CIVT Podcast : Hilary Wilkie

This episode is an interview with Hilary Wilkie, who runs her own business offering nutrition consultation to dog parents in New Zealand. Please enjoy this conversation with Hilary as we discuss her background owning a whole food supplement shop, her pursuit of education in canine nutrition, through to her current business interest in evidence-based fresh, whole foods for dogs.

Hilary Wilkie is the founder of Thrive Dog Kitchen, and offers canine nutrition services. She believes in making it easier for dog parents to feed fresh, whole foods, whether that’s through frozen whole food blends or practical, evidence-based nutrition support.

Her journey started thanks to her 13-year-old dog, Jessie - she was Hilary's greatest teacher. After years of off-and-on tummy issues and a surprise diagnosis of obesity, Hilary turned to fresh food (with the support of her vet) to help Jessie heal from the inside out.

What began as a way to help one dog thrive turned into a mission to help as many as possible. Thrive Dog Kitchen was born from that mission and creates small-batch frozen blends made with locally sourced, human-grade ingredients in the Wairarapa area of New Zealand. Thrive Dog Kitchen is also building a movement that helps New Zealand dog parents feel confident feeding their dogs fresh food, one spoonful at a time.

Since starting, Hilary has earned qualifications from institutions in the USA and Canada, and through the College of Integrative Veterinary Therapies in Australia. Hilary believes nutrition is a foundational pillar of dog health, but not a silver bullet. Her approach is balanced, evidence-informed, and practical for everyday life.