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Organic and Natural Pet Food Is the Raw Food Diet Right for Your PetThe Resource for Everything About Dogs |
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Organic and Natural Pet Food Is the Raw Food Diet Right for Your Petby Dan Buchman
Dogs are natural hunters and carnivores. Dogs have evolved from the wolf and its digestive system is virtually the same despite thousands of years of evolution. Dogs have very short intestinal tracts which allows for the consumption and digestion of raw foods. Dogs are considered omnivores as they eat a variety of grasses, vegetables and berries in addition to meats. The question is - Should you feed your dog a raw food diet? A raw food diet is just that - raw food. It can consist of foods such as raw chicken (bones included), raw beef bones, juiced vegetables and canned fish. The main idea is to feed your dog the food raw (uncooked). Raw bones are easily digested and the minerals and enzymes are naturally absorbed by your dog's system. It is important to transition your dog to a raw food diet slowly. Your dog may experience diarrhea or constipation at first so go slowly and monitor any significant changes in your dog's health. A recommended transition method is to combine the raw food diet with your dog's dry kibble at first. Also consider rotating the raw food used as well. If organ meat is not being used regularly then add organ meat once or twice a week. The main point is to be careful and make sure you understand the methods and process behind a raw food diet. The benefits of a raw food diet can help your dog battle common issues and aliments such as: allergies, hot spots, flea infestations, continual shedding, poor dental and gum health, immune disorders, and degenerative diseases. The benefits of a raw food diet are abundant but there are risks and pet owners should be fully aware of these risks before jumping in too quickly. Pet owners need to be very careful when introducing a raw food diet to their pet. Do your research first and learn the proper methods and precautions of a raw food diet. Learning the facts about the proper preparation is important. Information such as: what is the proper or best method for thawing raw meat?; should a microwave oven be used for thawing?; is raw pork safe, should I avoid raw pork?; do I need to be concerned about bacteria? Before converting your dog to a raw food diet, first be an educated and informed pet owner. If you are interested in converting your dog to a raw food diet and are not sure or you have many questions then consult with your veterinarian first. Many higher-end pet stores now carry a raw food diet product line that has taken much of the risk and mystery out of the raw food diet concept. This allows you to safely take advantage of the raw food diet benefits without exposing your dog to some of the potential risks associated with the improper usage of a raw food diet. These higher-end pet stores (most are available on-line through their websites) also offer a wide range of commercial frozen and dehydrated raw foods consisting of raw meats, grains and fresh vegetables. All the proper food handling is taken care of as well as the proper food proportions for your pet. This is a great way to introduce your pet to a raw food diet without all the risks. These higher-end pet stores also specialize in a complete line of organic and natural pet food and supplements. The link provided below has several website reviews, start your research there.
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