A beginners perspective

Raw food diet

This food journey started out of desperation. We helplessly watched our brand new puppy become more and more ill and there was nothing we could do. Three days after we brought him home he landed in emergency with an IV, xrays and over 6 medications. He had been suffering from kennel cough. bacteria in his stomach, pneumonia and more.

After he became stable we brought him
home but he just never acted like a puppy. He was slow, his hair was hard, he suffered from itchy skin and his eyes were so red.

I was determined to help him. After lots of research I decided to try raw. One thing that became pretty evident to me early on was that there was tons of information. An overwhelming amount of information. It’s was hard to sift through it all. Hours of writing down notes on how, when, why and what to expect.

As we began feeding raw there were struggles and it wasn’t always easy. It still can have its challenges but I will say it is all worth it. Bodie is different. I have a healthy playful puppy because of it. I want to share my journey through this to help anyone else who may be going through the same struggles.

Bodie’s Raw food journey

Bodie’s top 5 favorite toppings

1. Yogurt

Yogurt is a good source of calcium, vitamins and probiotics. Adding it is great way to make your dogs immune system stronger. It also helps to keep their digestive tract healthy.

Yogurt contains two types of probiotics, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium which help in the recovery and defense of infection. Yogurt can also be used to help with your pups upset stomach.

Bodie eats 2% plain Greek yogurt. Avoid feeding your dogs with any form of sweetened yogurt. Some may be toxic for them. Select a plain Greek yogurt. As an alternative you can also use Kefir. I have not tried this with Bodie but I plan on using it.

2. Sardines

Sardines are a great source of omega 3 fatty acids which will keep your pets fur looking shiny and feeling soft. Sardines also help build muscle, strengthen the immune system and helps in dental health.

3. Pumpkin

Pumpkin is high in soluble fiber. It is helpful in regulating digestion. It is high in antioxidants and is rich in vitamins and minerals. It can boost the immune system, improves moisture in your pups skin and coat and even promotes eye health.

I purchase a large can of plain pumpkin purée and I fill up ice cube trays. I’m able to then simply add a pumpkin ice cube to Bodie’s meals

4. Fruits and veggies

Fruits and veggies are a tasty addition to any meal. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, proteins, lipids, fiber, enzymes and moisture.

Bodies favorite fruits are:
Peaches
Blueberries
Strawberries
Raspberries

Veggies:
Carrots
Green beans
Cucumber

Some fruits and veggies however are not tolerated well by dogs and can make them very sick. Some of these include garlic, mushrooms, grapes, avocados and all pits and seeds. These should be avoided.

5. Goats Milk

Goats milk contains good bacteria and probiotics. It is full of vitamins, minerals, and trace elements to help support healthy digestion and a healthy immune system.

Just like the pumpkin I also pour Bodie’s goats milk into ice cube trays so that I can easily add onto his meals.

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