Clinical testing / research of raw diets

Hi all,

I have a six-month old newf that I'm currently feeding a high quality
kibble (Noble, made in Walkerton Ontario). I'v begun doing some
research into alternative nutrition options and have begun to look at
diet's like Levy, BARF, Volhard etc.

My primary concern, obviously, is to do what's best for my pup, and
while there is certainly a wealth a information out there about all
these diets, what I find striking is the seeming lack of clinical
evidence (either for or against). There is no shortage of anecdote
and hearsay, lots and lots of "my dog was sick and then I started
BARF, and now she is 16 and still acts like a puppy" or, on the other
side "I started my dog on the Volhard diet, she broke out in hives and
all her hair fell out".

All, some or none of these stories may be accurate, it's hard to know,
but I would feel a lot more confident switching diets if there was
scientific research to back them up. Have any studies been done?
Where could I get a hold of the results? If studies have not been
done, then why not? Are there any currently underway?

Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Nuri Frame
Toronto, ON

I wouldn't disagree with what you say. There are a good many human
beings out there whose diet is terrible and who live long and happy
lives. For that matter, there are a good many people who abuse their
bodies throughout their life with poor diets, no exercise, smoking,
drinking, drugs, etc. and still live long lives. I don't know if you
have children or not, but given the choice, what would you choose for
your children: fresh, nutritious,
unprocessed food or processed food out of a bag or can?

Would you require scientific evidence to make your decision?

For me it would be a no brainer.



diddy wrote:

>
>
>Does this mean we should all go out and feed our dogs OLD ROY and Alpo? To
>say so, would be irresponsible.
>
>But opinions based on results of personal experiences would make this
>woman's opinion as valid as anyone's here. Her dog's are doggone healthy!
>
>Personal experience without scientific studies are called anecdotal
>evidence.
>
>Because it has worked for you, does not mean it works for everyone.
>
>