Raw v cooked

Do you BARF?

That is, do you feed your pets Biologically Appropriate Raw Food?

An article in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette takes up the issue.

The BARF or raw diet, which has drawn increased attention, is one of the most controversial ways to feed cats and dogs. Proponents swear by it, but many vets discourage it. Dr. Kenton Rexford of Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center in Ohio Township does not recommend a raw diet.

"No. 1, there is a risk -- for both the person and the pet -- for exposure to salmonella and other infectious diseases. No. 2, there is no scientific proof that a raw diet is healthier than a cooked diet or packaged foods," he says.

Rexford also said the diet is labor intensive and requires the preparer to be well versed in animal nutrition.

Dr. Doug Knueven, author of "The Holistic Health Guide: Natural Care for the Dog," disputes the disease factor and maintains the benefits of a raw diet outweigh the drawbacks.

"There is scientific proof that cooking food destroys nutrients on the human side, which should apply to animals. Eating whole foods (unprocessed) has been shown to have many health benefits," he says.

So where do you fall on the raw diet? It is something you would ever give your pet?