BARF - a real alternative in the nutrition and detection of dogs with feed allergies

Abstract

The aim of this thesis named “BARF – a real alternative in the nutrition and detection of dogs with feed allergies.“ was to get an impression if the elimination diets on the basis of “BARF” are a good alternative in the treatment of dogs with suspected feed allergies. On the one hand side it should be revealed whether the overall constitution of the dogs would get better due to this kind of feeding technique and on the other hand side it should be shown in how far this dietary change would be practicable for the owners in their everyday life. In this empiric study 32 dog owners were interviewed and introduced to the theory behind elimination diets based on raw feeds and given guidance throughout the performance of the whole study, by getting special nutritional plans for their dogs and by getting help in case that any difficulties or questions would establish. Furthermore 30 veterinarians were interviewed briefly before and after the study to find out about their opinion and see if there would be any changes in mind after the end of the study. This was an important step to be done, since the veterinarians are the persons who are consulted by the dog owners and asked for help, if feed allergies seem to establish. They are the persons of trust and the majority of the dog owners does perform and try what is recommended by his or her veterinarian. The analysis of the data was made in tabular form and the sampled data was stated in absolute numbers and percentages and discussed later on. Descriptive statistics, as well as binominal tests and chi-square tests were run in order to give the data statistical power.