If you’ve ever taken a closer look at the ingredients list on your dog’s kibble, you might have noticed some things that don’t sound like food at all. With growing awareness around pet nutrition, more dog owners are asking: What am I really feeding my dog?
Many commercial pet foods are packed with fillers, artificial additives, and highly processed ingredients that offer little nutritional value. While kibble might be convenient, it often lacks the fresh, whole-food nutrients that dogs need to thrive, not just survive.
That’s why more pet owners are making the switch to raw feeding, choosing natural, species-appropriate diets for their furry family members.
What’s Actually in Most Kibble?
Many commercial pet foods are designed for profit and shelf life, not optimal nutrition. Here are some common ingredients that might surprise you:
❌ Grains & Fillers – Wheat, corn, and soy are commonly used to bulk up kibble, but they can cause allergies, digestive issues, and inflammation in dogs.
❌ By-Products & Meat Meals – These can include leftover parts of animals that aren’t fit for human consumption—think beaks, feathers, and even diseased tissue.
❌ Artificial Preservatives & Flavouring – Chemicals like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin are often added to extend shelf life but have been linked to health concerns in pets.
❌ Carbohydrate Overload – Most kibble contains 40-60% carbs, which dogs don’t actually need. Too many carbs can lead to weight gain, blood sugar imbalances, and sluggishness.
Would you feed yourself ultra-processed food every day? If not, why feed it to your dog?
Why Raw Food is a Game-Changer for Your Pet
Dogs thrive on fresh, whole foods—just like their ancestors. A balanced raw diet is rich in high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, all in a natural, easily digestible form.
The Benefits of Feeding Raw:
✔ Shinier Coat & Healthier Skin – Say goodbye to itchy skin, allergies, and excessive shedding. The natural fats and oils in raw food support a soft, glossy coat.
✔ Better Digestion & Smaller Stools – Without fillers and unnecessary carbs, raw-fed dogs have less bloating, fewer tummy issues, and smaller, firmer stools.
✔ More Energy & Better Mood – Proper nutrition fuels steady, natural energy without the sugar crashes that come from carb-heavy kibble.
✔ Stronger Teeth & Gums – Chewing raw bones naturally cleans teeth, reducing plaque buildup, gum disease, and bad breath.
✔ Supports Joint Health – Many raw diets contain natural collagen and anti-inflammatory ingredients like green-lipped mussel, which help keep joints healthy.
🐾 Fun Fact: Many owners report that after switching to raw, their pets smell better, feel more energetic, and even behave better—a result of improved gut and brain health!
Can I Give My Cat Raw Food Too? 🐱
Absolutely! Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed to thrive on meat. Just like with dog food, many commercial cat foods are filled with grains, fillers, and artificial additives that don’t belong in a cat’s diet.
Common issues with regular cat food:
❌ Too many carbohydrates – Cats aren’t designed to digest carbs like rice, corn, or wheat.
❌ Low moisture content – Dry kibble can contribute to kidney disease and urinary tract issues.
❌ Lack of real meat – Many commercial foods use by-products instead of real, high-quality protein.
Switching your cat to a balanced raw diet can:
✔ Improve hydration – Raw food has naturally high moisture content.
✔ Support kidney & urinary health – Less risk of urinary crystals and kidney disease.
✔ Enhance digestion & nutrient absorption – Raw food is easier for cats to process.
✔ Boost coat & skin health – Fewer allergies, softer fur.
Many of our customers who have switched their cats to raw feeding report fewer vet visits, shinier coats, and better overall health.
Why We Stock ROAR Raw Pet Food
Not all raw food is created equal. That’s why we stock ROAR Raw Pet Food—a New Zealand-made, premium raw diet that provides balanced nutrition without any nasties.
🐾 100% Natural – No artificial additives, grains, or fillers.
🐾 Locally Sourced – Made with high-quality, ethically sourced meats and organs.
🐾 Nutritionally Balanced – Everything your pet needs for optimal health and vitality.
We also sell chicken necks and bones, which are fantastic for dental health, enrichment, and natural calcium intake!
💡 Available now in our office! Drop in to grab a bag or message us to arrange pickup from our Social Club van collection point in Whakatāne.
Thinking About Switching to Raw? Here’s How to Start
Transitioning your pet to raw food should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset. Start by mixing small amounts of raw food with their current diet, increasing the portion over a week or two.
📩 Want to try ROAR Raw Pet Food? Stop by our office during our pickup and drop-off hours, or message us today to order!
🐶🐱 Has your pet tried raw feeding? Drop a 🥩 in the comments and let us know!
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