See Spot Go Green

When it comes to natural dog food, pet owners don't seem to hesitate to spend more for "green" peace of mind, but does it really add up to a cleaner environment?

According to Dr. Andrew Weil, world-renowned leader and pioneer in the field of integrative medicine, it's all the steps from farm to bowl that determine the credibility and impact your dog food may have on the environment.

"I think it's especially critical for dog and puppy owners to examine the type of protein that goes into their dog's food," said Weil who has two Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Jambo and Daisy. "My dogs are a big part of my family, so knowing the protein source of their food is really important to me."

Weil's personal concern over the health and well-being of his dogs, combined with his personal passion for the environment, led him to get involved with launching one of the first dog foods with U.S. source-verified meat and poultry.

"What impressed me was their attention to detail when it came to knowing the source of their protein and their unique ability to process dog food in their own manufacturing facilities under strict guidelines," said Weil.

Pet Promise was developed with a two-part mission: First, with a promise to dog owners to produce a dog food made without the use of animal by-products, rendered meat or chicken meals, added growth hormones or antibiotics. And second, with a commitment to environmental practices, which involve sourcing their protein exclusively from natural family farms and ranches.

The positive impact family farms have on the environment may be more critical than most people realize, but, unfortunately, many family farmers go out of business every week. Family farms that support the use of sustainable agricultural practices are often replaced by factory farms. Environmental proponents believe that factory farms unnecessarily produce tons of waste that compound pollution problems.

"Factory farms are major offenders of the environment today. The amount of residues from antibiotics and hormones that goes into the water tables is significant," said Weil. "By choosing dog foods made with meat and poultry protein sourced from family farms, you are sending a message about these practices, and helping to do something positive for the environment."

Pet Promise dog food can be found in stores nationally including Whole Foods, Wild Oats and Petco. For more locations, visit www.PetPromiseInc.com