Why Vancouver Pet Owners Are Switching to Raw
Vancouver is one of Canada’s most pet-friendly cities, and more local pet owners are exploring raw feeding as part of a broader focus on pet health. Whether you’ve got an active dog hitting the trails on the North Shore or a laid-back indoor cat, diet can play a big role in overall well-being.
At True Carnivores, we’ve been serving the local raw-feeding community for over 30 years, delivering species-appropriate meals across Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Richmond, and the wider Lower Mainland—including Whistler and the Sunshine Coast.
What Is Raw Pet Food?
Raw pet food (often called a BARF diet—Biologically Appropriate Raw Food—or a prey model diet) is made up of uncooked meat, organs, and bones designed to reflect what dogs and cats would naturally eat.
Compared to heavily processed kibble, raw food retains natural enzymes, amino acids, and moisture, which may support:
- Healthier skin and coat (less shedding, fewer hot spots)
- More efficient digestion (smaller, firmer stools)
- Better dental health (raw meaty bones can help clean teeth)
- Steadier energy levels
- Fewer food sensitivities for some pets
What to Look for in Raw Pet Food in Vancouver
Not all raw pet food is the same. If you’re shopping locally, here are a few things to pay attention to:
1. Quality sourcing
Look for transparency around where the meat comes from. Reliable suppliers should clearly communicate their sourcing and standards.
2. Proper handling and freezing
Raw food should be frozen quickly after processing to preserve nutrients and reduce risk.
3. Complete and balanced formulas
A proper raw diet includes muscle meat, organ meat (like liver and kidney), and raw meaty bones in appropriate ratios.
4. Protein variety
Rotating proteins helps create a more balanced diet. Common options include beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, rabbit, and fish, along with novel proteins like kangaroo, goat, boar, or venison for sensitive pets.
Raw Dog Food Delivery in Vancouver
Convenience used to be a barrier to raw feeding, but delivery has made it much easier.
True Carnivores offers home delivery across Metro Vancouver, including:
- Vancouver (all neighbourhoods)
- Burnaby and New Westminster
- Surrey and Langley
- Richmond and Delta
- North Shore (North and West Vancouver)
- Coquitlam, Port Moody, and the Tri-Cities
- Fraser Valley
- Squamish
- Whistler
- Sunshine Coast
Orders are delivered frozen using a refrigerated fleet, so you don’t have to worry about storage or last-minute trips to the store.
How to Get Started with Raw Feeding
Switching to raw doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple approach:
- Start with a single protein (turkey or pork are often good starting points)
- Transition gradually by mixing raw with your current food over 7–10 days
- Alternatively, some owners switch more directly by skipping one meal and starting fresh the next day
- Use a feeding calculator to determine portion sizes based on weight and activity
- Rotate proteins once your pet adjusts
- Monitor stool quality, energy levels, and coat condition, and adjust as needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is raw pet food safe?
Yes, when handled properly. Keep it frozen until use, thaw in the fridge, and clean surfaces and hands after handling—just like with raw meat for human consumption.
How much does raw pet food cost?
Costs vary, but many pet owners find it comparable to premium kibble, especially when factoring in potential long-term health benefits.
Can cats eat raw food?
Yes. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they rely on animal protein. Many do well on a properly balanced raw diet.
Thinking About Making the Switch?
Raw feeding isn’t the right choice for every pet, but for many Vancouver owners, it’s a practical option worth considering. If you’re curious, start small, ask questions, and see how your pet responds.
If you need guidance, the True Carnivores team can help you get started and find a routine that works for you and your pet.
