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Summer PetCare Safety Tips
The Summer is great time to enjoy the outdoors but can present challenges in terms of high heat, smoke from wildfires, and how to protect special categories like seniors, and animals with short snouts. In general, temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit can quickly get extra risky, so try to avoid going outdoors if it’s anything hotter than that. Walking in the Summer should be planned for early morning or evening when the sun is not so intense. If you live in an area with a park, that is ideal and the trees can provide welcome relief from direct sunlight. This is especially important if you are exercising as heat stroke can occur…
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Suncare for Pups
Several years ago I spoke to Rita Hogan about developing a suncare product for dogs that would be safe, effective and all natural. I am so pleased that she published this recipe in Dogs Naturally Magazine as a wonderful DIY solution for pups that have very short hair or are all white in color, like our failed foster pup, Pooka. Natural SPF For Dogs “Carrot Seed Oil: Carrot seed oil has an average SPF of 35. Note: I’m not referring to carrot seed essential oil – don’t use this. Make sure you buy a cold-pressed carrot seed oil made from carrot seeds. Red Raspberry Seed Oil: Yes, another reason to love raspberries. This oil has a…
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Fireworks & Loud Noises
Many animals find holidays with loud noises and especially fireworks frightening, and worse. Guardians will often see their pets struggling, either frozen with fear or, in the most dangerous circumstances – bolting, rearing up or charging fences. In situations like these, it’s hard to know how to react or what to do. Especially if you’re a new pet parent, it may not be something you’ve even considered in advance of firework season. We cannot stress enough the importance of making sure your animals have tags that are up to date and secure, microchip information is accurate, and your property is secure as well. Having an airtag accessory on the collar can…
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Empty the Fridge Ice Treats
Our friend, Danielle at Farmina Pet Food shared this ice treat recipe with us and she literally empties the fridge to make these for her pups. Start with a mixture of raw goat’s milk or cow kefir and bone broth in a 2:1 ratio, add in fresh berries, banana, oats, and other yummy items from the fridge, lightly stir the mix and put it in an ice mold or ice tray, freeze and you are all ready with healthy pupcicles for your favorite companionI Remember – grapes are deadly to so do not include them in this mix!
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Blessed are the Veggies
While not all families are lucky enough to live near a local farmer’s market, I feel very fortunate that we have one of DC’s longest running markets just 2 blocks from our store and our home. We get to enjoy the benefit of fresh fruits, vegetables, bread, meats, cheeses and eggs year round! On top of that, my partner is an avid urban farmer so we are reaping the benefits of her passion and hard work throughout the year as well. So what does this have to do with animal nutrition? A lot it turns out. Did you know that just adding 20% of fresh food to your dog’s diet…
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4 of the Deadliest Foods for Dogs
STORY AT-A-GLANCE Grapes and raisins always appear on lists of foods that are toxic to dogs, even though these fruits provide health benefits to humans in the form of antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and the phytonutrient resveratrol. Unfortunately, research shows that just a few grapes can cause kidney damage, neurological problems, and even death in dogs. Until recently, scientists couldn’t identify exactly what caused this toxicity, especially since not every dog who eats grapes or grape products has a reaction. However, a study published in late 2022 in the Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care documents what seems to be a critical connection between grapes and raisins, and tamarinds and cream…
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Collagen for Your Dog
Why Is Collagen Important? As you can imagine, a compound that’s so prolific plays several key roles in your pet’s body function. Collagen forms a protective layer around his organs to keep them safe. Collagen supports healthy skin, promotes bone development, and healthy joints for mobility. It’s also key for a healthy coat. In short, bones, joints, and connective tissues require Collagen to keep him healthy. Your pet produces Collagen on his own. But, as he ages, Collagen production slows down. Plus, exposure to environmental toxins, smoke, or UV rays negatively affects Collagen production, as well. These factors make it even more essential to add Collagen to your dog’s diet. …
