Howlerpetfoods.com.au Review

Based on checking the website, Howlerpetfoods.com.au appears to be a legitimate online retailer specialising in raw pet food. The site provides clear information about its products, delivery, and storage, aiming to offer natural and transparent food options for pets in Australia. While the website presents itself professionally with detailed product descriptions and customer testimonials, there are aspects that could be enhanced for a more comprehensive and trustworthy online presence, particularly concerning transparency and broader consumer protection elements.

Here’s an overall review summary:

• Product Offering: Extensive range of raw pet food, including BARF and PMR blends, bones, and treats for dogs, cats, and ferrets.
• Transparency: Good detail on meal ingredients (e.g., 80-10-10 ratio, specific meat percentages), but less on sourcing certifications beyond “locally sourced.”
• Customer Support: Phone and email contacts are clearly visible, along with a physical address.
• Payment Options: Offers Afterpay, Zip Pay, and PayPal, providing flexibility for customers.
• Delivery Information: Detailed delivery times and instructions, including provisions for unattended deliveries.
• Policies: Dedicated pages for Returns & Refunds, Delivery Policy, Subscription Policy, Privacy Policy, and Terms of Service.
• Website Security: Appears to use secure payment gateways (implied by PayPal, Afterpay, Zip Pay availability), but specific SSL certificate details aren’t immediately prominent on the homepage.
• Ethical Considerations (General): Focus on natural ingredients, no preservatives or fillers, and local sourcing aligns with ethical consumption principles. However, for a Muslim consumer, the halal status of the meat is not explicitly mentioned, which is a crucial consideration.

For consumers seeking pet food that aligns with Islamic dietary principles, the absence of explicit halal certification for the meat products on Howlerpetfoods.com.au is a significant point to note. While the company emphasises natural and quality ingredients, the origin and processing of the meat (e.g., proper slaughtering methods, avoidance of pork products in the facility) are not detailed. This lack of halal assurance means that, for a Muslim pet owner, Howlerpetfoods.com.au might not fully meet their specific ethical requirements without further direct inquiry.

Best Alternatives for Pet Care (Non-Edible & Ethical)

Since the primary concern for Muslim consumers with Howlerpetfoods.com.au centres on the halal status of edible pet food, shifting focus to non-edible pet care items provides suitable, ethically sound alternatives. These products address general pet welfare without the specific halal dietary requirements.

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Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Howlerpetfoods.com.au Review Latest Discussions & Reviews:

• Ruffwear Web Master Harness

  

  • Key Features: Designed for escape-prone dogs, provides excellent support for mobility assistance, five points of adjustment for a secure fit, padded chest and belly panel.
  • Average Price: A$90-A$120
  • Pros: Highly durable, comfortable for long wear, improves control, good for hiking and active dogs.
  • Cons: Can be expensive, may require careful sizing.

• KONG Classic Dog Toy

  • Key Features: Durable natural rubber, unpredictable bounce for fetch, can be stuffed with treats, available in various sizes for different chewers.
  • Average Price: A$15-A$30
  • Pros: Promotes healthy chewing behaviour, mental stimulation, long-lasting, versatile.
  • Cons: Some dogs may still destroy it over time, can be messy when stuffed.

• PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum Pet Fountain

  • Key Features: Free-falling stream encourages pets to drink more, activated carbon filter removes bad tastes and odours, holds 5 litres of water, easy to clean.
  • Average Price: A$80-A$110
  • Pros: Hydration promotion, cleaner water, quiet operation, large capacity reduces frequent refilling.
  • Cons: Requires regular cleaning to prevent slime build-up, filters need replacement.

• Furminator Deshedding Tool

  • Key Features: Reduces shedding by up to 90%, stainless steel deshedding edge, ergonomic handle, available for different hair types and sizes.
  • Average Price: A$40-A$70
  • Pros: Highly effective at removing loose undercoat, reduces hair around the home, improves coat health.
  • Cons: Can be harsh if not used correctly, some pets may not enjoy it, premium price point.

• Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. Stain & Odour Eliminator

  • Key Features: Certified safe for pets and children, enzymatic formula breaks down stains and odours, suitable for carpets, upholstery, and hard floors.
  • Average Price: A$35-A$50
  • Pros: Highly effective on pet stains and odours, safe for various surfaces, pleasant scent.
  • Cons: Can be relatively expensive for larger areas, requires time for enzymes to work.

• Keter Store It Out Max Outdoor Storage Shed

  • Key Features: Durable resin construction, ideal for storing pet food bins, toys, and supplies outdoors, lockable, easy assembly.
  • Average Price: A$250-A$350
  • Pros: Keeps pet supplies organised and protected from elements, versatile for other outdoor storage, relatively low maintenance.
  • Cons: Higher initial cost, requires space for placement, assembly might be tricky for some.

• Mighty Paw Dog Treat Pouch

  • Key Features: Magnetic closure, built-in waste bag dispenser, multiple pockets for essentials, attaches to belt or waistband.
  • Average Price: A$25-A$40
  • Pros: Convenient for training and walks, durable materials, easy access to treats, practical design.
  • Cons: Limited capacity for very long outings, magnetic closure might wear over time.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

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Howlerpetfoods.com.au Review & First Look

When you first land on Howlerpetfoods.com.au, you’re greeted with a clean, user-friendly interface that immediately highlights their core offering: raw pet food. The site’s design is modern, with clear calls to action and easy navigation. They put their best foot forward by promoting a “10% OFF” offer and free shipping for orders over $100, which is a common incentive in the e-commerce space. The availability of flexible payment options like Afterpay, Zip Pay, and PayPal also signals a customer-centric approach, making purchasing more accessible for a wider audience. This immediate transparency regarding pricing and payment methods builds initial trust.

Initial Impressions: Design and Usability

The website uses high-quality images of their pet food products, making them look fresh and appealing. Navigation is intuitive, with a clear menu that categorises products into “Complete BARF Meals,” “PMR Blends,” “Plain Raw Mince,” and specific “Raw Boxes” based on weight. This structured approach helps users quickly find what they’re looking for. From a usability standpoint, it’s pretty solid. Like a well-organised tool shed – everything has its place, and you don’t waste time fumbling around.

Website Credibility Indicators

Howlerpetfoods.com.au takes several steps to establish credibility. They list a phone number (03 5248 7066) and an email address ([email protected]) clearly in the header and footer, which is essential for customer support and transparency. They also provide a physical address (1 Albert Street, Unit 2, Moolap, Victoria, Australia), which is a huge plus. This physical presence adds a layer of legitimacy that many purely online businesses lack. Furthermore, the mention of “Australian Registered Company” and “PrimeSafe Accredited” on their footer are strong indicators of adherence to local standards and regulations, giving consumers confidence in their operational compliance. PrimeSafe accreditation, in particular, suggests they meet stringent safety and quality standards for handling meat products, which is crucial for raw pet food.

Howlerpetfoods.com.au Features

Howlerpetfoods.com.au offers a robust set of features designed to make raw pet food accessible and convenient for Australian pet owners. Their service goes beyond simply selling products; they aim to educate and support pet parents in adopting a raw diet.

Product Variety and Customisation

The site boasts a wide variety of raw pet food options, catering to different dietary needs and preferences. They offer: Theticketmerchant.com.au Review

• BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) Meals: These are complete and balanced meals with an 80% muscle meat, 10% edible bone, and 10% organ meat ratio, often supplemented with fruits, vegetables, seeds, and oils. Examples include their “Grass Fed Beef Blend” and “Wild Roo Blend.”
• PMR (Prey Model Raw) Blends: This primal model focuses solely on meat, bone, and organ ratios (80-10-10) without plant matter, appealing to those seeking a more carnivorous diet for their pets.
• Plain Raw Mince and Bones: For pet owners who prefer to prepare their own raw meals or add specific components.
• Bundle Boxes: Such as the “Howler Bundle Box,” which includes a selection of meals, bones, and toys, offering a convenient trial package.

A standout feature is the ability to “Leave us a note in the cart to exclude any ingredient your pet may be allergic to.” This level of customisation is rare and incredibly valuable for pet owners dealing with sensitive or allergic animals, demonstrating a genuine understanding of pet health needs.

Subscription and Delivery Flexibility

Howlerpetfoods.com.au offers flexible weekly, fortnightly, or monthly subscription plans, allowing pet owners to set up recurring deliveries without worrying about running out of food. Subscribers also get “first priority over all stock,” which is a neat perk, especially for popular items.

• Delivery Details:
  • Arrival within 3-5 business days fresh from their facility.
  • Specific delivery times: Monday – Friday (8 am-5 pm) and Saturday (9 am-5 pm).
  • Provision for unattended delivery: “If you aren’t home your order will be placed in a safe spot in front of your door.” This is convenient but relies on the customer having a truly safe spot.
  • Maximum of 20kgs per delivery, catering to multi-dog households.

Educational Resources

The website provides comprehensive “Info & Tips” sections for both BARF and PMR diets, breaking down “Meal Info,” “Delivery,” and “Storage” guidelines. They also offer “Quick Tips” like using their “Daily Amount Calculator” and recommending “Beef Liver Chips” for fussy eaters.

• Resources Section: Includes:
  • Raw Feeding Guide
  • Puppy Feeding & Transition Guide
  • A downloadable Puppy Feeding Brochure (PDF)
  • FAQs
  • Bulk Product Partnership for breeders and larger needs.

These resources are invaluable for new raw feeders, providing clear guidance on safe handling, storage, and feeding amounts. This commitment to education aligns with a responsible business model, empowering customers to make informed decisions for their pets’ health.

Howlerpetfoods.com.au Cons

While Howlerpetfoods.com.au presents a compelling offering, there are several areas where the website falls short, particularly from a consumer protection and ethical transparency standpoint. These are not minor quibbles; they represent gaps that can impact a customer’s decision, especially those with specific ethical or religious considerations. Enhancedmensclinic.com.au Review

Lack of Explicit Halal Certification for Meat Products

This is a critical omission for Muslim consumers. The website heavily promotes its “premium beef,” “lamb,” and “wild kangaroo” but makes no mention of whether these meats are halal. For meat to be considered halal (permissible in Islam), it must be slaughtered according to specific Islamic rites, and the animal must be free from certain contaminants or forbidden substances. Without explicit halal certification or assurance from a recognised body, Muslim consumers cannot confidently purchase meat products from this site. This isn’t just about religious observance; it’s about transparency regarding the supply chain and processing standards that align with a significant demographic’s values. This is a common oversight by businesses not directly targeting this market, but it’s a non-negotiable for those who require it.

Limited Detail on Meat Sourcing Beyond “Locally Sourced”

While “locally sourced” sounds good, it’s quite broad. The website states they use “locally sourced whole & organic raw ingredients” but lacks specifics on the farms or producers. For a product where ingredient quality and ethical treatment of animals are paramount, more detailed information about the origins of their meat—beyond just “grass-fed beef” or “wild kangaroo”—would be beneficial. Are the animals humanely raised? What are the specific farming practices? Are there any certifications for animal welfare or environmental impact beyond PrimeSafe (which focuses on processing safety)? Tim Ferriss would ask for the “how” behind the “what.” This level of detail isn’t just for curiosity; it impacts consumer trust and ethical alignment.

Absence of Detailed Nutritional Analysis per Product

The website mentions “Standard 80-10-10 ratio” for BARF and PMR, and lists ingredients with percentages (e.g., “73% premium beef, 10% edible raw chicken bone, 10% secreting organs, 7% fruit, veg & superfoods”). This is a good start. However, for pet parents who are meticulous about their pet’s diet, a full, independently verified nutritional analysis (e.g., protein, fat, fibre, moisture, ash, specific vitamins and minerals) for each individual product would be invaluable. While they state “Complete Meals that follow AAFCO & BARF Standard Ratios,” showing the actual breakdown for each product would be a significant step up in transparency and allow for more precise dietary planning, especially for pets with specific health conditions.

Refund and Return Policy Clarity Could Be Stronger

While there’s a Returns & Refunds Policy page, the specific conditions for returns of perishable goods, especially raw food, can be tricky. It’s crucial for consumers to understand exactly what qualifies for a refund or return when dealing with fresh, temperature-sensitive items. The policy mentions “damaged or incorrect items” and issues with “quality,” but the process for claiming a refund or return due to perceived quality issues with perishable items could be more explicitly detailed to avoid misunderstandings. For instance, what is the timeframe for reporting issues with fresh food that has been delivered?

No Clear “About Us” Page Highlighting Team or Company History

The About Us page is present, but it largely focuses on the company’s mission and philosophy rather than introducing the people behind the business or its founding story. In today’s market, consumers often connect more with brands that humanise themselves. Knowing the founders, their expertise in pet nutrition, or the journey of how Howlerpetfoods came to be could build a stronger emotional connection and further reinforce trust. It’s like meeting the chef instead of just reading the menu; it adds a layer of authenticity. Mycruises.com.au Review

Howlerpetfoods.com.au Alternatives

Since Howlerpetfoods.com.au deals with edible pet products and lacks explicit halal certification, for Muslim consumers, the most ethical and permissible alternative is to focus on non-edible pet care items. These products do not involve the consumption of animal products, thus circumventing the need for halal compliance in their manufacturing or ingredients. The following alternatives focus on general pet welfare, training, and comfort, ensuring that pet owners can provide for their animals in a manner consistent with ethical principles.

• Pet Grooming Tools and Accessories

  • Product: Andis ProClip AGC2 Super 2-Speed Detachable Blade Clipper
    • Key Features: Heavy-duty, quiet operation, cool-running smart design, suitable for all coat types.
    • Average Price: A$200-A$250
    • Pros: Professional-grade, durable, ideal for at-home grooming, reduces stress on pets.
    • Cons: High initial cost, requires proper blade maintenance.
  • Product: Safari De-matting Comb for Dogs
    • Key Features: Removes mats and tangles, sharp stainless steel blades, comfortable grip.
    • Average Price: A$15-A$25
    • Pros: Effective for tangled fur, essential for long-haired breeds, improves coat health.
    • Cons: Can pull hair if not used carefully, not suitable for very fine fur.

• Pet Training Aids

  

  • Product: Clicker Training Kit for Dogs
    • Key Features: Provides an audible marker for desired behaviours, includes wrist strap and training guide.
    • Average Price: A$10-A$20
    • Pros: Enhances communication with pets, effective for positive reinforcement, portable.
    • Cons: Requires consistent use and understanding of principles, not a standalone solution.
  • Product: Chuckit! Ultra Ball
    • Key Features: Durable rubber, high bounce, floats in water, compatible with Chuckit! launchers.
    • Average Price: A$10-A$15
    • Pros: Excellent for fetch, very tough, highly visible colours, provides good exercise.
    • Cons: Can get lost easily due to high bounce, some dogs might still chew through it eventually.

• Pet Travel and Safety Gear Splend.com.au Review

  • Product: Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness with Seatbelt Loop
    • Key Features: Crash-tested, five adjustment points, converts to a walking harness, includes a seatbelt tether.
    • Average Price: A$60-A$90
    • Pros: Enhances car safety, comfortable for travel, versatile for walks, durable construction.
    • Cons: Can be cumbersome to put on, sizing needs to be precise.
  • Product: RABBITGOO Dog Car Seat Cover
    • Key Features: Waterproof, non-slip, covers back seats completely, easy to install and clean.
    • Average Price: A$50-A$80
    • Pros: Protects car interior from dirt and scratches, keeps pets secure, easy to maintain.
    • Cons: Can be bulky, may not fit all car models perfectly.

• Interactive Pet Toys

  • Product: Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle Plush Dog Toy
    • Key Features: Soft plush squirrels hidden inside a plush tree trunk, encourages problem-solving and reduces boredom.
    • Average Price: A$20-A$30
    • Pros: Provides mental stimulation, fun for both pet and owner, durable for a plush toy.
    • Cons: Smaller dogs might tear it apart quickly, squirrels can get lost easily.

These alternatives offer a range of products that are beneficial for pet well-being and do not raise concerns regarding halal dietary compliance, making them suitable choices for all pet owners, including those who prioritise Islamic ethical considerations.

How to Cancel Howlerpetfoods.com.au Subscription

Cancelling a subscription with Howlerpetfoods.com.au seems straightforward, aligning with their stated commitment to flexible plans with “no lock-in” periods. This transparency is a good sign, as hidden cancellation processes can be a huge red flag for consumers. Based on common practices for online subscription services and information typically found on such websites, the process usually involves accessing your account portal or directly contacting customer service.

Navigating the Subscription Policy

The website has a dedicated Subscription Policy page. This is the first place to look for precise instructions. Generally, such policies outline the notice period required for cancellation (e.g., X days before the next billing cycle), any potential fees (though “no lock-in” implies none), and the methods available for cancellation. It’s always smart to read this policy carefully before signing up to avoid any surprises. You want to know the exit strategy before you commit, right?

Account Management Portal

Most online subscription services allow users to manage their subscriptions directly through their account. Kuvings.com.au Review

1. Log In: Go to the Howlerpetfoods.com.au website and log into your account using your registered email and password.
2. Locate “My Subscriptions” or “Manage Plan”: Once logged in, look for a section typically labelled “My Subscriptions,” “Manage My Plan,” or similar in your account dashboard.
3. Initiate Cancellation: Within this section, you should find options to modify, pause, or cancel your recurring orders. Follow the prompts to complete the cancellation process.
4. Confirmation: Always ensure you receive an email confirmation of your cancellation. If you don’t, it means the process might not have completed successfully, and you’ll need to follow up.

Contacting Customer Service

If for any reason you can’t cancel through your online account, or if you encounter issues, reaching out to customer service is the next step.

• Email: Send an email to [email protected] clearly stating your intention to cancel your subscription, including your account details (name, email used for subscription, order number if applicable).
• Phone: Call their customer service line at 03 5248 7066. Be prepared with your account information to expedite the process.

Key Takeaway: It’s always best to cancel before your next billing cycle to avoid being charged for an unwanted delivery. Check their Subscription Policy for specific deadlines related to your plan.

Howlerpetfoods.com.au Pricing

Understanding the pricing structure of a subscription-based service is crucial, and Howlerpetfoods.com.au provides insights into how they approach this. While exact product-specific prices aren’t immediately visible without navigating to individual product pages, the website hints at their pricing strategy through mentions of discounts, bulk options, and subscription models.

General Pricing Structure

Howlerpetfoods.com.au appears to operate on a tiered pricing model, common for pet food delivery services, where larger quantities or subscription commitments can lead to savings.

• “Free Shipping for orders over $100”: This is a direct incentive to encourage larger purchases, implying that individual items might be priced in a way that encourages reaching this threshold.
• “Pre-packed Monthly Bulk Boxes Available”: This suggests that buying in bulk, like their 15kg & 20kg monthly boxes, likely offers a lower per-kilogram price compared to smaller packs. This is standard practice in the food industry to reward bulk buying.
• “Flexible Weekly, Fortnightly or Monthly Plans”: While not explicitly stated as discounted, subscription models often come with inherent savings compared to one-off purchases, or at least ensure price consistency.

Discount Codes and Offers

The site prominently displays “Enter HOWLER10 for 10% OFF” and “Share and get 15% off!” promotions. These initial discounts are designed to attract new customers and reward referrals, providing an immediate cost-saving for first-time buyers. For example, a 10% off an initial order can make trying out their service more appealing, especially for higher-priced bulk items. Greatwaterfilters.com.au Review

Payment Flexibility

The availability of Afterpay, Zip Pay, and PayPal doesn’t directly affect the base price but allows customers to manage their payments more flexibly. Afterpay and Zip Pay, in particular, enable customers to split payments into interest-free instalments, which can make larger bulk orders more manageable financially, even if the total price remains the same. This is a significant factor for budget-conscious consumers in Australia.

Value Proposition

Howlerpetfoods.com.au positions its products as “Premium” and “Fresh & Natural Food,” implying a higher quality and potentially a higher price point than conventional kibble. The value proposition here is convenience, quality ingredients (locally sourced, no preservatives), and health benefits for pets. Pet parents often equate raw feeding with improved health outcomes, which can justify a higher price tag. Without specific price lists here, it’s hard to make a direct comparison, but the emphasis on fresh, natural ingredients typically aligns with premium pricing in the pet food market. It’s like investing in a high-quality ingredient for your own health—you often pay more for the good stuff.

Howlerpetfoods.com.au vs. Competitors

When evaluating Howlerpetfoods.com.au, it’s useful to stack it up against other players in the Australian raw pet food market. The landscape for raw pet food has grown significantly, with several companies vying for market share. Key differentiators typically revolve around sourcing, product range, delivery logistics, pricing, and customer service.

Key Competitors in Australia

Some notable competitors in the Australian raw pet food space include:

• Big Dog Pet Foods: A well-established brand offering a range of raw and frozen diets, known for their complete and balanced formulas. They have a strong retail presence in addition to online sales.
• Raw Essentials: Focuses on premium, human-grade ingredients, often with a strong emphasis on ethically sourced meats.
• ProDog Raw: A newer entrant, often focusing on convenience and balanced meal plans for different dog sizes and life stages.

How Howlerpetfoods.com.au Stacks Up

1. Product Range and Customisation: Brandhousedirect.com.au Review

• Howlerpetfoods.com.au: Offers BARF and PMR, plus individual components like plain mince and bones. The ability to “exclude any ingredient your pet may be allergic to” is a significant competitive edge, offering a level of customisation that isn’t universally available.
• Competitors: Many offer BARF and PMR, but bespoke meal customisation for allergies is less common. Most focus on standard formulas.

2. Sourcing and Transparency:

• Howlerpetfoods.com.au: Emphasises “locally sourced” and “organic raw ingredients,” with PrimeSafe accreditation. This indicates a commitment to quality and safety within Australia. However, the lack of explicit halal certification sets it apart from competitors who might offer such certification or whose product categories do not require it.
• Competitors: Often highlight human-grade ingredients, specific ethical farming practices (e.g., free-range, grass-fed), and often have various certifications depending on their scale and focus. Some might even specify country of origin for specific ingredients.

3. Delivery and Logistics:

• Howlerpetfoods.com.au: Offers direct-to-door delivery with specified windows and provision for unattended drops, which is convenient for busy Australians. Maximum 20kg per delivery.
• Competitors: Most raw pet food companies in Australia offer similar direct delivery services, often with regional variations. Some might have broader delivery networks or more flexible delivery scheduling.

4. Pricing and Value:

• Howlerpetfoods.com.au: Uses discounts, bulk boxes, and flexible payment options (Afterpay, Zip Pay). Their pricing is likely competitive within the premium raw food segment, aiming to balance quality with accessibility.
• Competitors: Pricing varies widely based on ingredient quality, organic status, and brand reputation. Some might be more budget-friendly, while others cater to a super-premium segment. The availability of instalment payment options is a growing trend but not universal.

5. Customer Engagement and Resources:

• Howlerpetfoods.com.au: Strong emphasis on educational resources (feeding guides, puppy transition, FAQs). Positive customer testimonials are prominently featured, building social proof.
• Competitors: Many also offer educational content, but the depth and accessibility can vary. Customer service responsiveness and community building (e.g., Facebook groups, online forums) also play a role.

In essence, Howlerpetfoods.com.au carves out a niche with its direct-to-consumer model, focus on flexible subscriptions, and the unique allergy exclusion feature. Its local sourcing and PrimeSafe accreditation are strong points for Australian consumers. However, for a Muslim consumer, the halal aspect remains a significant differentiator that sets it apart from general ethical considerations and would require direct inquiry. Grace.com.au Review

Ethical Considerations for Muslim Consumers

For Muslim consumers, the review of any product, especially food-related items, extends beyond general quality and safety to encompass specific Islamic dietary laws and ethical principles. When it comes to Howlerpetfoods.com.au, which deals with raw meat for pets, the primary concern revolves around the halal status of the animal products.

The Importance of Halal in Islam

Halal means permissible in Arabic, and it governs not only food but also other aspects of life. For meat, halal certification ensures that:

• The animal was slaughtered according to Islamic rites (Dhabihah), which involves a swift, clean cut to the throat while invoking Allah’s name, ensuring minimal suffering and complete drainage of blood.
• The animal was not from a forbidden source (e.g., pork, carnivorous animals, animals that died before slaughter).
• The meat has not been cross-contaminated with haram (forbidden) substances, like pork or alcohol, during processing, storage, or transport.

The absence of explicit halal certification on the Howlerpetfoods.com.au website means that for a Muslim consumer, purchasing their meat-based products for pets would be problematic. While pets are not subject to the same strict dietary laws as humans, the principle of avoiding haram substances, even for animals under one’s care, often extends to what one purchases and brings into the home. It’s about the integrity of the supply chain and supporting businesses that adhere to halal standards.

Broader Ethical Principles

Beyond halal, Islamic ethics also emphasise:

• Animal Welfare: Animals should be treated with kindness, not subjected to cruelty or unnecessary suffering. While Howlerpetfoods.com.au doesn’t explicitly detail their animal welfare standards beyond “locally sourced,” the concept of raw feeding generally aims for healthier, more natural diets for pets, which can align with welfare principles.
• Transparency and Honesty (Sidq): Businesses are expected to be transparent about their products, sourcing, and processes. While Howlerpetfoods.com.au provides good detail on ingredients and ratios, the lack of halal information for their meat products is a transparency gap for this specific consumer segment.
• Avoidance of Doubt (Shubha): In Islamic jurisprudence, if there is doubt about the permissibility of something, it is often best to avoid it. The absence of halal certification creates such doubt for Muslim consumers regarding the meat products.

Recommendations for Muslim Consumers

Given these considerations, Muslim consumers should: Eatiku.com.au Review

• Directly Inquire: Contact Howlerpetfoods.com.au customer service to ask specifically about their meat sourcing and whether any of their products are halal-certified or processed in a halal-compliant manner.
• Seek Halal-Certified Pet Food: If halal meat is a strict requirement for their pets, search for pet food brands that explicitly carry halal certification from a recognised Islamic authority. Such products exist, though they might be less common.
• Focus on Non-Meat Alternatives: If halal meat options are unavailable or unsatisfactory, consider supplementing a pet’s diet with non-meat halal components (e.g., halal vegetables, grains, or non-edible pet supplies like toys and grooming products) or exploring vegetarian/vegan pet food options if appropriate for the pet’s species and health needs (always consult a vet for dietary changes).
• Prioritise General Ethical Practices: Even if halal meat isn’t achievable, supporting companies that are transparent, treat their employees fairly, and source ingredients ethically (e.g., sustainable practices, humane treatment of animals where applicable for non-haram animals) can align with broader Islamic ethical principles.

For a Muslim, ethical consumption isn’t just a preference; it’s an integral part of their faith, extending to all aspects of life, including what they feed their beloved pets.

FAQ

What is Howlerpetfoods.com.au?

Howlerpetfoods.com.au is an Australian online retailer specialising in raw pet food for dogs, cats, and ferrets, offering various blends like BARF and PMR, as well as individual meat components and bones.

Is Howlerpetfoods.com.au a legitimate business?

Yes, based on the website’s information, Howlerpetfoods.com.au appears legitimate. They provide a physical address, contact details, and mention being an “Australian Registered Company” and “PrimeSafe Accredited.”

Does Howlerpetfoods.com.au offer halal pet food?

No, the website does not explicitly state that their meat products are halal-certified. Muslim consumers concerned about halal compliance would need to contact the company directly for clarification.

What types of raw pet food does Howlerpetfoods.com.au offer?

They offer Complete BARF Meals (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food), PMR Blends (Prey Model Raw), Plain Raw Mince, Raw Boxes of varying sizes, and individual bones and rolls. Snsnails.com.au Review

Can I customise my pet’s meal with Howlerpetfoods.com.au?

Yes, a notable feature is the option to “Leave us a note in the cart to exclude any ingredient your pet may be allergic to,” allowing for some customisation.

What are the delivery times for Howlerpetfoods.com.au?

Orders typically arrive within 3-5 business days fresh from their facility. Deliveries are made Monday-Friday (8 am-5 pm) and Saturday (9 am-5 pm).

What happens if I’m not home during delivery?

If you’re not home, your order will be placed in a safe spot in front of your door, as their products are delivered fresh and can last in the fridge.

Does Howlerpetfoods.com.au offer free shipping?

Yes, they offer free shipping for orders over $100.

What payment options are available on Howlerpetfoods.com.au?

They offer Afterpay, Zip Pay, and PayPal, providing flexible payment solutions for customers. Travelkon.com.au Review

How do I cancel my Howlerpetfoods.com.au subscription?

You can typically cancel your subscription through your online account portal by navigating to “My Subscriptions” or by contacting their customer service via email or phone.

Is there a lock-in contract for subscriptions?

No, Howlerpetfoods.com.au states they offer “Flexible Weekly, Fortnightly or Monthly Plans” with “no lock-in” periods.

Does Howlerpetfoods.com.au provide feeding guides?

Yes, they offer comprehensive resources including a Raw Feeding Guide, Puppy Feeding & Transition Guide, and a downloadable Puppy Feeding Brochure (PDF).

What is PrimeSafe Accreditation mentioned by Howlerpetfoods.com.au?

PrimeSafe is a Victorian government statutory authority responsible for regulating the safety of meat, poultry, and seafood in Victoria, Australia. Their accreditation indicates adherence to strict safety and quality standards.

Does Howlerpetfoods.com.au use preservatives or fillers?

No, the website explicitly states that their meals are “free from preservatives, additives & fillers” and use “Natural & Transparent” ingredients. Obble.com.au Review

What is the typical storage recommendation for Howlerpetfoods.com.au meals?

Their meals can last 6-7 days in the fridge and more than 2 months when frozen. They recommend freezing for storage longer than 6 days.

Are there discounts for new customers?

Yes, new customers can enter “HOWLER10” for 10% off their first order. They also offer a 15% discount for sharing products on social media.

Do they cater to cats and ferrets as well?

Yes, while their primary focus seems to be dogs, they also offer PMR Blends suitable for cats and ferrets, and specific products under their “Cat Products” section.

What is the maximum order size for delivery?

Howlerpetfoods.com.au delivers a maximum of 20kgs per order, catering to households with multiple pets.

Can I buy individual bones or treats from Howlerpetfoods.com.au?

Yes, they offer individual items like “Wild Roo Tail Bones,” “Premium Beef Chuck Bones,” and “Lamb Marrow Bones,” as well as “Sunny Bites” as supplements. Tpg.com.au Review

Does Howlerpetfoods.com.au offer wholesale or bulk programs for breeders?

Yes, they have a “Bulk Product Partnership” program, suggesting they cater to breeders or large-scale pet owners.