Dear Readers,
My apologies for creating fear and worry. My intention with my last newsletter was to get everyone to read Dr. Jean Hofve's important article regarding the H1N1 bird flu virus that caused the death of a cat eating a frozen raw turkey meal so you could take the necessary steps to investigate the raw foods you're feeding your cats and dogs. It seems that, for now, until raw food providers can test batches before distributing them, it might be best to avoid feeding frozen, freeze dried, dehydrated, and HPP (high pressure pastuized) raw poultry and dairy products in meals AND treats as they could potentially carry the virus and cause illness or worse.
Dr Jean is a well-respected holistic veterinarian, author and researcher who I've known for decades. She along with Carol Kuzdek, owner or "Whole Pets" in Boulder, CO are urging caution because of this official statement from the Oregon State Government about the case. Carol is in touch with ALL of the raw food distrbutors that she purchases from and is monitoring their plans for testing their foods. Read her statement to customers here.
Alternatives
1) If you wish to continue feeding raw meat to your animals, choose a different source. You can find frozen rabbit and venison in you local natural pet food shop. Carol also mentioned to me that she and her staff are telling people that raw foods formulated before December 1st is likely safe.
2) You can also make your own cooked meals, but be sure you're balancing them correctly. The easiest way to do this is to use Feline Instincts, the fantastic supplements for homemade cat and dog meals. Although Felice's recipe uses raw meat, just substitute cooked.
As Dr. Jean writes, "Lightly cooking a raw diet doesn’t change a food’s nutrition very much (other than removing water), and may be the safest course for now. To make up for loss of the “live” factors in raw food, you can add digestive enzymes, prebiotics, and probiotics. This product (which I personally formulated for Only Natural Pet) contains all three. Also add a little extra moisture (water or broth) to maintain hydration."
3) Look into lightly cooked frozen meals like Smalls for cats and Farmer's Dog. For a diet prepared for imbalances check out Chi Dog. My clients' elderly dogs have thrived on Chi Dog formulas!
4) Switch to canned for the time being. I would definately add probiotics and enzymes to canned foods as well to support digestion and absorption. I'm also giving my cats treats of cooked chicken and beef.
I will share updates and keep you posted as things proceed.
Thanks for loving your animals SO much and trusting me to support them and you on your beautiful journeys together.
With Love, Your Voice of Animals,
Kate
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