Transitioning Dogs with GI Issues from Kibble: My Protocol and Key Tips

Switching your dog to a raw diet can lead to remarkable health improvements, from enhanced digestion to a shinier coat and increased vitality. However, dogs with sensitive stomachs may need extra support to transition smoothly. At Marin Raw, we’ve developed a gradual, supportive protocol to help even the most sensitive dogs thrive on a raw diet. Here’s our step-by-step guide, including additional tools like Adoptrex formulated by Dr Steve Marsden DVM for Gold Standard Herbs and Dr. Connor Brady’s Gut Regen12, to ensure a successful transition.

Step 1: Start with Adoptrex and Kibble

Before any food change, introduce Adoptrex, an organically grown, concentrated herbal extract that supports digestive health. Sensitive dogs often experience GI upset from changes in diet due to an imbalanced gut flora or reduced digestive power. Adoptrex stabilizes the GI system, promoting a balanced gut environment that can better handle dietary shifts.

How to Use Adoptrex:

• Preparation: Start feeding Adoptrex with kibble for one week before transitioning to new food.
• Dosage Guidelines:
  • Up to 15 lbs: 1/8 tsp
  • 15-40 lbs: 1/4 tsp
  • 40-70 lbs: 1/2 tsp
  • 70-110 lbs: 3/4 tsp
  • Over 110 lbs: 1 tsp (can safely double if needed)
• Duration: One bottle lasts about 1 month for dogs under 50 lbs and 2 weeks for dogs over 100 lbs.

Starting with Adoptrex primes your dog’s digestive system, preparing it for new foods in the next stages.

Step 2: Transition to Mixed Meals (Kibble & Cooked Protein)

After a week on Adoptrex, gradually introduce gently cooked protein while maintaining one kibble meal. This slower approach allows your dog’s digestive system time to adjust.

How to Transition:

1. Replace one kibble meal with a meal of gently cooked protein, like turkey. If your dog has tolerated chicken, pork, or beef previously, these are also suitable choices.
2. Add Dr. Harvey’s Veg-to-Bowl Mix: This mix enhances the nutrient profile of the meal and complements the cooked protein.

Continue feeding one kibble meal and one gently cooked protein meal for 14 days, allowing for a stable transition. Do not mix raw and kibble in the same meal since they digest differently and can upset the stomach.

Step 3: Monitor GI Health

During this stage, watch for signs of stability, like solid stools and no GI distress. Once these are achieved, it’s time to prepare for raw. If you encounter challenges, feel free to check in with Elizabeth or Callie for guidance.

Step 4: Add Gut Regen12 if Needed

If your dog’s digestive system continues to struggle with this level, we offer additional support with Dr. Connor Brady’s Gut Regen12. This natural feed supplement is designed to manage gut conditions, including dysbiosis, IBD, IBS, and acid reflux. Gut Regen12 includes:

• Organic Chamomile and Ginger: Reduces gut inflammation.
• Marshmallow Root: Restores the gut’s mucous lining, which houses beneficial gut flora, supported by inulin from chicory root.
• Activated Charcoal and Boswellia: Minimizes bloating and intestinal discomfort.
• S. boulardii and Chlorella: Controls pathogenic bacteria and yeast overgrowth while detoxifying.
• Digestive Enzymes and Nutritional Additions: Boost nutrient absorption with electrolytes from Celtic salt and seaweed for essential minerals.

This additional support can be a game-changer for dogs struggling with gut sensitivities, preparing them to tolerate the next diet stage.

Step 5: Transition to Raw Grinds

Once your dog is stable with gently cooked protein (and any supportive additions), it’s time to start introducing raw grinds. This is a significant milestone, marking the beginning of a full raw diet!

Check-in Required: At this point, we recommend checking in with Elizabeth or Callie for tailored advice on next steps and troubleshooting to ensure the transition stays on track.

Step 6: Customize with a Nutrition Consultation

Every dog is unique, and while some may transition quickly, others may benefit from ongoing support. Our nutrition consultations provide personalized guidance, helping you create a diet plan that ensures long-term health and successful raw feeding.

In Summary:
Transitioning your dog to a raw diet doesn’t have to be challenging, even for those with sensitive stomachs. By taking a gradual approach, incorporating Adoptrex, and using tools like Dr. Brady’s Gut Regen12, we can help support every dog’s unique needs. We’re here to guide you each step of the way, ensuring a smooth transition and ongoing success.

Ready to make the switch? Contact us today or book a nutrition consultation online to support your dog’s journey to a raw, nutrient-rich diet!