One thing NOT to feed raw is Salmon. IIRC some dogs have died from eating it. Please correct me if my memory is bad. Cooked, it's O.K.
You need to freeze any of the salmonids because they may have a parasite that is toxic to dogs (and humans). Can't remember the temp, but pretty sure you need a commercial grade freezer to do it. It's either -10F or -40F for 24 hours or so, but don't remember the actual.
You have to do the same thing if you are commercially producing smoked salmon.
You also need to freeze pork for a lengthy time (about 6 weeks), to kill parasites, if you are going to feed raw to your dog.
I spent quite a bit of time researching this in the past. One thing that still haunts me is the processing of grain based dog foods makes the food carcinogenic to dogs. Luna was given the top brand grain based diets for over 6 years. My ignorance may have killed Her
Before I get a new dog (Lab from local breeder, and they own a meat market), all the I's will be dotted and the T's crossed. Plus, I will have a commercial freezer!
JKB, Please don't second-guess your decisions on Luna's diet. Sounds like she had a great life with you and your family. Nobody has the perfect system and diet to raise an animal.
I've had a husky live to be 17 yrs , my wifes doberman live to 16 yrs, Mason got to be an old fat dog for the 3 yrs he was here, a golden retreiver (still alive) 13 yrs plus this new bunch coming up. All brought up on Purina Dog Chow. But they all get a raw egg in their food 2-3 times a week.
Almost forgot to tell you I raised a raccoon (Rocky) from when his eyes were still closed till he bolted after weighing over 25 lbs. He was bottle fed then weaned onto the Purina.
This one gets me, my sister has a "Taco bell" dog,(I can't spell the name after chi) that is closing in on 17 yrs.
JKB, just remember Luna or anybodys pet could have had a lot worse life if it wasn't for people like us. Your ignorance (and I hate using that word) did not kill Luna. Sometimes things just happen (just like in people).
Sorry for rambling on for so long....Good luck with your new Lab coming in.
