|
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 food has meat and vegetable products, and is designed to provide nutrients determined correct for the age and breed of dog. It has gotten a lot of bad press recently, because contaminated products have been recalled. For those who have watched their beloved pets dig up and eat moldy bones covered in dirt, the possibility of harmful processed tidbits seems unlikely. But it can happen. Reports of renal failure alerted officials to investigate. The problem was wet product that included wheat gluten tainted with melamine, a chemical similar in structure to cyanide. 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 bacteria limits for raw meat differs between meat that will be consumed raw and that intended to be consumed after it has been cooked. There is no differentiation in requirements for human or dog raw meat. Some pet owners might end up thinking about doing their grocery shopping at the pet store, since the meat has fewer bacteria. 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. As always, the final decision is in your hands. You are responsible for the health and happiness of your pets. Regardless of your final choice, whether processed or raw dog food, your dog will love you and think that whatever you put into the bowl is the most wonderful thing in the world. Jamie is a family pet health professional who specializes in healthy, raw dog foods. .
Related Articles -
raw dog food, pets, dogs,
| 
