In recent years, some pet owners have turned to a raw-style food diet for their dogs, gaining attention on social media platforms like TikTok. One such pet owner, Kayla Kowalski, a certified canine nutritionist (CertCN) from Phoenix, Arizona, has become a viral sensation with her unconventional approach to dog nutrition. Kowalski's interest in pet health began when she and her boyfriend rescued their dog, Rudy, who experienced various health and mental issues after joining their family. Unsatisfied with traditional kibble, Kowalski discovered the raw food diet, which she claims transformed Rudy's health.

After sharing her journey on social media, Kowalski garnered interest from other pet parents who wanted to try the raw dog food diet. This prompted her to become a CertCN and establish her own business. Today, she creates personalized diets for customers and shares exclusive recipes in her e-books. Initially, Kowalski supplemented her pets' meals with both raw and cooked meats. However, she gradually eliminated the use of a popular consumer brand and began incorporating more raw ingredients such as turkey and chicken necks, duck feet, goose heads, beef kidneys, and livers. All three of Kowalski's dogs, Rudy, Buddy, and Rylie, are now on a complete raw food diet.

According to Kowalski, dogs require specific vitamins and minerals for optimal health, just like humans. She believes that looking back at how dogs and wolves ate hundreds of years ago provides insight into their biological dietary needs. Kowalski criticizes pet store food, claiming it is made for "human convenience." However, she acknowledges that if pet owners prefer store-bought food based on veterinary advice, she recommends hydrating it with water or bone broth for better digestion. Kowalski suggests simple additives such as steamed Brussels sprouts, most veggies, raw eggs with the membrane, ripe bananas, or any fruit except grapes.

The growing popularity of the raw diet on platforms like TikTok has caught the attention of veterinarians. Dr. Lindsay Butzer, a veterinarian from Boca Raton, Florida, warns that feeding dogs raw meat with multiple ingredients can be hard on their stomachs and may cause severe diarrhea and pancreatitis. She cautions against following the trend of elaborate bowls filled with various exotic ingredients, advising pet owners to consider incorporating one raw protein source or vegetable at a time to avoid potential digestive issues. Dr. Butzer supports kibble and freeze-dried raw pet food brands that have undergone study, labeling, and approval as complete and balanced diets for pets.

Despite this, Kowalski stands by her holistic approach to pet health and has consulted with veterinarians who endorse her methods. Dr. Katie Woodley, a holistic veterinarian and founder of The Natural Pet Doctor in Colorado, believes that raw food diets are a health-conscious choice for pet owners. Woodley refers to recent studies, including those found on PubMed, that provide evidence supporting the health benefits of raw food diets compared to processed kibble. She argues that when formulated and managed correctly, raw diets offer a natural, nutritious option that aligns with the dietary needs of carnivorous pets.

Kowalski emphasizes that the raw dog food diet is just as balanced and nutritious as dried kibble and encourages pet owners to educate themselves about their pet's health and the raw diet. While there is ongoing debate among experts about the benefits and risks of raw food diets, the popularity of this trend on social media continues to grow. As pet owners seek alternative ways to improve their pets' health and well-being, it is essential to consult with veterinarians and make informed choices about their furry companions' diets.