Tripe sometimes gets a bad rap from its smell, but despite that slight downside, many pet owners are turning to it to create a nutrient-rich diet for their dogs and cats. Is all the hype true? Is tripe pet food a healthy food option for your companion?

The answer is as easy to spot as the difference between white and green. White tripe (the stuff sold for humans in grocery stores), has been bleached and stripped of nutrients, whereas green tripe actually doesn’t refer so much to colour, but to the fact that the tripe hasn’t been touched or altered.

In this case, something “created for humans” is not the best choice for your pet. Unlike white tripe, green tripe is filled with natural nutrients, digestive enzymes and beneficial bacteria – all those things we humans take capsules from the health food store for come right from the lining of a cud-chewing animal.

In fact, green tripe helps canines and felines digest better making it an ideal choice for those animals with sensitive stomachs, gas issues and tendencies to diarrhea and vomiting. Plus, because of the calcium and other minerals in tripe, it’s great for maintaining healthy teeth which may mean less trips to the vet for dental cleanings.

If the smell of tripe really puts you off (as it does many pet owners) take heart. There are four new dry kibble tripe formulas from PetKind, the same company that has provided Tripett canned tripe for many years. While the canned formulas aren’t as offensive as you might fear, those with really sensitive noses will appreciate the beef, wild salmon, lamb and bison flavours in the new dry formula.

From treats and cans to the new dry formula, PetKind is focused almost entirely on the nutritional blends that can be created by combining green tripe with other beneficial foods.

Merrick, a company started in 1988 with natural dog treats, also carries a canned tripe formula. Like the products from PetKind, these canned tripe blends are free of many of the common allergens that lead to digestion and other health issues for pets.

If having numerous flavor options is important, look to NuTripe which includes several series of canned food in multiple flavours for both cats and dogs. The products from Nutripe also include Coenzyme Q10 to enhance heart, immune system and overall energy.

For those interested in a raw food diet that includes tripe, the Red Dog Blue Kat line is the ideal option. These raw food blends are available in a variety of sizes so there is no measuring or messing. Simply buy the right size for your pet and feed them one portion per meal.

Tripe may have taken a bad rap, but with all the health options and benefits, it’s worth it for your pet. Besides, it really isn’t as smelly as you might think.