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Vibrant K9 is a family-owned pet food company. Krista and Joe Powell are the founders. Their journey began after losing three of their dogs to cancer. They now create healthier, natural food options for pets. Their mission is to help one million dogs live longer, healthier lives by 2030.
The company is based in California. This is where they produce raw dog food and freeze-dried treats. They use a Department of Food and Agriculture-inspected facility.
They distribute products directly to consumers through their website. Products are available for delivery within the US.
Vibrant K9 produces raw dog foods. They offer 3 lightly processed recipes. They have high average protein of 59%. Carbohydrates are low except in the Turkey recipe. This line is a low risk dog food by our criteria.
The company formulates recipes to be species-appropriate. They state they focus on high-quality proteins. They use minimal processing to preserve nutrients. There are no added vitamins or minerals. Nutrients come from the whole food ingredients.
Vibrant K9 practices responsible ingredient sourcing. Beef is from grass-fed, non-GMO grain-finished cattle. Poultry is from pasture-raised farms. Turkey is responsibly sourced. These meats carry Global Animal Partnership (GAP) certifications. They are level 4 or higher. This reflects a commitment to humane animal care.
Vibrant K9 uses human-grade ingredients. AAFCO has new guidelines for human grade pet food. AAFCO is the regulatory body for pet food. Among the guidelines, companies must have documentation. They must show that every ingredient and process is human grade. There is a break-in period of several years.
That said, there are 2 concerns.
The Turkey recipe is quite high in carbohydrates for a raw dog food. Carb levels aren’t provided. They are calculated based on the guaranteed analysis provided. This results in average carbohydrates of 37%. There aren’t grains or starches in the recipes. They have produce that is higher in carbohydrates. They may contribute to these levels.
Dogs have no nutritional need for carbohydrates. Foods high in carbohydrates raise insulin. They can lead to obesity. Studies show high carbohydrate diets can change gut bacteria.
The only other concern with these recipes is spraying. Recipes use ingredients known for high pesticide/herbicide residues. They are in the top 5 ingredients, so they have higher concentrations. Spraying and fertilizers pose significant health risks. They affect plants, animals and soils. Foods with the highest amount of residue are penalized. It doesn’t appear Vibrant K9 uses organic products. It would lessen these risks and GMOs.
It’s not stated whether the cod liver oil used is from wild-caught fish. Wild-caught fish are more nutritious than farmed. It has a healthier fatty acid balance.
Vibrant K9 doesn’t provide the omega-6:omega-3 ratio. This is true of most companies. It’s a concern because AAFCO allows a very inflammatory ratio of 30:1. Diets high in omega-6 fats can lead to chronic inflammation.
Vibrant K9 produces raw dog food. It’s made from responsibly sourced ingredients. They score well and are a good raw food option.
Vibrant K9 has had no dog food recalls.
Stay informed! Make sure you sign up for new and updated foods, food recalls and important dog food and health information:
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