Risks with feeding raw meat diets

Feeding raw meat to dogs has recently gained popularity among commercial companies, breeders and pet owners who believe it mimics the natural diet of their canine ancestors. While they may argue that it offers numerous health benefits, it is essential to understand the potential risks associated with this practice.

1. Bacterial Infections:
Raw meat, including chicken, beef, or fish, may contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli. These pathogens can pose a significant risk to both your dog’s health and the well-being of your family. Dogs can become infected through direct contact or by consuming contaminated food. They can develop vomiting, diarrhoea and generalised septicaemia in severe cases of food poisoning.

2. Imbalanced Diet:
A balanced diet is crucial for a dog’s overall health. Feeding raw meat alone may lead to nutritional imbalances, as it lacks essential nutrients like calcium and fiber. Without proper supplementation, dogs may experience deficiencies in vital vitamins and minerals, leading to various health issues.

3. Potential Injuries:
Raw meat diets often include bones, which can cause serious injuries to your dog. Cooked bones are particularly hazardous as they can splinter and cause internal damage or choking hazards. Even raw bones can pose risks if not appropriately sized or monitored during consumption so we generally do not recommend any form of bone feeding.

4. Increased Parasite Risk:
Raw meat can contain parasites like Toxoplasma and Trichinella, which can lead to infections in dogs. These parasites can compromise your pet’s immune system and cause digestive issues, muscle pain, and other health complications.|

5. Food Allergies:
Raw meat diets are one of the most common causes of food allergies seen in clinical practice. The raw meat has a higher allergen load and greatly increases the chances of itchy episodes. Once taken off the raw diets most cases fully resolve.

While the idea of feeding your dog raw meat may seem appealing, natural and a guaranteed pleaser for your pet you must weigh up the risks.
Of course dogs are carnivores by nature and meat should be part of their diet, this doesn’t mean it must be in the same raw form fit for wolves. Adding cooked meats to a dog’s diet can be a great addition to their regular kibble. The cooked meat kills off the bacterial and parasitic load and massively lessens the allergy risk.
Cooked meat is also a far cleaner way of feeding your pet and reduces the risk of food poisoning for you while handling. A balanced and well-regulated diet is vital for your pet’s long-term health and happiness.