The Many Benefits of Raw

Written By Marita Tilley - Group Founder Dip.Canine.holistics, Dip.caninenutrition, Dip.Dog Nutrigenomics, MSFTR

When it comes to feeding our furry companions, it's not just about filling their bellies—it's about nourishing their bodies and nurturing their health from the inside out. The shift towards raw feeding has been gaining momentum in recent years, and for good reason. Let's delve deeper into the myriad benefits that fresh, raw food can offer to our beloved canine friends.

The Gut: A Powerhouse of Health

Did you know that the gut is the epicentre of your dog's immune system, housing a staggering 80% of its defence mechanisms? By feeding fresh, minimally processed food, you're not just providing a meal—you're supporting your dog's body at a cellular level and enriching its gut microbiome. This diverse array of beneficial bacteria lays the foundation for a robust immune system and overall well-being. It's a simple yet profound truth: What goes into your dog's body internally has the power to either create health or promote disease.

Combatting Inflammation: The Root of Health Woes

The dangers lurking in low-quality, high-carbohydrate commercial pet foods cannot be overstated. Laden with sugar, synthetic vitamins and minerals, and the potential risk of toxic molds, these products fuel inflammation—a silent precursor to a myriad of health issues, including obesity, diabetes, and even cancer. Opting for fresh, natural whole foods serves as a powerful antidote to this inflammatory onslaught, safeguarding your furry friend's long-term health and vitality.

Nourishing the Immune System: Nature's Best Defence

A resilient immune system isn't built on vaccines and medications alone—it starts with proper nutrition. Fresh foods, coupled with minimal exposure to toxins and reduced sugar intake, empower your dog's immune system to thrive. By providing the essential building blocks for health, you're equipping your furry friend with the tools to fend off illness and embrace life to the fullest.

Real Stories, Real Benefits

The benefits of raw feeding aren't just theoretical, they're tangible, as evidenced by the countless testimonials from pet owners who have witnessed remarkable transformations in their dogs' health. Here are just a few of the benefits our group members observed after switching their dogs from a low quality processed commercial diet to a fresh one :

  1. Improved Digestion and Nutrient Absorption: Natural, minimally processed ingredients promote optimal digestion and nutrient absorption.

  2. Healthier Coat and Skin: High-quality proteins and essential fatty acids found in raw meat contribute to a lustrous coat and healthy skin.

  3. Better Dental Health: Chewing on raw bones naturally cleans teeth and gums, promoting superior dental hygiene.

  4. Increased Energy and Vitality: Raw diets provide a higher nutritional content, fuelling energy and vitality.

  5. Potential Allergy Relief: Raw diets eliminate common allergens found in processed foods, offering relief for dogs with sensitivities.

  6. Reduced Risk of Obesity: Lower carbohydrate content and higher protein content help manage weight and reduce obesity-related health issues.

  7. Improved Weight Management and Muscle Development: Ideal for active dogs, raw diets support muscle growth and healthy weight.

  8. Decreased Stool Volume and Odour: Raw diets are easier to digest, resulting in smaller, less odorous stools.

  9. Potential Relief from Chronic Conditions: Some dogs experience relief from skin problems, digestive issues, and joint pain with a raw diet.

  10. Enhanced Satisfaction and Enjoyment: Many dogs prefer the taste and texture of raw food, leading to a more enjoyable mealtime experience.

A Vision for the Future: Thriving Together

For nearly a decade now, our vision has remained steadfast: to see all dogs thriving well into their golden years. We believe in promoting health, happiness, and longevity for our beloved companions.

Our commitment to fresh feeding stems from a deep love and care for our pets. Because when it comes to their health and happiness, nothing but the best will suffice.In conclusion, the benefits of raw feeding extend far beyond mere nutrition— they're a testament to the profound impact that proper nourishment can have on our furry friends' lives.

So let's continue to champion fresh, wholesome foods for our canine companions, ensuring that they lead lives filled with health, vitality, and joy.

To learn more about raw feeding, check out some of our recommended resources linked here!

Marita Tilley - Group Founder Dip.Canine.holistics, Dip.caninenutrition, Dip.Dog Nutrigenomics, MSFTR

Meet Marita Tilley, the visionary founder of THE HEALTHY CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL(THCKCS), the very group from which The Balanced Canine emerged as a specialist subsidiary. Marita’s dedication to canine health and wellness has been inspiring our community for nearly a decade;

In 2015, Marita Tilley founded The Healthy Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (THCKCS), which has grown to become one of Facebook’s largest breed-specific canine health communities, boasting over 65,000 members across 37 countries. Her mission from the start was clear: to help Cavalier owners keep their dogs as healthy and happy as possible using natural, holistic methods. This thriving community has empowered countless pet parents with research-based information, practical advice, and unwavering support.

Marita’s passion for health and wellness extends beyond the canine world. She founded the Natural Health School of Complementary Therapies, an ITEC-registered college that successfully ran for seven years, training hundreds of students in areas such as Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology, Holistic Massage, Reflexology, Neuromuscular Technique, and more. Her commitment to natural health was further solidified while assisting at her son’s chiropractic clinic, where she witnessed firsthand the transformative effects of a holistic approach incorporating fresh diets, exercise, and specialized care on human health.

Her dedication to making a difference also led her to establish the rescue group Team Chance. Alongside her team, Marita embarked on the mission of rescuing Romanian dogs from Lancram Kill Shelter. Their efforts resulted in successfully bringing these dogs to the UK and finding them loving, permanent homes.

In 2018, Marita sought out and invited Libby Halpin, a dedicated THCKCS member and passionate Cavalier owner, to join her team after observing Libby’s growth and dedication within the group. This partnership blossomed into a close friendship, and together, they have worked tirelessly on numerous projects, enhancing the reach and impact of THCKCS and taking THCKCS online.

Their combined expertise and shared vision led to a significant milestone in 2024 when Libby approached Marita with an idea that expanded the THCKCS mission. This idea resulted in the creation of THCKCS’ fifth subsidiary specialist group, The Balanced Canine, broadening their focus for the first time to cater to all breeds while upholding their commitment to holistic health and well-being.

Marita holds level 3 qualifications in various areas surrounding holistic health and canine health; Dip.Canine.holistics, Dip.caninenutrition, Dip.Dog Nutrigenomics, MSFTR, ITEC Level 3 anatomy & Physiology, holistic massage, reflexology plus multiple therapy certifications.

Through THCKCS and her broader work, Marita’s mission has remained steadfast: to educate, inspire, and guide pet parents to make informed decisions that enhance the quality of their dogs’ lives. She believes that “when we know better we do better” Marita says; “education is everything, as it gives us the opportunity to support dogs the best way possible.”

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