Raw Feeding Realities: What It’s Actually Like to Feed Your Dog Raw
I love feeding Petal raw. It's something that works so well for us, but like anything, it has its ups and downs. It’s not for everyone, and I wouldn’t recommend it for households with crawling children. But for Petal? It’s been a game-changer.
What’s easy about raw feeding?
The best part of feeding raw is seeing how calm and balanced Petal is throughout the day. She doesn’t get that jittery high-energy burst after meals anymore, she’s got more sustained energy. Her focus is better, and she’s just a happier dog all around. I’ve noticed she has smaller poops, too, which makes clean-up a lot easier (something any dog parent can appreciate).
Feeding raw has also given Petal lovely fur and, as good as dog breath can get, much fresher breath! It’s also simple. I don’t have to worry about overthinking what’s in her food, because it’s just real, whole ingredients. It’s honest food.
What’s annoying about raw feeding?
The biggest challenge? It’s a bit more time-consuming when it comes to preparing her meals. Raw feeding requires careful portioning and making sure she gets a balanced diet. I keep a supply of bones, meat, and organs stored in the freezer, so defrosting and meal prep are part of the routine. We actually have an alarm set in our house to remind us to get her food out in the evening and in winter, we just adjust it an hour earlier to ensure it is defrosted by the morning.
And while Petal’s diet is mostly easy to manage, I do sometimes find myself getting caught up in trying to make sure she’s getting a full variety of nutrition. It’s not like kibble, where I don’t have to think much. It does require a bit of research and adjusting as you go along.
How to make raw feeding work in real life
I try to keep it simple. Petal gets a variety of proteins, bones, and some added veggies. I also ensure she has all the necessary supplements to support her health, especially as she’s been on this diet for a while now.
As for treats? I keep it raw, to, frozen marrow bones, freeze-dried treats, and the occasional raw meaty bone. Outings and travel can be tricky because I’m always thinking about how to store and transport her food. I’ve invested in a good, small, cooler bag for travel, but that’s just part of the lifestyle.
In conclusion
Feeding raw isn’t perfect, but it’s been an absolute game-changer for Petal and I. I love how much more balanced she is, and how she’s thriving on the raw diet. It takes effort, sure, but it’s worth it for the results we’re seeing. Would I go back to feeding kibble? Not in a million years.
0 comments