In the beginning of our formal program (circa year 2000), we had 12 adult dogs in the group. We were feeding them a "high-quality" dry food ration with vitamin supplements. Additionally, we supplied them with steamed green and yellow vegetables three times weekly. While they were healthy, in the general sense, I was not pleased that some shed hair late and did not present shiny coats of hair.
After some experimentation we decided to add unprocessed (raw) milk and raw meat to their diet....while, simultaneously, reducing the carbohydrate components and increasing the frequency of raw bones (from twice weekly, to daily). The results were, spectacular, and the entire group responded with vibrant health displays. Within a short time our population began to climb, as more "Loving Owners" abandoned their pets along the road adjoining our farm.....and the population increased to 16.....along with the attendant support costs. Our population increased to its present 19 individuals and our food costs (as have those for the general public) rose quite rapidly to over $600.00 per month. While certainly not catastrophic, it appeared we might profitably review our nutritional benefit/cost curve. I found that the ground meat item was the least cost-effective.....from among the high-density nutrient components. We were purchasing the 70% lean X 30% fat,! 5 lb. rolls from Walmart for around $7.00 each and when factored with the 6 oz. minimum, daily, (for medium, 35 to 40 lb dogs) and 8 oz+ for the larger (70 lbs +) dogs....we were spending .70 each, daily, for this component. I had been contemplating utilizing the 10 lb. bags of fresh chicken quarters
(from Walmart), for some time. I introduced the chicken parts (one-third of a quarter to each
dog (about 8 ozs weight). As these bags were averaging less than $3.75 each (37.5 cents per lb).....and the results greatly exceeded my expectations. Especially so since we were able to eliminate the raw bones altogether-----with an overall net increase in digestible protein.....and a cost reduction for this nutritionl element of around $13.00 per day.
Additionally, the dogs, without exception, prefer the raw chicken (we do not know why....maybe
the growth-stimulating feedstuff additives in the cowfeed make a difference to the dogs).
Our present, daily diet, regimen includes: 1.25 cups of a 38% meat product dry food, 1.5 cups of 70/30 raw milk/homogenized mix, 1/2 cup cooked oatmeal, 7-to-8 oz raw chicken quarter, 1/4 cup whole fish (canned product), one large dry dog biscuit, one tablespoon marine kelp, one tablespoon 5 ppm CS, 1 teaspoon brewers yeast, one One-a-Day type
vitamin pill (crushed). All of the dogs are in peak health and look like slick seals.
Our vet bills have diminished from around $3000.00 per year circa 2000 A.D......to
essentially, nothing in 2007-----primarily (we believe) because of their diet.
The principal reason for this diatribe is to try to influence dog owners on the list to consider substituting the raw chicken quarters from Walmart (or some economical competitor)......for a major portion of the carbohydrates being fed their dogs. At a true cost of around 19 cents per day, per dog.....the nutrient density gain (over "high quality) is
very pronounced......and it is LIVE FOOD.
Cutting the quarters up is quite easy....especially if one uses a pair of limb nippers. Just sever the drumstick first, then rotate the thigh/back section 90% and cut it into two equal sections-----that's it.....neat, and works fine. Originally, we used a butcher's clever and cutting block, but the small limb-cutters are immensely more convenient.
When one considers the true cost of the cooked, canned pet foods, it appears (to me) almost criminal to not feed a pet dog some REAL dog food. They develop such a desire for it they are worse than drug addicts....ALWAYS fishing out the raw chicken before anything else....followed by the milk fraction.
I must take a moment to relate a true story about my oldest son's 17 year old female chihuahua ("Libby"). December last, she had developed a fast-growing tumor (tennis ball size, located directly adjacent to the anus) and was presenting what the vets diagnosed as an inoperable condition.....given her age, disorder prospects and considering the enormous costs involved. The decision made to just make her as comfortable as possible for what appeared a very short time span, things were to be left for natural resolution. Since Libby had lost nearly all appetite I suggested they try her on raw chicken
meat. This they did, and for the first two days she did nothing but examine it, but on the third day she ate a small portion; on the fourth day she ate a sizeable amount and on the fifth day she consumed a full portion. Immediately thereafter she developed a ravenous desire for the raw chicken and this has continued up to this posting.....some eight months later. The only other modification in her diet was the addition of one teaspoon of marine kelp. Within
10 days after starting this simple protocol, her energy level started to rise quickly and
improvement presented exponentially. The very large tumor mass began to recede and was completely reduced by May of this year. I do not propose that the kelp and raw chicken were the miraculous resolution of this condition, but it did cross my mind. Today, Libby is behaving like a teenager, trim, jumping up from a flat-footed start into a high-back overstuffed lounge chair, darting up two full stair-flights and "ruling the roost" once again.
I confess, it does seem a miracle.
Sincerely, Brooks Bradley
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