CARNIVORE OR NOT
There is much debate among experts whether or not a dog is a carnivore or an omnivore. For instance, a dog’s teeth indicate it is a carnivore. But, unlike a cat, who is a true carnivore, a dog’s digestive system is able to digest plant sources of food.
THE EXPERTS
Many experts point to canines, both domestic and in the wild, who have been observed eating plants. Further clarification provides more evidence that dogs search for specific wild grasses and particular herbs. As a result, experts say that dogs experiencing digestive issues will seek plants known to have medicinal properties.
THOUSANDS OF YEARS
Similarly, history has documented canines on earth for thousands of years and dogs have eaten primarily a raw meat diet. Above all, canine ancestors, as hunters, killed their prey and ate the raw organs and crushed the bones. Consuming the crushed bones provided minerals and many other nutrients.
MY TRUSTED SOURCE
Whether the experts agree or not that a dog is a carnivore or an omnivore, a canine’s natural diet is raw. Therefore, I like to go to one of my trusted sources for raw dog food. It’s a company named U.S. Wellness Meats. Firstly, this company is for people too! Secondly, their Pet Food section provides their generic packages plus they offer a label called Dr. Siegel.
NOT CREATED EQUAL
Certainly, you have seen “raw” dog food off the shelf at several local businesses. Regrettably, it has been my personal experience, there are several unhealthy ingredients listed. Like humans, a dog’s diet is a foundational part of good health. People have told me that their veterinarian has warned them away from giving their dog raw meat.
I’M A BIG FAN
Therefore, we must remember that not all vets are equally trained or knowledgeable. If your veterinarian is trained in holistic and/or Integrative veterinary medicine he/she will have a higher degree of training in this regard. I’m a big fan of Holistic and Integrative veterinary medicine.
THE RIGHT RATIO
For instance, if you’ve never given your dog raw meat, you must start slowly. Depending on the size and weight of your dog you might start with a teaspoon or a tablespoon every other day. If your dog is healthy then generally 15% of fat in the raw meat is a good ratio. On the other hand, if your dog has health issues, generally 30% fat in the raw meat is a better ratio.
DOG SUPPLEMENTATION
Similarly, most dogs need supplementation to their diet whether, raw, dry or canned to prevent or alleviate illness. At U.S. Wellness Meats, Pet Food section, they provide crushed bone powder to add to a dog’s diet. Crushed bones are a rich natural source of minerals and nutrients for dogs which their digestive systems are designed to consume.
HOW TO START
If you’re considering adding raw meat to your dog’s diet you should start by having a conversation with a holistic/integrative veterinarian. The Dr. Siegel label available at U.S. Wellness Meats provides some great educational information. You can also take advantage of the bulk options which are great for households with large dogs or multiple dogs.
INVITATION TO MY SEARCH TAB
For decades, I have bought and enjoyed the high quality, free-range, pasture-raised meats and bones from U.S. Wellness Meats. For your convenience, I invite you to use the Search Tab above at Dog Gem to learn more about my trusted source. Or simply click on the Raw Pet Food banner on the right side.
References
https://grasslandbeef.com/dr-siegels-healthy-pet-and-challenged-keto-pet-choices
https://ultimatepetnutrition.com/dogs-carnivores-omnivores/?c=o
https://evoloveraw.com/ Dr. Marlene Siegel, DVM