There are many conflicting views about whether we should feed dogs raw dog food. Proponents claim that it is the closest to their natural diet, therefore it must be the best type for them. Opponents believe that processed fare includes all of the nutrients for a well rounded, healthy diet. The official verdict is still out, but in the end, it is our decision, as caregivers for our pets, to feed them what we feel is best.
Processed food has meat and vegetable products, and is designed to provide nutrients determined correct for the age and breed of dog. It has gotten a lot of bad press recently, because contaminated products have been recalled. For those who have watched their beloved pets dig up and eat moldy bones covered in dirt, the possibility of harmful processed tidbits seems unlikely. But it can happen. Reports of renal failure alerted officials to investigate. The problem was wet product that included wheat gluten tainted with melamine, a chemical similar in structure to cyanide.
In an effort to protect pets, some pro raw people have decided to choose a more natural diet and opt to avoid processed ingredients altogether. They believe that dogs should have the same diet as their distant relatives, wolves. Wolves prefer to consume hoofed animals, but have been documented eating almost anything except toads, so they have a diverse diet.
Those who support processed diets are concerned that uncooked meat can carry deadly organisms. Research was done on the bacteria found on meats in pet stores and grocery stores. The meet in pet stores was deemed to have much lower levels of bacteria.
The bacteria limits for raw meat differs between meat that will be consumed raw and that intended to be consumed after it has been cooked. There is no differentiation in requirements for human or dog raw meat. Some pet owners might end up thinking about doing their grocery shopping at the pet store, since the meat has fewer bacteria.
There are different types of raw diets and each type has a following. The two main options are whole prey diets, where the whole animal is fed to the dog. The other is a combination of raw meat and vegetables, with added supplements. Some owners choose to raise their own feed animals to make sure their dogs are getting healthy feed.
Whenever you change the products you feed your dog, it is important to do so slowly. Their systems can be sensitive and take time to adjust to new nutrients. Symptoms of changing diets too fast include diarrhea and an upset stomach. Whatever diet you use, dogs become bored with the same diet all the time, so introduce a little variety. Some dogs can eat almost any mixture with no adverse effects.
As always, the final decision is in your hands. You are responsible for the health and happiness of your pets. Regardless of your final choice, whether processed or raw dog food, your dog will love you and think that whatever you put into the bowl is the most wonderful thing in the world.
Jamie is a canine health guru who specializes in natural pet foods. .
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