As dog owners, we are often willing to go the extra mile to satisfy our dog’s needs and to keep them healthy and happy, even if that means dealing with raw meat when preparing our dog’s meals. However, is this natural and holistic trend truly as effective as we are being made to believe?
The answer is yes and no. While some veterinarian professionals encourage these types of diets, others frown upon them. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of raw diets to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your pet.
The Advantages of a Raw Diet
One of the main benefits of a raw diet is that they often contain fewer preservatives and artificial ingredients than traditional pet foods. They include more fresh ingredients, such as meats, typically organs, muscle meat, ground bones, and vegetables, which can provide a natural source of essential nutrients.
Many pet owners believe that a raw diet can improve their pet’s coats because of the higher-fat content. Additionally, this method has been used for dogs who are prone to weight gain, as it’s been said to help keep your dog’s weight in check.
The Disadvantages of a Raw Diet
Raw diets come with certain risks. Raw meat can contain harmful bacteria such as E. coli, salmonella, and listeria, which can be harmful to both pets and humans if not properly handled. These meats may also contain raw bones, which can be choking hazards and can cause intestinal blockages. Furthermore, raw diets may not be able to provide a complete and balanced nutrition intake that your pet needs, which will, in turn, lead to deficiencies if not planned and executed properly. It’s also important to note that a raw diet may be a more costly expenditure.
The best way to determine if a raw diet or any diet is suitable for your furry companion is to contact your trusted veterinarian for a check-up and evaluation for your pet.
