Pet food manufacturer Montego Pet Nutrition has appointed Dr Elizna Boag as its in-house veterinarian and she will form an integral part of the nutritional team, which also focuses on new product development.

Boag obtained her veterinary degree from the University of Pretoria.

“I am deeply motivated by animal welfare, and I am fascinated with the sciences behind diseases and normal physiology. I am passionate about the protection of human life against zoonotic diseases like rabies, and education about these topics,” she says.

Further, she encourages pet owners to speak to their vets about healthy nutrition, tailored to the needs of their pets, as feeding a diet suited to their life stage is crucial, particularly in large breed dogs.

“A significant aspect of successfully treating any condition or disease is owner compliance. Owners are responsible for administering medications and following veterinary advice. It is important for pet owners to find a veterinary practitioner whom they trust. If they do not trust you, they will not comply with recommendations,” she adds.

Additionally, Boag highlights the risk of skeletal deformities and obesity in large and giant breed dogs, if they are fed a diet too high in calcium and energy. A complete and balanced diet is important, and the correct daily amount is essential, she emphasises.

“When following nutritional guidelines, it is important to note the life stage of your pet. Puppies have higher energy requirements than adult dogs. Adult dogs and cats can become obese if they are fed a puppy diet for too long.

“However, large breed dogs must be fed a large breed puppy diet for two years. Elderly pets require less energy dense diets, but they need additional ingredients like chondroitin and glucosamine for example, to assist with joint health,” she advises pet owners.

Boag also encourages students to follow in her footsteps by spending time with their local veterinarians to get as much exposure to the profession as possible and that there are diverse career paths within the veterinary practice.

“There are many options including small or mixed animal practice, large animal care in rural areas, commercial animal sectors as well as specialised areas such as exotics, wildlife, research, academics and working in the industry. The options are endless, which is another reason why I love this profession,” she says.

“Montego Pet Nutrition is delighted to welcome Dr Boag to the team, and looks forward to continuing its pioneering excellence within the pet food manufacturing industry,” the company says.