In this episode, I'm joined by Kay Stewart, RVT, CPCN, educator with the Feed Real Institute, to discuss one of the most overlooked topics in pet health: nutritional deficiencies. Together, we explore the nutrients most commonly lacking in homemade diets, why whole foods work differently than synthetic nutrients, and how simple additions like eggs, fish, organ meats, and variety can dramatically improve health.

As a functional medicine nurse practitioner, I also draw comparisons between human and canine nutrition, highlighting how many of the same deficiencies show up in both species through changes in the skin, hair, nails, immune system, and energy levels.

In this episode we discuss:

• Why physical exam findings can reveal nutritional deficiencies before bloodwork
• The nutrients most commonly lacking in homemade diets
• Why zinc, manganese, choline, vitamin A, and omega-3 fatty acids deserve extra attention
• Why eggs are one of nature's most nutrient-dense foods
• The importance of liver and why variety matters more than feeding one type
• Natural vs. synthetic copper and the controversy surrounding copper storage disease
• Why fish may be the most powerful addition to your dog's bowl
• How omega-3s support the skin, brain, joints, heart, and immune system
• Why puppies have unique nutritional requirements
• How the microbiome begins at birth and why early nutrition matters
• Budget-friendly strategies for feeding fresh food
• Why ”complete and balanced” starts with nutrient density, not just a spreadsheet
• Practical ways to introduce more variety into both human and canine diets

Discounts:

Real Dog Box is offering 10 of my listeners a $20 gift card! To enter to win, please join my newsletter and 10 winners will be chosen on 7/1/26. 

Connect with Kara:

• Website: rawremedieshealth.com
• Facebook: Raw Remedies Health
• Instagram: @rawremedieshealth
• TikTok: @rawremedieshealth
• Newsletter: https://rawremedieshealth.myflodesk.com/jointhecollective

Connect with Kay Stewart & Real Dog Box:

• Website: feedreal.com, feedreal.com/courses, real.dog/kara
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram:
  • https://www.instagram.com/feedrealmovement/
  • https://www.instagram.com/feedrealsummit/
  • https://www.instagram.com/realdogbox/
• Short Leash Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@FeedReal/podcasts

Sponsor:

My Pet Carnivore
Use code RAWREMEDIES for 10% off your first order
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Ya’ll, definitely consider checking them out. This company is small, independently owned, high quality and extremely generous. They’re a great resource and I love their products, so I’m proud to bring them to your attention!

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