AMES, Iowa - A new at-home research study exploring how diet type may influence both dog health and the human–animal bond is underway at Iowa State University, in partnership with Freshpet, a leading pet food company.
The study is being led by Logan Kilburn, assistant professor in animal science.
“This collaboration allows us to evaluate canine health and the human–animal bond in a setting that is natural and familiar to both dogs and their owners,” Kilburn said. “At-home studies provide valuable insight into how nutrition fits into everyday life and how it may shape the relationship people have with their pets.”
For the study, Kilburn recruited 39 dogs of different ages and breeds from central Iowa. Participating dog owners follow assigned feeding protocols over a 10-month period while collecting non-invasive health-related samples and completing surveys designed to assess aspects of the human–animal bond. The study will integrate owner-reported outcomes with objective measures of canine health, providing a comprehensive look at how diet may affect both physical well-being and the owner–pet relationship.
“At Freshpet, we believe nutrition plays a meaningful role in pets’ lives and the relationships they share with their families,” said Dr. Gerardo Perez-Camargo, veterinarian and senior vice president of research and development at Freshpet. “Partnering with Iowa State University will allow us to contribute to research that advances the understanding of canine health and the human–animal bond.”
Findings from the study are expected to contribute to the growing body of research on companion animal nutrition, with implications for pet owners, veterinarians and the pet food industry, according to Kilburn.
About Freshpet
Freshpet is an animal nutrition company with production facilities in Pennsylvania and Texas. Its recipes are developed by veterinary nutritionists and designed to elevate the way we feed our pets through fresh, nourishing food. Their foods are blends of real, fresh meat, vegetables and fruits, which are cooked in small batches at lower temperatures to preserve the natural goodness of the ingredients.
Contacts
Logan Kilburn, Animal Science, 515-294-1807, kilburn@iastate.edu
Ann Robinson, Agriculture and Life Sciences Communications, 515-294-3066, ayr@iastate.edu