If you're like most people who use a Service Dog, you think they're priceless. Carolina Canines estimates the cost of a trained Service Dog at $15,000 - 20,000 (US). Either way, you probably have a significant emotional and financial investment in your Service Dog. You'll forgo doctor visits to make sure the vet bill is covered. You may even cut your own grocery budget in order to buy the "best" dog food.

So it will come as an unwelcome surprise to find that the expensive dog food with the extensive  health claims may actually be killing your dog. According to Pedigree, makers of canned and kibble pet foods, "80% of dogs over the age of 3 have gum disease". Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, arises when animals (including humans) fail to adequately clean their teeth and gums. Wolves in the wild, and dogs in domestication, 'brush and floss' teeth as they rip and tear into natural food.

Kibble doesn't clean teeth and gums, it coats them in sludge and further contributes to gum disease - and gum disease can lead to life-threatening problems with the kidneys, heart, and other organs. Death may take years, but before then you will almost certainly notice the foul 'dog breath' and chances are your kibble fed dog will need lots of visits to the vet for 'minor' complaints.

Gum disease is a killer. (It's been linked to stroke, heart disease and Alzheimer's in humans too.) But the good news is that it can be prevented with good nutrition. Dr Tom Lonsdale, in his book Raw Meaty Bones explains how Nature arranged for carnivores (including service dogs) to feed on large pieces of raw meaty bones. Ripping and tearing at the food cleans the teeth and gums, satisfies the animal instincts and provides top quality nutrition at the same time. You can find details at www.rawmeatybones.com

Some people suggest that brushing your dog's teeth is an option; or that the vet can clean and polish your dog's teeth twice a year. Ask yourself, is that reasonable? How would you like to depend on someone else to brush your teeth or, if they thought of it, take you to the dentist?

If naturally fed dogs live longer and work better, why don't Service Dog programs and support groups publicize this solution? One reason may be the almost incestuous relationship between Service Dog programs and commercial dog food manufacturers. In 1943, veterinarian Mark Morris formulated a kidney disease diet for guide dog Buddy and created an industry (Hills). Since then, many Service Dog programs are provided with free or specially-priced kibble and in turn the manufacturers receive 1) a charitable deduction and 2) a "down-line" of Service Dog partners to whom their food is recommended.

It is time for those of us who know the true worth of our service dogs to take a stand. We need to insist on healthy diets that prolong the working life of our loyal companions. Your dog is sure to agree.