For Chris Davis, owner of 4 Hounds Gear and Grooming, nutrition is the foundation of pet health. In our conversation, he emphasized that what happens inside a pet’s body directly affects what we see on the outside. “Having a healthy gut and healthy insides is integral to the overall health of a pet, just like us,” Davis explained. Issues like inflamed ears, irritated pads, yeast buildup, or skin irritation often trace back to an imbalanced system. By guiding pet parents toward better nutrition, he and his team help pets look and feel their best.
A balanced diet, he noted, means the right mix of protein, fat, roots, vegetables, and grains—plus pre- and probiotics to support digestion. Hydration is equally vital, especially for cats. “Cats are notoriously dehydrated,” Davis said. “Their tongues are not designed for drinking water...you have to make sure you’re providing them with as much nutrition and hydration as possible.” Proper hydration supports kidney function, skin health, and overall vitality.
Misconceptions around food are common. Many owners assume that “any food is good food,” but Davis stressed that quality and processing make a meaningful difference. Some dogs thrive on kibble, which can support dental health, but adding supplements or raw components can elevate their diet. “Studies have shown that if you can add 25% of a raw component to your pet’s diet, it is going to help and prolong their overall health,” he said.
Label reading is another area where owners can be misled. While many look for “chicken” as the first ingredient, Davis explained that “meal” forms of protein often provide more nutrients. “When you see ‘chicken meal’ or ‘fish meal,’ that’s actually a good thing. You’re getting organ meat, muscle tissue, collagen—variety that supports whole health.”
When it comes to supplements, Davis recommends starting with prebiotics and probiotics because they directly support digestion and gut balance. Goat milk, bone broth, or specialized powders can all deliver these benefits. From there, he suggests tailoring additional supplements to a pet’s age, activity level, or specific needs.
Nutrition supports internal health, but grooming protects pets from external challenges. In winter, coats and paw protection matter more than length. “Most people think, ‘I need to keep my dog long in the winter because they’re going to get cold.’ If it’s an aesthetic, that’s fine, but a consistent short haircut year-round isn’t a problem.” Double-coated breeds are the exception. “You can do outline trims, but you really shouldn’t cut your dog’s fur because that undercoat can be destroyed.”
Bathing routines vary by species. Cats need less bathing, though brushing helps reduce hairballs and dander. Dogs can be bathed weekly if properly dried. “Don’t rub a dog vigorously with a towel,” Davis cautioned. “Pat dry or follow the flow of the fur.” For most dogs, a bath every six to eight weeks, paired with regular brushing, keeps coats healthy.
If there’s one simple practice every pet parent should adopt, Davis says it’s brushing. “Brushing with the correct brush or comb for your pet…will make your dog’s life, your life, and your groomer’s life infinitely easier and happier."
Whether he’s talking nutrition or grooming, Davis returns to the same core belief: true pet health starts with owners who nurture their animals from the inside out.