Health Benefits of Natural Pet Foods

Why Richmond Pet Owners Are Making the Switch

Every pet deserves more than a whole bowl—vibrant health and a life filled with tail wags, purrs, and play. In Richmond, VA, a growing number of pet parents are switching to natural pet foods—and seeing the difference in everything from energy levels to long- term vitality.

At RedRidge Pet Market, we believe natural nutrition is the foundation of lifelong wellness. Let’s look at why switching to clean, biologically appropriate food could be one of the best decisions for your four-legged family member.

What Does “Natural” Pet Food Mean?

Natural pet food isn’t about buzzwords—it’s about sourcing, integrity, and how those ingredients serve your pet’s health. We choose brands that focus on transparency and whole-food nourishment.

Natural means:

• Whole animal proteins 
  Like grass-fed beef, pasture-raised chicken, or wild-caught fish, these proteins mirror what dogs and cats would eat in the wild, offering essential amino acids that support muscle development, immune function, and overall energy.
  
  
• Real fruits and vegetables 
  Ingredients like pumpkin, blueberries, and spinach provide natural fibre, antioxidants, and phytonutrients—supporting gut health, detoxification, and cellular repair.
  
  
• Naturally occurring nutrients 
  Instead of synthetic additives, natural pet foods contain essential vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids from food-based sources, which are more easily absorbed by your pet's body.
  
  
• Gentle processing techniques
  Methods like freeze-drying or air-drying retain the nutrients and flavors of raw ingredients without exposing them to high heat, preserving their natural integrity.

RedRidge Recommends: Open Farm, Fromm, and ThorneVet—trusted brands known for their sourcing transparency and minimally processed formulas.

1. Improved Digestive Health

Your pet’s digestion is the root of their overall wellness. Many conventional foods include hard-to-digest fillers like corn gluten and meat by-products, which can disrupt gut function and contribute to inflammation.

With natural food, you get:

• Easily digestible proteins
  Animal protein sources reduce the risk of intolerance and are more gentle on sensitive stomachs versus meat meals and by products.
  
  
• Prebiotic-rich vegetables
  Ingredients like sweet potatoes and chicory root support the growth of healthy gut bacteria, which is essential for nutrient absorption and regular bowel movements.
  
  
• No artificial additives
  Eliminating synthetic dyes and preservatives means fewer disruptions to your pet’s digestive enzymes and microbiome health. 

Gentle on tummies: Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw Cubes are ideal for dogs with digestive sensitivities or transitioning to a raw diet.

>Order now - Open Farm Freeze Dried Raw Cubes Chicken 3oz
>Order now - Open Farm Freeze Dried Raw Cubes Beef Liver 3oz
>Order now - Open Farm Freeze Dried Raw Cubes Lamb Liver 3oz
>Order now - Open Farm Freeze Dried Raw Cubes Chicken Liver 3oz

2. Healthier Skin and a Shinier Coat

Dry skin, excessive shedding, and lackluster coats often start with what’s in the bowl. Natural diets, rich in nourishing fats, oils and free from synthetic additives, help support  skin hydration and coat health—without the irritation that artificial ingredients can cause.

Natural foods support:

• Moisturized, itch-free skin
  With omega-3s from fish oil, flaxseed, or coconut oil, pets experience less skin dryness and hot spots.
  
  
• Coat strength and shine
  High-quality proteins and essential nutrients help nourish the hair shaft and root from within, improving its look and feel.
  
  
• Lower allergen load
  Eliminating common triggers like artificial colors, flavors and poor-quality grains reduce inflammation and skin flare-ups.
  

For a glossy coat: Open Farm Salmon & Oatmeal Biscuits combine natural omegas with wholesome grains for skin-nourishing benefits.

Order now - Open Farm Better Biscuits Salmon & Oatmeal Recipe 8oz

3. Stronger Immune System

Natural foods supply your pet’s immune system with what it needs to stay resilient, especially as they age or recover from illness.

Immune-enhancing ingredients include:

• Antioxidant-rich produce
  Berries, carrots, and leafy greens help neutralize free radicals contributing to cellular aging and chronic disease.
  
  
• Medicinal mushrooms
  Mushrooms like turkey tail and lion’s mane provide beta-glucans that regulate immune response and support overall vitality.
  
  
• No synthetic chemicals
  Reducing the toxic load from preservatives and artificial flavors lighten the burden on your pet’s immune system 

Immune support must-have: Real Mushrooms 5 Defenders Capsules – trusted by holistic
vets and pet parents alike.

>Order now - Real Mushrooms 5 Defenders Organic Mushroom Blend Capsules 90ct

4. More Energy & Healthy Weight Management

Your pet’s energy levels and body composition reflect what it eats. Whole-food diets are naturally higher in protein and lower in empty carbs, leading to steadier energy and a healthier weight. 

Here’s how it helps:

• Lean muscle support
  Complete proteins provide the building blocks for strong muscles, which are especially important for puppies, active breeds, and senior pets.
  
  
• Reduced overeating
  Nutrient-dense foods are more satisfying, so your pet feels fuller without consuming excess calories.
  
  
• Stable energy
  With protein as the primary fuel, pets receive a more appropriate bioavailable nutrient source 

For stamina and strength, ThorneVet Geriatric Basics or Joint Support Chews are perfect for aging pets needing mobility and energy without inflammation

>Order now - ThorneVet Geriatric Basics Chews 90ct
>Order now - ThorneVet Joint Support Chews 120ct

5. Lower Risk of Chronic Conditions

Over time, exposure to synthetic preservatives and processed ingredients may increase your pet’s risk of chronic disease. Natural diets are a powerful way to prevent problems before theystart.

Feeding clean helps prevent:

• Kidney and liver damage
  Natural foods ease the detox burden on organs compared to artificial-laden kibbles.
  
  
•  Autoimmune disorders
  Inflammation linked to low-quality ingredients can disrupt immune regulation and increase disease risk.
  
  
• Cancer triggers
  Reducing exposure to questionable additives and GMOs helps limit long-term cellular stress.
  

Prevention tip: Add antioxidant-rich treats or mushroom-based supplements like 5 Defenders for daily immune protection.

>Order now - Real Mushrooms 5 Defenders Organic Mushroom Blend Capsules 90ct

6. Better Behavior & Mental Clarity

Just like humans, pets feel the effects of poor-quality food. From hyperactivity to anxiety, what your pet eats can influence their mood and mental focus.

Natural diets can lead to:

• Improved emotional balance
  Consistent blood sugar and fewer additives make pets less likely to exhibit anxious or erratic behaviour.
  
  
• Better learning and engagement
  Especially in training, whole-food diets help pets stay alert and responsive.
  
  
• More restful sleep and calm
  Nutrients that support brain and nerve health, like B-vitamins and adaptogens, contribute to a more relaxed pet.

For mellow moods: ThorneVet Peaceful Pet Chews—a non-drowsy blend for stress relief.

>Order now - ThorneVet Peaceful Pet Chews 90ct

What Makes RedRidge Different?

We’re not a chain store—we’re your wellness partner. Every product at RedRidge is carefully selected for integrity, ingredient quality, and proven results.

We offer:

•  Only natural, limited-ingredient, raw, freeze dried, wet and dry diets—no fillers or
  by-products
  
  
• One-on-one food consultations to guide you through your pet’s dietary needs
  
  
• Expert-approved supplements for joints, immunity, heart, and anxiety
  
  
• Community support through partnerships with local rescues and wellness education

Stop by our Richmond store or explore at redridgepetmarket.com

Not Sure What to Feed? Let’s Find Out Together.

Choosing the right food isn’t one-size-fits-all. That’s why we offer free consultations to help you discover the ideal match for your pet’s health goals and lifestyle.

You’ll walk away with:

•  A personalized nutrition plan
• Easy transition steps
• A clear understanding of what ingredients work best for your pet

Book your free consult today → redridgepetmarket.com

Customer Favorites at RedRidge

Best Dog Biscuits

Open Farm Better Biscuits – Beef & Oatmeal, Peanut Butter & Banana, Salmon & Oatmeal
“Our dog’s coat has never been shinier!”

>Order now - Open Farm Better Biscuits Beef & Oatmeal Recipe 8oz 
>Order now - Open Farm Better Biscuits Peanut Butter & Banana Recipe 8oz
>Order now - Open Farm Better Biscuits Salmon & Oatmeal Recipe 8oz

Top Cat Treats

Plato Cat Treats – Chicken & Catnip, Tuna & Salmon
“Perfect for picky cats with allergies.”

>Order now - Plato Chicken & Catnip Cat Treats 2.5oz
>Order now - Plato Tuna & Salmon Cat Treats 2.5oz

Most-Loved Supplements

Real Mushrooms 5 Defenders, ThorneVet Immune & Joint Chews
“Our senior pup has a new pep in his step.”

>Order now - Real Mushrooms 5 Defenders Organic Mushroom Blend Capsules 90ct
>Order now - ThorneVet Joint Support Chews 120ct

Final Thought: Better Food = Better Health

Choosing natural nutrition is a meaningful way to care for your pet from the inside out. With wholesome ingredients and real, visible benefits, it’s a simple yet powerful step toward better health.

At RedRidge Pet Market, we’re proud to walk that path with you—offering thoughtfully selected foods, reputable brands, and expert support every step of the way.

Visit us in Richmond or explore our natural collection online at redridgepetmarket.com 

Because your pet deserves wellness—naturally.