As requested, I'm starting this thread to answer some questions about "raw feeding" pets.
Let me start out with this:
I raw feed my dog except for when we travel. There are a couple reasons for this.
1.)More Natural Diet
It just makes sense. A dog (or cat) is a carnivore, descended from the great carnivore bloodlines. Their bodies require high amounts of protein. Raw feeding mimics that natural diet that they would be eating had they not been domesticated. They are not designed to eat all the processed crap that is put into modern dog foods, (i.e.: wheat, gluten, grains, etc). WHen's the last time you watched a wolf scarf down some flippin' corn?
As a result, if raw feeding correctly, you will notice a large big difference in their health and fitness levels. For example, my dog's coat, is shiner than when she was on dry food. She has more lean muscle, and cleaner energy. Her teeth are white, compared to having brown stained teeth from the crap in the dry food. And she really doesn't smell like a dog.....
2.) Financial
If done correctly, raw feeding is much more economical. While you can chose to feed any type of meat you want, I feed my dog a lot of chicken. Backs, necks, and organ meat. This generally averages out to somewhere between $.39/lb to $.50 per pound. Occasionally, I throw in some venison, fish, squirrel, or something else. I just stay away from pork, for the same reasons a person shouldn't eat raw pork- parasites. Beef, not so much. They dont digest it that well.
Compare that with a "good" dry food. When travelling, I feed "Taste of the Wild" found at tractor supply. It's one of the better dry foods out there, and has a lot of meat in it for a base. Downside is it is around $2/lb.
Personally, I choose to feed my dog the way that's going to benefit her the best. She's my PTSD dog as well as an Urban Search and Rescue working dog, so I'd like for her to be around for a good long while and be at the top of her game.
3.) SHTF
Think about it for a second.... if SHTF what did you plan on feeding the pets anyway? Probably whatever you hunt/ kill, right? MIght as well have their systems adapted for raw meat to begin with.
There are a lot of misconceptions out there regarding raw food.
No, It doesn't turn them into vicious beasts.
Yes, they can eat the bones raw....(even chicken!)....and it's safe. Cooked bones are what cause a health hazard- they splinter.
Vets are mixed on the subject. I suggest this has to do with losing money since the dogs only come in if something serious is going on......
What else can I elaborate on?
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