In April 2006, Nikki, our black/white female springer became a part of our life.

I tried a variety of canned foods in her diet, but somehow I always got the feeling that she was not too thrilled about eating it.

In May 2007, Kiehin, our liver/white male springer (Nikki's brother separated by one litter) joined our happy home.

A variety of canned foods to choose from, but I was beginning to notice a pattern. And this was way before the dog food recall.

When it came time to eat breakfast, Nikki would lay in the chair in the livingroom and was not too enthused about coming to eat. Both dogs were not eating all of the food in their dishes, sometimes it would sit there for hours. Lastly, I noticed an issue with their bowel movements in that the dogs were going more frequently and the stools were loose and yellow in color.

At the time of the dog food recall, I made the decision to start making my dogs their food based on my impression that they do not like canned food and the canned food does not agree with their digestive system.

Both dogs get a essential fatty acid tablet each day as well as brewers yeast supplement. They also get a super food supplement powder (3 tsp) on their breakfast.

Their homemade food is broken down into the basic food groups. There is the meat such as ground chicken, pork, turkey. There are the organ meats such as chicken hearts. Fish such as jack mackeral and sardines is also an important ingredient for the oils. Frozen vegetables such as spinach and broccoli are used. Certain legumes such as green beans can be used so long they are cooked. Yogurt, cottage cheese and eggs also play an important role. Cooked brown rice is the foundation for the entire meal.

Most people would say that they just do not have the time to keep making the food all of the time. How important is your dog's health and welfare and happiness?

Let me tell you what I have noticed since I changed their diet. Their attitude about eating breakfast has done a 360 degree turn and they are eager each morning to see what I have made for them to eat and they eat all of it. Their fur and skin is in better condition. Their bowel movements have greatly improved in that they are no longer yellow and runny and the dogs are not going several times a day.

Canned versus Homemade? I would never go back to canned, ever. My dogs are worth the time and effort to make them homemade food. I know exactly what I am feeding them and they are healthy and happy animals.

It is recommended that you seek the advice of your veterinarian prior to making any change to your pet's diet or prior to adding any supplements to their diet. Every breed is different and have special requirements and needs.