Just a quick note about the way that any discussion on this topic will proceed. For those of you who weren't here, the topic had to be banned from discussion on the Berner-L several years ago. The emails and comments since then have been just fine, and I'd like to keep it that way.
Any lengthy discussion of BARF can be done on the Natural Berners yahoogroup List. Anyone who would like to ask about BARF or give a general summary on the Berner-L, please do! We always have new people on the List, and we'd always like to hear more. As in any discussion, it is best not to make negative comments about the other viewpoints. There are many excellent quality kibble foods for dogs, and any sweeping statement indicating one way or the other are bound to start an argument. Which will be done in a sweet and civil manner, of course! People on the Berner-L try very hard to do the very best for their dogs. Anything that suggests otherwise creates some very angry feedback. Please present all information in a positive and helpful manner. Here's an example of an unacceptable way to present information: - Good grief, you're a stupid idiot to let your dog out the front door to run loose, you are going to get him killed! Now, that may indeed be quite true, but you've just alienated someone who may need to listen carefully to what you have to say. Here's a better way to say the same thing: - You're lucky to have a neighborhood without traffic in which you can let your dogs run loose. I've always found that keeping my dogs on a leash in any area that isn't fenced is the best way to keep them from getting hit by a car where I live. So please, think carefully before you write! If you aren't sure, ask me and I'll be happy to let you know before you post something to the List! I would much rather do that than to have to kick anyone off the List! (Which really happens very rarely, thank goodness!) Pat Long, Berner-L Co-Owner Berwyn PA
