Why do vets disagree with raw feeding?

Exploring the Influence of Big Pet Food Companies

When researching pet nutrition, you’ll find passionate opinions on all sides, especially when it comes to feeding raw diets to dogs. Despite an increasing number of pet parents embracing raw feeding for its potential health benefits, many vets still caution against it. So, why do some vets advise against raw feeding? Is it truly out of concern for pet health, or is there more to the story? In this post, we’ll dive into the role that large pet food companies play in shaping veterinary perspectives on raw feeding and nutrition.

1. Big Pet Food Companies and Cheap Ingredients

Leading pet food companies like Purina, owned by Nestlé, dominate the pet food market. While these brands are well-known and widely recommended, a closer look at their ingredient lists reveals some potential issues. Many commercial kibbles rely on cheap fillers like corn, wheat, and soy to cut costs and increase profit margins. Though these ingredients are often deemed safe, they offer little nutritional value for dogs, whose natural diet would prioritise animal proteins and healthy fats.

Corn and other fillers are not species-appropriate for dogs, whose ancestors thrived on high-protein, meat-based diets. However, fillers are an affordable way for companies to create large quantities of kibble while keeping production costs low and profit margins high. Unfortunately, these ingredients can contribute to a range of health issues, including obesity, digestive problems, and even food allergies.

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2. The Financial Relationship Between Veterinary Schools and Pet Food Companies

One lesser-known aspect of the veterinary industry is the financial influence that big pet food companies have on veterinary education. Large pet food companies frequently sponsor veterinary schools, providing both financial support and educational resources. While this support helps keep education costs manageable, it also allows these companies to shape the curriculum. For example, pet food giants like Purina and Hill’s may sponsor lectures or courses on pet nutrition, subtly promoting their own products as the gold standard for pet health.

As a result, many vets graduate with a perspective heavily influenced by these companies. They’re trained to recommend the brands they’re familiar with, which often include the products that funded their education. This creates a cycle in which vets rely on commercial pet food brands for information on nutrition and, in turn, recommend these brands to pet owners.

3. Myths and Misinformation About Raw Feeding

Another factor contributing to vets' concerns about raw feeding is the perception that it’s unsafe. Pet food companies have invested in marketing campaigns that focus on the alleged dangers of raw feeding, emphasising the potential for bacterial contamination. While food safety is a legitimate concern with raw diets, it’s not insurmountable. With proper sourcing, handling, and storage, raw feeding can be just as safe as feeding kibble—and some studies even suggest that raw-fed pets can have stronger immune systems.

The push to market kibble as the only safe option often glosses over the fact that kibble has its own health risks. Many commercial kibble products contain artificial preservatives, colours, and additives, which have been linked to various health problems. Additionally, kibbles are cooked at high temperatures, which can degrade essential nutrients and result in the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). These AGEs are linked to inflammation, which can contribute to diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, and even cancer.

4. A Closer Look at the Benefits of Raw Feeding

Raw feeding aims to replicate a diet closer to what dogs would naturally eat in the wild—high in protein, with minimal fillers. Raw diets generally consist of fresh meat, bones, organs, and vegetables, providing a nutritionally balanced meal without the additives or fillers found in commercial kibble. Many pet owners report seeing significant health improvements in their pets after switching to raw, including shinier coats, healthier skin, improved digestion, better weight management, and increased energy.

Beyond the nutritional benefits, feeding raw allows pet owners to have complete control over what goes into their dog’s food. This transparency is especially important for dogs with specific dietary needs, allergies, or intolerances.

5. Advocating for Informed Choices in Pet Nutrition.

At Wellness Dog Co., we believe in empowering pet parents to make informed decisions about their dog’s nutrition. While kibble may work for some, raw feeding offers a compelling alternative for those looking to provide a more natural, whole-food diet. As more studies highlight the benefits of raw feeding, we hope to see a shift in veterinary perspectives as well, acknowledging that raw diets can be a safe, healthy, and responsible option for many pets.

Pet owners deserve access to unbiased information, free from corporate agendas. By educating yourself about the ingredients in pet foods and understanding how pet food companies influence the industry, you can make the best choice for your dog’s health and wellbeing.

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Raw feeding may not be for everyone, and it’s essential to consult with a knowledgeable vet or pet nutritionist to ensure your dog’s dietary needs are met. At Wellness Dog Co., we’re dedicated to providing natural, high-quality options that support a holistic approach to pet health.