Raw Dog Food Vs. Processed Dog Food
Some dog owners believe the best diet for their pet is the processed food that contains the nutrients for a healthy diet. Those who believe dogs should be fed raw dog food claim it is their natural diet, therefore it must be best for them. When all is said and done, we must decide what we feel is best for our furry companions.
Processed products are made by combining meat, vegetables and other nutrients. They combined ingredients are thoroughly cooked and either dried to form pellets, or canned. They are adjusted to fill the age and breed requirements. A recent development has been that contaminated products were included in canned food, causing renal failure in some animals. An investigation uncovered wheat gluten that was tainted with melamine, a poisonous substance. The matter has been rectified and contaminated products removed from the shelves, but some people are still concerned about its safety.
The raw diet, in general, is based on what wolves prefer to eat. When their eating habits were studied, it was found that there were no animals, fish, bugs and few plants that they would not eat. The only four legged creatures they refused were toads.
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 regulations governing raw meat differs between what is to be eaten raw and those products purchased raw, but sold with the intent that it be cooked. These regulations also pertain to feed for dogs. Human meat, while fit for our consumption, is not fit for the raw diets for dogs.
The first step is to decide which raw diet you will provide for your pet. The vote is split between whole prey diets and a diet with a combination of raw meat, vegetables and supplements. Some owners even raise their own animals organically to be sure their dogs are eating the purest diets.
Regardless of the type you choose, introduce it slowly so your dog has time to adjust to the different diet. Switching to any type of diet suddenly can cause an upset stomach and diarrhea. Your pet will become used to the new diet over time. It is a good idea to provide different types of meat, since dogs become bored. But introduce the different meats slowly, so the digestive system can catch up. Some dogs are fed both raw and kibble, with no adverse effects.
Of course, the decision to feed processed or raw dog food is in the hands of the pet owner. That is who bears the responsibility for a healthy, happy pet. Your dog will love you no matter what your decision is. They will never stop believing that you are the best person in the whole world and that whatever you feed them is perfect.
Jamie is a pet health consultant who specializes in organic holistic dog food.
