Summer Raw Feeding Safety Tips for Dogs

Raw feeding in the summer heat can feel risky without the proper precautions. Warmer months bring an increased risk of spoilage, bacterial contamination, and pest infestations. But with the right handling practices, your dog’s meals can stay fresh and safe. 

Savage K9 prioritizes safe summer food handling practices, including various defrosting methods, avoiding warm-weather pathogens, and practical tips for feeding outdoors. Our freeze-dried options are a shelf-stable alternative that offers all the benefits of raw nutrition without thawing or refrigeration. Safety and quality are our top priorities for our team throughout the year. We’re here to help you feel confident in feeding raw to your dog, regardless of the temperature. 

Why Summer Poses Higher Risks for Raw Dog Food

When it comes to feeding raw in the summer, heat is the number one concern. In protein-rich foods like raw beef or chicken, hot temperatures are a breeding ground for bacterial growth. If food isn’t handled properly or left out for too long, contamination and spoilage become much more likely.

For those who are outdoor feeding, variables like sun exposure, flies, and dirt add an extra layer of threat for raw feeders. Raw feeding starts before the bowl… it begins with proper storage and clean preparation.

If traditional raw food storage feels overwhelming during heat waves or travel, freeze-dried raw meals provide the same nutrition benefits without the stress of handling. 

Common Warm-Weather Pathogens in Raw Diets

The most common pathogens that can breed in raw dog food are Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria monocytogenes. Dogs are usually more resistant to bacteria than humans, but it’s important to practice safe handling. Puppies, seniors, and dogs with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable. Even the most healthy dogs can be affected by harmful bacteria after ingesting contaminated food. 

Symptoms of foodborne illness in your dog can include:

  • Vomiting

  • Diarrhea 

  • Lethargy

  • Fever

  • Loss of appetite 

To minimize the risk of contamination, here’s how you can prioritize hygiene:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling food

  • Disinfect preparation surfaces and utensils after every feed

  • Disinfect bowls daily

  • Use separate utensils and cutting boards for dog food 

Safe Defrosting Methods for Raw Food

Proper thawing is the best way to maintain safe feeding in the summer. 

Avoid:

  • Leaving meat on the counter or in the sink

  • Leaving meat outside

  • Defrosting more than a few days of food at a time

  • Refreezing food once it’s thawed

Here’s what you can do instead for safe handling:

  • Refrigerator thawing: It’s the slow and safe game. Transfer meals from the fridge to the freezer 24-48 hours before feeding. 

  • Cold water bath: Use this method for vacuum-sealed meals. Place the food in a bowl of cold water and change the water every 30 minutes.

  • Take the temperature: Avoid the ‘danger zone’ temperatures of raw meat where bacteria grow.  Aim to keep the food at a temperature below 40°F.

Raw Feeding in Summer: Do’s and Don’ts

When you’re feeding meals indoors, outdoors, or on the go, raw feeding in the summer requires extra precautions for safety. Follow these dos and don’ts to avoid spoilage and contamination:

Do:

  • Thaw meals safely in the fridge or a cold water bath, never on the counter

  • Use stainless steel or insulated bowls to maintain temperature

  • Limit food exposure to 15-20 minutes before refrigerating 

  • Store extra portions in airtight containers to avoid cross-contamination and reduce odors

  • Sanitize feeding areas daily, especially in hotter and more humid climates

Don’t:

  • Leave raw food sitting out in warmer temperatures, even inside

  • Use plastic bowls that can trap bacteria or warp in the heat

  • Feed directly without checking for a proper thaw

  • Refreeze raw meat once it has fully thawed

  • Skip hand washing or sanitizing equipment

Bonus tip: Keep disinfectant wipes or cleaning spray near your feeding station for a quick cleanup.

Order Your Raw Feed Today

Savage K9 raw feed is portioned, packaged, and prepared with food safety as our top priority. Our products are packed for easy storage and safe thawing, ideal for cleanliness and simplicity (especially during hotter months). 

For busy days or trips where refrigeration isn’t available, freeze-dried raw food is lightweight, mess-free, and just water to rehydrate. It keeps your dog’s meals raw and safe without the worry of spoilage. 

If you’re new to raw feeding, you need a more efficient system, or are looking to change up your dog’s meals, we are here to help. Reach out to us with questions about feeding your dog, Savage K9. 

Order your meals today for safe and stress-free summer feeding.

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Smart handling, proper storage, and clean preparation can give your dog nutritious meals all summer long. Savage K9 has the mission to help you feed raw with confidence 365 days a year, because your feeding goals shouldn’t have to take a summer break!

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