Eighteen years ago, when I began raising my Poodles naturally, I faced enormous challenges. At the time, I was working as a veterinary technician, and even mentioning raw feeding was almost taboo. The thought of feeding dogs anything other than kibble was so unconventional that I knew if I openly shared what I was doing, I’d face significant backlash—maybe even be “stoned alive,” as it felt like I was challenging the very core of established pet care practices. It wasn’t just hard to find support—it was nearly impossible. Raw feeding and natural rearing were fringe ideas at best, and sourcing quality ingredients was a struggle in itself.

Placing puppies raised on this philosophy was another challenge altogether. I’d explain the benefits to potential families, but they would often hit a “brick wall” when they spoke to their pet care providers. Many of them were told that “the breeder isn’t supportive of our methods,” and were discouraged from exploring natural care. Professionals often weren’t trained in holistic approaches or species-appropriate diets, and so the new families would crash into doubt and confusion, making it difficult to convince them that I was setting their puppies up for a healthier life.

In those days, I lost some of my most precious dogs due to over-toxicity from conventional treatments. The pressure to conform to mainstream methods was intense, and there were moments of doubt, but my gut instinct kept me going. My connection with my dogs and the guidance I felt from God urged me forward, even when it felt like I was alone in my journey.

Take my dog, Momoci, for example—her story is a testament to this. Fifteen years ago, she was given a grim prognosis, and yet, because I was willing to step outside the box and look for alternative solutions, she lived 10 more joyful years. Her life was proof that what I was doing worked, and this inspired me to push ahead, despite the odds.

The Challenges of Paving a New Path

Even today, the journey isn’t without obstacles. While there is now more research, better resources, and a growing community of advocates, the road remains challenging. Raising my Poodles naturally has always been about more than simply following a trend; it’s about truly understanding what dogs need to thrive. Although raw feeding has become more popular, many people still don’t know about the holistic therapies that can improve a dog’s quality of life—things like hydrotherapy, ozone therapy, chiropractic care, and acupuncture. These treatments, once considered radical, are now seen as crucial tools in enhancing dogs’ health without the side effects of conventional medications.

But the greatest reward is seeing my dogs thrive. Their shiny coats, balanced energy, and robust immune systems have been living proof of the effectiveness of natural care. Despite the initial resistance I faced, the vitality in my Poodles has always been a testament that I was doing something right, even if few people believed it at the time.

Speaking to People Who Are Searching for Better

I speak with a lot of people who are researching Poodles, many of whom already own a Doodle or another breed. These individuals often realize the importance of genetics—that “genetics load the gun, but lifestyle pulls the trigger.” They know that Doodles, while popular, come with inherent genetic issues, and they are now seeking a stronger foundation for their next dog. Many of them are drawn to Poodles because they want to start with a breed that has a healthier genetic makeup and a better immune system.

When I explain the benefits of natural rearing—how building up a dog’s immune system with raw feeding, holistic therapies, and toxin-free living can prevent so many of the issues they’ve faced with their previous pets—it’s often an eye-opening moment for them. They’ve experienced the struggles of chronic GI issues, allergies, and conditions that conventional care hasn’t resolved, and now they are eager to do things differently. And as we all know, Miniature Poodles are often considered finicky eaters. I faced that struggle at the beginning, too. But now, my dogs are ferocious eaters, and it’s a joy to watch them thrive as their natural instincts take over. Seeing them eat with such enthusiasm is a testament to how aligned they are with their true nature.

Why This Information Needs to Be Heard

There’s still a critical need for more awareness about natural rearing and its benefits. Too many dog owners don’t realize the power they have in shaping their pet’s health through lifestyle choices. What we feed our dogs, how we handle their healthcare, and the environment we create for them all play a massive role in determining their well-being.

As a breeder, I see my role as an educator just as much as a caretaker. I’m not here just to place puppies; I’m here to empower new owners to make the best choices for their dogs. Natural rearing isn’t just an option—it’s about returning to what dogs are meant to eat, how they are meant to live, and how we can best support their natural instincts. It’s about providing them with a foundation for lifelong health, free from the common pitfalls of modern pet care.

A Call to Action for Dog Lovers and Breeders Alike

We have the power to create change, but it requires all of us—breeders, owners, trainers, and pet professionals—working together. Today, we have more research, more resources, and more knowledge than ever before, and it’s up to us to keep pushing forward. The more we educate, the more we can challenge the status quo and create a new standard for pet care that emphasizes prevention, natural remedies, and species-appropriate nutrition.

When we, as dog lovers, start demanding better for our pets, the industry will have no choice but to respond. If we speak out for what works—whether it’s raw feeding, holistic care, or toxin-free living—more professionals in the pet care field will adapt to meet that demand. And as this movement grows, more people will see the difference it makes.

The Future of Dog Care

This is how we move forward—by building a future where dogs are raised with care that honors their natural biology. Together, we can continue to educate, to raise awareness, and to challenge the methods that don’t serve our dogs’ health in the long run.

Today, we have the tools and knowledge to do better, but it takes every one of us—breeders, handlers, trainers, and pet owners—to make it happen. We are part of a growing movement, and as more people experience the profound difference that natural rearing makes, we will reshape the future of dog care.

So, here’s my call to action: Don’t settle for “good enough.” Choose what’s best. Choose health. Choose a better way.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about raising dogs—it’s about raising them right. For their health, for their future, and for the joy they bring to our lives. Let’s make the change, one dog and one decision at a time.