Apr 11, 2013 11:20 AM EDT
Dogs Go Organic: Pet Stores Offers Cooking Classes to Owners

As people begin to wise up on the types of food they're putting in their bodies, attention has also shifted into what's going into their pet's bowls. 

One pet store in particular, Rockapup in Rockaway, Queens, hopped onto the health-conscious food trend and has begun offering cooking classes in organic foods and treats, according to The Daily News.

Lisa Long, 45, who owns Rockapup, said she started healthy cooking classes for dogs because owners have become more health conscious.

"People are starting to realize you are what you eat and it's the same for your dog," Long told the Daily News. "If you feed them junk they won't live as long.

"It definitely has become more popular. Ten years ago nobody cared about organic (food) for themselves and now they are concerned about it for their pets," she said.

Skillman Pets in Woodmre, has seen similar demand for healthier dog foods. They've had to restock their shelves with organic foods a number of times this past year, according to The Daily News.

"We try to make sure our products don't have artificial flavors because that's what people want for their dogs right now," employee, Paula Gutierrez said. "I think it's healthier. I think it's better for dogs and customers do, too."

Pet nutritionist Hilary Watson said pet owners aren't relying on outside companies to produce healthier food options. 

"A growing number of pet owners are choosing to home-cook for their pets because it allows them to control the ingredients and feed fresh human-grade foods to the pets," she said. "This is a growing trend and one that is here to stay."

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