Anyone who’s spoken to a nutritionist about their own diet and health has probably heard that eating uncooked vegetables is better than eating those foods cooked. A raw green bean is better for you than a steamed or boiled green bean.

It’s true because, pretty simply, cooking any food take some to most of the nutrients and vitamins out of the food. If you were forced to eat green beans, wouldn’t you want them to at least provide you the maximum nutritional benefit?

The truth is cooking green beans causes them to lose 30 percent of their potassium, iron and magnesium, and 20 percent of their vitamin C content. (That’s all good stuff and you shouldn’t sacrifice any of it.)

So that begs the question – if dogs are man’s best friend, why don’t we feed our best friend the best available diet? 

The simple truth is that raw dog food is the best available diet for our pets. The perceived risks of raw pet food are counterbalanced by dogs’ own biology. They have stronger stomachs than humans do so the risk of raw food for our dogs is greatly exaggerated.

Before we look at pet food, let’s also discuss meat.  Those who eat meat like it cooked to different degrees – rare to well done. While cooking meat has a minimal effect on nutritional value, meat cooked until it’s well done contains more potential carcinogens called heterocyclic amines (HCAs) than meat cooked for a shorter time.

When meat is barbecued, grilled, fried or broiled HCAs are formed when amino acids (the building blocks of protein) and creatine (a natural compound found in muscle meats) react at high temperatures. In lab animals, HCAs have been shown to cause colon tumors. In people, a heavy intake of certain HCAs has been linked with a higher risk of colon polyps.

We don’t want to say that kibble causes cancer, but we do believe it can take months, or years, off the life of your pet.  Consider that the average kibble contains 47 ingredients.  And the average raw pet food contains about 7 ingredients. Which seems safer, more logical?  Let’s look at the specifics about raw food. Raw food for your dog contains the following benefits:

• It more closely mirrors the evolutionary diet of wolves and wild dogs;
• Dogs are carnivores designed to consume raw meat and bones;
• Raw food is higher in enzymes, vitamin and minerals than cooked foods (see beans, green)
• Improved skin and coat;
• Reduced ear infections;
• Improved breath;
• Fewer, less bulky, better smelling stools;
• Increased energy levels
• Reduced cases of chronic diseases;
• Better immune function and overall optimum health.

Some context is required here. There are generally 8 leading veterinary schools in the United States. Without exception, they are sponsored by – and their nutrition classes are often taught by representatives of – the three leading kibble companies. So even before our promising minds become veterinarians, they are conditioned to believe that raw food is a threat to the health of pets.

That fear, bluntly, is misplaced.  The pet food industry is held to higher guidelines than humans are, for example, to raw chicken meat. We all know if you touch raw chicken you should immediately wash your hands. You don’t want to contract any germs that could make you ill, particularly to Salmonella.

The same is true for raw pet food.  You should, and you must, wash your hands after touching it. And doing so should eliminate the perceived risk of raw pet food.

Remember the stomach of a dog is much stronger than the stomach of a human. Think about what wolves eat – the meat of recently, and not so recently, dead animals. Domesticated dogs have a slightly different tolerance, which is why the better raw pet food companies include the proper balance of meat, vegetables and bone to provide the safest and most nutritious formula available to your best friend.

According a recent survey, over 52 percent of dogs are either overweight or obese; that equals 50 million dogs in need of a better diet. Almost 90 percent of dog owners feed their dog kibble and over half our dogs are overweight. “Big Kibble” can cause several health problems, ranging from arthritis to skin irritations to allergies to heart disease. Providing your dog an appropriate nutritional plan can add years to his or her life. Raw dog food provides the critical nutrients required for a healthy lifestyle and can reverse obesity in dogs.  Consider that raw dog food:

• Contains about 1/3 of carbs compared to dry kibble;
• Offers more than 50 percent more protein;
• Includes, on average, 7 ingredients compared to more than 47 for most kibble brands;
• Features vegetables that contain significant nutrients for pets.

Once you know the objective facts, you must at least consider the issue of raw food, or at least lightly cooked food, for your dog. Remember the green beans and feed your dog accordingly.

Brandine Strand is an avid life-long dog mom & entrepreneur, passionate about holistic health & natural medicine. In 2018, she founded Cali Raw Nutrition, a premium raw dog food company that ships human-grade, complete & balanced, life-stage specific meals straight to your door. Brandine is dedicated to making it easy for dog lovers to provide optimal nutrition for the enhanced health & longevity of their dogs.

From a healthier coat, to improved digestive health, to fresher breath, the benefits of feeding a raw food diet to your dog abound.

But as with most of life’s transitions, the process of changing your dog’s diet to a raw one can be tricky — especially if you are transitioning to a raw food from dry, processed kibble. 

When it comes to introducing your dog to raw foods, there is no perfect way for all pets. The best approach may depend on your dog’s age, former diet, digestive system sensitivity, and other factors. Rather than going cold turkey, try mixing raw food with your dog’s kibble gradually. We recommend switching from a processed diet to a raw food one slowly — ideally over the course of 7 to 14 days.

We’ve outlined the basic steps to a complication-free transition process to raw dog food below. Depending on how quickly your dog adjusts, each step may take between three to five days. 

• Step 1: Begin by feeding your dog a blend of 20 percent raw food and 80 percent kibble. Continue for three to five days and keep an eye on the condition of your dog’s stool.

• Step 2: If your dog’s stool is mostly firm, you can move on to the next step: 50 percent raw food, 50 percent kibble. Continue this step for three to five days, making sure to monitor your pet’s stool. If your dog is experiencing diarrhea, do not proceed to the next step until the diarrhea has ceased or you talk to your vet.

• Step 3: If your dog is ready to proceed to step three, you can try feeding her a mix of 80 percent raw and 20 percent kibble for another three to five days.

• Step 4: If all is well, you can move on to the final step and switch to a 100 percent raw food diet.

Throughout these steps, it is normal to see a change in consistency in your pet’s stool — though you should talk to your vet if your dog experiences diarrhea for more than a few days. Your pup may experience temporary tummy aches and soft stool as her system gets used to their new diet, in addition to changes in how frequently she goes to the bathroom. At the end of the transition process, your dog should have smaller, firmer stools due to the lack of fillers and foreign ingredients in her new diet.

4 Tips to Keep in Mind

Raw food diets are what nature intended for our canines to eat, but it is possible to run into complications due to human error during the transition process. Here are 4 tips to make the switch to raw as smooth as possible for your pooch:

1. Start out with a single protein.

No matter how gradual the transition, the switch from dry, processed kibble to raw food will come as a slight surprise to your dog’s system. If your dog starts to feel uncomfortable after being introduced to raw foods, she may become hesitant to eat. Sticking to a single protein source — such as turkey or chicken — will give your dog’s body more time to get used to the adjustment. You can try introducing new meats into your dog’s daily meals after a month or two.

2. Serve meals on an empty stomach.

If you have an adult dog, try feeding her only once every 12 hours to give her time to build up appetite and detoxify her system. If your dog is allowed to become hungry, she will be more eager to chow down on her next raw food meal. Note that this method should only be used with older dogs — puppies less than 12 months old need to be fed two to four times per day.

3. Serve room temperature on a plate.

You can enhance the appeal of your pet’s new food by serving meals at room temperature. Allow refrigerated raw foods to warm up for 30 minutes before serving.

Similarly, you can encourage your dog to eat by helping her see what she is eating. Instead of serving raw food in a deep bowl, try dishing it onto a plate so she knows what she is getting.

4. Keep calm.

Your dog may try to win attention and/or treats by refusing to eat. Try to avoid reacting, as showing concern can signal to a dog that her bad behaviors are working. If you remain calm and hold your ground, your dog will realize you mean business and decide to eat her new food rather than get nothing at all. Remember — every dog is different, so there is no one-size-fits-all approach to transition your pet to a raw diet. Use these guidelines as a basis, but feel free to adjust the process as needed. Staying positive will encourage your dog to adopt the same attitude. And the end result — a happier, healthier dog — will ensure the transition process has been well worth your effort.

Brandine Strand is an avid life-long dog mom & entrepreneur, passionate about holistic health & natural medicine. In 2018, she founded Cali Raw Nutrition, a premium raw dog food company that ships human-grade, complete & balanced, life-stage specific meals straight to your door. Brandine is dedicated to making it easy for dog lovers to provide optimal nutrition for the enhanced health & longevity of their dogs.

When it comes to pet food, however, there are numerous factors to consider, including the environmental impact of commercially produced kibble.

Today, there is a widespread misconception that so-called “people food” is bad for dogs, and some people food is indeed bad for dogs. Yet for thousands of years, dogs ate alongside their human companions, and our diets were extremely similar. Until the mid-1800s, the average dog’s diet consisted primarily of raw meat and table scraps. Food made exclusively for pets first emerged in England in 1860, developed by electrician named James Spratt. Called Spratt’s Meat Fibrine Dog Cakes, these early dog biscuits were costly and primarily marketed to high-income pet owners. 

Spratt took his business overseas to America in the 1870s, and the commercial dog food market soon exploded. The first canned dog food was introduced in 1922 and was made of horse meat. And by 1941, more than 50,000 horses were slaughtered annually for use in dog food. While the pet food industry fortunately no longer uses horse meat in its products, it is in the realm of meat production where we see the greatest environmental impact from pet food. 

Scientists have determined that the pet food industry carries a significant carbon footprint. In fact, a 2017 study found that the diets of dogs and cats in the U.S. alone constitute “about 25–30% of the environmental impacts from animal production in terms of the use of land, water, fossil fuel, phosphate, and biocides.” So what can eco-conscious pet owners do to help reduce those numbers? 

Climate Change and the Pet Food Industry

First, it’s important that pet owners understand the magnitude of the current global climate crisis. The last four years have been the hottest ever recorded, fueling environmental disasters such as rising sea levels and poor air quality. Climate change also poses a notable public health threat. 

Global malnutrition and food insecurity are rampant worldwide, and climate change is compounding the issues. Food prices are climbing as fewer resources such as land and fresh water are available for food production and agriculture. Thus, public health professionals are looking for ways to bolster food reserves on a global level, as well as implementing agricultural methods that are sustainable and practical.

Within the pet food industry, this means finding alternative sources of meat that are more sustainable, but pet owners can do their part as well. It’s essential that every pet owner who wants to reduce his or her carbon footprint find an alternative pet dietary option that’s both environmentally friendly and provides the nutrients pets require to stay healthy. Locally sourced pet foods help make a positive impact on the environment, or you can opt to feed your dog a raw food or vegetarian diet. Non-traditional pet diets have their downsides, however.

Changing Your Pet’s Diet to Help the Environment

Most dog owners are aware of how a dietary change can affect their furry companion. Changing or rotating your dog’s diet can cause a variety of health issues, including skin allergies, gastro-intestinal disorders, and even heart problems. But the majority of symptoms stemming from a diet change are short-lived, and you can better alleviate the unpleasant side effects by implementing a gradual change.

But what type of dietary change should you make if you want to help reduce your carbon footprint? For many pet owners, a raw food diet may provide a solution that’s both environmentally friendly and healthy. While the raw food diet for pets has seen its share of controversy since being introduced 1993, its proponents claim that the diet has numerous benefits. 

For starters, raw food diets eliminate the need for food processing altogether. Processed foods have a much higher carbon footprint than raw foods, thanks to wasteful packaging and air pollution from the production process itself. Your dog may see additional benefits from a raw food diet as well, such as healthier skin, a shinier coat, and increased energy levels. 

Keep in mind that, with a raw food diet, ensuring that your pet eats a balanced diet is in your hands. There are also several mistakes you should avoid when switching your dog to a raw food diet. Never mix raw food with dog kibble, for example, and go easy on the supplements you add to the raw food mix.

Uniting Environmental Activism with Pet Ownership

Dogs are such an important aspect of our life that many of us would do anything for our furry companions. For instance, data indicates that more than 33% of dog owners would give up a job opportunity for their pet, and a whopping 61% said the same in regards to ending a relationship. So shouldn’t more dog owners be willing to help reduce the effects of climate change for the sake of their dog’s health as well?

By switching to a raw food diet or taking other steps to help reduce your carbon footprint, you can help cultivate a healthier environment for humans and dogs alike. And the changes you make to your dog’s diet offer significant environmental benefits, especially where greenhouse gases are concerned: Research shows that the amount of methane and nitrous oxide released in the pet food production process is equivalent to driving 13.6 million cars for a year. Curbing those numbers by making sustainable dog food choices can make a huge difference in the overall health of the planet.

Jori Hamilton is a writer from the pacific northwest. You can follow her on twitter @Jori Hamilton and see more of her work at writerjorihamilton.contently.com.

The FDA collected two samples of raw pet food manufactured by Bravo Packing, Inc. (Performance Dog and a beef variety) during a routine inspection of the manufacturing facility in Carneys Point, NJ. The sample of Performance Dog raw pet food lot 072219 tested positive for Salmonella and L. mono. The sample of the beef raw pet food tested positive for Salmonella, but the product had not yet been distributed.

This is the second time Bravo Packing, Inc. product has tested positive for pathogen contamination. In September 2018, Bravo Packing, Inc. recalled all Performance Dog frozen raw pet food due to Salmonella. Also, during a 2016 inspection, the FDA collected samples of Bravo Packing, Inc. horse meat chunk animal food that tested positive for the drugs pentobarbital and phenytoin.

The FDA is advising the public about Performance Dog raw pet food because this product represents a serious threat to human and animal health. Because retail packaging is not printed with lot code information, FDA is cautioning about all Performance Dog raw pet food purchased after July 22, 2019.

Which products are involved?

Bravo Packing, Inc. Performance Dog products are sold frozen in two-pound plastic pouches. Lot codes are printed on the outside of the boxes used to distribute the product, but the lot codes are not printed on the individual sealed plastic pouches, also known as chubs. Therefore, there are no unique identification numbers on the individual chubs that would allow customers to verify whether their product belongs to the affected lot.

If you have Performance Dog raw pet food that you purchased after July 22, 2019, or you are uncertain of the date of purchase, and you cannot determine the lot code, FDA recommends that you exercise caution and throw the product away.

What should customers do?

If you have any of the affected product, stop feeding it to your pets and throw it away in a secure container where other animals, including wildlife, cannot access it.

Consumers who have had this product in their homes should clean refrigerators/freezers where the product was stored and clean and disinfect all bowls, utensils, food prep surfaces, pet bedding, toys, floors, and any other surfaces that the food or pet may have had contact with. Because animals can shed the bacteria in the feces when they have bowel movements, it’s particularly important to clean up the animal’s feces in yards or parks where people or other animals may become exposed, in addition to cleaning items in the home. Consumers should thoroughly wash their hands after handling the affected product or cleaning up potentially contaminated items and surfaces.

In an effort to give that choice back to pet parents, ANSWERS™ Pet Food is taking a stand against the FDA.

“Regulators are destroying your freedom of choice by eliminating the option of raw or minimally processed commercial pet food. Your right to purchase and feed raw or minimally processed pet food manufactured by small family and independent companies is being eroded by big business and government.“

ANSWERS™ Pet Food has filed a Declaratory Judgment Complaint and is seeking Injunctive Relief against the FDA in the United States Colorado District Court. The complaint challenges the lawfulness of the FDA’s actions, with cooperation provided by various members of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), by adopting a nationwide, zero tolerance standard for Salmonella in pet food that is noncompliant with federal law, unsupported by science, and beyond the FDA’s scope of power as delegated by Congress.

In the complaint, the alleged extensive FDA regulatory abuse is explained. ANSWERS™ asserts the FDA is unlawfully targeting the raw pet food industry, seeking to eradicate true, raw food from the marketplace through discriminatory and selective behavior. The FDA has been open in their bias against the commercial raw pet food industry, despite the fact that the majority of reported illnesses and deaths occur in connection with the feeding of cooked and heavily processed commercial pet foods. The FDA has chosen to define when a product is adulterated without following federal law and without proper science.  The FDA has government regulators attempting to make raw and minimally processed food appear dangerous, when science has proven that animal health actually benefits from minimally processed pet foods.

While the United States Department of Agriculture (U.S.D.A) permits allowable quantities of Salmonella in human food, the FDA who regulates pet food, rather than following federal law as set forth by the federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FD&C ACT), has instead adopted an unsustainable, zero tolerance standard for Salmonella presence in pet food, based on a “Non- Binding” Compliance Policy Guide (CPG). FDA guidance policies do not establish legally enforceable responsibilities, yet the adopted, supposedly nonbinding CPG has the FDA taking enforcement actions against manufacturers and imposes obligations upon the manufacturer creating legal consequences flowing from it.

The FD&C Act defines when a product is adulterated. It requires in addition to several other steps a suspected harmful substance be quantified, and a Health Hazard Evaluation be performed to determine if the product ordinarily renders it injurious to health. Currently the FDA does not follow the law for the more than 2,500 strains of Salmonella, most of which do not cause illness, but does quantify other contaminants such as aflatoxin in dry pet food, creating allowable tolerances. The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) grants the FDA authority to mandate a recall, but only after following the FD&C Act.

A report published in 2007, “FDA Science and Mission at Risk”, cited the FDA couldn’t fulfill its mission due to such issues as: a weak scientific organizational base and structure, with insufficient capacity and capability, and an inadequate information technology infrastructure. Using the CPG is easy and inexpensive to quote, but expensive for the public to present meaningful science to challenge these guides and deprives persons their due process and right to participate in regulation. As a result, the FDA, AAFCO and participating states are deciding what the public can and should feed their pets based on administrative policy views, not science or the law- taking away the public’s freedom of food choice.

In addition to the filings, ANSWERS™ launched a comprehensive campaign, “Freedom to Feed”, where the public was able to get involved to sign a petition and learn more.

Puppy parents have their own set of troubles. Taking care of your dog’s diets and feeding them the right things can be very stressful. After all, the usual, kibble-based diets that we’ve been feeding them for years aren’t exactly ideal. Kibble is pretty much always high in carbs, starch, preservatives and all kinds of processed ingredients.

Canines are natural meat-eaters and they don’t get any benefit from this carb-rich diet. Their digestive systems can’t digest the carbs and starches. That’s where raw feeding comes in. It is our attempt to provide our beloved pups with food their body was designed to digest. It is fresh, all natural and nutrient-rich diet, but it can get messy really quick.

We are here for the raw feeding movement, but it is important that you avoid these mistakes to ensure the health and longevity of your pets.

1. Thinking Raw is Nothing More Than Ground Beef
Some dog parents believe that giving their pets ground chicken or beef will get the job done and provide all the nutrients. Nothing could be farther from the truth.

There are several paths you can go down when raw feeding your pet dogs. It is a commonly held belief that they need 10% liver/offal in their diets, along with 10% bone and 80% muscle meat. This is a great starting point. Later on, you can just adjust this raw food diet for dogs depending on your furry ball’s individual needs. Some dogs are better off with more bone in their food, and other will need lesser organ meat. Follow their lead.

That clean, fat-free ground beef isn’t doing anything for your dog.

2. Mixing Raw Meat with Kibble

Now, in theory, it may sound like a great idea to mix the two together. But in reality, this will be a disaster because it will mess up their digestive system making your dog sick in the long run.

There are several reasons raw and kibble shouldn’t even be in the same meal, let alone in the same bowl. But this one is quite possibly the strongest reason: There’s research that suggests that raw digests a lot faster than kibble. So, if the two are mixed together, raw food will just hang around in the digestive tract longer, decomposing and going bad, because it is mixed in with the slower digesting kibble. This can mess up the pH balance in the tummy and lead to digestive issues.

3. Thinking All Raw Bones are Safe for Feeding

For many of us, raw feeding is an adventure, that ends up with a broken tooth, or worse, hospital visits for the dog.

The raw diet requires raw edible bone that can be chewed easily. This includes raw meaty bones such as ribs, feet, neck, tails, and wings. These bones are soft enough to be eaten and digested, without damaging the teeth or digestive systems of your pets. Bones in raw diets provide calcium and other necessary nutrition and play a role in firming up their stool.

Larger and giant dog breeds should be fed larger cuts of bones to prevent choking hazards. While smaller raw meaty bones can be given to smaller dogs who do not have the tendencies to gulp their foods whole.

And finally, don’t count on what other dogs are being fed. Each dog is different, so experiment with whole quails to duck wings and all the way to lamb heads, and figure out what’s right for your dog.

4. Adding too Many Supplements

If you are raw feeding the right way, i.e. including enough meaty bones and organ meat and a variety of vegetables, you don’t really need to supplement. So, you don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars on synthetic vitamins and minerals for your dog.

And even if you suspect a dietary imbalance, try to supplement the natural way. adding ground egg shells and oyster shells to the diet can help make up for calcium. A dash of fish oil can provide the essential omega-3 fatty acids. But if your dog isn’t getting enough veggies, or you just want to add more nutritional value to their food, you can supplement in careful measure.

5. Mixing Way Too Many Proteins in A Meal

Mixing too many proteins can be tough on the pup’s tummy. So, keep it one protein to a meal. This means not mixing different proteins in one mealtime. Remember it is important to include all kinds of meat in your dog’s diet. If you are worried about mercury poisoning in dogs, there are ways to feed your dog raw fish (e.g. sardines) without endangering their health. But do it one protein a meal so you swap in a different meat every day. This is especially important when you are just starting out on the raw diet.

The Last Word: Raw Feeding Is A Great Step Towards A Healthier Pet!

Raw feeding is more than just swinging leftover bones at your dog in the back garden twice a week. It is a healthier diet, i.e. a better lifestyle for your dog and you. And that’s why consistency is key. Make sure your dog gets a balanced diet and isn’t fed too much raw in one sitting.

If your dog is suffering from constipation or has a crumbly poo, you can have a boneless meat day a week, along with some liver, heart, and kidney in the diet for the day.

Remember, if you are including a variety of veggies and enough meaty bones and organ meat in their diet you absolutely don’t have to supplement and spend thousands of dollars on synthetic stuff. Just remember to be careful with the hygiene. Be as clean and proper as you are when making food for your human companions.

And finally, before making any major dietary changes, consult a veterinarian. They can help you better gauge the dietary needs of your dog and make the right decision when it comes to feeding them a healthy, all-natural diet.

As someone who has been feeding my pets a raw diet for many years, I have witnessed first-hand the improvements in health, vitality and behavior they experienced simply by switching their diet to raw.

I was at my wits end with Nelson. When I adopted him from the SPCA he came with a horrible case of diarrhea. His vet diagnosed him with IBD and prescribed special diets and medication. Nothing helped. After months of getting nowhere with his treatment, a friend suggested I try feeding him a raw diet and explained how she’d had success with her cat who had the same problem.

The decision to go raw was not easy for me. I was, simply put, terrified. I’d heard the warnings about salmonella, worms, choking on bones, et al. My veterinarian, whose lobby is stocked to the ceiling with Science Diet, was not on board. I spent countless hours researching, joining forums, talking to people who had success with raw diet before I finally took the plunge.

I purchased a bag of Nature’s Variety frozen raw food from my local pet store, thinking, “They’ve already done the work for me. It’s a balanced meal. It can’t hurt to try it.”

Nelson gobbled it up as if it was the meal he’d been waiting his entire life for. Within 24 hours, much to my surprise and probably his, Nelson took the first solid poop he’d had in months. Yes, the results were that fast and I was converted.

In addition to Nelson’s obvious health improvement, within days I started noticing he was more active – with energy that I’d not ever seen in him. His skin and coat were looking healthier, he played harder and slept better at night. Within weeks, his physical appearance had changed. He was more muscular and sleek. Even my vet couldn’t discount the improvement in Nelson and he finally said, “keep doing what you’re doing!”

By this time, I was converting all of my dogs and cats to the raw diet and was seeing similar improvements in all of them. Some, like Nelson, were very easy to switch to raw. Others were a little more difficult to make the switch. You see, raw food doesn’t have an odor. It isn’t sprayed with animal fat to make it enticing to eat. It isn’t loaded with addicting carbs. Many of my critters would give me a confused look when I put a plate of raw food down in front of them. They didn’t realize it was food! My girl, Mandy, was especially reluctant to give up her kibble. I can look back and laugh now, because today she is my very best raw eater. Mandy will chew through whole raw bones now!

I look back on the days when I was stressing out about switching to a raw diet and think how silly I was. Ironically, I never once stressed over feeding my pets kibble – and how many pets have died since the 2007 recalls from kibble? Thousands. Yet we fear feeding them a raw diet. Why?

For one, we are concerned with bacteria contamination & Salmonella. Do you realize, all the 2012 Diamond Pet Food recalls that affected some 14 premium brands of dry and canned pet food were due to Salmonella? This is not a raw diet problem. What’s more, animal experts remind us that the canine intestinal tract is adapted to handle meats that have been contaminated with bacteria. Dogs have a shorter intestinal tract and a shorter digestive time and higher acid in the stomach. When combined with proper handling and washing hands, the risk is very low.

Some warn that parasites may exist in raw food. However, pre-freezing meats will eliminate some parasites. In the 5 years I’ve been feeding raw diet, I have not had any incidence of parasites in my pets.

It’s an incomplete diet. This was my biggest fear when switching to raw. It’s the reason I bought commercially made raw food – because the manufacturers did the work to balance it for me. I wanted to be sure my pets were getting the proper vitamins, minerals and nutrients they needed. And, after a year of buying commercial raw food, when I was much more comfortable with the concept, I started making it myself to save money. Since then, I’ve had complete blood and urine analysis done on all of my pets and they all pass with flying colors!

My raw fed pets have fresh breath, clean white teeth, small and odorless poop, muscular bodies, and increased energy. They make less trips to the veterinarian because they have few (if any) health problems. And they are fed for less cost than premium canned food. How many of us can honestly say this about our pets?

I’m not writing this to convince pet parents to stop feeding commercial dog food. In fact, I believe there are some great commercial foods available. What we feed is our choice. If you’re considering it, know that choosing to feed raw will put you in conflict with many vets and pet owners. When I saw the benefits in my own home and understood they far outweighed any risks, I became a raw diet feeder for life.

Bringing a new puppy into your home means taking responsibility for making sure they have everything they need for healthy development. While vaccinations and proper training are important, it is your pet’s diet that plays the biggest role in their long-term health. Today, many puppy lovers are advocating for feeding a raw food diet that allows for more control over what goes into a growing dog’s mouth. While keeping things natural does offer benefits for your dog, it is also important to be aware of the drawbacks of a raw food diet. To help you make your decision, here is what you should know about both sides of the debate in giving raw foods to your dog.

Pro: Reduced Exposure to Chemicals

Recent recalls of commercial dog food has led to more awareness about what goes into the products. Puppy parents often have the same concerns about the unnecessary exposure to chemicals as parents of newborn babies. Although this argument is valid, it is important to note that you can also purchase natural dog food from commercial manufacturers that provide full-disclosure regarding the ingredients in their food.

Con: Potential for Food Contamination

While it may seem as though making your dog food is safer than relying upon a company, you should be aware that mistakes can still be made. Cross-contamination is a common issue in every kitchen, and your dog is susceptible to food-borne illnesses that can become life-threatening. If you do choose to make your own dog food, be prepared to maintain a strict code of hygiene in your kitchen, and learn how to properly store dog food to reduce the risk of contributing to the growth of bacteria.

Pro: Improve Their Health

Raw food diets provide you with greater flexibility for meeting your puppy’s nutritional needs. For example, you can learn what to feed them to boost their immune system when they are ill, and you can make adjustments to the diet to accommodate your dog’s changing health as they age. Dogs that eat properly planned raw food diets can enjoy the same benefits dogs get from commercially prepared foods such as shiny coats and greater energy.

Con: There’s a Learning Curve

Unfortunately, some people jump into raw food diets without fully understanding what a dog needs to stay healthy. For example, when only feeding meat to your dog, it poses the risk of missing other critical vitamins and minerals that naturally come from vegetables and grains. While your dog needs more than meat, there is also a risk of making them sick by feeding them foods that are not safe for canines such as grapes or garlic. For this reason, you will need to be prepared to do careful research while working with your pet’s veterinarian to ensure that your diet doesn’t do more harm than good.

Choosing the best diet for your pet is important for their health, and it is important to remember that every dog is different. Even in the same household, diets can vary drastically between two different dogs due to their age or state of health. Whichever diet you choose, be sure to start it slowly and watch your pet carefully for signs that it is helping or causing them distress. By paying attention to your dog’s cues, you can make sure that the food you give them promotes greater well-being.

Golden Meadows Retrievers is a top flight Golden Retriever and Vizsla breeding program located in Southern California. The Golden Retriever and Vizsla puppies are surrounded by love and personal attention from day one. In fact, Golden Meadows is also a family home, beautifully designed with the dogs and pups in mind. From spacious, lush play yards, to on-site training and a dedicated staff providing socializing from birth to help ensure that owners get the sweetest addition to their family.

Kidney problems are becoming more common in dogs today than what they used to be. Just like in humans, dogs who have kidney problems have difficulty in regulating the waste product in their body since the organ no longer functions as it should. There are certain signs that can help you tell if your dog has a kidney problem.

If you notice that your dog is loitering around the water bowl all day and asks to go out to urinate more often, this should be taken as a warning sign. In serious cases, your dog’s kidney function will decline since his body would retain nitrogen acid, ammonia, and other waste materials that should have been excreted by the kidney.

Given how serious your dog’s condition is, it is necessary to place your canine on a certain diet.

Kibbles Are a No-No

If your dog is having problems with its kidney, the last thing that you would want to do is to feed it with kibbles. Although there are some dog foods that contain high-quality protein, most of these commercial foods for dogs are loaded with low-quality protein. This is the main reason why vets recommend that dogs suffering from kidney problems shift to a raw food diet.

Although you still have to pay attention to the amount of protein in your dog’s diet, it is easier to assess your canine’s nutritional needs if you are feeding with raw food. Even if you are used to using an automatic pet feeder to deliver your dog’s favorite food, you should try your hand at feeding your canine with raw food if you want it to live longer.

Aside from its protein content, kibbles also tend to have a lower water content compared to raw food. Water in kibbles is only about 15 to 20 percent while in raw food it is from 80 to 85 percent. A fresh diet is better for your dog as it can save your pet from getting dehydrated.

Aside from that, there are many preservatives and additives in those dog kibbles that could make your dog’s kidney condition worse. Although there are dog foods with specific formulations, you can never know what is inside those kibbles even if there is a nutritional content table in the bag. After all, commercial dog food companies will always put their interests first not your pets.

Highly Digestible Proteins

When you are aware that your canine is suffering from a kidney disease, you have to make it easier for their digestive system to cope with their inability to eliminate waste effectively. One way to do that is to choose food that contains highly digestible proteins.

This means that you should not feed your dog with anything that comes with artificial ingredients.  Grains are also not recommended for dogs with kidney problems although there are many canines that have allergic reactions to grain and any product that contains gluten.

In most cases, your dog’s diet may have a lower protein content than you are used to since it will be difficult for their kidney to digest protein. However, there are different schools of thought on this issue as there are some dog owners who claim that a raw diet that contains several protein sources is the best diet for a dog with kidney complaints.

Among the most recommended protein sources for dogs with kidney problems are eggs. Dogs will find this easier on their kidney. There’s also proof that poultry is a better choice compared to red meat. If you ever think that your pet would like to have dairy in its diet, you need to make sure that it is unpasteurized.

Vitamins and Minerals

In dogs with kidney issues, it is still vital to look for vitamins and minerals that will not make their condition worse. You may also want to consider adding fish oil to your dog’s diet.

Among the things that you can add to your dog’s diet is fish oil and other food products that are rich in Omega-3. This fatty acid is popular for making the progression of the disease much slower. This may be helpful to your dog and it could help them cope with the changes that come with kidney disease.

All of these things are worth considering if you have a dog with a kidney disease. Proper nutrition should never be compromised even if your dog is having problems with its kidney. In fact, it is during this time that you need to be stricter with the kind of food that your canine is consuming.

Proper attention to your dog’s diet is a must in this case. Regular trips to the vet are also needed to make sure that your dog remains healthy.

Did your dog ever suffer from a kidney disease? Tell us about what happened to your pet and how you dealt with the changes in its diet. Be sure to share this and encourage more dog owners to feed raw food for dogs with kidney problems.

My name is Diana Hutchinson. I am the founder of Tinpaw.com.
I am a pet lover, especially dogs and cats.   “A home without a pet is just a house”.

According to the American Veterinary Dental College, “Periodontal disease is the most common clinical condition occurring in adult dogs and cats, and is entirely preventable.“ They go on to explain that most often, BAD BREATH is the only sign of periodontal disease in dogs until the disease progresses to where it becomes a serious health concern.

Hiding behind that seemingly harmless stinky puppy breath lurks a disease that can lead to pain, tooth loss, organ damage and even death.

In nature, dog’s would naturally be protected from periodontal disease by their diets. Wild dogs would rely on catching and eating prey animals as the main ingredient in their diet, and the act of catching and eating raw food would naturally clean any plaque on their teeth- warding off periodontal disease.

But today’s dogs don’t hunt their meals and the majority don’t even eat a raw diet- they eat dog kibble. And if you REALLY knew what was in that commercial dog kibble, you’d not only be disgusted, you’d probably be very, very angry.

Loving Pet Parent Prepares Wholesome Food for Beloved Dog

Imagine this:

You put on your apron and step over your dog sleeping in a warm ray of sunshine coming in your kitchen window as you gather the ingredients to make him a nice nutritious meal.

You’ve purchased organic vegetables and free-ranging, organic, meats and organs specially for this meal.

But when you read the fine print, you discover the meat is not only non-organic, it’s not even from the right animal.

You thought you purchased bison and salmon, but you’re really getting chicken- and something called chicken meal at that. It doesn’t look like meat and it surely doesn’t taste like meat.

There’s also a sticker that says, “This meat-like product has been stored in an unsanitary warehouse infested with rats and birds, and is likely to contain ‘droppings’.” The labeling goes on to explain that in order to get the meat-like substance to stick together in a “pleasing patty shape” it’s been injected with various chemicals and a few preservatives to extend its shelf life.

The final insult is when you see this bonus instruction, “For best results, feed with packaging included for added flavor and freshness.”

Disgusted, you turn to those organic wholesome vegetables you bought for your pup. But you tear into those packages expecting to reveal ripe organic veggies, but only succeed in flinging a strange powdery substance all over your kitchen. It turns out you actually bought powdered vegetables, not real veggies.

Outraged that you wasted good money on “top-dollar” organic foods for your dog, you can’t believe such a deceptive market exists. But it does. It’s called the commercial pet food industry- and they deceive pet parents everyday with commercial dog kibbles.

The More You Know...

You wouldn’t knowingly put all those disgusting and non-nutritive substances into a big pot and feed it to your dog every day of his life- but you do exactly that when you feed your dog commercial dry kibble.

Not only do those disgusting and non-nutritious ingredients put your dog’s health at risk by depriving him of essential nutrients and infusing his body with known cancer-causing substances, it adversely affects his dental health.

Remember that article from the American Veterinary Dental College that explains periodontal disease in dogs? It goes on to describe how periodontitis occurs:

“Periodontal disease begins when bacteria in the mouth form a substance called plaque that sticks to the surface of the teeth. Subsequently, minerals in the saliva harden the plaque into dental calculus (tartar), which is firmly attached to the teeth. Tartar above the gum line is obvious to many owners, but is not of itself the cause of disease.

The real problem develops as plaque and calculus spread under the gum line. Bacteria in this ‘sub-gingival’ plaque set in motion a cycle of damage to the supporting tissues around the tooth, eventually leading to loss of the tooth. Bacteria under the gum line secrete toxins, which contribute to the tissue damage if untreated. These bacteria also stimulate the animal’s immune system. The initial changes cause white blood cells and inflammatory chemical signals to move into the periodontal space (between the gum or bone and the tooth). The function of the white blood cells is to destroy the bacterial invaders, but chemicals released by the overwhelmed white blood cells cause damage to the supporting tissues of the tooth. Instead of helping the problem, the patient’s own protective system actually worsens the disease when there is severe build-up of plaque and tartar.”

Plaque builds up on your dog’s teeth, spreads below the gum line, and breeds bacteria until your dog’s own immune system destroys his gums and teeth in an effort to get rid of the hard, sticky substance.

Have you figured out where all that plaque comes from? You guessed it- your dog’s food.

Have you ever noticed how thirsty your dog is during and after mealtimes? When you feed him kibble, he instinctively knows he needs to wash it down and rinse his mouth to help rid it of gunky processed dog food. Pour a little water on some kibble as an experiment to simulate saliva and watch what happens to it. Imagine trying to swallow that sticky paste. I get a lump in my throat just thinking about it!

If you brushed your dog’s teeth after every kibble meal, his teeth would probably be mostly plaque-free, but I’m betting most people don’t brush their dog’s teeth everyday, or even every week, right? Instead, that sticky kibble-paste clings to your dog’s teeth and leads to excessive amounts of plaque.

Making a Change for the Better

But now that you know what’s really going on with your dog’s mouth, you can make a few changes starting today for a healthier, happier fur-baby.

1. STOP feeding him commercial kibble
2. Feed him a raw foods, species appropriate diet, like nature intended
3. Make regular dental care a part of your dog’s grooming routine

Even if you decide a raw diet isn’t right for you and commit to cooking meals for you dog instead of feeding him kibble, it’s far better than feeding him commercial pet foods. You can research raw dog food recipes or purchase a ready made raw dog food like TruDog’s FEED ME. Freeze-dried raw dog food provides convenience and nutrition without the mess and hassle.

When you feed your dog a raw diet, you’ll notice significantly less plaque buildup in your dog’s mouth. Have your veterinarian check your dog’s mouth at his yearly check-up to see if a dental cleaning is necessary. Regular professional cleanings will keep your dog’s mouth free of periodontal disease.

You can also extend the amount of time between required professional cleanings by using TruDog’s SPRAY ME. This natural, pleasant tasting spray binds with your dog’s saliva to help remove plaque in between teeth and in those hard-to-reach places. It’s also a great way to freshen up your dog’s breath any time. We use it every day after meals with an extra spray when she picks up something gross (like the cat box treasures) or when she’s going out to socialize with people- because no one likes to be greeted by nasty puppy breath.

Each week, we’ll present the nominees in a particular category. And, YOU, our readers, will have an opportunity to weigh-in on your favorites, to help us choose a winner!

Nominees from each category for the Dogington Post Award have been selected based on strict criteria including dedication to animal health and welfare, providing the very best quality ingredients, and dedication to improving the lives of our dogs.

This week, we’re presenting the nominees for Best Raw Dog Food!

With a raw diet, as important as what’s IN the food is what’s left OUT of it. We only nominated brands that are free of preservatives, hormones, antibiotics, unhealthy grains and fillers, choosing only brands that provide wholesome, natural, whole raw foods for our pets.

Dogington Post’s Best Raw Dog Food nominees are:

1. Stella & Chewy’s

On the advice of her veterinarian, Marie Moody, the founder and president of Stella & Chewy’s began feeding her ailing dog with a raw meat diet at home. After vast improvements in Chewy’s health and vitality, Marie sought to make a commercially available product as good as what she was making at home.

Stella & Chewy’s natural raw dinners are available in a variety of mouthwatering flavors like Stella’s Super Beef, Chewy’s Chicken, Duck Duck Goose, Dandy Lamb, Surf ‘N Turf, and more in both frozen and dehydrated versions. With an ingredient list that reads like your own healthy grocery list, Stella & Chewy’s uses only naturally-raised meats from USDA-inspected facilities, organic fruits and veggies, and healthful probiotics, essential vitamins, and minerals. They leave out all the stuff your dog doesn’t need, like grains, fillers, preservatives, and colorings.

What’s more, Stella & Chewy’s makes feeding raw more convenient than ever before with already-portioned disks – just thaw and feed! Or, if you’re feeding raw on-the-go, grab a pouch of their freeze-dried food and just add water. In addition to providing top-notch nutrition for our dogs, Stella & Chewy’s is dedicated to pet welfare and the humane treatment of animals through a myriad of charitable donations.

To learn more about Stella & Chewy’s or to learn where to buy, visit www.stellaandchewys.com.

2. Darwin’s Natural Pet Products

Veterinarian developed and lab-tested to meet and exceed AAFCO guidelines, Darwin’s Natural Pet Products’ mission is to help dog owners provide the best nutrition for healthier, longer lives for their pets. They achieve that mission by providing a convenient and affordable way to feed healthy, raw, grain-free meals. Only USDA-inspected human-grade meats and farm fresh vegetables go into their diets. No grains, no additives, and no unnecessary fillers. Darwin’s delivers all the benefits of a raw diet with the convenience that busy pet owners appreciate.

One of dog owners’ biggest obstacles when choosing to feed raw is the cost. Darwin’s sells their food direct-to-consumer, at wholesale prices, to enable more pet owners to afford a commercial raw food diet. Plus, selling direct to consumers allows for the shortest time between the farm and your dog’s bowl, while ingredients are at their freshest. They make it easy for you by delivering direct to your home, on your schedule, tailored to your dog’s individual needs. With meals like Chicken, Duck, Turkey, Beef and Bison, you’re sure to find a flavor your furkid will love!

To learn more about Darwin’s Natural Pet Products, visit www.DarwinsPet.com.

3. ANSWERS Pet Food

The team at ANSWERS Pet Food consists of members with a combined 50 plus years of experience in the raw pet food industry. Taking a scientific approach to pet nutrition, they developed one of the best raw food products on the market. ANSWERS’ mission is to be more than a pet food company, but rather, an ethical, social, and environmentally conscious movement in the raw pet food industry.

A leader in the raw pet food category, ANSWERS has created new forms of raw food as diverse and unique as our dogs, including nibble size to sausage links, patties, and pounders. They currently offer three raw formulas: Chicken, Beef and Pork in complete diets or limited ingredient diets for dogs with allergies. Choose from their Straight formulas containing only meat, organs, and bones; or their Detailed full ingredient recipes that also include eggs, veggies, fish oil, and other essential nutrients.

ANSWERS also offers cartons of frozen raw goat’s milk for dogs. Goat’s milk enhances your pet’s diet and is great for fussy eaters. We can vouch for this – our dogs LOVE their goat’s milk!  And, because ANSWERS Pet Food is committed to protecting the environment, their foods are packaged in recyclable cartons.

For more information about ANSWERS Pet Foods or to find out where to buy it, visit www.answerspetfood.com.

To vote for YOUR favorite raw dog food, leave a comment with your choice below!

The Dog Guide assembled this short list of simple facts and advice for starting your dog on a raw diet.

Fast Facts And Quick Tips For Feeding Your Dog A Raw Diet

One of the most frequent concerns I hear from individuals who are not familiar with feeding dogs a raw based diet (meaning a diet based mainly on raw meat and raw bones) is a worry of bacterial infection, such as Salmonella or E.Coli. Having done extensive research on the topic of raw feeding before I decided to switch my own dogs to this type of diet, I feel the need to debunk some of the paranoia that society has about dogs consuming raw meat – which is what they were designed to do!

Feeding raw is more time consuming. That is a fact. It’s messier than scooping kibble out of a bag. It requires more research and planning. However I feel it is the absolute best diet I can feed my dogs, thus I believe all the effort is worth it. My pups look wonderful and receive comments about their coat and condition every time we go for a walk.

Physically, canines are built to process meat – they’ve been doing so for thousands of years (long before commercial dog food companies existed!). The acids in their stomach are stronger than ours and their digestive tracts are short. This doesn’t allow enough time for bacteria, such as Salmonella, to multiply and flourish within your dog.

Safe handling is a must when dealing with raw meat. However giving meat to your pet in a bowl is really no different than putting it in a container to marinate. I guarantee it will be gone faster when you give it to your dog! Here are some tips on how to keep things sanitary and safe if you plan on “going raw”:

• Children and individuals with compromised immune systems should avoid handling raw meat.
• Choose a designated area in which to feed your pet that is easy to clean up. Often raw feeders use a crate for mealtimes so they can control the area that is exposed to the food. You can easily wipe down the crate after a meal. Others incorporate the use of disposable mops (such as swiffers) in their daily routines.
• Thaw out only enough meat for 1 or 2 meals. Keep the rest of your stock of meat frozen.
• Wash your hands well and often! Use antibacterial soap and hot water.
• Wash all utensils used in preparing your dogs food right after you use them. I designate certain kitchen objects as dog specific.
• Give your dog a short time to eat his meal and then throw away any leftovers. Do not save them for later!
• Wash your dog’s bowls with soap and hot water after he is done with each meal. Make sure you wash his water bowl once a day as well.

Note: Dogs with compromised immune systems should not be started on a raw diet. Their bodies may not be capable of handling the load of bacteria that are present in this type of diet. If your dog is ill and you are looking into alternative feeding options, you may consider cooking for your dog.

Learn more from The Dog Guide here. It’s our responsibility as dog owners to feed our pets a healthy, nutritious diet. Whether that means feeding your dog a raw diet, or finding a suitable kibble, arming yourself with the facts is the first big step in the right direction. Tell us, do you feed your dog a raw diet? Do you have any other fast facts or quick tips for our readers? Share them with us below!