AN American expat is urging pet owners to exercise caution after a vet recommended a diet change that led to her dog’s death.
California native Kelsey Esquivel and her Spanish husband have faced a years-long medical ordeal that ended with the loss of their Pomeranian, Natsu.
The issue began when Natsu developed a bladder stone and a vet recommended changing his diet.
The couple switched to a raw dog food brand made near to their home in Valencia, choosing a chicken variety after positive recommendations.
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Within days however, Natsu developed a cough that was dismissed as kennel cough.
“But then his tail dropped and he lost the ability to walk,” she told the Olive Press.
A neurologist was brought in and diagnosed him with ‘polyradiculoneuritis’, a condition that causes rapid paralysis.
Another vet advised immediately cutting out raw food, noting similar cases in particular linked to the consumption of raw poultry.
Despite weeks of rehabilitation, Natsu never fully recovered, developing anemia and eventual kidney failure leading to his death last month.
Over the last two years they claim to have spent over €20,000 on treatment.
Incredibly when they contacted the food brand, they allegedly received an apology and a PR box with more dog food.
“Raw dog food isn’t inherently bad,” she told the Olive Press. “But there are risks in handling, sourcing ingredients, and transport.”
While the style of dog food has surged in popularity due to being a more ‘natural’ diet, linked to shinier coats, higher energy and less odour, experts warn the benefits remain unproved.
“People need to know the real risks, and the exact part of an animal is being used in the food,” a Marbella pet store owner told the Olive Press this week.
“They claim the food is chicken or beef, but you don’t know if it’s the legs, eyes, or some other random part.”
The dog food brand, which we are not naming, failed to respond.
Have your animals suffered from eating raw pet food? If so, contact newsdesk@theolivepress.es
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