A retaining device for metered dispensing of a feed element to domestic animals, the retaining device including an elongated base element including an elongated cavity having a longitudinal axis and configured to receive a segment of the feed element a fixation device including a fastening element configured to fixate the segment of the feed element in the cavity wherein the fastening element extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cavity, wherein the fastening element is configured to penetrate the segment of the food element so that a detachable positive-locking connection is established between the fastening element and the food element, and wherein the fixation device includes an actuation element which is arranged in a fixation position of the fixation device in a recess in a surface of the main element.
