By Jeri Rumsey
Published in Hoflin Bullmastiff Annual 2002
My introduction to Bullmastiff’s and feeding a raw diet was through Lynnel Jones, Andalusian Bullmastiffs. Bill met Lynnel at the Philadelphia Dog Show 4 years ago. We first went to see her because we were interested in learning more about her regiment of feeding a raw diet. Our Labrador Retriever was riddled with allergies and we were interested in an alternative approach to try and alleviate some of these allergies. As we were speaking with her about feeding raw, an adorable 3-month-old Bullmastiff came running out to me. Of course, I was hooked from that moment on.
Bill and I had often talked about getting a dog that we could show. As it was, Lynell was interested in finding a home for this puppy where they would be interested in feeding raw and showing the dog. A new “career” was started with our “Baby”.
Feeding raw can be a challenge at first. Questions like, where to get the ingredients, how much to give, what kinds of supplements to give will get you researching and reading. It is definitely worth the effort. There are many great books out there, but if you can find a mentor, such as Lynnel Jones, then half the battle is won. At first, the time involved seems like a lot, but once you get the hang of it, it just becomes a well-oiled production line.
As for this idea of feeding a raw/natural diet, I highly recommend it. I have never had dogs (kibble feed dogs that is) that have had such a beautiful, soft and shiny coat. They do not have “doggy” breath and their teeth are free of tartar and stains from chewing the raw beef bones. Their temperament is sweet and lovable with a disposition that can’t be beat. Their overall health is excellent. My brother couldn’t believe how calm even the “teenage” puppies were. As for my allergic Lab, he is doing much better. Getting him adjusted to a different diet took some time and patience, but once there, the change was remarkable. No more hot spots, no more chewing at his feet constantly. He is now ten years old and still jogging and playing with the younger bullmastiffs like he was a puppy again.
After two breedings and the keeping of two puppies (male and female), we now have an extended Bullmastiff family, where everyone is fed raw beginning with their first “meal”. Needless to say, our family room seems a bit smaller these days. Our bowls of beef heart and chicken necks is also larger. Thank goodness we have a large freezer (which is a must with feeding raw). Buying in bulk is also a necessity for us. Items such as parsley, alfalfa, oil, Vit C and E, and kelp can all be stored for long periods so buying in bulk is cheaper and more efficient. The effort reaps many rewards.
I would like to end by saying Bullmastiffs are a loyal, and loving breed. There is nothing better than “sharing” the sofa with one of my “kids”. At 100 plus pounds, needless to say they get the bigger portion of the couch.
