Raw feeding is an extremely controversial topic amongst pet owners, amongst other reasons, because of the risks of salmonella and contamination. In the December/ January Issue of Animal Wellness magazine, Ann Brightman writes a great article entitled “Is raw food recall the start of an FDA witch-hunt?” Her article explains that salmonella is not much of an issue for our companions as dogs and cats have digestive systems that are better adapted at dealing with that. Proper hygiene while preparing and cleaning after meals can minimize any risk for pets and their people.While those who feed raw diets are adamant about the health benefits of this style of feeding, according to Ms. Brightman’s article, the FDA does not advocate raw diets for pets, and in fact, is actively discouraging the feeding practice.”…when FDA agents discovered listeria and/or salmonella monocytogenes in three raw frozen poultry diets…during a routine inspection this past September, the company felt obligated to voluntarily recall the products even though there have been no reports of illness and the company follows all FDA guidelines for manufacturing raw diets, with the exception of irradiation.

“The North American Raw Petfood Association (NARPA), is attempting to meet with the FDA to create an open forum for discussion to balance to FDA’s obligation to protect public health and the desires of pet owners to have raw diets available to them.

This alarming post on Dogster.com claims that the FDA intends to shut down all Raw Pet Food companies. This post includes a statement from Melinda Miller, of Bravo Raw Diet that addresses the FDA’s concerns and the fact that the FDA needs to make a loud statement to the public that they are concerned about the health of our pets, in light of their negligence during the melamine pet food recall.

Dogster.com also has a cool group call Raw Fed that you can join, discuss and read all about people’s experiences with raw diets.

Image via Haute Diggety Dog, available for purchase at www.trixieandpeanut.com.

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