Many pet owners are increasingly opting for raw meat diets for their dogs, influenced by the perceived health benefits and a desire to provide the best for their companions. However, major veterinary institutions and research have raised significant concerns about the safety of these diets, not only for the pets but also for the humans they live with. The Cornell Feline Health Center, for instance, has taken a firm stance against raw feeding practices, highlighting that the potential health risks significantly outweigh any purported advantages.
It’s crucial to understand that “raw diets” encompass more than just frozen, ground meat. Raw meat can also be found in grocery stores as dried or freeze-dried treats, and even as kibble coated with freeze-dried ingredients. The process of freeze-drying, unlike cooking, does not eliminate harmful bacteria or parasites. In fact, drying out bacteria can preserve them for extended periods, making them a persistent threat.
A notable example of the dangers associated with dried pet treats is a recent outbreak of salmonellosis. Contaminated pig ear treats, which are typically not cooked, were linked to illnesses in at least 154 people across the US and Canada over a four-year span. Disturbingly, a majority of the bacterial strains involved were multidrug-resistant, and a significant portion of those hospitalized were outside the usual high-risk age groups. This raises a serious concern: even if individuals recover, they may harbor these resistant genes in their gut microbiome, potentially rendering critical antibiotics ineffective in the future.
The risks extend beyond human health. A decade-old study by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine indicated that approximately one in three frozen raw meat diets purchased online contained foodborne pathogens like Salmonella, Listeria, or toxigenic E. coli. More recent research from the University of Pennsylvania found that 10% of canine raw food products harbored Gram-negative bacteria producing extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs). These enzymes can degrade penicillin and cephalosporins, making infections incredibly difficult to treat. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) attribute over 9,000 deaths of hospitalized patients in the US in 2017 to infections with these types of bacteria.
If you choose to feed your dog raw products, it is imperative to handle them with the same caution as raw meat for human consumption. This includes preventing splashes and drips, and ensuring the food is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before feeding it to your pet. Thoroughly clean and disinfect all surfaces, dishes, and utensils afterward, and always wash your hands meticulously with soap.
Furthermore, when giving your dog freeze-dried treats or any other raw food, individuals in high-risk groups—such as the young, elderly, immunocompromised, or pregnant—should avoid direct contact with the product or the dog itself. Even if a dog appears healthy, it could still be shedding harmful organisms. A significant epidemiologic study published in 2017 highlighted that raw meat consumption is a considerable risk factor for Salmonella shedding in dogs, with nearly half of infected dogs showing no outward signs of illness.
If your dog does fall ill, contacting your veterinarian immediately is essential. Symptoms to watch for include diarrhea, vomiting, or changes in behavior. Be sure to inform your vet about any recent dietary changes, especially the introduction of raw, dried, or freeze-dried products. If a commercial pet food product is suspected as the source of illness, you can report the issue to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration via their website or phone. The FDA offers substantial support through its network of veterinary medical officers and laboratories.
Ultimately, understanding the complete spectrum of risks and benefits associated with your dog’s diet is paramount. Always read product labels carefully and consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your pet’s food.
