs Need Plants or Fiber?
• 28:58 - Closer

About Our Speaker

Dr. Jennifer Coates is an accomplished veterinarian and writer with years of experience in the fields of veterinary medicine, animal welfare, and conservation.

After graduating from McGill University, she worked at the Wildlife Habitat Enhancement Council and Animal Welfare Institute for several years before returning to her first love, veterinary medicine. She was valedictorian of her graduating class at the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine. In the years after veterinary school, Dr. Coates has been an associate veterinarian and chief of staff in several veterinary practices in Virginia, Wyoming, and Colorado.

She has also published several books (including Dictionary of Veterinary Terms: Vet-Speak Deciphered for the Non-Veterinarian) and thousands of articles that all relate to veterinary medicine, pet care, and the human-animal bond.