Is Your Pet a Raw Foodie?

Vegetarian cooking classes, gluten-free items and an in-house cafe are a few things that Abby's Health & Nutrition in Carrollwood is known for.

An added bonus are raw food demonstrations - for pets.

Next month, Jodi Ziskin, a holistic nutrition and wellness specialist for cats and dogs, will host a free demonstration showing pet owners how to prepare raw food.

Ziskin, who also provides food recommendations and grooming tips for pet owners, will host the event at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 2 at Abby's, 14374 N. Dale Mabry Highway.

Ziskin said she wants pet owners to realize that their furry friends should eat a species-appropriate diet with the "right balance of nutrients."

"Many people are surprised to learn that cats cannot digest grains, (and) that it is not good to feed any pet the same food day after day, month after month, year after year," she said. "Or, that both dogs and cats use protein and fat as their main energy sources, not carbohydrates. My goal is to educate pet guardians so that they can make the best possible diet choices for their beloved cats and dogs."

Ziskin said there are a number of benefits to a raw diet for cats and dogs.

"Raw muscle and organ meats provide the most digestible and highest concentrations of a variety of nutrients (amino acids, vitamins, minerals and fats)," she said. "The digestive tracts of both dogs and cats are built to break down, digest and assimilate raw food. In addition, raw bones are the most natural way to keep cats and dogs teeth clean – it’s actually the enzymes in the grizzle on the bones that clean the plaque off teeth."

For those who are weary of the cost of raw foods being higher than regular pet food, Ziskin said the prices are comparable to some of the "high quality holistic and organic brands."

"Spend a little more on food now," Ziskin said, "or there is a good possibility of spending a whole lot more in vet bills down the road."

The demonstration is open to the public, but space is limited. RSVP by calling Abby's Health & Nutrition at 813-265-4951. To contact Ziskin, go to http://holistichealthypets.net/services/.