The Raw Dog Food Controversy
02 Sep 2008
As consumers become more aware of some of the problems associated with feeding their dogs commercially prepared and processed dog food a growing number of them according to Jeanne Huff of the Idaho Statesman are feeding their dogs in the raw (The food that is) including raw meats, fruits and vegetables.
She quotes Rich and Debbie Bennett owners of a new company called In The Raw: “We feel that people who have dogs with bad breath, tarter build-up, allergies, skin problems or other more serious issues such as diabetes, arthritis, obesity, heart disease, cancer, kidney and liver disease – problems which never existed until commercial dog food became the norm in the 1920’s – would greatly benefit from In the Raw,”
Besides that fact that dog’s ancestors use to eat this way in the wild, raw dog food proponents point to the benefits of switching to a raw diet including a more energetic dog, the elimination of fillers that often cause allergic reactions or illness, reduced problems with arthritis, better weight control, reduced number of bowel movements, less gas, less pet odor, shinier coats and cleaner teeth.
Critics (including some vets) complain about the potential for bacteria such as E-coli and salmonella, but proponants state that these types of bacteria are found “in your fridge, your sink, on your floor, in your backyard, in your car, down at the park, and perhaps in your bed! Interestingly, the only cases I have heard of dogs and cats dying from e-coli or salmonella, were dogs fed commercial dog foods.”
“Keep in mind that vets are told very little about pet diet at university. In fact, in some universities, reps from the pet food companies, come and do presentations on pet diet, as part of the curriculum. Many vets get their education on nutritiion by pet food reps. And many vets make a lot of money by retailing pet foods.”
The potential problem is more of a concern for the dog owner since human digestive systems are not as robust as our dog’s, so it is important to be careful when feeding your dog raw meats by washing your hands thoroughly after feeding your pet, just as you would after cutting meat while preparing your own meals.
Another concern is dogs choking on bones. Proponents claim that this is a myth. “Raw chicken bones are fantastic for your dog or cat. They are soft enough so that they bend easily, and break well for the pet to digest. On the other hand, cooked chicken bones can be a problem, and I recommend that you DON’T feed COOKED chicken bones.”
Some people are worried about their dog or cat choking on bones. While such incidents are very rare (far more incidents occur with dogs and cats choking on kibble), I encourage the feeding of bigger portions of meaty bones, or if available, whole carcasses, such as whole chickens or rabbits.”
Rick L. http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.jsp?articleId=281474977430849
Another negative is the messiness factor. It is important to clean up after cutting meat and clean the dogs bowl as well as the dogs mouth and beard before letting him nuzzle anything.
Though there is more and more evidence stacking up against the use of many commercial dog foods one thing is for sure. This subject will remain controversial for some time to come.
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