Is there an alternative to prescription dog food - specifically Hills c/d. Its extortionate!?

Question

My dog is having hills s/d for one months to clear up struvite crystals (which is £160 for one month!!!) and then needs to go on to a maintenance diet for the rest of his life of hills c/d which is even more expensive.

What i want to know is whether there is an affordable alternative or i am happy to cook food for him myself if that is an option. Has anybody tried this, or is there something extra special about hills food that my dog needs? I expect not, but i will afford it if i have to.

My dog is insured, but dont want to go that route unless i have to. How does it affect insurance premiums?

Answer 1

The person who suggested adding cooked chicken gives sound advice. Chicken is about the best supplement to any prescription diet in my experience.

Two, more commercial, foods to be recommended are Royal Canin and Burns. A very dear (Internet) friend of mine, has a Yorkie who had to be put on a special hepatic diet following a number of severe problems. He was given one of the extensive Burns range, and he just went from strength to strength. My friend also added cooked chicken after a while and it turned out 100% successful besides economical.

Royal Canin is also a top quality diet if you want to check out the website. I know, practically all vets opt for Hills Science Diet ... but not all dogs (or cats!) will eat it readily!!! None of these 'better' foods come particularly inexpensive but I always feel they are worth a try. I know, for a fact, you can get discounts if you order online.

Hills c/d, as far as I know, comes in a canned and dry variety. I am not sure if Burns or Royal Canin do 'canned', so please check all your options and always consult your vet first.

Good luck and hope your dog stays healthy & happy!

Answer 2

My dog is on Hills because of a skin condition. I supplement it with cooked chicken to make the Hills food last longer. Her condition is improving. I have been on some web sites to get the food cheaper but have found it the same price as the vets. My pet insurance has paid for the Hills food. Is your pet insured?