| wemple2 | 03-20-2009 02:21 PM |
To answer the original question: I do not feed raw because there is simply too much potential for contamination and the danger this poses is too great in my mind. In addition, some raw foods, such as egg whites contain a protein called avidin, which binds up biotin, which is one of the B vitamins, so the body is unable to use it. These are essential nutrients, when cooked, the harmful components are destroyed, making them safer to consume. Some types of raw fish, particularly raw salmon from the west coast may have a potentially deadly parasite...by just cooking the salmon it will kill this parasite, while not cooking it may kill a dog. Feeding bones to supply calcium presents a risk for a splinter to become lodged in a dogs digestive system...raw is less likely then cooked, but never-the-less the possibility is there unless it is thoroughly ground into a fine powder. Simply put, I feel the risks far out-weigh any benefits...a risk I am not willing to take. | 