22.8 Pet Food

For your pets, the math is the one in chapter 2: daily ration on the label x number of pets x 14 days, plus 3 extra days.

1. Weigh a cup of their kibble and multiply: that way you will know how many pounds to buy. Kibble varies a lot in weight and calories between brands.
2. Keep the kibble in its original bag inside an airtight container: the bag has the date, the lot number (in case of a recall), and protects the fat.
3. Rotate it just like yours: opened kibble goes rancid in heat. Buy bags that will be used up in a few weeks.
4. Small cans: without a refrigerator, opened wet food cannot be kept. Serve portions that will be eaten at once and take the bowl away.
5. Do not switch brands suddenly: abrupt diet changes cause diarrhea in dogs. If you have to switch, mix gradually over several days.
6. Treats and medicines: include their heartworm, flea, and tick medicine and any prescriptions.