Butternut Box has teamed up with the University of Surrey to launch a multi-year research project focused on the health benefits of fresh dog food. This initiative, supported by a grant from Innovate UK through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), aims to provide evidence on the link between different diets and canine health.
In a busy pet food market, dog owners often encounter confusing information about the best diets for their pets. The KTP seeks to deliver objective data to help veterinary professionals offer better nutritional advice.
Dr. Ciara Clarke, Butternut Box’s in-house vet, emphasises the company’s commitment to scientific research. “Our approach is rooted in transparency and collaboration with leading academics,” she stated. This collaboration intends to improve dog health and empower pet owners with reliable, evidence-based information.
The research will explore the effects of various diets on skin health, immune response, and overall well-being. Importantly, the study will be conducted in dogs’ home environments, making it as natural as possible.
Both Butternut Box and the University of Surrey’s School of Veterinary Medicine aim to address a call from the British Veterinary Association (BVA) for “long-term, controlled studies needed to investigate…health benefits such as improvements in skin and gastrointestinal conditions” as well as “clear, independent information and recommendations which support the veterinary profession when discussing companion animal feeding.”
Dr. Teresa Hollands, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Surrey, co-leads this project. The research will not only produce essential scientific evidence on diet impacts but also serve as a valuable resource for training future veterinarians and improving clinical practices.
