Funny thing is, my mom heard of a wolf sanctuary in S. CA that changed the diet they were providing... from meat + supplements to raw prey.
I guess the folks running the sanctuary finally called in a biologist to determine why the wolves were not thriving... they were skinny, grumpy, and had dull coats, among other problems. The biologist took one look at the diet and determined that it was not balanced... even with the "vet recommended" supplements. It was suggested that the sanctuary provide the wolves with whole carcasses to feed on.
The change was made, and the improvements were quite noticeable. The wolves filled out, their coats gleamed, and their overall mood improved... they were happy.
The sanctuary apparently now has a program with the local agricultural community, where ranchers can donate livestock that either just don't quite make the grade, or have lived long enough. The donated livestock must be examined by a vet before slaughter to determine they are healthy enough for the wolves' consumption.
Now the kicker to this little anectodote, is the note of vindication in my mother's voice as she related it to me, even though
she's the one that thought I was a crazy girl for changing to a raw diet...
lol
yeah yeah... I know wolves are not lions & tigers... but they are carnivores too.