New Member - Dog w/Heart Murmur - Diet?

Melissa · 09-01-2008, 01:50 PM

Hi -

My name is Melissa, and I am a new member of this forum. I have an old terrier (15+) who was just diagnosed with a heart murmur on both sides of his heart. He is taking enacard for that. There was a preliminary notion that he might have some sort of renal issues; however his blood work at this time indicates that not to be the case. After exhaustive research and consulting 2other vets, it was decided that Woody needed a diet that was 50% animal protein, no grain, and no salt.

I would like some input from those out there who may have had similar concerns with their dogs and/or folks who are food savvy. I am not opposed to a raw diet as that it what I feed my cats; however, I am leaning in the direction of a dry and wet food that is considered a "cadillac" in dog food circles that will provide my dog what he needs.

Woody's weight has never varied more than a pound or two in the 10 years since I rescued him. His energy level has been very good up until the last couple of months. Right now I am feeding him boiled chicken, a little rice, and about 1/4 cup of his kibble (Nutrena's Lamb and Rice Kibble).

I appreciate in advance all the help I can get.

Thank you,
Melissa and Woody

Willowy · 09-02-2008, 06:18 PM

A raw diet is best, if you're willing and able to feed raw. If you need help with formulating a good raw diet, there are LOTS of raw feeders here that can help.

There are also a lot of high-quality grain-free kibbles and canned foods available. What brand are you considering?

Melissa · 09-03-2008, 07:13 AM

Hi Willowy -

Many thanks for your response. Yesterday, I started Woody on Evo CHicken and Turkey. He ate with gusto. I have also started my little 14 yr old chi on the same thing.

I am still looking to go the raw diet route; I have a total of 8 dogs, 6 that are 50 lbs and up, and I would like to start them on a raw diet as well. Do you have any suggestions.

I am still a bit overwhelmed with Woody's diagnosis, so it I have been reluctant to try any of the recipes I have looked at.

Thanks for your input.
Melissa

Willowy · 09-04-2008, 07:45 PM

If you start a thread in the food forum titled "raw recommendations" or something like that, you'll get a MILLION responses......

. There are some very knowledgeable raw feeders on here.