Raw Feeding: Some Simple Facts and Advice For You & Your Dog

Simple Facts and Advice About Raw Feeding

One of the most frequent concerns I hear from individuals who are not familiar with feeding dogs a raw based diet (meaning a diet based mainly on raw meat and raw bones) is a worry of bacterial infection, such as Salmonella or E.Coli. Having done extensive research on the topic of raw feeding before I decided to switch my own dogs to this type of diet, I feel the need to debunk some of the paranoia that society has about dogs consuming raw meat ?which is what they were designed to do!

Feeding raw is more time consuming. That is a fact. It抯 messier than scooping kibble out of a bag. It requires more research and planning. However I feel it is the absolute best diet I can feed my dogs, thus I believe all the effort is worth it. My pups look wonderful and receive comments about their coat and condition every time we go for a walk.

Physically, canines are built to process meat ?they抳e been doing so for thousands of years (long before commercial dog food companies existed!). The acids in their stomach are stronger than ours and their digestive tracts are short. This doesn抰 allow enough time for bacteria, such as Salmonella, to multiply and flourish within your dog.

Safe handling is a must when dealing with raw meat. However giving meat to your pet in a bowl is really no different than putting it in a container to marinate. I guarantee it will be gone faster when you give it to your dog! Here are some tips on how to keep things sanitary and safe if you plan on 揼oing raw?

• Children and individuals with compromised immune systems should avoid handling raw meat.
  
  
• Choose a designated area in which to feed your pet that is easy to clean up. Often raw feeders use a crate for mealtimes so they can control the area that is exposed to the food. You can easily wipe down the crate after a meal. Others incorporate the use of disposable mops (such as swiffers) in their daily routines.
  
  
• Thaw out only enough meat for 1 or 2 meals. Keep the rest of your stock of meat frozen.
  
  
• Wash your hands well and often! Use antibacterial soap and hot water.
  
  
• Wash all utensils used in preparing your dogs food right after you use them. I designate certain kitchen objects as dog specific.
  
  
• Give your dog a short time to eat his meal and then throw away any leftovers. Do not save them for later!
  
  
• Wash your dog抯 bowls with soap and hot water after he is done with each meal. Make sure you wash his water bowl once a day as well.

Note: Dogs with compromised immune systems should not be started on a raw diet. Their bodies may not be capable of handling the load of bacteria that are present in this type of diet. If your dog is ill and you are looking into alternative feeding options, you may consider cooking for your dog.