Raw Natural Food

You’ve probably heard it a thousand times, “Don’t give your pet people food!” That saying is true when you’re talking about processed foods with unnecessary ingredients. However, raw, natural food is making a comeback for premium pet owners. Here are some tips:

• Know What They Can Eat
  For example, dogs shouldn’t have chocolate no matter how raw or natural it is. As a matter of fact, the more natural it is, the more dangerous it can be. However, dogs can usually enjoy plain foods like chicken, carrots, blueberries, etc. Giving them a chicken bone is dangerous because of the way it can shatter or cut. Be careful not to assume chicken hasn’t already been injected with sodium for flavor (the case with most frozen chicken breasts, etc.)

• Watch Their Digestive System
  Nothing is messier than a pet eating something that doesn’t agree with its stomach. Some foods simply won’t agree with them (natural or otherwise). When you are testing new foods, take your time and track what happens. If it leads to unhealthy stools or nausea, it’s probably not a good choice for your furry friend.
• Ask Your Vet
  Raw meats can be hit or miss. Some pets handle raw meats better than others. Make sure you consult with your vet or a trusted online resource before experimenting with this. Just because a food is raw and natural doesn’t mean it’s healthy for your specific pet. Time Magazine notes, “Studies have also shown that cats and dogs who eat raw-meat diets are also more likely to become infected with antibiotic-resistant bacteria than those on conventional diets of dry or canned food, the authors add. That can have further implications for pet owners and for public health in general.” There is a great deal of debate on this issue, so do your homework first.

If you are wanting to provide the healthiest diet possible, it’s worth taking time to study and research. Sources will tell you all kinds of competing ideas. In the meantime, take the care every great pet owner should and find out what’s best for your companion. Bon Appetit!