Hello! Today I wanted to talk about the myths of raw feeding. As I was at my store Saturday, I once again was reminded how many people still don’t know about feeding raw foods to our pets. People are surprised that feeding raw can be an option for them. As we talk about it, they start to understand that feeding raw can be a healthier alternative to what they are feeding and become curious themselves. But once they become interested, they don’t know what to do next. First, I’ll debunk some of the myths surrounding feeding raw foods to our pets. Stay tuned to my next blog on some tips to get started on feeding raw.
This information is from an article in Dogs Naturally Magazine:
Feeding raw food is dangerous because of salmonella and other bacteria. Dogs and cats have highly acidic stomachs and digestive enzymes that can help them process salmonella without getting sick. We, on the other hand, do not have these strong acids and need to use safe cooking practices when preparing raw foods. Just like when you prepare meat for yourself, don’t cross contaminate utensils, wash hands, surfaces, etc with warm soapy water, and refrigerate or freeze the meats to keep from spoiling.
Many veterinarians also do not agree with feeding raw foods to pets. Many of you know I collaborate with Sheppard Alternative Animal Care, and have discussed nutrition and feeding raw with Dr. Sheppard, Melissa and staff. Dr. Sheppard himself has said that in veterinarian school, he only had one seminar on nutrition throughout his entire veterinarian training! Most veterinarians get their instruction from pet food representatives that want to promote or sell their foods at their offices. Therefore, the information they receive is often biased. Or, some, like Dr. Sheppard, take it upon themselves to learn about nutrition and apply it in practice.
Also, many raw feeders do not feed balanced diets, which can lead to deficiencies in your pet’s diet. You do have to make sure you provide variety and the proper nutrients in your pet’s diets. An unbalanced diet over time can be worse than many of the pet foods you may be avoiding now.
I do provide consultations and seminars on raw feeding to help you get started or to make sure your recipes are balanced. Just go on my webpage and book a consult or come to a seminar on the basics of home feeding. I’m happy to help you learn how to start feeding raw or even cooked diets to your pets!
Health and Happiness Begin with Food
Feed Healthy. Feed Fresh. Feed Raw.