BIOLOGICALLY APPROPRIATE RAW FOODS "BARF" The fundamental goal of feeding raw is to duplicate, as closely as possible, the evolutionary diet of the animal in the wild. For example: a typical meal for a wolf/dog might be some raw meat and bones with some predigested vegetable matter. VARIETY Variety ensures that all the essential elements of the BARF diet are assimilated over time. No more boring bowls of kibble, day after day. Raw fed pets are eager eaters who rarely refuse a meal! This sampling from many different foods also helps prevent allergic sensitivities to any one food. BALANCE OVER TIME Keep in mind, that balance is achieved over time, several weeks or more, not daily. By offering your pet a variety of different foods and moderate supplements, this will occur naturally. SUPPLEMENT IN MODERATION All of the basic nutrients will be supplied in a carefully planned, varied raw diet. Ideally, extra nutrients are obtained from highly nutritious food sources, such as flaxseed, kelp, apple cider vinegar, garlic, yogurt, etc. PURE WATER Consider purchasing good quality water or installing a reverse osmosis system for your pets' (and your own) drinking water. Raw fed pets usually drink less water than those on kibble, but good, clean water is still essential. FINELY GROUND, CLEAN, FRESH VEGETABLES Dogs and cats cannot break down the cellulose walls in vegetables. In order for your pets to assimilate these nutritious foods, they must be finely ground. Always rinse produce well to remove pesticide residues. There are several commercial products available to clean produce but a simple solution of apple cider vinegar and water should remove most of the residue. MONITOR QUALITY AND FRESHNESS Meat & produce that is organic or free range grown is best, but may not be available. Stay away from steroid and antibiotic filled meat. Fresh meat and vegetables are highest in nutrients, followed by fresh frozen. If you buy or make frozen mixes, be sure the freshest ingredients possible are used, and they are frozen immediately. Since quality and nutrients in frozen foods will decrease over time, use mixes (homemade or commercial) within four months of freezing. KEEP AN OPEN MIND We are all still learning! Familiarize yourself with all the current philosophies on raw feeding. Talk with others who successfully raw feed. Design and/or refine your feeding program to suit the individual needs of your pet. |
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