The decision to adopt a raw diet for canines was not an immediate one for them. They previously believed that the high-quality kibble they were using was sufficient. However, after more than ten years of feeding their dogs a raw diet, the notion of returning to dry dog food is now alien to them. The catalyst for their interest in a biologically appropriate diet for their pets was the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle for them. They were aware of the limitations of dry dog food and aimed for something better. Despite this, they hesitated. They read Dr. Ian Billinghurst’s “Give Your Dog a Bone,” a book from the early ’90s, yet still did not alter their dogs’ diet. The complexity of the process was intimidating; they feared making mistakes that could potentially harm their dogs. Having spent years in the veterinary field, the idea of deviating from the standard dry kibble was quite unconventional. Common warnings against feeding dogs “human food” or the risks of raw diets kept them from taking action. Even after learning about the benefits of a raw diet, they lacked the confidence to transition.
Then they came across Wendy Volhard, the founder of Volhard Dog Nutrition. Her extensive knowledge in nutrition, although daunting, did not deter them—especially given their background in science and biology. Wendy recognized that people were often overwhelmed by the thought of changing their dog’s diet, so she aimed to simplify the process. She developed a dehydrated product that required only a few fresh ingredients to be added to create a balanced diet. This product took care of the necessary balance of vitamins and minerals, and with the addition of fresh ingredients and water, the diet was complete. Realizing the simplicity of the process encouraged them to make the switch.
They are delighted with the decision. Within weeks, they noticed visible improvements in their dogs’ appearance. Their dogs’ eyes became brighter without any gooey discharge, their coats became softer with richer color, and their weight was easily managed. Ear infections and itchy skin disappeared, and the routine post-meal gassiness was no longer an issue—a welcome bonus. These external signs of improvement suggested internal health benefits as well. Their dogs required fewer veterinary visits than their previous pets, and their annual blood chemistry profiles consistently fell within normal ranges, indicating good overall health. Even their initially skeptical veterinarian endorsed the continuation of the raw diet.
They have continued to explore the impact of nutrition on both the body and mind. They tailor their dog’s diet with seasonal variations in fruits, vegetables, and proteins to support their Duck Toller, Diva, especially during periods of environmental allergies. As Diva approaches thirteen years old, they’ve started including supplements for joint support, and she is faring excellently. Their terrier mix, estimated to be around five years old, is flourishing on the Natural Foundation Diet without any additional supplements.
Over a decade of feeding their dogs a raw diet has only clarified the importance of providing quality nutrients to the body’s cells, which in turn promotes better functioning. What initially seemed daunting has become a simple step towards enhancing their dogs’ health and longevity. They encourage others not to delay as they did but to start considering dietary changes for their dogs’ health.
