Raw feeding may cost more upfront, but in the long run it could save money thanks to lower vet bills.
After each meal it is crucial that hands and surfaces are washed thoroughly with soapy water and disinfected using 10-15% vinegar solution; this same process is employed when sanitizing human foods like juice, salsa and baby formula.
Contents
Health Benefits
Many believe that adopting a raw diet leads to improved skin and coat condition, more energy levels, cleaner teeth and reduced digestive issues; however, until more comprehensive research has been conducted these claims remain mere speculations.
While raw feeding poses some risks (bacterial infections for owners handling the food), proper hygiene and freezing or cooking the meat will minimize these risks. It’s also essential that only quality manufacturers provide raw food; cheap supermarket meat may contain more bacteria.
Studies have also demonstrated that dogs fed a pure raw meat diet have healthier and more diverse faecal bacteria communities than those eating commercial kibble. A suitable commercial raw food should contain all necessary nutritional elements with an ideal calcium to phosphorus ratio for maximum performance.
Weight Loss
Raw diets have grown increasingly popular and are now sold in some pet stores. They can be homemade, store-bought or freeze-dried and typically include muscle meat, whole bones and organs as well as dog-safe vegetables and fruit along with raw eggs and a dairy product such as yogurt.
Advocates of raw diets maintain that these food sources more closely mimic what their wild ancestors would have eaten, which in turn can bring benefits such as healthier skin, brighter coats, less tartar build-up in dental health (fewer tartar build-up) and increased energy for dogs. Furthermore, proponents claim reduced shedding rates and overall improved health benefits from transitioning.
Keep in mind that many reputable raw pet food manufacturers follow stringent guidelines and must test for pathogens in their food products. In addition, these manufacturers belong to the Pet Food Manufacturers Association which requires them to meet higher standards than legal minimums to be considered safe.
Skin & Coat
Raw diets provide fresh meat proteins which are easily digested, giving your pet access to high levels of bioavailable proteins, essential fatty acids and an abundance of essential vitamins and minerals that support their immune systems.
Studies show that dogs fed raw diets tend to have healthier and shinier coats. The inclusion of healthy fats promotes coat health by preventing dandruff and improving skin elasticity, benefiting their coat as a whole.
Raw diets also accelerate your pet’s digestive process, meaning they are better able to take in immune-boosting nutrients while producing less waste (poop). This may reduce bloating, constipation and gas. Furthermore, many owners have noted their pets becoming more playful and active after making the switch; likely due to an increase in Omega-3 fatty acids which help with joint mobility issues.
Mobility
Raw feeding has grown increasingly popular over time with more pet owners opting to provide their canines and felines with raw food diets. You can now find commercially prepared raw food in most pet shops.
Diets that focus on fats and proteins rather than carbohydrates have been shown to provide consistent energy without sudden spikes, thus decreasing strain on organs and systems.
Raw diets have long been touted to benefit dogs’ coats and skin health, digestion and immune system function – including aiding muscle toning/definition/weight management. Furthermore, they are known for supporting joint and bone health through crushed edible bones that contain calcium, phosphorus, glucosamine chondroitin collagen. A well-balanced raw diet should include muscle meat organs bones vegetables to ensure dogs thrive!
