Feeding fresh, human-grade, species-appropriate raw food offers numerous benefits! Healthy diets, as supported by reputable health-based organizations, potentially improve longevity and maintain healthy skin, eyes, bones, and teeth. They also help reduce inflammation, lower the incidence of inflammatory diseases, boost the immune system, and enhance digestion. Owners who feed raw often observe increased energy and vitality, reductions in skin and digestive issues, improved skin and coat health, smaller, less frequent, and less odorous stools, as well as cleaner, healthier teeth!

Feeding raw meat as part of a pet's raw diet is rooted in the belief that raw foods mimic what animals consume in the wild, thus offering natural health benefits. Cooking meat can denature proteins, destroy enzymes and nutrients, and change its natural composition.

However, some pet owners choose to lightly cook meat due to concerns about pathogens or personal preference.

Meat sold at grocery stores or butchers is typically intended for cooking and may not undergo safety steps necessary for raw consumption (e.g., pathogen testing). It's essential to verify with the meat source whether their product is safe for raw feeding. At RDBK, all our meat (except green tripe) is human-grade and sourced from trusted processors. Each batch of our products undergoes rigorous bacterial testing, including for pathogenic strains like Salmonella and E.coli 057, ensuring safety before leaving our facility.

Responsible deworming in pets should be based on laboratory-tested samples confirming the presence of parasites. Deworming treatments must be tailored to the specific types of parasites identified. The frequency of deworming should be determined by confirmed infestations through reliable testing, not by the pet's diet.

No, raw feeding does not inherently give pets worms if the raw food is sourced responsibly. Quality raw pet food companies use human-grade inspected meats and blast-freeze them to at least -30°C, which eliminates parasites. However, improper handling or sourcing from unreliable suppliers can pose a risk. To ensure your pets’s safety, always purchase raw food from reputable sources.

Raw pet food, like any other type of pet food, can pose health risks if not handled properly or produced in a facility without a certified food safety program. Potential risks include bacteria, parasites, nutritional imbalances, physical hazards, and chemical contaminants.

According to the FEDIAF Pet Food Manufacturing guidelines, these hazards should be managed by all pet food manufacturers, including those producing raw food. To minimize these risks, purchase food from suppliers with certified and annually audited food safety programs.

Look for suppliers that have hold-and-release procedures, use human-grade ingredients, and conduct daily microbiological and regular nutritional testing. Your pet is part of the family, so they deserve the same safety and quality standards expected from food producers and restaurants for people.

No, this is a complete myth. Aggression around food or other desired items in pets is known as resource guarding, a behavioural issue that requires professional help to prevent escalation. It is not related to feeding a raw diet. If your pet shows signs of resource guarding, consult a professional trainer or veterinarian for appropriate guidance.

Feeding raw pet food does not encourage pets to chase and kill small animals. Hunting and chasing small animals is primarily instinctual, especially in cats and certain dog breeds. While raw food may resemble prey in texture and scent, it does not increase predatory behaviour. Managing natural instincts through appropriate environmental enrichment and feeding practices is key to fostering a harmonious living environment with pets.

Raw pet food can be suitable for all life stages. Studies indicate that starting puppies on a raw diet early can potentially reduce the risk of allergies and other diseases as they mature. However, it's crucial to ensure that the raw food is safe, high-quality, and nutritionally balanced when feeding puppies or seniors. This ensures it meets their specific nutritional needs at different stages of life.

Many vets express concerns about raw pet food due to perceived risks associated with handling and the potential for contamination. The primary worries include the transmission of infectious agents like Salmonella and Campylobacter to pets, humans, and other animals. These concerns are often highlighted by the veterinary industry based on potential health risks to both animals and humans who might handle the food or come into contact with the animal or its environment.

However, it is important to note that, just as with human food, these risks can be managed with proper food safety and handling practices. Many reputable raw pet food manufacturers adopt stringent safety and quality practices to mitigate these risks and provide pet parents with the tools to feed raw safely. Dr. Conor Brady, in his book "Feeding Dogs," points out that while raw meat naturally contains more Salmonella than cooked meat, there has not been a single recorded incidence of Salmonella or Campylobacter poisoning due to contact between a raw-fed dog and a human.

Additionally, concerns about raw food are sometimes amplified by the pet food industry, which is interested in promoting processed foods. Studies have shown that dry food has its own risks, including contamination with E.coli, Salmonella, and other harmful agents, leading to numerous recalls and health issues.

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Feeding a safe, clean, and nutritious raw diet should be comparable in cost to similar foods in the grocery store or high-quality kibble meant for humans. Although the initial expense may be higher, it's an investment in your pet's long-term health.

If you're currently feeding a premium quality, human-grade kibble diet, you might be spending the same or even more! Quality raw meat in raw food products generally costs similar to what you'd find in a grocery store. If you come across a raw product priced significantly lower, it's wise to question its quality. However, with careful planning and budgeting, it's entirely feasible to feed high-quality raw food economically. Remember, investing in the quality of raw food can lead to fewer health issues, ultimately saving you money in the long run.

Unlike many commercial grain-free dog foods, raw dog food is naturally free of grains rather than being modified to exclude them.

Grain-free pet food has sparked considerable debate, particularly regarding its association with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs. It's important to clarify that grain-free diets, which often substitute grains with ingredients like peas, lentils, and potatoes, are not inherently superior or inferior to grain-based diets in terms of DCM risk. The primary concern with both types of kibble lies in their high carbohydrate content and the extensive processing involved during production.

Dogs do not have a dietary requirement for carbohydrates, and diets high in carbs can lead to various health issues such as obesity, pancreatitis, and kidney disease. Moreover, the manufacturing processes used in kibble production can compromise the nutritional integrity of the food, including essential nutrients like taurine, which is crucial for heart health.

For a more biologically appropriate diet, experts recommend feeding dogs a fresh, raw diet consisting of approximately 70% animal protein, 10% raw bone, 10% secreting organs, and a portion of plant matter. This approach better aligns with a dog's natural nutritional needs.

Pets with pancreatitis can benefit significantly from a raw food diet. For those dealing with chronic pancreatitis, it's crucial to avoid carbohydrates and prioritize a diet that is high in protein and moderate to low in fat.

Lean meats such as turkey and chicken, as well as wild game like venison, rabbit, and pheasant, are highly digestible and suitable options. Additionally, nutritious bone broth with the fat removed can be both beneficial and appealing.

We offer several blogs that can assist you in developing a suitable plan for your pet. If you opt for pre-made raw foods, select high-quality options that contain muscle meat, organs, bones, and some green vegetables.

This approach helps ensure that your pet receives a balanced diet that supports their health, particularly when managing conditions like pancreatitis.

For pets needing low-fat options, consider lean meats like turkey, chicken, and wild game such as venison, kangaroo, or rabbit. When choosing pre-made raw foods, opt for meals that have less than 6% fat, as per typical analysis.

It's important to note that many foods state a minimum fat content rather than a typical amount, so it's advisable to verify the fat content directly with the company.

Bone broth is another beneficial addition to your pet's diet. Ensure that any fat is removed from the broth, as it is highly nutritious and can enhance the palatability of their meals.

All RDBK raw meals for dogs and cats are low in carbohydrates.

Yes, raw pet food can be beneficial for pets with food allergies. A raw diet offers greater control over ingredients, facilitating the avoidance of allergens. Implementing an elimination diet with raw food can help pinpoint problematic foods while promoting gut healing. This method encourages a diverse diet rich in fresh, biologically appropriate ingredients, which contributes to overall health. For additional guidance, explore our blog series on managing allergies and supporting your pet naturally.

Raw pet food can be highly suitable for dogs or cats with food sensitivities. The benefits of a raw diet include the absence of common allergens found in many commercial dry foods, such as grains and artificial additives. Additionally, raw diets are typically composed of fresh, whole ingredients that are easier for pets to digest.

For dogs and cats with food sensitivities, a raw diet can help reduce inflammation and improve overall gut health. Switching from ultra-processed dry food to a well-balanced, species-appropriate raw diet often resolves recurring issues like itchy skin conditions and gastrointestinal problems.

Bloating, also known as gastric dilation or GDV, is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition in dogs. The causes range from genetics and conformation to feeding practices and diet types. While diet alone shouldn't be relied upon for prevention, consulting with a veterinarian who is supportive of raw feeding is crucial. A species-appropriate diet can contribute to a healthy gastrointestinal tract, which is a good preventive measure, especially for breeds prone to bloat. For less severe forms of bloating, such as mild gas buildup, improving gut health through diet can be highly beneficial.