What Is The Raw Food Diet For Dogs
<p>The raw food diet for dogs has become a popular idea among pet owners. It started through Ian Billinghurst-an Australian veterinarian who sought to adapt the way racing greyhounds as well as sled dogs feed to domesticated pets such as dogs and even cats. He said that commercialized foods are generally bad for a dog’s health because it isn’t natural.
Through this diet, around 80% would be devoted to feeding dogs with actual raw meat and bones. But it should be noted that there are only identified types of meat that should be used. These are from chicken, beef, lamb, and fish only. The same goes for feeding bones wherein chicken and lamb are the two recommended sources.
Aside from this type of meat, internal organs are also recommended as part of the raw food diet for dogs. Among the internal organs that can be a good source of protein and iron are liver, kidneys, and even the heart of the animals from the meat groups mentioned above.
Apparently, there has been a lot of talk too about the positive effects of eating raw food among dogs. Owners say that most of the benefits are seen physically. They say their dogs start to have even more shinier coats after they eat raw meals and they are also finally blessed with better skin.
Despite of all these, there is still some debate surrounding this new phenomenon. Some experts are not keen to accept that this raw food diet for dogs really is as effective as some people vouch for that it is.
The biggest negative impact that experts say is that the raw food diet for dogs is a source of bacteria-both for the pets and humans. They fear that bacteria like salmonella might get easily transferred because of the raw meat that is being handled and fed to the dogs.
Aside from this, feeding raw bones have also been a concern from some experts. They say that this practice might still be dangerous for dogs because they could end up eating splinters of bones and also puncturing their internal organs in the process. They also say that this might lead to breaking the pets’ teeth as well.
Because of all the mix reviews still surrounding raw food diet for dogs, it would be best if you can consult your vet first before you try this out. At least you would know if your dog can even handle the sudden change in his diet.
Jamie is a canine health specialist who specializes in feeding raw dog food.
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