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Photo by @jaxandthepack
Eat some organ meats! Did you just wrinkle up your nose? To humans, consuming organ meats may seem like a thing of the past, but don’t assume the same for your dogs! The meats often considered inedible by humans are actually some of the most nutritious parts of the animal. While you may not be ready to jump in line for a plateful of beef liver or kidney, it’s likely just what your pooch needs to round out their diet!
The thought of eating liver sounds gross, we know, but it’s one of the top organ meats you can give your dog. A serving of liver contains 10 to 100 times the nutrients found in a serving of muscle meat. One of the most nutrient-rich organs available, it’s loaded with protein, iron, B vitamins, vitamin A, CoQ10 and essential fatty acids, so tell your pup to eat up!
The CoQ10 found in liver is twofold in important uses! It improves joint health, which is especially beneficial for large breeds and dogs who suffer from arthritis. Secondly, Coenzyme Q10 is good for hearth health; increasing the “good cholesterol” in your dog’s body. It also helps to lower blood pressure and protect muscle tissue in the heart during cardiac trauma. Fatty acids improve coat health and all those B vitamins help your dog fully reap the benefits of the fat and protein found in liver. Since it is so densely packed with iron, it’s also effective in treating anemic animals.
Tripe is the muscular stomach lining of grazing animals like cows, pigs, sheep and goats. Feed this fatty organ in moderation to reap the benefits! Like liver, it is high in protein and contains vital B vitamins. It also contains selenium, which helps monitor enzymes and zinc, which strengthens the immune system and aids in blood clotting.
If you can get past the stink, tripe can also provide your dog with high levels of a healthy probiotic known as Lactobacillus acidophilus. These good for the gut bacteria compete with harmful types of bacteria – like salmonella, listeria and E. coli – and prevents them from taking over the digestive system. When fed to your dog, Lactobacillus acidophilus aids in healthy digestion and ensures proper nutrient absorption. It helps to get rid of those super stinky dog toots, too!
The heart is both a muscle and an organ, so it’s similar to feeding your dog a steak with an extra punch of protein and vitamins. Both chicken and beef hearts are excellent sources of B vitamins, iron and essential fatty acids, keeping your dog’s coat silky smooth for cuddle time! It also contains phosphorus, which helps build and strengthen your dog’s skeletal system. The folate found in heart is important for DNA health and can help prevent anemia and IBD. Thiamine, which is also found in heart, improves carbohydrate metabolism and is necessary for nourishing the brain and other high-energy organs. Don’t forget it’s got a healthy dose of taurine!
Kidney meat – yum. While chicken kidneys are more nutritious and provide more health benefits than beef kidneys, either will provide a large percentage of your dog’s necessary daily vitamin intake. Kidney provides a wide range of vitamins, including vitamins B12, E and K.
The vitamin A found in kidney aids in eye cell creation and helps improve vision. It also plays a role in the creation of mucus. Kidney also contains iron which acts as an antioxidant and helps carry oxygen throughout the body. No anemic dogs here!
Organ meats are a vital part of a complete and balanced diet for your dog. Unfortunately, they are often treated as byproducts and seldom make it onto the meat counter at the local grocery store. Feeding your dog the Simple Food Project eliminates the frustration of trying to track down organ meats while ensuring that your dog enjoys a healthy, well-balanced meal. All the recipes contain US-sourced freeze-dried organ meats and other healthy ingredients like real fruits and vegetables, complete for your carnivore! The Simple Food Project makes giving your dog the diet he needs – and deserves – easy and convenient. Here’s to real food for dogs!
Beef & Salmon Recipe Contains:
Beef Liver & Beef Heart
Chicken & Turkey Recipe Contains:
Chicken Liver & Chicken Heart
Duck & Turkey Recipe Contains:
Beef Liver
Alexandra Ritchie is a digital media specialist at the Simple Food Project. When she’s not cranking out content, you can find her lounging with her fur babies - two cats (Shadow & Maya) and her mastiff rescue, Adam. Volunteering with animals is her absolute favorite!
800-451-5267
info@simplefoodproject.com
1823 Executive Drive
Oconomowoc, WI 53066
The Simple Food Project
1823 Executive Drive
Oconomowoc, WI 53066
800-451-5267