Cost Saving Tips for a Raw Diet

It’s hard to argue that offering a fresh, raw diet is the best option when feeding our pets. A beautiful coat, pearly white teeth, fresh breath, more focus and energy, and less poop are some of the invaluable benefits. However, there can be a bit of sticker shock to some, especially when first starting out. Don’t fret – there are ways, even when feeding a raw diet, to reduce food costs.

1. Buy in Bulk
With Big Country Raw products, your best cost per pound will be in our Grab N Go and NEW XL boxes. A Grab N Go is a variety box with a pre-set mix of proteins and come in both 12lb (1lb vacuum sealed packs) and 18lb (2lb paperboard containers) boxes. Which you choose would depend on your pet's size and breed, your packaging preference, and available freezer space. There are many options, depending on whether you prefer thaw and serve Dinner formulas, or if you prefer to add your own supplements to our Pure and Blend formulas. Our new XL 30lb boxes that contain 1.5lb vacuum sealed packs and are available in five different options. These are a fantastic option for large breed or multiple dog households, and every recipe is balanced for dogs of all ages, puppy to adult.

2. Saving on Supplements
Who doesn’t like to keep things simple? Our Dinner and XL formulations are complete and balanced nutrition. Though the Dinners do contain adequate omega-3 fatty acids, it can be beneficial to add more oils (the recommended dose still keeps the omegas well within the safe upper limit). Feeding the Dinner or XL recipes saves on having to add additional supplements to make Pure, Blend or even DIY recipes balanced. Another option would be to simply add whole foods omega sources like sardines, salmon fillets, herring, or a fish-based Dinner recipe to eliminate having to supplement with an omega oil. Tip: Freezinga fish recipe into treat molds is a great way to portion out smaller amounts to add to an occasional meal!

3. Add Ingredients From the Fridge
Feeling creative? Want to work on your plating skills for an audience that won’t judge? Many items in your fridge (and a few from your pantry) are safe for pets including:

• Fruit and veggies such as broccoli, carrots, berries, zucchini, apples and avocado flesh. (With the exception of onions, grapes, raisins, unripe tomatoes and rhubarb and some others. Be sure to remove any pits).
• Dairy products such as goat milk, plain yogurt and cottage cheese.
• Eggs that are raw or cooked. If from the grocery store, do not feed the shell.
• Soaked oats or chia seeds.
• Leftover rice, quinoa, barley, or other pet-safe grains (in moderation)

*If you don’t know if a food is safe for your pet, it’s best to avoid until you’ve asked your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist.

4. Budget Friendly Proteins
Many people will try to avoid common proteins like poultry and beef for fear of triggering allergies. With their lower cost, these have typically been the proteins of choice for kibble manufacturers for decades. It’s not uncommon that pets are actually reacting to other fillers, ingredients, or preservatives that are present in kibble and not the protein itself. If you are switching to a raw diet and suspect protein allergies, it is very easy to avoid poultry and beef. However, once the allergy symptoms have resolved, you can definitely try adding in some budget friendly proteins and see what happens – you may be surprised about how well it goes!

5. In-Store Loyalty Program
Many of our retail partners offer a Loyalty Program of Buy 12 Get 1 FREE! This deal applies to our 4lb cartons, 12lb and 18lb Grab N Go’s, XL, and Fare Game. Overall, taking advantage of this program works out to be an 8% savings, so don’t forget to ask your local retailer!
(Not available when ordering online through the BCR website).

6. Eliminating Vet Bills
When starting on your raw journey, especially if your pet has specific (and often costly) dietary needs, it can be overwhelming! However, what we feed our pets dictates, in large part, their overall health. Feeding a fresh diet that is void of questionable ingredients will result in a healthier pet and fewer trips to the vet! Often times pets with allergies can come off of medication, chronic digestive upset will disappear, and old age related illnesses may be avoided. Less vet visits will ultimately save your bank account and prevent a lot of stress for both you and your pet.

We all want our pets to live their best lives, and we hope some of these cost saving tips will help you find the perfect balance!