Why Raw?

Although humans have done some major tinkering with body design (resulting in varying sizes and conformations), we have done nothing to change the internal anatomy and physiology of our carnivorous canines. They need raw meat and bones to be healthy with a fully supported immune system. Raw meat, bone and organ contain the exact proportions of fat, protein, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes a dog needs.

In fact, dogs are so much like wolves physiologically that they are frequently used in wolf studies as a physiological model for wolf body processes (Mech, L.D. 2003. Wolves:  Behavior, Ecology, and Conservation).  This next quote is from Robert K Wayne, Ph.D., and his discussion on canine genetics (taken from www.flu.edu/~milesk/Genetics.html).

"The domestic dog is an extremely close relative of the gray wolf, differing from it by at most 0.2% of mDNA sequence...."

In addition, dogs have recently been reclassified as Canis lupus familiaris by the Smithsonian Institute (Wayne, R.K. "What is a Wolfdog?" www.fiu.edu/~milesk/Genetics.html), placing it in the same species as the gray wolf, Canis lupus. The dog is, by all scientific standards and by evolutionary history, a domesticated wolf (Feldhamer, G.A. 1999. Mammology: Adaptation, Diversity, and Ecology. McGraw-Hill. pg 472.).

Dr. Russell Swift notes, "Carbohydrates are not needed by dogs or cats. Carnivores cannot maintain long term production of the quantity of amylase enzyme necessary to properly digest and utilize the carbohydrates. In addition, the proteins in grains are less digestive than animal proteins. As a result, the immune system becomes irritated and weakened by the invasion of foreign, non-nutritive protein and carbohydrate particles."

A species appropriate diet is among the most important considerations in health maintenance of your pet.  Unfortunately, most packaged pet foods commonly know as premium kibble contain grains, byproducts, and preservatives. 

The question would then arise, if pet food manufacturers know this (they must because they're in business to know) why are these things added to our pet food and why are we told that these packaged foods are so good? Even our mainstream veterinarians are selling these foods to us.  Good questions. Part of the reason is because it's cheaper to use grains and byproducts and, in our ever busy world it is an ultra convenient no hassle way of feeding.

Then these foods are baked. Here is what Dr. Betty Lewis stated on her website, "What's wrong with commercial foods? The number one item which makes commercial foods inappropriate for pets is that these foods are cooked. Raising the temperature of food above 118°F destroys all the enzymes and many of the nutrients."  So, in order to be able to say that these commercial foods have all the needed nutrients in them, they SPRAY on the nutrients. [To get more details on this pick up the book by Ann Martin, Foods Pets Die For.]  These sprayed on nutrients are not able to be readily absorbed and do not have the same qualities or absorptive properties as those naturally found in the raw diet.

All the problems we're seeing in our pets: allergies, skin disorders, cancer, diabetes, pulling out furr, etc., can almost always be attributed to poor nutrition AND to food allergies. Their immune systems are compromised because they are not getting enough nutrition to support themselves which then weakens their immune system. Then we see disease. If the immune system is not supported properly, disease gets a front door welcome into your pets bodies.

Also the raw, non-weight bearing bones contained in a natural raw diet give dogs and cats strong, clean white teeth eliminating the need for dentals done under anesthesia at a veterinarian's office, something that is not only much riskier but much more expensive than feeding your dogs and cats what they were designed to eat: raw meat, bones and organ.

So if you want to start seeing your pets live healthier, longer lives and also greatly reduce your vet bills, then switch to a natural, raw food diet. Your pets will love you for it!

One of the best things you can do if you're confused about how to get started feeding your pets a natural diet is to first find a holistic veterinarian in your area and then find out what is appropriate for your pet. Homeopathic and holistic vets really adhere and promote the complete natural lifestyle for your pets.  Also, we here at Suzy’s Doggie Delights are dedicated to educating and supporting anyone interested in natural raw diet.  We have information available and provide consultation at no additional cost.  We are always available to help you, so please do not hesitate to contact us.

Thank you for your time and interest in Suzy’s Doggie Delights, Natural Raw Diet for Dogs and Cats.  We look forward to seeing you at Butcher Bob’s in Surprise.