Your primary care veterinarian is qualified to recommend a diet suitable for your pet’s condition. However, some cases benefit from the additional support of a veterinary nutritionist, such as when pets have multiple medical conditions or complex needs. As a residency-trained veterinary nutritionist, I offer nutritional planning tailored to your pet’s health and lifestyle to support optimal outcomes in collaboration with your primary care veterinary team.
Why is there a range in cost for the clinical meal plan?The quote for the clinical meal plan is given during your consultation appointment. The cost will depend on a number of factors including: the complexity of your pet’s clinical history, the complexity of your pet’s dietary history, and the type of diet that is needed.
What is the difference between a commercial diet, homemade diet, and hybrid diet?A commercial diet is made up of mostly commercial food products which can be purchased. A homemade diet is one that you prepare yourself using ingredients that are each purchased separately. A hybrid diet is a mix of commercial diet and individual ingredients to make up a nutritionally complete meal. I will discuss which is the best one for your pet’s clinical condition during your appointment.
Can I book a consultation without wanting a clinical meal plan?Yes, you can absolutely book a consultation without the obligation of purchasing a meal plan. Please inform if this is the case. The consultation can be used to discuss general nutrition topics if this is desired. If we are discussing your pet, you will already be given general nutritional advice during the consultation. I will let you know if it is advisable to have a clinical meal plan formulated. In some cases, we may find that you are already feeding an excellent option for your pet’s clinical situation and a new meal plan would not be required.
Can my personal preferences for feeding my pet be accommodated?I use evidence-based research to formulate meal plans. Preferences can be accommodated as long as they do not cause harm to the patient. I will always inform what is the best choice for the patient’s condition. Please discuss your preferences during the appointment and if it is not possible to accommodate them I will let you know.
How much follow up will I receive after getting my clinical meal plan?Generally, 2-4 weeks of follow-up are included with the clinical meal plan via e-mail and/or phone communication. The length of included follow-up will vary depending on the specific condition of the patient and complexity of the diet. A re-check clinical nutrition consultation may be required if there is a significant change in the clinical condition or diet.