From Sick to Superdog

• Posted on 1 September 2025
• By Heidi H.
• 0

How Raw Feeding Transformed a School Therapy Dog's Life


By Heidi Garski Hammer

Wausau, Wisconsin — Inside the bustling halls of Wausau West High School, a fluffy Goldendoodle named Theo isn’t just a friendly face—he’s a beacon of calm, support, and connection. But just a year ago, this school therapy dog was battling chronic digestive issues, dwindling energy, and a defeated spirit. Today, thanks to a raw diet and one devoted officer, Theo is a thriving, tail-wagging success story.

Theo’s journey began like many others. Adopted at age two, he came with a sensitive stomach that never quite settled. "Loose stools, diarrhea, just a constant cycle of feeling sick and then okay again," said Officer Jeff Schremp, his handler and a Wausau police officer who works alongside Theo at the high school. Despite trying various kibble brands and rounds of antibiotics and probiotics, the problem persisted.

Even while performing his duties as a therapy dog, Theo would retreat when his belly was upset. “He’d still be social, but he preferred to rest alone,” Officer Schremp recalled. The breaking point came during a particularly bad episode that even medication couldn’t fix— ending in an accident at the groomer. That’s when the groomer suggested he reach out to Heidi at Katzenbarkers, a local pet nutrition store, for raw diet advice.

Skepticism? Not here. “I was more excited than hesitant,” said Schremp. “I’d done the research. I was desperate to help Theo feel better.”

Theo began transitioning to Tucker’s Raw Frozen Dog Food, a complete and balanced raw diet known for high-quality proteins and simplicity made right here in Wisconsin in a USDA inspected kitchen. The switch was gradual—half kibble, half raw—but Theo made his preference clear. “He immediately gravitated toward the raw portion and barely touched the kibble.”

Not only did Officer Schremp transition Theo, but he also switched his 14-pound Bichon Frise to the same raw diet. While Theo enjoys every flavor, the Bichon prefers beef and pumpkin—but the changes were just as dramatic: a shinier coat, improved digestion, and more pep in her step. The experience solidified Officer Schremp’s belief in the benefits of raw feeding for dogs of all sizes.

Within weeks, the change in Theo was undeniable. “He was excited at mealtimes again. His energy went up. His digestion? Completely resolved.”

The transformation wasn’t just physical. “His coat became shinier and softer, his mood lifted, and he started playing fetch again,” Schremp said with a smile. “At work, instead of sticking to my side, he began roaming the halls on his own—visiting classrooms, interacting with staff. It was like he became a new dog.”

Raw diets have been associated with improvements in digestion, coat condition, and energy levels, particularly in dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.

The change was more than expected. “He can be home alone for hours now without accidents. Before, we couldn’t leave for more than an hour or two.”

Of course, the raw diet journey wasn’t without hurdles. “Cost is definitely higher than kibble,” Schremp admitted. “But the benefits far outweigh the price.”

Not all veterinarians were on board. One voiced concern about bacteria and nutrient imbalances—common critiques of raw diets. Tucker’s has high standards and strong protocols for safety and it starts with human grade meats held to human food standards sourced exclusively in the United States.

In addition, Tucker’s safety practices include “Test & Hold” (batches are sent to an independent lab to be tested for pathogens and the product is only released once the sample results are confirmed negative), HPP (high pressure pasteurization) in certain formulations, deep freezing for seven days at -45 degrees F, and including probiotics in their freeze dried formulas for pathogen control.

As a public figure in the school community, Theo has become an unofficial raw diet ambassador. “People always comment on his coat. It starts conversations, and I’ve recommended raw feeding to many dog owners,” Schremp shared.

He also believes raw diets deserve more attention in the working dog and K9 community. “Departments invest so much in these animals. If something as simple as nutrition can extend their health and working careers, why not explore it?”

Reflecting on the experience, Schremp doesn’t mince words: “I can sum it up in one word: success.”

Theo’s transformation from sick to superdog is a testament to the power of informed care and compassionate decision-making. His story is more than an inspiring personal journey— it’s a call to action for other dog owners to consider that sometimes, the most natural option might just be the one that changes everything.

For more information on Tucker's K9 Raw Feeding Program, contact Heidi for more information. Heidi has a graduate degree in Companion Animal Nutrition from the University of Illinois - Champagne - Urbana and five very healthy raw fed dogs.

Sources:
1. Freeman, Lisa M., et al. "Current knowledge about the risks and benefits of raw meat– based diets for dogs and cats." Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (2013).

2. Dillitzer, Natalie, et al. "Evaluation of the nutritional value of raw food diets for dogs." Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition (2011).