Exploring the Journey of Wellness and Raw Feeding

In today's episode, I had a delightful conversation with Xilo about her experiences as a dog owner, specifically with her dog Ziggy. As entrepreneurs, we connected on a deeper level, exploring the unique journey of pet ownership.

The Journey to Ziggy: A Desire for Nurturing

Xilo shared how her journey with Ziggy began as a desire for nurturing. She and her husband wanted to start a family, but with the uncertainty of their living situation, they decided to get a dog instead. Xilo explained, "I wanted to have a baby, but my husband thought we weren't ready. So, we got Ziggy as a way to nurture something." Ziggy, a Shiba Inu, was chosen for his independent nature, as Xilo didn't want an overly needy dog. Little did they know their decision would lead them down a path of challenges and growth.

The Trials and Triumphs of Raw Feeding

As Ziggy settled into their lives, Xilo and her husband noticed various issues with his health and behavior. Ziggy was reactive towards other dogs and people and had trouble eating. Xilo shared, "He won't eat, and we've gone through four different brands of kibble in just three months." Frustrated with the lack of progress, they turned to raw feeding as a potential solution. Xilo recounted, "One week on raw, and my dog wasn't bleeding from his paws anymore." This marked a turning point in Ziggy's health and well-being.

The Journey to Raw Instincts: A Shift in Priorities

Xilo's experience with Ziggy's health struggles made her question the raw food quality they purchased. She realized she wanted to provide the best possible nutrition for her dog and began researching and supplementing his diet. This newfound passion for understanding the sourcing and quality of pet food sparked the idea for Raw Instincts. Xilo explained, "I wanted to make raw feeding convenient because it's the only way to make it accessible to more people." Raw Instincts was born out of a desire to provide high-quality, convenient raw food options for dogs.

The Taboo of Infertility and Holistic Approaches

During our conversation, Xilo opened up about her struggles with infertility and her journey towards a holistic approach to her health. She shared, "I've been trying to get pregnant for a year, and there's something wrong with me." Xilo sought the help of a holistic food and wellness coach, Tara, who ran various tests to uncover underlying issues. Through dietary changes and a holistic approach, Xilo began to see improvements in her overall health and hormonal balance. She emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of health issues rather than relying solely on medication.

The Complex Dynamics of a Family-Run Business

As a family-run business, Raw Instincts presents its own set of challenges and rewards. Xilo discussed the dynamics within her family and the need for compromise and clear roles. She shared, "We have a checklist of things, so there's an order to the chaos. That's how we keep things running smoothly." Xilo also acknowledged the importance of open communication and learning to overcome grudges. She reflected on her upbringing and the contrast between her parents' relationship and her own. Xilo and her husband strive to create a supportive and collaborative environment within their family and business.

The Power of Education and Empowerment

Throughout our conversation, Xilo emphasized the importance of education and empowerment in dog ownership. She shared her journey of learning about raw feeding and its impact on Ziggy's health. Xilo expressed her desire to share her knowledge and experiences with others, saying, "I share it on my personal Instagram because I know a lot of people are struggling with similar issues." She believes that by sharing her story, she can help break the taboo surrounding infertility and empower others to take control of their health and the well-being of their pets.

A Bright Future for Dog Owners

Through my conversation with Xilo, I gained insight into the intricate world of dog ownership. From the initial desire for nurturing to the challenges and triumphs of raw feeding, Xilo's journey with Ziggy has been a life-changing experience. Her experiences have led her to discover the power of education, the importance of holistic health approaches, and the complexities of running a family business. Looking forward, it is evident that the world of dog ownership is evolving, with greater emphasis on nutrition, well-being, and the bond between humans and their dogs. The future of dog ownership is bright.

Ready to explore the world of high-quality, convenient raw food options for your dog? Visit Raw Instincts' website today to discover a range of nutritious choices that will keep your dog and cat happy and healthy!