Who is a Dog Dietitian?

THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION IN PET NUTRITION

Although the United States leads the world in the field of pet nutrition, the professional title for this field remains somewhat undefined. In the U.S., the distinction between a dietitian and a nutritionist is clear when it comes to human health. A dietitian is someone who undergoes extensive education, often at the university level, and possesses the knowledge and authority to provide medical nutritional therapy. On the other hand, a nutritionist refers to individuals who complete various certification programs and offer guidance on nutrition.

When it comes to our pets, the U.S. recognizes two distinct professional titles: Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist®/Specialist and Pet Nutritionist. A Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist® is a licensed veterinarian who has conducted in-depth research and gained significant practical experience in animal nutrition. Meanwhile, a Pet Nutritionist is an emerging profession, consisting of individuals who have completed specific certification programs to specialize in animal nutrition. The ability to analyze information, conduct research, and maintain ethical standards in this field is closely tied to the individual's formal education background.

BRIDGING THE GAP IN PET NUTRITION

The science of nutrition is best interpreted by a licensed nutritionist. As a licensed Dietitian and Nutritionist, I earned my title through my undergraduate degree in Nutrition and Dietetics. My four-year education encompassed a wide range of subjects, including human anatomy, physiology, nutritional biochemistry, and health psychology. While I do not diagnose or treat conditions like an internist, cardiologist, or psychologist, I provide tailored nutritional therapy based on specific situations.

In Turkey, there is a significant gap in the field of pet nutrition. New professions often emerge from necessity, and just as with humans, I believe in enhancing the quality of life for our pets through proper nutrition. By combining my expertise in nutrition with the detailed knowledge of pet anatomy and physiology gained through international training, my goal is to introduce this field to our country.

It’s essential to understand that treatment (diagnosis, intervention, and therapeutic care) and designing nutritional programs are distinct disciplines requiring different expertise.

For 13 years, I have refrained from consuming meat products and have followed a plant-based diet for nearly four years. Having cared for countless cats and dogs and being deeply in love with every breed, I have always held trust and respect for veterinarians. Just as it is appropriate and ethical for individuals to work with dietitians to improve their health and alleviate symptoms through nutrition, I believe it is equally necessary for pet owners to collaborate with trained nutritionists for their animals. Normalizing this approach is a vital step forward.

TRAINING AND QUALIFICATIONS

Nutrition & Dietetics – Yeditepe University
Canine Diet Formulation Course – Jeanne Moran
Complete Raw Diet for Dogs (CPD) – The Animal Care
Professional Canine Nutrition Course – Feed Real Institute
Professional Canine Formulation Course – ACAN (ongoing)