Beyond complete & balanced- the nutrients that truly matter with Kay Stewart

In this episode, I'm joined by Kay Stewart, RVT, CPCN, educator with the Feed Real Institute, to discuss one of the most overlooked topics in pet health: nutritional deficiencies. Together, we explore the nutrients most commonly lacking in homemade diets, why whole foods work differently than synthetic nutrients, and how simple additions like eggs, fish, organ meats, and variety can dramatically improve health.As a functional medicine nurse practitioner, I also draw comparisons between human and canine nutrition, highlighting how many of the same deficiencies show up in both species through changes in the skin, hair, nails, immune system, and energy levels.In this episode we discuss:Why physical exam findings can reveal nutritional deficiencies before bloodworkThe nutrients most commonly lacking in homemade dietsWhy zinc, manganese, choline, vitamin A, and omega-3 fatty acids deserve extra attentionWhy eggs are one of nature's most nutrient-dense foodsThe importance of liver and why variety matters more than feeding one typeNatural vs. synthetic copper and the controversy surrounding copper storage diseaseWhy fish may be the most powerful addition to your dog's bowlHow omega-3s support the skin, brain, joints, heart, and immune systemWhy puppies have unique nutritional requirementsHow the microbiome begins at birth and why early nutrition mattersBudget-friendly strategies for feeding fresh foodWhy "complete and balanced" starts with nutrient density, not just a spreadsheetPractical ways to introduce more variety into both human and canine dietsDiscounts:Real Dog Box is offering 10 of my listeners a $20 gift card! To enter to win, please join my newsletter and 10 winners will be chosen on 7/1/26. Connect with Kara:Website: rawremedieshealth.comFacebook: Raw Remedies HealthInstagram: @rawremedieshealthTikTok: @rawremedieshealthNewsletter: https://rawremedieshealth.myflodesk.com/jointhecollectiveConnect with Kay Stewart & Real Dog Box:Website: feedreal.com, feedreal.com/courses, real.dog/karaEmail: [email protected]:https://www.instagram.com/feedrealmovement/https://www.instagram.com/feedrealsummit/https://www.instagram.com/realdogbox/Short Leash Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@FeedReal/podcastsSponsor:My Pet CarnivoreUse code RAWREMEDIES for 10% off your first orderwww.mypetcarnivore.comYa’ll, definitely consider checking them out. This company is small, independently owned, high quality and extremely generous. They’re a great resource and I love their products, so I’m proud to bring them to your attention!Join the Conversation:Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow holistic pet parent or leave a review to help others find Raw Remedies Podcast!