Feeding raw food is dangerous due to the risk of Salmonella and E. Coli.

The digestive tracts of dogs are very different than those of humans.  The human digestive tract is approximately 25 to 28 feet long with a stomach acidity between 1.5 and 2.5.  Dogs have a much shorter digestive system at an average of 10 to 13 feet for dogs with an acidity of less than 1.  Raw food moves through the dog system in less than half the time it would through a human’s system, and the high acidity kills most bacteria such as salmonella.  Even if the food was contaminated, it likely would not enter the animal’s bloodstream.   Commercially prepared raw food manufacturers take measures to control against the presence of unwanted organisms such as salmonella and e. coli, so for those concerned the frozen raw diets are a good option.

If you eat meat, then you are aware of the precautions to take when handling raw meat.  The same precautions apply to raw pet food as to raw meat destined to be cooked for human consumption: wash bowls, utensils and your hands after feeding and handling the meat.  Keep the meat frozen until two to four days before feeding, and thaw in the refrigerator.  Don’t leave the food down for your pet for more than 30 - 40 minutes, after this time throw any leftovers away.  With a bit of common sense, raw food is no more difficult or dangerous to feed than any other pet food.

Some folks like to argue that the wild relatives of dogs have shorter life spans than our companion animals and blame this shortened life on consumption of raw food.  While it may be true that wild dogs are less long-lived than our pets, it is not due to their diet.  Animals living in the wild are at far more risk from predators, competition for food and the harsh elements than they are from eating raw meat.  Our companions are living longer lives due to their comfortable living conditions with regular meals provided - no hunting required, and no stress other than whether or not they’ll get caught on their favorite sofa.

For more information please see “All About Raw Food.“