First, examination of the role of microbes in health is important. A recent article in the New York Times entitled “Some of My Best Friends Are Germs” would question the importance of that fact. Also, the fact that tolerance levels for coliforms in carnivores and carnivorously-biased omnivores like cats and dogs, is empirically quite high, can be used as an argu- ment to contradict the significance of this question. How many times have you seen your dog go and clean the cat box? Even in the preparation of human food, most adults are aware of the necessity to handle raw meat and poultry with respect. Therefore, for me this is a question of responsibility. The concept of raw bones also is frequently
debated. Dogs can induce the enzymes needed to digest raw bones with slow and controlled exposure to limited quantities when first introduced. Too steep a gradient or too frequent feeding of raw bones may be associated with pancreatitis and other gastrointesti- nal issues. There is also the issue of bones becoming caught in the throat or GI tract when eating. This is true of many other edible items such as raw hide sticks or Greenies. In general, responsibly choosing the right bones and monitoring your dog’s behavior with regards to these issues is the best course. In some cases, dogs have fractured their teeth eating raw bones. This can also be said of various toys. Again, the risk and benefits must be assessed on a pet to pet basis. The one aspect of this question, which is ger-
main for me, is looking at the energetics of food from a Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medical (TCVM) Perspective. In TCVM, extensively processed food, such as dry kibble, is considered to be hot and drying. When fed as an exclusive diet, this can create health issues. The fluid of the body (the Yin substances) will be injured. Likewise, excessive consumption of raw food, whether vegetable or animal, is considered cold and that can also create disease. A balance in these fac- tors is ideal, which may be a combination of diet types to accommodate the health and life style of pets and pet parents. In summary, the answer to the question of “What
Do I Feed My Dog?” must be answered by weighing the concerns of what the pet needs, with the demands of today’s lifestyles, in order to make it workable. There are pros and cons to each approach and hope- fully, this information will shed some light on a few of the controversies. U
UGregory Todd, D.V.M., C.V.A is part of The New Barker Veterinary Advisory Board. He practices veterinary medicine at Animal Hospital of Dunedin. The hospital specializes in Veterinary Herbology, Alternatiive Healing, Dermatology, Dentistry, Wellness Care and Vaccinations. Contact Dr. Todd at 727.733.9351. 1355 Pinehurst Road, Dunedin.
www.AHofD.com
www.TheNewBarker.com Winter ~ 2013 THE NEW BARKER 75
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