Do Your Doggie Best Friend a Favour...
Removing all the toxins and additives that are present in man made food, in favour of a natural canine-appropriate diet certainly has some major benefits. I found out just how on a recent visit to Early Paws in Sutton Weaver.
I must admit that I’ve tentatively talked about feeding raw to our dogs over the last couple of years but I’ve been under the misconception of having to pick up a raw carcass every day or so (thanks to a friend who does just that!). Well how wrong I was and now it’s becoming so much more convenient and appealing.
Looking at the vast array of raw frozen food on offer my immediate reaction was ‘Oh well I suppose we could get an extra freezer in the garage’, but when I realised that actually it would only take up one freezer drawer for perhaps a months worth of meals for our two little dogs, I started to look at it differently. What’s more, it’s also very cost effective, which surprised me again.
For example a 500g pack of frozen raw food costs £1.10 (up to £1.35 for game varieties), that would provide a small dog 3-4 meals (depending on weight) plus all of the advantages of feeding raw. You simply defrost it and portion it out.
So what’s the special formula of raw food meals?
The meals are available in different sized portions at Early Paws and are provided by several highly acclaimed, award winning businesses and all provide the percentage mix that is recommended by vets which is a ratio of 80% meat / fish or blend of, 10% bone (aids teeth maintenance) and 10% offal. That really is all that a dog needs for a healthy lifestyle, it’s us as humans that decide otherwise!
Available in many different flavours including chicken, lamb, beef, beef and heart, wild boar, duck, turkey, venison, oily fish and rabbit.
What about treats and bedtime biscuits?
Well once again I was surprised, although I’ve still got to get my head around feeding dried or frozen chicken and duck’s feet. I wasn’t too bad with the spaghetti (aka dried intestines), at least they don’t look like ears, noses or feet - but that’s just me. One thing I must say though is that one of our dogs drives us crazy crying for treats of an evening (14 years old - later life hunger craze I suppose) but after she had feasted on a duck’s foot she just snuggled up in her bed... result!
Bedtime biscuits can be replaced with dry paté rounds which can be broken up and, once again, are made from natural ingredients. Soft paté is also available to use in kongs etc. Another thing that I learned was feeding a dried portion complete with skin / fur on acts as a natural wormer.
The Dog Deli!
When I first walked past this counter I thought that these gorgeous cakes, biscuits, and pastries were dog themed for humans but no, they are for our furry friends. What a lovely way to spoil your pooch on their birthday or let them join in with an afternoon tea party! A list of the natural ingredients including dog friendly chocolate is available with each purchase.
What are the benefits of feeding a natural canine appropriate diet?
Owners report many positive improvements. A balanced raw diet can help improve your dog’s health in many ways:
- Glossy coats with zero or little odour
- Increases energy and vitality
- Clean, tartar free teeth & fresh breath
- Supports a strong immune system
- Reduces allergies
- Helps eliminate itching & licking
- Improves stiff joints and reduces inflammation
- Supports strong healthy muscles
- Smaller pellet like stools and less wind
- Stools are odourless or much reduced in smell
- Encourages optimum internal organ function
- Lessens anal gland issues
- Improved wellbeing
- Chewing meat and bones releases endorphins that make your dog happier
- Pancreatitis is often easier to manage
Other conditions often improve and require less medication
For those people who still prefer to feed some kibble, Early Paws stocks the full range of ‘Grain Free’ which is naturally sourced with a high meat content and no added artificial colours or preservatives. Priced at just £8.95 for 2kg.
In addition to the vast selection of natural feeds, Early Paws also has a large stock of dog accessories - leads, harnesses, collars (including bespoke collars, made to order), grooming aids, bowls, toys, natural dried herbs and even dog tooth brushes & paste!
Set within acres of land, the boarding kennels can accommodate up to 52 dogs and 16 places are available for doggy day care Monday - Friday. Two secure fields can be hired privately and is perfect for practising re-call or if your dog isn’t particularly good with others. It’s a brilliant way for them to run around without the worry of other dogs. Private and group training lessons are offered by TW Dog School and the agility course can be hired individually. There is also an experienced dog groomer on site.
It really is a one stop shop and dog paradise, with a lovely dog friendly café. Enjoy a coffee & cake or lunch while you’re there.
T: 01928 714211
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Sutton Fields, Chester Road, Sutton Weaver, WA7 3EY
