Slow Feeders for Dogs with Carol Smeja on Your Natural Dog Podcast
Many dog owners are so focused on what to feed their dogs that they don’t think about how they’re feeding them. But the way we feed our dogs can have a major impact on their digestion, behavior, and overall health. In this episode of Your Natural Dog with Angela Ardolino, we’re joined by Carol Smeja, creator of Mine Pet Platter, a unique and science-backed solution to many of the common dog feeding issues. Carol joins us to share the science behind how dogs eat, including what we can learn from watching wolves and wildcats. We’ll discuss why bowls are not the best way to feed your dog and break down what to look for in a slow feeder, from color to material to shape.
Episode Recap:
- How dogs eat in the wild
- Benefits of the Mine Pet Platter
- How slow feeders can help your dog
- Helpful for picky eaters
- Tips for using Mine Pet Platter
- What are your pet’s bowls made of?
- The color you serve your dog on matters
- How to learn more about Mine Pet Platter
The Original mine Pet Platter
Carol Smeja, creator of The Original mine Pet Platter, believes that HOW you feed your pet is just as important as WHAT you feed them. The mine Pet Platter is a lick mat for dogs, encouraging a relaxed and natural eating position for your dog. Spreading your dog’s food across the surface of the platter naturally slows food and air intake, making it a great option as a slow feeder for dogs. The platter’s surface also allows for instinctive exploration, which can help stimulate your dog’s appetite. The open surface also allows your dog a reassuring 360 degree view of their food, compared to a traditional dog food bowl which can block peripheral vision and raise their fear of food being taken away. Surface scoops and ridges in the mine Pet Platter’s design also offer the benefits of a lick mat for dogs, engaging the senses and encouraging positive licking, which releases endorphins that reward and relax.
Episode Resources:
- Find out more about the platter on the Mine Pet Platter Website –
- Get 10% off your Mine Pet Platter with code CBDDOG
- Follow Mine Pet Platter on Instagram and Facebook
- Have a question about your pet that you want answered on the podcast? Email us at [email protected]
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About Angela Ardolino
Angela Ardolino, a certified cannabis and fungi clinician, brings over 20 years of expertise to the field of holistic pet wellness. As a graduate of the inaugural Medical Cannabis for Therapeutic Use program at the University of Vermont School of Medicine, she is a passionate advocate for safe, natural, and ethically-grown whole plant and fungi medicine tailored for pets.
Committed to the highest standards, Angela continues to educate and inspire pet parents through her popular podcast, Your Natural Dog, where she hosts experts to discuss holistic pet care, natural remedies, nutrition, and training. Follow Angela Ardolino on her website, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to stay updated on her mission to educate and empower pet parents everywhere.
About Carol Smeja
Carol Smeja, creator of The Original mine Pet Platter, got her start with a PhD in the area of psychology and sociology, and applied those to understanding the psychological and social dynamics of eating. More recently, she has applied her extensive research and diagnostic training in understanding the eating behaviors of dogs & cats by studying the natural and instinctive behaviors of their ancestral roots. Carol’s main interest is in the significant importance of how we feed our pets. She has conducted comprehensive ancestral reviews and integrated information from wildlife professionals, longitudinal and cross-sectional behavior projects and live and video observational feeding data. Additionally, she volunteers at zoos to further expand knowledge on pet’s dietary needs and feeding habits in addition to improving conservation efforts. Lecturing at both professional events and pet organizations, Carol seeks to educate pet parents on the importance of how you feed your pet to improve their health & wellbeing.
In addition, Carol is currently working on a publication highlighting the scientific foundation of how we feed our pets.