We made the list! Examining Susan Thixton’s 2025 \’List of Pet Foods We Trust to Give Our Own Pets’

February 10, 2025

Why Trust Matters: Examining the 2025 “List of Pet Foods We Trust to Give Our Own Pets”

When it comes to the health and well-being of our pets, trust in the food we provide them is essential. That’s why the 2025 “Foods I Would Trust to Feed My Own Pets” List has become a valuable resource for discerning pet owners. It’s more than just a list — it reflects rigorous evaluation, transparency, and a strong commitment to quality.

What Sets This List Apart

The brands featured on the 2025 List voluntarily take part in a detailed vetting process. They provide thorough documentation about their ingredient quality, sourcing, and manufacturing practices. Key criteria include the use of human-grade ingredients, humane sourcing, and the absence of fumigants.

For raw pet food manufacturers, these standards offer an opportunity to demonstrate transparency and dedication to pet health. However, some well-known names in the raw food category are noticeably absent. This raises an important question for retailers and consumers: why would a trusted brand choose not to participate in such a transparent evaluation process?

The Value of Transparency

Retailers understand how important trust is when recommending products to customers. Lists like this provide insight into the values and practices of the brands you carry, helping you align with those that prioritize quality and openness.

Not being included on the List doesn’t automatically mean a brand fails to meet standards, but it can prompt questions. In an industry where trust is built through transparency, why wouldn’t a company willingly participate? Retailers and consumers should feel confident asking these questions and seeking the clarity they deserve.

What This Means for Retailers

For independent pet retailers, the List is more than a consumer guide — it’s a strategic tool. It helps identify quality brands and supports customer education. As more pet owners look for trustworthy options, explaining why you carry certain products and how they meet high standards can build loyalty and confidence. This approach helps set your store apart.

A Challenge to the Industry

The absence of some major raw food brands from the 2025 List serves as a reminder that not all pet foods are created equal. It also challenges the industry to prioritize transparency and prove its commitment to pet health through action, not just marketing.

Even if you haven’t reviewed the List, it’s worth reflecting on what it represents: a dedication to quality, transparency, and doing better for our pets. The foods we trust to feed our own pets should be the same ones we confidently recommend to others.

Naomi Maundrell

Director of Communication and Brand Strategy