So why don't vets warn people? The question should be, what makes veterinarians think they can recommend food. In Food Pets Die For, Ann Martin says, “Our family physician doesn’t display weight loss products in the reception room … So why is this going on in our veterinary clinics that do not specialize in nutrition.” She says she considers it unethical for vets to sell pet food unless they are trained in pet nutrition.

The reason your vet thinks so highly of the pet food they sell probably has more to do with money than nutrition. In vet school, the only classes offered on nutrition usually last a few weeks, and are taught by representatives from the pet food companies. Vet students may also receive free food for their own dogs and cats at home. They could get an Iams notebook, a Purina purse and some free pizza.

The companies also hire students to be representatives for the company and to promote their products to other students.

This issue was even placed on the agenda for an Executive Committee meeting at the vet school at Colorado State University. According to the minutes “discussion was held on how to handle dealing with pet food companies and their donations of pet food to the university. It was agreed to put together a task force to discuss this issue, investigate the possibilities, and make suggestions to the Executive Council on how to work with the numerous pet food companies that want to donate to CSU.” There was no further mention of this topic in meetings since.

In May 2000, Purina made the announcement that “in an effort to help university, veterinary hospitals provide optimal nutrition recommendations for dogs and cats, Ralston Purina is funding three new veterinary diet technician positions.” They donated $100,000 to support these positions for the first year. How would you feel about a company that paid your salary?