That caught my attention. Around the same time, my friend, the singer Kate Nash, told me that her dogs were also vegan, and that she and her partner often cooked plant-based meals for them. Knowing how much Kate adores her dogs, this wasn’t something she’d ever do casually. Hearing this from two women I trust, both thoughtful and incredibly protective of their animals, made me pause. It wasn’t about ideology; it was about possibility. Maybe this was something I could explore responsibly. Perhaps it wasn’t as extreme as people imagine. This wasn’t about putting my values ahead of Sophie Bear’s health. She's always loved carrots, spinach and apples. It was about finding a diet that could support her well-being and reduce the environmental impact How I Transitioned Sophie, gradually and gently. When I finally decided to try switching Sophie’s food, I was determined to do it in the least disruptive way possible. I introduced the new food very slowly, 10% mixed into her usual food at first, then 20%, then 30%, increasing week by week. This gradual transition meant Sophie never experienced any digestive issues. No upset stomach, no discomfort. If anything, she seemed excited about the change. What reassured me most was her energy. Her coat stayed glossy, her digestion remained smooth, and she genuinely loved the new food. There was no resistance, no fuss, just all-round enthusiasm. After several weeks, she was fully plant-based and thriving. Of course, my ethics did play a role. I care about sustainability, animal welfare, and reducing environmental impact; that’s part of my everyday life and work. Would have mattered if Sophie Bear hadn’t responded well? My guiding question was simple: Is she healthy and happy? The answer has been a clear yes and she’s a very happy nine year old chihuahua.
a.co11ective
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