I've always been very curious. Early on in my life I naturally began exploring to find the truth beneath the headlines, opinions, ideologies and traditions, especially when it came to nutrition.

I grew up in a household that was filled with a diverse ethnicity of foods (Russian, Ukrainian and Norwegian). And, since I was natural foodie and animal lover, this curiosity led me to passionately build businesses and services that eventually led me to creating Virchew.

When I first began exploring a plant-based diet for dogs in the 1990's, I was met with raised eyebrows, doubtful looks and not surprisingly at the time, outright criticism.

I had many of the same fears or doubts, myself.

• Would my dog get all the nutrients she needed?
• Would she even eat it?
  
• Could this be dangerous or unhealthy?

These are valid questions. Especially after decades of indoctrination and fear from Big Pet and their influence on veterinary colleges worldwide.

So, if you’ve ever wondered the same, you’re not alone.

Due to my obsession with nutrition and facts, I didn’t shrug them off but I was eager to find out the truth.

After many synchronicities starting in the late 1980's and consulting to a veterinary friend, I happily chose to feed my first border collie, Shanti, a plant-based diet. She experienced extraordinary health results. Then, I spent decades researching, studying, watching, questioning, and working alongside veterinary nutritionists and many veterinarians. We tested and retested until I was certain: the food we were creating wasn’t just safe, it was extraordinary. 

Because here’s the truth, not my opinion:

• Dogs don’t need meat. 
• Dogs, like humans, are omnivores and require 'specific nutrients' rather than specific ingredients.
• Dogs need complete, balanced, carefully formulated nutrition. Plant nutrients (protein, fiber, antioxidants, etc.) can deliver exactly that.

The result was Virchew. 

Since then, our team has seen countless dogs who once struggled with terrible skin, bad tummies, or endless vet visits transform into vibrant, tail-wagging bundles of joy. And their humans? They finally feel peace of mind knowing they’re doing right by their dog and by their values.

Because Virchew isn’t just about food: When science-based nutrition, sustainability and compassion meet in your dog’s bowl, the results are > truth. 

In summary, sometimes the only way to quiet fear is to try. Which is what I did years ago with Shanti. I witness and learned the truth. I have never, ever looked back.

Lastly, I always ask this ONE question that may help you to make the right choice for you and your dog, too.

With love for the truth and your dog's health,
Laura - Founder, Virchew

> Find all of the research links below and if you've not tried Virchew for your dog yet.

Evidence + Facts = Truth. 

As we enter the incredible and unknown era of AI, it is deeply important that we search for our own truth and only share evidence and facts. 

Want to See the Science?

If you’d like to dive deeper, we’ve collected dozens of credible studies and articles on plant-based nutrition for dogs here on our site.

Here are just a few highlights:

• Vegan dog food provides similar nutrients to meat-based diets. A 2025 study in PLOS ONE, led by experts at the University of Nottingham, has found that vegan diets for dogs sold in the UK provide similar nutrition to meat-based diets.
• Dogs can thrive without meat. A 2022 peer-reviewed study in PLOS ONE followed over 2,500 dogs and found those on nutritionally sound vegan diets had equal or better health outcomes compared to dogs fed conventional meat diets.
• Cleaner, safer nutrition. Plant-based formulations remove risks tied to meat-based dog food, such as bacterial contamination, antibiotic residues, and allergens that contribute to itchy skin and digestive upset.
• Longevity and vitality. Research led by Dr. Andrew Knight shows plant-based diets can support long, healthy lives in dogs — with benefits like reduced weight issues and improved energy.
• Sustainability for all. Switching one medium-sized dog to a plant-based diet can save the lives of hundreds of farmed animals over their lifetime, while reducing environmental impacts.

These are just a glimpse. If your heart (and head) need more reassurance, explore the full list of studies here.

Try Virchew for Yourself

✔ Vet-formulated, nutritionally complete and NOT a kibble
✔ Gentle on sensitive skin and tummies
✔ Backed by science, crafted with love

If you’ve been curious but cautious, the best first step is our Virchew Starter Kit™