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A Guide to Raw Feeding

Raw Feeding

Raw feeding has been gaining popularity in recent years as an alternative to traditional commercial dog food; although the fact is that raw feeding has been around longer than any other way of feeding. (Just ask Henry VIII, I’m pretty sure he never bought kibble or tinned food!!!).

The concept is simple – providing dogs with a diet that is closer to what their ancestors ate in the wild. A raw food diet is composed of fresh, uncooked ingredients that are nutritionally balanced meeting your dog’s needs. Raw feeding is exactly what it sounds like – feeding your dog raw, unprocessed foods like meat, bone, vegetables, and fruits. How To Raw Feed Your DogYou can use a pre-packed raw food diet, or create your own meal plan using raw ingredients.

Many pet owners have reported numerous benefits from switching to a raw diet for their furry friends. In this post, I am exploring the benefits of raw feeding, the different types of raw food, any concerns or risks associated with raw feeding, and tips for getting started.

 

Feeding Raw

When it comes to raw feeding, there are a few different types of raw food that can be fed to dogs. Raw muscle meat is the foundation of the diet and should make up most your dog’s meals, while raw bones, either as whole bones or ground, can provide essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus.

Raw offal, such as liver, kidney, and heart, is rich in nutrients like vitamin A, iron, B vitamins and other essential nutrients which are not found in muscle meat. It’s important to note that while dogs are carnivores, it’s still essential to provide your dog with a balanced diet, including small amounts of vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and spinach and can be added to the diet for additional fibre and nutrients – (this would replace the fibre found naturally in a preys gut). Feeding some raw fruits, such as apples and bananas as treats, is also beneficial. Feeding raw has also been proven to reduce the risk of some health problems, such as allergies, and can help dogs maintain a healthy weight.

Benefits of Raw Feeding

The benefits of raw feeding are numerous. First and foremost:

  • Raw feeding helps improve a dog’s digestion. Raw food is easier to digest than processed dog food, which often contains fillers and additives. Raw food is easier for dogs to digest because it contains natural enzymes and beneficial bacteria that help break down the food. This can lead to better nutrient absorption and less strain on the digestive system.
  • Raw feeding can result in healthier skin and a shinier coat, as the natural oils in raw food help nourish a dog’s skin and coat, leading to less shedding and less itchiness.
  • Raw feeding can also promote better dental health. Chewing on raw bones can help clean a dog’s teeth and prevent the build-up of plaque and tartar.
  • Raw feeding releases dopamine, which helps relax and calm dogs (the feel good hormone), great for dogs with aggression issues and anxiety/stress issues.

In short raw feeding

  • Supports oral health
  • Supports digestive health
  • Supports immunity
  • Supports skin and coat health
  • Contributes to weight management
  • Reduces waste
  • Supports mobility
  • Reduces allergies and intolerance’s
  • Reduces stress

Raw Feeding GuideWhile there are many benefits to raw feeding, there are also some concerns and risks that pet owners should be aware of. The main concern people speak of is raw feeding is the risk of bacterial contamination. Raw food can contain harmful bacteria like salmonella and E. coli, which can be dangerous for both dogs and humans. It’s important to handle raw food carefully and follow proper hygiene practices to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination. It is also important to note that kibble contains harmful bacteria like salmonella and E. coli and has been scientifically proven to contain more than raw.

Start Raw Feeding

If you’re considering switching to a raw diet for your dog, or your puppy, there are a few tips to keep in mind. Firstly, it’s important to gradually introduce raw food into your dog’s diet to allow their digestive system to adjust. Start by adding small amounts of raw food to their regular diet and slowly increase the amount over a couple of weeks.

Second, it is important to feed a variety of foods to ensure that your dog is getting all the necessary nutrients. This can include different types of meat, bone, and offal, as well as a variety of vegetables and fruits. A dog needs an average of 5 different proteins for a balanced diet

Finally, it is important to ensure that your dog is getting all of the necessary nutrients and that the diet is appropriate for their individual needs. Check out our frequently asked questions page and please feel free to Contact Us if you would like assistance with this, we would be happy to help.

In conclusion, raw feeding can be a great way to provide your dog with a healthy and natural diet. Feeding your dog raw, unprocessed foods, helps improve their digestion, promotes healthy skin and coat, and reduces the risk of health problems.

 

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Open Day 20th January

Shop

Open Day

We are having an OPEN DAY in the new shop at Alver Valley Garden Centre; PO13 8NZ (shop is outside to the left of the main entrance) From 10.30am

Come and have a browse, chat to the experts that will be visiting us that day; on cold press and freeze dried raw, and of course raw feeding.

Lots of information available on raw feeding if you want to transition or if you just need a chat.

Doggy customers can have their photo taken and go on our ‘customer wall’ , they will all be entered into a Dog of the Month draw to win a £10 gift voucher.

Pop in and see all the new products we now have in store.

Look forward to seeing you

Caroline & The Gang

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Christmas Opening Hours

Sorry it’s a bit late notice, but here are our shop opening times over the Christmas period

Christmas Eve – 24th December Closed
Christmas Eve – 25th December Closed
Boxing Day – 26th December Closed
Wednesday 27th to Saturday 30th Open 9:00am to 4:30pm
New Year’s Eve Closed
New Year’s Day Closed
Tuesday 2nd January Open 9:00am to 5:30pm

Of course, you can still order online and collect from the shop as normal

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From Kibble to Carnivore: Exploring the Woof-tastic World of Raw Feeding in the UK

As a dog owner, you want the best for your furry friend. And when it comes to their diet, it’s no different. In recent years, raw feeding has become a popular trend among UK pet parents. Raw feeding involves feeding dogs raw, unprocessed meat, bones, and organs, mimicking their ancestral diet. In this article, we’ll explore the woof-tastic world of raw feeding in the UK.

Unleashing Your Dog’s Inner Wolf: The Benefits of Raw Feeding

Raw feeding has several benefits that can improve your dog’s overall health and well-being. Firstly, it can improve their coat and skin, making it shinier and softer. Raw feeding can also help with digestion, reducing the risk of bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. Additionally, it can boost their immune system, reducing the risk of diseases and infections.

Raw feeding also encourages dogs to chew, promoting dental hygiene and preventing tartar buildup. And for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs, raw feeding can be a game-changer. By eliminating processed ingredients and preservatives, raw feeding can alleviate some of the symptoms associated with allergies and intolerance’s.

Pawsitively Purrfect: A Guide to Raw Feeding for UK Pet Parents

If you’re considering raw feeding for your furry friend, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Firstly, it’s important to choose high-quality meats that are free from antibiotics and hormones. You’ll also need to ensure that your dog is getting a balanced diet that includes all the necessary nutrients, such as protein, fats, and some carbohydrates.

It’s also essential to handle raw meat carefully to avoid the risk of contamination. This means washing your hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw meat and storing it properly, just as you would for your own raw meat at home. You may also want to gradually introduce raw feeding into your dog’s diet to avoid any digestive issues.

Raw feeding is a woof-tastic way to provide your dog with a healthy and natural diet. Not only does it have several health benefits, but it can also be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth transition to raw feeding and unleash your dog’s inner wolf.

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CHRISTMAS IS ALMOST HERE

CHRISTMAS OPENING TIMES

XMAS 2022

 

Date

Collection

Delivery

 

Friday23rd

Normal service

Normal service

 

Saturday 24th

CLOSED

CLOSED

 

Sunday 25th

CLOSED

CLOSED

 

Monday 26th

CLOSED

CLOSED

 

Tuesday 27th

CLOSED

CLOSED

 

Wed’day 28th

Normal service. Inc PO delivery

Normal service. Inc PO delivery

 

Thursday 29th

Normal service

Normal service

 

Friday 30st

CLOSED

CLOSED

 

Saturday 31st

CLOSED

CLOSED

 

Sunday 1st

CLOSED

CLOSED

 

Monday 2nd

CLOSED

CLOSED

 

Tuesday 4th

Normal service

Normal service

 

ORDERS IN BY 9AM DAY BEFORE FOR COLL/DEL                      

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New and Delicious Products

We have some fantastic flavours  in our new and delicious product range.

Why not try a Duck and Pumpkin or a Turkey and tripe or even a Horse and offal, lean healthy meat that will help your dog thrive – go on give your dog an exciting new flavour today.

Christmas is coming and we have a limited stock of ‘Christmas Dinner Boxes‘ – you can order and we will reserve until 22nd Dec.

Xmas Special

The Christmas box contains 2 x soups, 12 x 3 bird mince & 2 tasty yoghurts for dessert – order now and put your preferred collection date in the ‘customer notes’

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Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

We are deeply saddened by the passing of her majesty Queen Elizabeth. An amazing lady who dedicated her life to the service of her people. An advocate for all animals especially her beloved Corgi’s. Our heartfelt thanks your majesty for all your hard work.

Queen Elizabeth II

As a mark of respect, we will be closed on Monday 19th for our staff and customers to pay their respects in line with the national period of mourning.

We also would like to acknowledge the grace in which King Charles III and the extended royal family have led the country through this mourning period, we send our warmest thoughts and love to them all during this time

Please take care of yourselves and those around you, appreciate your time together, cuddle your pets and cherish every moment.

“Gratitude, respect and pride, these words sum up how I feel about the people of this country and the Commonwealth” – Queen Elizabeth II

 

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Delivery charges

Delivery Charge

It is sadly unavoidable with the rising cost of fuel that we have to increase our delivery charge to £2.50. We really hoped to avoid this but we promise to keep an eye on things and when things improve (hopefully soon) and fuel comes down somewhat, we will adjust our costs accordingly.

Thank you all for your continued support, it means a great deal to us (and all small businesses) we really appreciate it.

Caroline & team