5 Element Food Therapy began with heartbreak—and a decision.
When my dog Hoochie, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, I was told she may have around 60 days. I remember the feeling clearly: wanting more time, but also wanting whatever time we had to feel as good as it could. So I did what love makes you do—I learned everything I could, asked better questions, and partnered closely with my veterinarian. I started paying attention to every ingredient, every pattern, every small change. Not chasing miracles—just trying to support her, day by day, with intention.
Food became our daily ritual. A way to show care. A way to stay present.
And while every pet’s journey is different, I will always be grateful for what we experienced: instead of the timeline we feared, Hoochie and I shared nine more months of happiness —months filled with moments I still cherish.
That season changed me. It changed how I saw nutrition, and how I understood the power of consistency, simplicity, and thoughtful choices. I didn’t want to start “just another pet food company.” I wanted something built with purpose—something that reflected the way I had learned to care: calmly, deliberately, and with respect for the whole body.
Inspired by the Five Elements philosophy—where well-being is about balance, not extremes—5 Element Food Therapy was born. We create recipes with a clear “why” behind every choice, using functional ingredients to support everyday vitality and help dogs feel their best.
We don’t believe a bowl should be an afterthought.
We believe it can be a daily act of care.
To their health ~ Sharon
Dr. Anne Reed
Veterinarian

I earned an undergraduate degree from Mills College in 1994, and graduated from U.C. Davis Veterinary School in 1998. In 2000, I became certified in veterinary acupuncture through the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society.
My practice, All Paws Holistic Veterinary Clinic in Point Richmond, is focused on Herbal Medicine and Traditional Chinese Food Therapy. It has been amazing to watch how effective nutrition and Chinese Medicine is for treating so many types of chronic illnesses. Treating these illnesses is also a difficult thing for clients to do for their pets – cooking is time intensive and sometimes ingredients are hard to find. When Sharon approached me about recipes for pet food that tastes great and has therapeutic benefits, I jumped at the chance to help make a product that was easy, high quality and provided what my patients needed in a yummy form. I am thrilled to be a part of 5 Element Food Therapy!