{"id":24038,"date":"2023-06-02T18:17:27","date_gmt":"2023-06-02T18:17:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/todaysveterinarybusiness.com\/?p=24038"},"modified":"2023-06-02T18:17:27","modified_gmt":"2023-06-02T18:17:27","slug":"your-partners-in-animal-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarybusiness.com\/your-partners-in-animal-health\/","title":{"rendered":"Your Partners in Animal Health"},"content":{"rendered":"

F<\/span>or most pet owners, ensuring that their furry family members eat a balanced, nutritious diet is a constant goal. But how many explore ways to feed their cats and dogs better? A national study by Trone Research and Consulting found that 71% proactively engage in their pets\u2019 nutrition and are mostly confident managing it. Unfortunately, the remaining 29% lack interest and confidence to the point of indifference. In addition, the study found that only 4% of respondents said their veterinarian expressed concern about their pets\u2019 nutrition. For practitioners, the findings present an opportunity to work closer with clients on enhancing pet health.<\/span><\/p>\n

Classifying Pet Owners<\/span><\/h2>\n

Three distinct segments emerged from the 71% of nutrition-engaged pet owners.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Selective Loyalists are steadfast in their dedication to pet food brands, with 45% sticking to one for three years or more. They believe that a long-term regimen keeps a pet healthier and reduces veterinary expenses. <\/span><\/p>\n

Healthy Advocates are defined by the variety of food they purchase in an ongoing journey to find nutritious options for their cats and dogs and themselves, too. They don\u2019t have a strong preference for where they buy pet food \u2014 online or at a store is fine.<\/span><\/p>\n

The third group, Hopeful Explorers, is the most compelling\u00a0 <\/span>segment for veterinarians because these pet owners lack confidence in managing their cat or dog\u2019s nutrition. Only 55% believe their veterinarian would approve of their food choices, compared to 93% in the other two groups.<\/span><\/p>\n

Food for Thought<\/span><\/h2>\n

How often do the three nutrition-engaged segments seek veterinary care? Over 90% said they took their pets to a veterinarian within the past year, and 75% visited within the past six months. <\/span><\/p>\n

The news was mixed regarding a veterinarian\u2019s influence in recommending a new pet food. For example:<\/span><\/p>\n