In a world where our opinions about what foods suit a pet’s nutritional needs are heavily influenced by the claims and advertisement of commercial food brands, it is no surprise that one may question the merits of a raw feeding regimen. As pet owners, questions are necessary as we all seek what’s in the best interest of companions, much like we do ourselves. Every dog is different, and there are various dietary options that may work for your dog. The focus of a raw diet is to maintain a diet that is consistent with a dog’s heritage and aligns more directly with what would be appropriate for the species in the wild. So we elected to analyze a few pros and cons of raw feeding to help decide why raw might be the best choice for you and your pet.
Benefits:
- Improved Health:
Pet owners who feed their dogs a raw diet and dog nutritionists alike have started to recognize the benefits of a raw diet for dogs. Many quickly see improved digestion and smaller stools, healthier coats and skin, better oral health, and an increased vitality in their companions.
- Controllability:
Buying and preparing raw meals gives increased control of what your dog ingests so that you to ensure it is meeting your dog’s nutritional needs, instead of feeding processed foods high in carbs. For those dogs with food allergies, home-made raw meals can be prepared to avoid foods that your dog is allergic to and give pet owners peace of mind once and for all! Beyond that, you can avoid the worry of recalls of major commercial brands and the headache that comes with ingredient labels.
- Reduced Vet Bills:
The prospect of feeding your dog a natural, balanced diet consistent with its ancestral heritage can reduce the amount of time and money pet owners spend at the vet trying to pinpoint food allergies or digestive issues. Furthermore, the health benefits of raw feeding help to prevent and improve the symptoms of diseases like diabetes.
- Overall Happiness in Eating:
Seeing your pooch leap at the bowl is as rewarding for pet owners as it is for pets. Raw feeding can improve a dog’s quality of life. Afterall, there's a reason why the main ingredients in kibble--because our dogs love meat! Thus, the enjoyment of devouring a meaty bone gives them moments to look forward to everyday
Risks:
- Raw Can Be More Expensive:
Depending on this size of your dog and the feeding regimen that you choose to implement, feeding a dog a raw diet of various meats and bones can be pricey. But with what you save in vet bills, I’d say it is still a win.
- Raw Meat Can Lead To Illness:
Raw meat can contain bacteria such as salmonella and e.coli that could cause illness to both your pet and your family if you do not handle it appropriately. In order for you to ensure everyone is safe and healthy as possible, careful handling and storage away from all human food is imperative. Illness can also come without contact with raw meat directly, if in the instance that your dog becomes sick and passes along any pathogens in its poop and you come in contact with it.
- Time Consumption:
The processes of planning and preparing meals for your pet, in addition to having to store them in a readily accessible space don’t match the ease and convenience of scooping kibble out of a bag. Furthermore, the process of acquiring raw meals that are comprised a variety of meats, bones, vitamins, and minerals can require purchasing food from suppliers beyond your local supermarket. Having to seek out or purchase from an online supplier can demand a bit more patience, yet the health benefits compensate for this over your dog’s lifetime.
- Safety:
Giving your dog bones can pose a safety hazard. It is always important never to feed your dog large chunks nor cooked bones which can splinter and injure its organs. Beyond being careful with bones, it is also an owner's responsibility to maintain a balanced diet as not being careful can lead to weight managment and nutrient deficiencies.
Feeding your dog raw may not necessarily be a right or wrong decision, as what's right may vary among different pets and owners. Evaluating your individual circumstances and your dog's needs, then doing the proper reseach will ultimately determine what's best. It is just important to remember that the number one factor is serving meals that meet their nutritional needs.
