Trichinosis?

[ahuff]

I'm starting Beefy on an elimination diet per the suggestions under the Elimination Diet thread... I just got back from Trader Joe's and I bought some pork (which was suggested as a good way to start as it was a novel protein)... I was getting ready to cut it up and throw it in the freezer for a few days before feeding, but then I began wondering, "Can dogs get Trichinosis?" I know it can be transmitted by raw/undercooked pork, so is that a bad protein source to feed raw? So being paranoid, I started researching Trichinosis and read that even freezing the pork beforehand may not kill all the larvae... suggestions? Too feed or not to feed?

[pugtown]

Don't know about the pork, but can you get Bravo or PawNaturaw in your area? They have novel proteins. Primal also has some novel proteins.

[ahuff]

I'm doing an elimination diet, so processed or prepackaged foods won't work.

[MrsGreene]

If I recall correctly, it is unusual for pork to have trichinosis worms anymore. Unless it is home reared. But don't quote me on that. I know that the only cases in the US in recent history have been from wild game, and maybe a case or two from home reared pigs.

[6 Beautiful Pugs]

As I understand it trichinosis is not a serious illness in dogs, like salmonella, dogs are generally not vulnerable. Also all vets (and human doctors) must report any case of trichinosis to the CDC. Currently all cases are linked to consuming wild boar or bear. Not commercially raised domestic pork.

You're safe.

Take care,
Lisa

[ahuff]

I did some furious internet searching this afternoon and I found similar information. The cases of Trichinosis are very rare now and there are laws against feeding commercial pigs raw meat in their diets. I feel a bit more at ease now!