Newest to the Healthy Attractions offerings, Bare’s Favorites—with individualized nutrition-packed meals made in small batches from ingredients sourced from local farms—is a canine wellness game-changer
By Patricia Nugent
In the spirit of New Year New You, most of us are rethinking our nutrition and health goals. But what about the optimal wellness of your canine companion?
After having spent 25 years in the health and wellness industry, certified life coach Heather Kuchar opened Healthy Attractions wellness coaching and yoga studio in Fairlawn in 2017 to help others transform their health and wellness.
When she and husband Ray welcomed their beloved English Labrador Baron “Bare” in 2020, she had no luck finding dog food that met her exacting standards. So she took it upon herself to research canine nutrition and start her own brand under the Healthy Attractions umbrella—Bare’s Favorites—with individualized nutrition-packed meals made in small batches from ingredients sourced from local farms.
When demand soared for the products, Heather had to devote more time to making them in the commercial kitchen she added to her home. She’s currently cooking four times as much food as when she launched the brand last year.
“Packed with vitamins, natural probiotics and organic ingredients, these formulations help canines achieve their optimal health,” she says. “After a consultation with the dog owner, I customize a meal plan to fit the age, size, breed and any health conditions of the dog. One of my most popular items is a beef bone Pupsicle stuffed with yummy things like pumpkin and cranberries, chicken and coconut water. Owners like to freeze them to create the perfect long-lasting treat. My dog food is literally better quality food than most people eat.”
Targeted nutrients Heather puts together boost the immune system, skin and coat, as well as heart and digestive functions of dogs.
You can order Bare’s Favorites online or pick them up directly at Healthy Attractions. Of course, the product line expanded this year when Bare welcomed a little brother, Bennett. Look for Benny Lee’s Farmhouse Treats to hit the market soon.
Expanding Her Reach
When it comes to her lifestyle coaching, Heather is expanding her footprint of wellness coaching by joining Heal.me, a national online directory for holistic healers.
As Heather transitions to telehealth coaching while still working with her existing clientele, the brick-and-mortar Healthy Attractions studio will be overseen by functional medicine specialist Dr. Kelly Gallagher. She will manage transformational, detox and self-discovery programs, as well as the beautifully appointed yoga studio.
Also at Healthy Attractions, you’ll find a collaborative group of spa and wellness experts, such as Sofiel by Peri Skin Care offered from local skin care expert Lisa Stewart; the Nails by Tammy studio, which specializes in a variety of spa manicures and pedicures by well-known nail tech Tammy Wintrow-Scott; and Bare’s Closet, a boutique carrying high-end canine accessories such as bejeweled collars and carrying cases.
The Transformational Journey Continues
Heather recently celebrated 10 years in remission from multiple sclerosis and five years of wedded bliss to husband Ray. She’s on a roll.
“I’m living proof,” she says. “I healed my own body through positive steps taken in diet, exercise and strengthening the mind-body connection. My passion lies in helping others do the same to become their healthiest self physically, emotionally and spiritually through transformation.”
With the holidays nearly here, I asked Heather for advice how to avoid overindulging.
“When you taste something, it should be a luxurious, sensual experience. Savor every texture and flavor,” she says. “Eat smaller portions and you’ll appreciate the food more. There should be gratitude in every bite.”
What’s Next?
Heather Kuchar’s next chapter dives deep into her spirituality.
“For many years I’ve been part of a prayer group,” she says. “Faith has always played a key role in my life. One of the other people in my group suggested I start writing down my prayers and thoughts. Though I’m Catholic, these musings would appeal to anyone of any faith who believes in a higher power. They are totally relatable.”
She plans to launch the series of prayer books in the first quarter of next year.
“Perfect for children through adults, the books will offer a platform of how to strengthen your communication and relationship with God,” she explains. “They will offer a roadmap of overcoming obstacles and finding inner strength. I feel that in these challenging times, we need prayer in our lives more than ever.”
Healthy Attractions is located at 2747 Crawfis Boulevard, Suites 205 and 206, in Fairlawn. For more information, call 330-962-8715 or visit HealthyAttractions.com. To schedule your initial Bare’s Favorite consultation and order food, go to BaresFavorite.com. To check out the new directory of holistic practitioners, visit Heal.me/heather/kuchar.