For those who have a Fido in their life or are thinking of adding one to the family, this interview has some eye-opening info you’ll appreciate. Dog treats are a lot more than a snack — the nibbles provide an opportunity to deliver valuable nutrition, strengthen your relationship with them, and more, provided you choose a high-quality brand. That’s a big reason I wanted to interview Mary Helen Horn, the President and Executive Director of ZIWI, a leader in pet nutrition around the globe.
Disclosure: This sponsored interview looks at the significance of dog treats, including reinforcing the pet-parent bond, and how ZIWI uses natural, ethically-sourced ingredients for your doggie’s benefit.
Interview with Ziwi President Mary Helen Horn
Please join us for this conversation on the role of treats in your dog’s life, what ingredients to look for when selecting them, what sets Ziwi apart, and more. The goal is to enhance not only your furpal’s life but also your connection with them. Let’s get to my first question for Mary Helen Horn!
What is the point of dog treats? Are they necessary?
Dog treats play a significant role in training, rewarding good behavior, and reinforcing the bond between pet parents and their four-legged friends. While not strictly necessary for their diet, treats are essential tools for positive reinforcement and can also provide mental stimulation. At ZIWI, we believe that every treat should contribute to the overall well-being of your dog, offering both enjoyment and nutritional benefits.
Are there certain nutrients to look for when shopping for healthy dog treats? Why are these nutrients important?
When shopping for healthy dog treats, it’s crucial to look for high-quality proteins, essential fatty acids, and vitamins. Ingredients like real meat, fish, and organ meats are excellent sources of protein, promoting muscle development and overall health.
Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids support skin and coat health, while vitamins and minerals aid in immune function. These nutrients ensure that treats not only satisfy your dog’s taste buds but also contribute to their vitality and longevity.
On the other hand, what do we NOT want to see on the ingredients list?
Avoid treats with artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, as well as fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. These ingredients offer little to no nutritional value and can sometimes lead to allergies or digestive issues.
Instead, opt for treats made with natural, whole ingredients that you can trust. Calories from treats can add up quickly and easily lead to weight management issues, so make sure that the treats you pick are of high quality and value and not empty nutrients!
What sets ZIWI apart when it comes to canine treats?
ZIWI treats stand out due to our commitment to using only the finest, ethically-sourced ingredients from New Zealand. Our treats are air-dried to lock in the natural goodness, ensuring they are nutrient-dense and free from unnecessary fillers or additives.
We prioritize transparency, quality, and sustainability, providing pet parents with treats that are as wholesome as they are delicious. Many pet parents love using our air-dried recipes as a treat, or even topper and complete & balanced meal!
At ZIWI, we are passionate about providing pets with the best nutrition possible. Our dedication to quality, sustainability, and transparency sets us apart, ensuring that every product we create supports the health and happiness of your pets. We invite pet parents to join us on this journey towards better pet nutrition and see the difference it can make in their pets’ lives.
— Mary Helen Horn, ZIWI President
What might pet parents notice after using ZIWI dog treats for a while?
After incorporating ZIWI dog treats into their pet’s routine, pet parents may notice improvements in their dog’s coat condition, energy levels, and overall health. The high-quality, natural ingredients can lead to better digestion, reduced allergy symptoms, and enhanced vitality, making ZIWI treats a smart choice for a happier, healthier dog.
Why is natural the way to go when it comes to what a dog eats?
Natural ingredients are closer to what dogs would eat in the wild, supporting their biological needs and overall health. By choosing natural, whole foods, pet parents can avoid the harmful effects of artificial additives and low-quality fillers. At ZIWI, we believe that a natural diet promotes optimal health, longevity, and well-being for our four-legged friends.
How can we keep it budget-friendly and still be good to our doggies?
Balancing quality and budget can be achieved by focusing on nutrient-dense treats that offer more value per bite. Although high-quality treats might be pricier, they can be used in moderation and still provide significant benefits.
Consider using treats strategically for training and rewarding, ensuring each treat is meaningful and beneficial. Sizing up in our air-dried recipes is a great way to reap value for your budget so long as you use the product within 8 weeks of opening the bag!
Can you please share something surprising you’ve learned recently about dog nutrition?
One surprising thing I’ve learned about dog nutrition since becoming President and Executive Director at ZIWI is the vast variance of quality in products available on the shelf. I used to think dog food was fairly uniform, and that choosing one brand over another involved only subtle differences. However, I soon realized that the differences between brands and products are actually quite significant.
It’s similar to the range we see in human food—like the difference in quality and nutrients between fast food or an organic salad with quality protein. This awakening about the stark contrasts in pet food quality came only after I joined ZIWI.
Find out more about ZIWI!
You can learn more about ZIWI and their commitment to natural pet nutrition by visiting us.ziwipets.com. Follow them on social media too for the latest updates, tips, and stories from their community @ziwipetsusa
How do you incorporate treats into your furpal’s routine? What do you look for when shopping for dog treats?