A Personal Story: Feeding My Senior Dog Through Illness
At the beginning of February, our dog was diagnosed with a mast cell tumor. We actually spent her 14th birthday at the vet, waiting for tests and results. It was a difficult and emotional time. She’s no spring chicken, and as a straight-haired Goldendoodle mix, she’s already beyond her breed’s average life expectancy.
When she was three, I started adding simple stews to her dry food. By the time she was five, we transitioned her to a frozen raw diet, which she’s been on ever since.
Why I Add Homemade Stews to My Dog’s Diet
I’ve always had a passion for nutrition and a strong belief in the importance of the gut microbiome. Research in human health shows that high-quality food impacts far more than we once thought—and I believe the same applies to our pets.
That philosophy extends into my daily life—not just for myself, but for my dog as well. I support her health through nourishing food, physical activity, and mental stimulation.
Adding homemade dog stew to her routine is my way of:
- Increasing nutrient variety
- Supporting gut health and digestion
- Enhancing flavor and mealtime enjoyment
- Complementing her raw dog food diet
Important Note Before Making Homemade Dog Food
Pets, like people, can have allergies and food sensitivities. When introducing new foods:
- Start slowly
- Add one ingredient at a time
- Monitor for any adverse reactions
Always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about dietary changes—especially for senior dogs or dogs with health conditions.
Easy Dog Stew Recipe for Beginners
If you’re new to homemade dog food, start simple.
Ingredients:
- 1 carbohydrate: sweet potato
- 1 protein: chicken (hearts, liver, breast, or thighs), turkey, beef, or salmon
- 2 vegetables: carrots and celery
Instructions:
- Chop ingredients into small, bite-sized pieces
- Add to a pot and cover with water
- Simmer until fully cooked and soft
- Cool before serving
This simple dog stew is gentle on digestion and a great introduction to fresh food.
My Homemade Dog Stew Recipe (Advanced Version)
Over time, my dog’s stews have become more nutrient-dense and varied.
Step 1: Build a Flavor & Nutrition Base
I start by mincing garlic, ginger, and turmeric together. I lightly sauté chicken hearts with these in a bit of olive oil.
Then I add:
- Fresh herbs: rosemary, thyme, or parsley
- A pinch of black pepper (to support turmeric absorption)
Step 2: Add Dog-Friendly Vegetables
I rotate vegetables based on what I have on hand:
- Potatoes and sweet potatoes
- Carrots, broccoli, cauliflower
- Green beans, Brussels sprouts
- Kale, spinach, cabbage
- Peas, pumpkin
I also add a small handful of fruits like berries or apples for added nutrients.
Step 3: Add Grains
To round it out, I include:
- Brown rice
- Millet
- Whole wheat couscous
Step 4: Simmer
Cover everything with water and simmer until soft and well combined.
Feeding Notes for Raw-Fed Dogs
Since my dog is on a raw diet, the added meat isn’t always necessary. Her food—produced by a Canadian company—already includes organ meats, fruits, and vegetables in balanced proportions.
However, I like to supplement with homemade additions to:
- Increase variety
- Support gut microbiome diversity
- Add fresh, whole-food nutrients
Supporting a Senior Dog’s Health Naturally
Despite her age and recent diagnosis, she has remained active, engaged, and full of life—and for that, I’m incredibly grateful.
Feeding her well is one of the most meaningful ways I can care for her in this stage of life. These homemade stews are simple, nourishing, and made with love—and that matters just as much as anything else.
Final Thoughts: Is Homemade Dog Stew Worth It?
If you’re considering adding homemade food to your dog’s diet, even small additions can make a difference. You don’t need to overhaul everything—just start simple, stay consistent, and pay attention to your dog’s needs.
Healthy dogs thrive on variety, quality ingredients, and care—and this is one small way to give them all three.
Last but not least: a warning regarding fresh turmeric root
While i love using fresh roots, note that they might turn everything in your kitchen yellow. I use plastic mats on my cutting board to prevent staining, but everything from your kitchen towels, to your knife and even your hands might end up a vibrant canary color so proceed with caution
