Is it possible to make something more healthy for your pet then paying for a bag of corn?

I always hear raw meat is good for your dog . I look at all these dog foods and your paying for the name on the bag but they all have the same ingredients CORN meal and meat byproducts . I want to make my dog something that is all natural and very healthy to eat like mayb like chicken or something so anyone that makes there pet food instead of over paying for crap what do you feed your large breed dog ?

What are your tips for keeping a pet ferret as healthy as possible?

I am to be getting a pet ferret soon and I understand that they are prone to illness and unfortunately terminal disease. So I was wondering some things you can do to keep a ferret as healthy as possible, and anything that may prevent sickness. Also, do you recommend buying from a pet store or home breeder? Do home breeders usually spay/neuter, and get the shots for the ferret babies?

Be as detailed as possible! I know they are a difficult pet to take care of and I want to be prepared.