From Sceptic to Believer
Cecilie Hemsen Berg
Insect-based dog food didn’t spark Robin’s interest initially. Actually, he was quite sceptical, but when his dogs started showing signs of health problems, he had to find a solution. That’s how he came across Nala Health. In this blog, you’ll meet Robin, our Italian food enthusiast who dared to try something completely new for his four-legged family members.
From Italy to the Mother City
Robin, hailing from Milano, couldn’t help but fall head over heels for South Africa during a holiday visit. The charm of the Mother City, with its nature and vibrant food scene, sparked a dream in him to call this place home. Back then, Robin was living in Italy with Kira, his then 5-year-old Cocker Spaniel. Kira was more than just a pet; she was the apple of his eye. The thought of embarking on this new chapter without her was unimaginable.
So, in 2017, the inseparable pair boarded a plane, full of excitement for the adventures that lay ahead in their new home. Not long after settling in, they expanded their little family by welcoming Zôe, an energetic Belgian Shepherd whose love for play and long walks brought even more joy and laughter into their lives.
Robin’s Italian roots mean that food is a big deal in his household. And it’s not just any food; it’s about the good, wholesome, and tasty kind that makes every meal a nourishing celebration. This philosophy extends to his four-legged family members too. Robin, like so many pet parents, believes that Kira and Zôe deserve nothing but the best, which is why these two pups have had nothing but premium dog food in their bowl.
The Nala Health Transformation
When Kira turned 7, she started to show a little extra unwanted fluff around her waist. Robin, ever the attentive “dad,” knew it was time for a change. Robin, who’s always been picky about feeding his pups nothing but the best, needed a bit of a nudge before trying out a new brand. He made the switch in early 2023, and it turned out to be a game-changer for Kira. Not only did she love her new meals, but she also lost the extra kilos and got back her energy, ready to take on the forest walks again.
Older dogs, like Kira, are at a higher risk of obesity due to a slower metabolism. Just being 10% overweight can significantly reduce a dog’s life expectancy and increase the risk of heart, kidney and liver disease as well as diabetes. Managing our dogs’ weight is, therefore, central in ensuring a healthy and happy life for our four-legged friends.
Developed by dog nutrition specialists, Nala Health offers a carefully crafted blend of innovative and tasty ingredients chosen primarily for their health benefits. The food contains L-carnitine and Taurine to maintain normal metabolism and heart function. Our senior and weight management food also has a lower calorie content to help your dog achieve a normal weight.
Zôe’s journey was a bit more challenging. She struggled with joint pains and due to her sensitive tummy any diet changes is a daunting task. Robin had therefore decided not to change her over to Nala Health at first. But as fate would have it, a little mix-up with the supper bowls turned out to be a happy accident. Zôe not only loved her new food but also sailed through the night without any tummy troubles, much to Robin’s relief. And now she has joined the Nala family, much to everyone’s delight.
Nala Health contains, among other things, omega-3, which can have a mild anti-inflammatory effect and can help to support sore joints. A balanced mix of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D helps to maintain strength and flexibility. Fibre and probiotics in the food contribute to a healthy gut microbiome and can support a sensitive stomach. Butyrate is added to maintain a healthy gut lining.
Good Food is the Love Language
And because Robin loves to add his special touch, he often whips up some scrumptious additions to their meals such as fresh carrots, zucchini, and a bit of free-range chicken. It’s his way of saying “I love you” in the language he knows best – delicious, nutritious food.
After eating Nala Health for over a year, the dogs have a new lease of life. They are healthy, happy and full of energy. Robin concludes by admitting that his sceptical attitude towards insect-based dog food has changed. The proof for him lies in the fact that both his dogs got rid of their health problems after moving over to Nala Health.