Know Your Dog

It seems like a simple enough statement…know your dog.  But I think sometimes it gets overlooked simply because we’re around our canine companions so much, we really don’t give it much thought.  At least not until something goes terribly wrong.  Maybe there were earlier signs, but we didn’t notice, because we weren’t really paying that much attention.  My rule of thumb is, if something seems even a little ‘off’…monitor the abnormality at least 24 hours.  If it doesn’t get better, then check into it further.  Now if it’s something major and very obvious, it most likely will require immediate attention. 

When we have a new dog in our home, whether it be a foster or an adopted dog, it can be more of a challenge.  Who knows what’s ‘normal’ for this recent arrival?  Well, that’s when observation mode begins…when the dog enters your home.  Take note of his/her habits…granted I’ve found with fostering that the ‘real dog’ doesn’t emerge until somewhere around three weeks in my home.  Monitor water intake.  Check the stool, most times just a visual will be enough…this can disclose a lot.  Size, texture, (too dry, too loose, etc.) even color. Do there appear to be any worms? They’re pretty noticeable.  Is there a fowl odor to it, does it really, really stink, like something ‘died’? Does the dog strain to urinate or does it cause any discomfort? Is mucus present in the stool? Blood? These are all signs that something is awry. 

Check your dog’s ears to see if any visible discharge is present.  Take a sniff…if should not have a bad odor at all.  Do his/her eyes appear healthy? There should not be any small ‘clumps’ of mucus draining out of the eye…an off color, like green or yellow could indicate an infection.  Is there redness? If it is possible, check your dog’s teeth and gums.  The gums should be a healthy pinkish/red color.  Your dog should not have a ‘snotty’ nose.  This could indicate allergies or an infection, even a blockage or cancer.  A clear, wet nose is typically not an issue.  There should never be any ‘color’ or ‘cloudiness’ to discharge.

If you don’t trim your dog’s nails, do check their nails in between trims.  Rough or broken nails can get caught on things and do further damage to the nail, or even hurt your dog.  Give your dog a gentle, but firm massage all over his/her body.  This will allow you to check for lumps, bumps or anything that doesn’t seems like it should be there.  Take extra care with smaller and older dogs or dogs with arthritis to not rub too hard.  My dogs love when I massage them! I usually get ‘thank you kisses’.  Also consider purchasing a brush to ‘massage’ your dog’s coat.  Even for short hairs.  I haven’t met a dog yet that didn’t like a good brushing! Carefully ‘work out’ tangles if your dog has long hair.  You want it to be an enjoyable experience for both of you!

Basically, if you can check your dog from snout to tail, it will give you a pretty good indication if something is amiss.  Early detection of a problem can many times keep an issue from becoming out of control.  This also familiarizes you with your dog’s overall condition.  Any concerns you have can be discussed with your veterinarian.  Get to know your dog…it can be a life-saver!

Recipe - Green Turkey

Green Turkey

1 pkg. lean or extra lean ground turkey

¼ cup zucchini squash (leave peeling on)

1/3 cup organic broccoli

¼ teaspoon dried organic parsley (can use fresh also, just double amount)

Put squash and broccoli through the food processor and cook in with ground turkey.  Sprinkle in parsley.  Allow to cool slightly and dish up for your dog with high quality kibble.  Yum!

‘Veterinary’, ‘Prescription’ Dog Foods

‘The above title of this article is a term that has somewhat confounded me over the past many years.  From the surface it sounds quite extraordinary and trustworthy.  It seems pretty impressive…but once one is past the ‘hype’, and digs into the real ‘meat’ (no pun intended…the meat’s not there anyway!), the truth is immediately exposed.  Perhaps not to the typical consumer purchasing the product, but to the educated and trained eye, it is quite evident. 

These dog foods are touted as ‘complete’, ‘balanced’, ‘premium’, and claim to be of benefit to your canine companion.  I researched close to a half dozen veterinary prescription dog foods to find out the real scoop on their reliability.  Sorry to say to you, but no surprise to me, I was not able to find one that would meet my criteria of a quality product.  Maybe there is one out there…should I happen upon it, I’ll let you know.

It is my understanding, and I believe I have commented about this before, what little ‘nutritional’ training veterinarians receive while in school comes from representatives from the prescription dog food industry.  That’s why you see all those prescription dog foods available at your local vet.  I’m sure there’s a kick back for them to sell it.  Hmmm…a win/win situation for the vet and the prescription dog food manufacturers, but a losing situation in my opinion for the dog owner. I'm not faulting your vet, but I sure would like to give some canine nutrition classes in their office!

These ‘foods’, if I should call them that, many which contain chemical preservatives, unnecessary fillers and lack of protein (a mainstay in a canine diet), also have for the first ingredient such things as, corn, (if I find a reason your dog really needs corn, I’ll let you know) ground whole grain sorghum (a cereal grain) and brewer’s rice (a waste product of the alcohol industry and a low-quality grain)! ‘Whole grain’ sounds quite impressive….that’s got to be healthy for my dog, right? Well, there may be a reason somewhere down the line for its inclusion in your dog’s diet, but not as the primary ingredient. Whole grains (which is how all grain starts out), are very healthy for people, as long as they have not been refined to the point of removal of nutrients that are beneficial for a healthy diet.

In addition to the list we find chicken liver ‘flavor’? I question that. Where is the flavor derived from? Don’t know…that is not disclosed. It's probably not natural. Dried egg product?  'Product'? Is that some form of fake eggs? Don’t know…that’s not disclosed either.  Salt….you don’t need to add any extra in your dog’s diet. If there is a special need, and I come across it, I will let you know. They will get enough from the home cooked meals that include canned wild salmon, organic cheese and cottage cheese and that which occurs naturally in fresh vegetables.

Chicken by-product meal, another low quality protein source.  Fish meal, this is, in my opinion just bad overall.  Most fish meal contains ethoxyquin, which is used as a pesticide and is known to cause cancer in dogs among other maladies.  I found one particular prescription food that was a veterinary diet called GastroENteric.  It claims high digestibility, but yet the first three ingredients (are grains!), brewer’s rice, corn gluten meal (a low quality protein source, actually a ‘fragment’) and whole grain corn (there we go again with the ‘whole grain’).  ‘Enteric’ in the name implies that it does not break down in the stomach, but in the small intestine,  as supplements such as Vitamin C, garlic and even aspirin are sometimes enteric coated, meaning they do not dissolve in the stomach, but in the small intestine, as not to cause stomach upset for people with sensitive digestive systems. And by the way, a 6 pound bag of this, ‘on sale’ no doubt will set you back $18.49! Might as well be buying a top quality kibble with actual protein in it!

There is certainly more to be said regarding prescription and veterinary brand dog foods, as this article only scratches the surface.  I’m sure I’ve said it before…become a label reader! Be informed! Know what is in the product you are purchasing for your dog.  It could be the difference between a healthy dog and one that becomes ill with a disease later in life because of continual use of a poor quality food

Green Tea For Your Dog?

 By now many of us are aware of the health benefits of green tea for humans.  So could this be something that would profit our furry friends?  I decided to check into it.  I was not able to find a lot about it, but what I did find was very informative.

Of course, green tea in its natural state contains caffeine, and dogs cannot have caffeine.  Fortunately, it is available in a decaffeinated form.  It also contains natural fluoride in it leaves, giving it the ability to significantly reduce tartar build-up and bacteria, prevent cavities and fight gingivitis and gum disease.

So, what is it about these leaves that make them so special and so good for people and dogs? Green tea contains polyphenols, which are antioxidants found only found in plants.  Antioxidants protect against free radicals, and because of that, they help fight and keep away cancer.

It’s anti-inflammatory, making is useful for dogs with arthritis and skin issues.  It supports over-all health, strengthens the immune system, is great for older dogs and dogs who are chronically or terminally ill.  It can aid in weight control and is considered to be anti-bacterial and anti-viral.

If you think this would benefit your canine friend, check with your veterinarian, especially if your dog is on prescription medications or is suffering from cancer and is undertaking chemotherapy or is taking cancer prescription medications.

Check out ilovedogs.com; they have a green tea supplement you can purchase that is decaffeinated that is liver flavor.  You can read more about it there.  A 60-day supply for a small dog is $31.99.

It is amazing how much is out there that can help and is natural.  I chose to use natural, herbal, organic whenever possible, especially over man-made, chemical containing drugs, it is far better for your dog, and that’s what we want!

Ground Chicken Super Meal

Ground Chicken Super Meal

1 pkg. ground chicken

¼ c. organic baby carrots

¼ c. organic green pepper

½ c. organic brown rice (already cooked)

¼ teaspoon dried organic parsley

Put carrots and green pepper through a food processor.  Pour in with the ground chicken in the skillet.  Add parsley.  Cook until meat is done.  Remove from heat and stir in brown rice.  Put in your dog’s dish and mix in with kibble.  Add a dollop of cottage cheese on top.

Note: I always include egg powder calcium in my dog’s food. (Check my May 6^th, 2012 blog for the recipe) For an extra added benefit, sprinkle about 1/8-1/2 teaspoon on the meat mixture and stir in before adding kibble.

Exceptions To ‘The Rules’

 

Happy, healthy dogs…everybody wants one…but not everybody has one or gets one.  There are so many issues that can arise…genetics, diet, environment…these all have an impact on our furry companions.  Generally speaking, my dogs do not have any serious health issues, and I feel very blessed.  We deal with an occasional bout of diarrhea…or one of them drinks too much water at one time that causes a non-serious ‘effect’…but on the whole…they’re pretty healthy…and I feel most people would agree about that in reference to their own dogs.

I am finding more in my research and study in regards to canine nutrition, there are ‘exceptions’.  That can be expected…so I want to make that clear in how I present my blogs, because I want every dog to benefit from what I post.  As I find these ‘except….’ situations, I will blog about them, so you will have the best information for those special circumstances.

Just as with people, what works for one person may not work for the next, is also true with dogs.  And dogs who have disease and illness may have different needs from those of a basically healthy dog.  Knowing how to handle this, what to do and how to adjust to best assist their needs can be paramount in quality of life and even add years to their lives, worthy years.

Foods that I would suggest you don’t feed your healthy dog…a dog suffering from a specific illness or disease issue might actually benefit from it.  It is possible.  In that case, I want you to know.  I want what is best for my dogs and for yours…and most likely, somewhere down the line that will differ.  I hope you will go back and re-read and review the blogs I have posted.  There is a lot of information, and you may find yourself in a situation that warrants a change…an article that didn’t pertain to you in the past, may now.

I hope you are finding these blogs to be helpful.  I welcome questions, comments and suggestions.  Please pass along the blog link to family and friends who have dogs so together we can reach as many dogs as possible!  I’m an ambitious individual…I want to help them all!

                                                                                                          

 

Digestive Enzymes

As our dogs age their digestive tracts have to work harder at assimilating the nutrients in their food, and sometimes the process doesn’t work very well.  Even a dog with a healthy diet could benefit from the use of digestive enzymes, as they aid in the absorption of nutrients and support healthy digestion.

Perhaps your dog suffers from skin issues, a dull coat, bowel problems, lack of energy, allergies or itchiness.  All these can be signs that your dog’s system is out of balance.

There are many kinds of enzymes.  There are four that stand out to me…lipase, which aid in fat breakdown…amylase for starchy foods, protease to break down proteins and cellulase which helps break down fiber from your dog’s diet.  Without these working properly your dog could experience poor digestion, which can lead to gas, diarrhea and other health issues.

Digestive enzymes are available mostly in powder form.  I did find one in a vegetarian capsule form.  You can expect to spend anywhere from about $10 to as much as $46.

I am just beginning to learn about digestive enzymes, and I feel it would be an excellent addition to every dog’s diet.  I will be blogging more in the future about this.  Stay tuned!

Weather Emergency Disaster Preparedness

 With the summer months upon us, it is more likely that many areas will experience weather phenomena that could warrant quick action.  Flooding, tornadoes and hurricanes just to name a few are all possibilities, even earthquakes can prove disastrous.  Some of these allow sufficient notice, others just short notice, and some no warning at all.  Know what to expect from the geographical area you live in, especially if you just moved there.  And even if you’ve lived somewhere a long time or a life time, maybe you’ve not thought too much about it, or never been impacted by weather issues in the past.  It certainly pays to be prepared.

This is particularly important if you have pets.  Plan that if you go, they go with you.  They cannot make it ‘on their own’.  You need to find out ahead of time what options are available.  Red Cross will not allow you to stay in their shelters with pets.  Use animal shelters as a last resort, as we probably already know all too well, they are overburdened on a daily basis.  Check with your vet and local hotels to see what is available.  Have necessary items at the ready.  Carriers appropriate for pet size, treats, water, kibble, blankets, leashes and harnesses. 

Keep a tote in your vehicle with necessities.  I keep my pet first aid kit on a bench by my door leading out to my garage, which makes it easy to grab to go with us.  Consider making copies of your pet’s important papers, and keep them in your tote with the other items.  Be sure to replenish and reassess about every six months to keep everything up-to-date and fresh.

Facing disasters can be bad enough, but at least being as prepared as we can be will hopefully ease the impact, and enable us to have our pets, as well as ourselves and our family safe.  There are many things that are out of our control…but knowing what to do ahead of time in these situations, could possibly save our life, and that of our beloved pets.

Can I Give My Dog Chlorophyll?

Update 12/28/23

This is one of my most popular blogs.  In re-reading it myself, I found the chlorophyll I recommended when I wrote the blog, I could no longer find.  I have found a new one, and I will post the link on Amazon below here. 

Great American Sweet Breath:

https://a.co/d/eI8rggz

I use 5-6 drops to 1 cup of bottled spring water.

My Facebook friend, Cindy K. from Durham, N.C, asked me about the safety of giving her dog chlorophyll.  She takes it herself, and likes the results, but didn’t know whether it’d be as good for her dog as it is for her. 

That’s a good reason to ask.  Dogs are like humans in many ways, but we need to be cautious, because there are foods and supplements we can take, but they cannot.  Fortunately, I have good news for Cindy…and for all dog owners….Yes…you can give your dog chlorophyll.  Read on to find out more!

First off, what is chlorophyll? It is a green pigment found in plants – it gives them their green color through other chemical processes and the addition of sunshine.  It helps aid in digestion, cleanses the blood and neutralizes odors.  Hmmm…we don’t know of any doggies that have an ‘odor’, do we?   Chlorophyll is high alkaline, and I believe it could possibly be of benefit to a dog who has low alkaline measure in their urine.

Chlorophyll is also anti-carcinogenic…making it a beneficial supplement for a dog suffering from cancer.   It also helps to fight bad breath.  Take note, if your dog suffers from halitosis (bad breath), have his/her teeth checked by your vet to make sure there is not a serious issue going on.  Bad teeth can cause an array of illness, and even be deadly if left unattended.  It’s a good idea to tell your veterinarian what supplements you are giving your dog.

So, how can a responsible pet owner use this stuff? You can crush a tablet and sprinkle it on top of your dog’s food.  You can purchase liquid chlorophyll and add one to two tablespoons to your dog’s water.  I suggest, as with any new food or supplement addition, start slowly and build up to make sure your dog will be able to tolerate it without any adverse side effects.    This is why you need to be familiar with what is ‘normal’ for your dog…and that varies from dog to dog…you cannot make comparisons.

So, where can you purchase it? Check your local health food store or pet store.  Read labels! Buy the one with the least amount of ingredients in it.  Many times other ingredients are added…that’s not bad.  You might find a chlorophyll product with parsley in it…that’s ok.  When I start seeing artificial colors or preservatives I put it back on the shelf.  Naturally, the one with the least ingredients in it will most likely not be the cheapest.  But we don’t want to skimp! Quality food and supplementation are important! You get what you pay for!

I did some checking and found a product in the liquid form called Sunny Green.  In reading about their background, they seem to be a reputable, quality first company.  A 16 ounce bottle runs about $14.  Remember; don’t add too many new supplements or foods to your dog’s nutritional program at one time.  Allow enough time with one new thing to see what type of reaction there is.

Thanks for the question Cindy…I learned some new things…and will be considering the addition of chlorophyll to my dog’s daily regimen soon.  Please don’t hesitate to ask me questions…I will do the research necessary and find the answers! Thank you for your support of this blog!

Canine Bladder Stones

Did you know your dog can get bladder stones? These fall into six categories, depending on mineral composition…they can also be compound or mixed.  It can get somewhat involved, and I will only touch on some important points and give my guidance to help understand and work with nutrition to improve the chances your dog won’t have to deal with this issue.

Treatment depends on which kind of stones are present - - it is necessary for your vet to make an accurate diagnosis, which an x-ray will confirm.  All breeds, ages, and male or female dogs are at risk, however the highest risk is for small, female dogs between the ages of 4 to 8 and prone to bladder infections. These stones are more dangerous for male dogs due to their anatomy, as there is more chance of a blockage of urine flow, which can prove fatal.  If your dog is prone to bladder infections or you suspect your dog might have a bladder infection, you can purchase PH testing strips for around $12 to test the PH level of their urine.  It might be a good idea to have these on hand before you need them…or to check in advance when you know your dog is not having any issues.  On a PH scale of 1 to 14, 7 is considered neutral.  Normal PH for a dog’s urine is 5.5 to 7, although this can vary up or down from dog to dog. Try to get the first ‘catch’ of the day when obtaining a sample. 

There are some breeds more pre-disposed than others, such as Yorkshire Terriers, Lhasa Apsos, Dachunds and Dalmations to name a few, and some of this is due to genetics, but again, any breed can get them.

So can they be prevented? Well, I always feel there’s no 100% guarantee in anything, but there are steps we as responsible pet owners can take that will hopefully keep it from happening in the first place.  Water is the most important asset, and not just any water.  Distilled water is best to help prevent them because there are no minerals in it.  Allowing your dog access to plenty of clean water will help dilute urine strength and promote more frequent urination, which will help keep the bladder flushed out.  Allow your dog plenty of pottie breaks.  If your dog has to ‘hold it’ too long and too many times, bladder stones are more likely to develop.

My suggestion would be if your dog has a history of bladder infections, be pro-active in their diet.  This gets into cooking for your dog.  Offer cranberries (run through a food processor)…adding them to plain organic yogurt, sweetened with a little local raw honey, or mix a little in with meat…like turkey.  Remember, don’t feed large quantities too often of fresh fruits, as this could disrupt the colon. Consider making batches and freezing small quantities for later use. You can also purchase cranberry supplements to add to their food, which aids in preventing bladder infections.  Only Natural Pet has several supplements from Cranberry Wellness Powder to Chinese Herbal supplements and much more.  Ascorbic acid (a form of Vitamin C) can also be used.

Surgery is a typical means by which to eradicate bladder stones, and recurrence is possible in some cases even after removal.  This is proof positive that nutrition (water included) is a top defense in waylaying the onset of bladder stones.  Adjust your dog’s diet according to the PH results.  Too much alkaline, add more acidic foods such as chicken, beef, eggs, yogurt, fish, pork, rice, or cottage cheese.  Too much acid, add more alkaline foods such as fruits and vegetables (not more than 25% of their total diet)  Foods with a good moisture content such as chicken broth (low sodium), yogurt, homemade soup, and cottage cheese are suitable choices for a healthy diet as well.

Do everything you can to boost your dog’s immune system, and keep it up to par, so that should health issues or illness arise,  your dog has a strong immunity to assist in the healing process.

Doggie Nutrition On The Go

I’ve been known to take a day trip with my half dozen babies…and we do very well.  I’m not overly concerned with the eating while we’re away, as I stop off at ‘sit down’ restaurants where there are pretty decent food choices.  I can chose items such as chicken, cottage cheese, roast beef, carrots.  I have mine inside, and get theirs ‘to go’, and divvy it out when I get in the van.

You can also bring healthy snacks with you to give them.  I keep portions light, because we are traveling, and this is a different routine for them, we don’t want to overfeed them and take the chance of them getting sick.  I am blessed that none of my furkids get carsick.  I had a foster several years ago that did, not fun.  If you will not have an area to stop that offers such choices, please don’t go the fast food route for your furry companions.  Prepare ahead before you leave home, pack some dishes with the foods that are good for them and put them in a cooler (packed with ‘stay cold’ packs, of course!)

Always have clean water available for them at rest stops, and allow them to ‘stretch their paws’ and pottie.  Travel in the vehicle when outside temperatures won’t be higher than mid to upper 50’s, this way your vehicle won’t get too warm inside while you’re out of the car…you can still crack windows a bit and park in shade if it’s very sunny.  It’s nice to be able to travel when it’s partly cloudy.  Always keep your dog on a leash (and harness for the little ones), this way you are in control.  The last thing you need to have happen is for your dog to get lose or get hurt while you’re away from home.

With some pre-planning and pack the patience please…you can enjoy a day with your canine buddy and share a pleasant experience…hopefully something you’ll want to repeat again!

Safe Insecticides

The warm weather is here...and many of us experienced a very mild winter.  I've heard that's going to make the bugs really bad.  I haven't seen it too much yet...but I'm sure it's coming!  As a responsible pet owner , you need to be prepared with a safe array of products.  I have found a line of insecticides from a company named EcoSmart.  Their products are safe around children and pets and are non-toxic.  I have used the flying insect and the ant and roach spray and they work very well.  The main ingredients are herbal oils such as peppermint, rosemary and wintergreen.

It is very important to be careful what your dog is exposed to, they are susceptible to many of the pesticides, herbicides, insecticides and lawn chemicals that we use in our environment.  Lawn chemicals have been linked to bladder cancer,,,especially in the Scottish Terrier breed.  This is due to yards that have been sprayed.  They are also more genetically inclined.  Some dogs are more vulnerable to certain chemicals than others and this affects them in different ways.  Remember, their little rear ends come in contact with the grass when they pottie.  And when they groom themselves they lick the bottom of their paws...so anything they have walked through will leave a residue that they will ingest.

As loving pet owners we want our furry companions to have quality of life,,,we can ensure this by being informed owners....know what you're dog's weaknesses are so you can use a pro-active approach in their care.

Understanding Your Dog's Nutrition, Helps You

Eating right can be a roller coaster experience....I know...happens to me all the time! And I know how I should eat.  It's a real challenge.  I struggle with it often.  I know my eating habits are better than most, but I'm human, and I don't always make the right choice.  It seems like there's always some kind of stress that prompts me to eat something I know I shouldn't.  I'm sure you can relate.  My hope is that I make the better choice more, so that when I don't make the best choice...it's not just detrimental.

That being said, when I studied human nutrition a couple of decades ago, I didn't realize how far reaching it would be in my future...where it would take me.  Once I became knowledgeable on how our bodies function and what we need to do...I couldn't help but start practicing better habits.  That lead to last year becoming a certified personal trainer....so now I've put the nutrition and the muscles together to get a more complete picture.

Just about four years ago when I fostered my third rescue dog, Mya...that was a turning point.  I dubbed her my 'challenge dog'.  She didn't eat for days after she came in.  She was minimally socialized because up to about six months previous to me taking her in, she had been a breeder dog...used only to make puppies for profit.  Her life had been very different...it certainly wasn't her fault.  It was frustrating for me, however...I really didn't know what to do...but Mya 'taught' me!  I soon learned to let her 'have her space'...not trying to 'make' her do something...I approached everything on her terms...and guess what? She responded in a positive manner.

In my zeal to get her to eat....I made a 'discovery'....she liked baked chicken! She ate it!  I began looking for other food for her to eat....cottage cheese...she ate that too! And so the journey began for me into canine nutrition.  I just really kind of stumbled into it!  I began reading my past Whole Dog Journals....I started surfing the web on the topic...I started adding more and more foods to the doggie menu, and I got positive results...it just snowballed from there.

I believe once you start adding proper foods to your dog's diet, you'll realize the importance and you'll review your own eating habits...and what you'll find when you start making improvements is, you'll feel better.  Get up....move around....take the dog for a walk....you'll feel better, really!  Helping them will help you.  Old bad habits will start to change, and you'll realize, you can do this too!  It's all about gaining an understanding.  Nutrition is a daily part of our lives, so we can't ignore it.  We need to learn as much as we can, so we can make the right choices...not only for us for better health, but for our pets too!

Ask Me - I Want To Help!

Is there a non-emergency health issue going on with your dog? I want to help...get a diagnosis from your vet, and email me: ChiLadyInIndy@att.net  I'd like an opportunity to provide nutritional advice/guidelines.  I can't make the diagnosis -- seek your vet's expertise -- then talk to me.  I don't know everything...I could live a life time and certainly not know it all -- but I know where to look, I know how to sort through all the information out there to bring you simple, down-to-earth answers.  I can find out! I have quite an extensive background in human nutrition certification and personal trainer certification...and several years of personal research on canine nutrition. I'm also preparing to obtain certification in Advanced Canine Nutrition. I want your dog to have the best available help there is....we don't want our furry companions to be sick...we want them healthy! Things happen...I can't stress it enough, how important proper nutrition is for your dog.  Build the immune system, it's your dog's first bodily line of defense to ward off health issues.  Don't think these issues will take care of themselves....they won't.  You have to be pro-active.  I want to help.  Thank you all for your support to this blog.

Being Polite

Some would think me to be odd...but I am 'polite' to my dogs.  They're my kids.  How would you feel if someone who was around you talked in an unpleasant voice all the time?  I apologize, I excuse myself if I step in front of them....and especially if something I do startles them, I say 'I'm sorry'. 

Speaking in a kind tone seems to me, to be the thing to do.  I wouldn't treat other people in a harsh way, so certainly not my dear furry companions who love me unconditionally.  I call them sweetheart, love, little one and any other name that is endearing.

Perhaps you hadn't thought about this before, and maybe it's not something you practice around your pets, but I ask that you consider it.  Speaking in this tone is calming.

There are times when a stern tone is needed, but please, reserve that for only those times, hopefully few and far between.  My little furbabies do have scuffles from time to time, and it is appropriate to change my tone with their behavior, but only when needed, and that's not on a daily basis.

Be kind to your pets, in deed and in tone of voice.

The Fight Begins - Cancer: Part 2

It starts with a diagnosis…something just wasn’t right. Now a blood profile shows cancer. Stay calm. I know that’s not easy. But now we have identified the problem…I can work with that. My prayer is, it has been caught early…always practice prevention, even so, things can happen that are out of our control, and we are offered little or no explanation. So now that we know, it’s time to be pro-active. This is where it kicks into full gear.
Reduce the stress in your dog’s environment…if it’s typically noisy, and in the past that has bothered your pet…find a quiet place he/she can retreat to, to get away from it. It is an absolute must that the surroundings are non-toxic. Don’t smoke around your pet…clean up the house with environmentally safe cleaners, and get the smell out of the house! If you can’t quit smoking…go outside to smoke! (I’m not going to apologize for my suggestions, by the way…this is serious business here!)
Nutrition is your first defense! It’s time to throw out the junk food…no more of that! Don’t think you’re doing your dog any favors by feeding it a fast food hamburger…that’s not what he needs…don’t do something that will just ‘feed’ the cancer! This isn’t the place to start the guilt trip. Cancer has many causes, and many processes have to take place in the body for cancer to take hold…there is no one cause that dictates. What your dog eats at this point can be the difference between slowing the cancer down, putting it in remission…or it becoming full blown and out of control. You are responsible for what your dogs gets to eat - make it the right choice! And be consistent! This cannot be hit-or-miss.
I will not be going into great detail in any one particular article on cancer. I will give it in bits and pieces so it is not overwhelming. Understand it will take effort and time…on your part. I hope you love your dog enough that you feel it’s worth it, because I can guarantee you…your dog will fight it…and it’s important you join in the fight!
I can not stress enough the importance of buying organic…if you can’t do it for yourself…please purchase it for your dog who has cancer. Oatmeal and brown rice are good choices for complex carbohydrates…will help allow a better source of energy…and contain substances that are cancer fighters! Don’t let this be the mainstay of the diet…variety and balance is very important. You’ve got to pace yourself…you’re in it for the long-haul. Don’t expect overnight miracles…it takes time to turn around serious health issues. I will be offering many more tips and suggestions on getting through cancer with your dog. Patience and lots of extra love are necessary. You are the care-giver…give all you can because you’re all your dog has!

Doing The Best You Are Able To

I write and post these blogs to help you make better choices for your dog.  I do this because I love my dogs...and everybody else's dog! I love all dogs! I want every dog to have the best possible in nutrition so they can have a quality life, even though there are no guarantees. I look at it as 'insurance' that if something does go awry, that their immune system can hopefully fight it more strongly.

I think I have mentioned it before.  Most of this stuff I do today for my dogs, I just started in probably the last four years, and I've been a dog owner for over 16 years!  Those past days before this, I wasn't just careless, I was just uninformed. I made good choices, but I found there were better choices.  I'm sure at some point my Maltese consumed dog kibble that I would now consider to be junk, because I have learned what is good and what is not.

We all have our financial limitations.  We can only do what we can do allowed by our resources.  I would ask that you take inventory of where your money goes, so that perhaps you can find an area you could cut back on that you could put toward your dog...if you're like me, these are your kids!  Don't you want your human children to have the best you can give them?

I am limited as well.  I cannot do it all...but I do all I am able...and my hope is that you will too.  If you can put a nutritious meal in once a week, it's better than none at all.  Most of this food is items you already purchase for yourself.  Become a savvy shopper.  Read labels for yourself, if you aren't already.  You might be surprised where certain ingredients hide.   I've been doing this for years.  It's a challenge to eat right every day....I struggle with it myself.  I don't want those who read this blog to think I'm perfect (I'm not), or that I'm above everybody else (I'm not)...I'm right here with you, searching out, finding the real truth, and passing it on to help others. I have an extensive background in nutrition, so all that I do now and continue to do comes from years of study.  If I can sift through the complicated, and put if forth simply, then more people will follow it...that is my hope.

Our furry companions have a lot going against them being in our toxic environment...we ourselves struggle, as is evident...heart disease and diabetes are just a couple health issues on the rise.  Our dogs are getting cancer left and right, and dealing with 'human' problems like diabetes.  We need to do something....we have to do something...that's why I'm putting these posts out here.  If there is something you would like me to blog about, please let me know.  Please feel free to leave comments.  Thank you for your support of this site, and give them furbabies a hug and kiss!

Quality Supplements

It can be confusing with all the supplements out there.  And when it comes to buying one, wondering if you're getting the best for your furry companion is often like sifting through a haystack in search of a needle.  I have used products from a company called 'In Clover'.  These can be purchased through Only Natural Pet.  (They also have their own website, but I was not able to access it) What's nice is you can view the ingredients, and look at reviews...they get very high marks.  From digestive enzymes to joint supplements to dental aids and more.  They're worth checking out.  Yes, the price is probably more than what you might think you want to spend, but remember, you get what you pay for.  The quality products don't have fillers, artificial colors and man-made chemical substances that aren't safe for your dog.  You'll actually be getting a product that works.  Well then, you might ask, 'why are those other, cheaper products out there?'  Simply put, people will buy them because they don't cost much, and they offer just a little of what you truly need for your pet.  Don't skimp...when it comes to supplements, your dog needs quality.

Watermelon Yogurt Freeze Recipe

Cube 2 cups seedless watermelon.  Put in food processor, turn to a liquid.  Pour into a bowl. (One with a pour spout works best) Remove visible 'white' seeds with spoon.
Add 1 cup plain whole milk organic yogurt.  Stir into watermelon liquid.

Pour mixture into ice cube trays.  I used 2 trays for what I mixed up.  Cover with plastic wrap and place in freezer.  Allow to freeze at least 3-4 hours before using. 

Tip: Set tray out shortly before use so it will soften slightly.  When you put it in a bowl for your dog, break it up with a fork, so it's in pieces...easier and safer for them to eat.

Great for a hot day treat, or as dessert for dinner!  Original recipe from the Chaplin Doggie Diner!  Your doggies will enjoy...oh, and you just might too! :-)

Summer Safety

I love summer! I love the warmth of the sun....the opportunity to be outdoors more...and I know my dogs love it too! They are true sun worshipers! They just can get enough of those rays and beams!

One thing that is a no-brainer is, it can get very warm in the summer, hot in fact.  This can not only pose a health danger for humans but for our dogs too.  For humans, the average body temperature is 98.6 degrees (F), but for our furry companions, it's 101.3 degrees (F).  That's quite a difference.  That means they're most likely to feel the effects of the heat before we do.  If you take your dog with you in your car, and leave them there while you do an errand on an 80 degree (F) day, even in the shade, within a half hour, the temperature can rise over 20 degrees (F)! That's over 100 degrees (F)! Just think if you were parked in full sun! There was a post on my Face Book page with the picture of a dog inside an open oven door that states, 'Hot oven, hot car...same thing.'  Please don't leave your pets in your car on a hot day...this can prove fatal.  Even with the window cracked, it can be deadly in a short time, especially for smaller breads.  And in some states this could be considered abuse, neglect or endangerment and carry a misdemeanor charge.

Water.  It is of utmost importance that you provide clean water for your pet's access at any time in hot weather, whether they are inside or out.  Our bodies adapt to external temperatures, so in hot weather, even mostly indoor dogs will drink more water...it's just a normal thing.  I drink a lot more water in the warmer months.  Please, do not let your dog(s) drink from puddles either.  It's not a safe practice.  You don't know what might be in this water.  There could be run off from lawns that have been sprayed with chemicals, or farming ground that's been sprayed with pesticides.  These are harmful substances that can cause cancer in dogs.  I used filtered water for my dogs.  If you have a dog fighting cancer of any kind, you should be purchasing 'purified' water at the store.  I do not suggest allowing your dog to drink from the community water bowls at dog parks either.  Bring your own water for your dog.  There are many carry with containers that are small enough to strap to a belt loop that you can bring with you.

If you keep your dog outdoors more in the summer, make sure the surrounding environment is safe for them.  Provide a place where they can be in the shade, and I hope you have an enclosed area to protect them from 'outside' dangers.  I hate it when I see a dog on a tie-out with no one outside to keep an eye on the dog.  Any other stray dog could come up and get in a fight with your dog...this could be a potentially bad situation.  Perhaps I'm over-protective of my little ones....I realize their size makes them very vulnerable to a lot of things...so I keep an eye on them.  And they even have a 6 ft. wood privacy fence around their back yard!

Summer is also a time where we tend to be on the go, and we probably include our dogs in more of our activities.  Keep an eye on your dog and watch for signs that they might be overexerting themselves.  Especially overweight dogs and older dogs.  Dogs pant when they get hot.  They do not sweat like us humans, so this is their way of cooling off.  If your dog begins panting excessively...get to some shade and offer a drink of water.  Wait until the episode is over to begin activity again.  Realize you may need to take several breaks.

Summer is a lot of fun...and it's a pleasure to include our pets along on our adventures.  For me, safety is a top priority...perhaps more so because I have a multi-dog household, and small dogs.  I keep an eye out for possible issues...I want everybody to be safe.  I hope you will consider the above information and that you and your canine companion(s) have a fun, safe summer!

Canine Obesity

Canine obesity has become more of a problem than our children and obesity.  In the United States the obesity rate for our youngsters stands at 30%.   For our dogs, it's 20-40%!  It's evident there is a growing problem.  It seems our lifestyles have become so busy, that our pets are suffering the effects from our overextended schedules.

I also feel there's probably some 'convenience' of the fast food trickling down to our canine companions.  Since we as humans have such hectic lives, we are relying more and more on the drive-thru to pick up a quick meal.  Then we feed our dogs that same food that we're eating.  Of course they'll eat it! I've said it before, my dogs would probably eat anything that wasn't bolted down, whether it was healthy for them or not!  We're overfeeding our pets...this is the #1 reason they have a weight problem.

Fast food contains high amounts of sodium, fat and calories, and typically it's unhealthy.  It
is not the quality diet our pets require for optimum health (not for humans either!).  A steady diet of this junk can set our furry friends up to get cancer! Then you have a whole other issue to deal with, that can get complicated and expensive.  Our dogs don't require pizza and french fries in their diet.

Obesity in dogs is caused by the same conditions that cause obesity in humans...too much of the wrong foods, and too little exercise.  Really, feeding your dogs better (i.e., cooking healthy meals) should cause you to want to cook and eat better for you!  You eat better, you feel better...you feel better, you move more...see where I'm going with this?

Also, the wrong foods can lead to diabetes in dogs, again, another issue to deal with.  The wrong food leads to shortened life spans...and our doggies already only live on average 15 years...that's short enough.  They deserve to have those years filled with the best life can give them.  Healthy foods, exercise, sunshine, a safe environment and lots of love from their human family.

There are no guarantees in this life that making all the right choices will keep us from having ills, but there is the certainty that if we make the wrong ones, we are sure to pay the price.  Our pets are our responsibility...we pretty much make all their choices for them.  We need to make sure they are the right ones.

Natural Flea Control

Did you know flea eggs can hatch at 40 degrees (F)? Considering the mild winter the Midwest had this past season, the possibility of your dog getting fleas even in the 'colder' months could happen!  There are many chemical products out there for purchase, and personally, I don't like them...and neither do my dogs!

Start early to build up your dog's ability to ward these off using a brewer's yeast and garlic supplement daily.  The reason I say start early is because it will take awhile for the supplement to settle into your dog's pores.  (I use it year round as brewer's yeast is an excellent health supplement) Fleas don't like the bitter taste it leaves on the skin...so they just don't want to hang around.

Another product I use is eucalyptus oil.  You can purchase this as an essential oil at vitamin and health food stores.  I apply a drop or two to the collar or bandanna on my dog every day to every other day.  Do not put directly on the skin unless you mix it with a carrier oil (like almond oil).


These two will not kill fleas that are already there, but they ward them off, and keeping them away is what you want to do.  That is why you need to start early, and be consistent.  I have probably only had 1-2 fleas on occasion on my dogs using just the brewer's yeast/garlic.  I just recently read about the eucalyptus and started using it.  I've also found it's good to use if you have a problem with ants inside your house too.  You can put the oil on a cotton ball and place it around on your counter tops.  Always keep this out of reach from you pets. (don't want them eating a cotton ball!)

You can also buy eucalyptus in cut/dried form at craft stores.  Looks nice in a large vase and smells great!

Sugar and Salt In Your Dog's Diet

You might think since humans have sugar and salt in their diets, that it's ok for dogs too.  Actually, in the wild, dogs and wolves don't encounter these.  The only salt would be that derived naturally from the foods they eat in the wild, which would be minute amounts, and that of whatever is in the digestive tract of their prey when captured and consumed.

As I mentioned in my article 'Canines In A Human Environment', we have domesticated these wild creatures and brought them into our world, exposing them to our environment...which is truly toxic.  Table salt and refined sugar (the white stuff we consume in high amounts), are not a necessary part of their diet.  Some people feed their dogs fast food on a consistent basis...please don't do this...it is unhealthy for you and worse for them, as those foods are loaded with sodium and high in fat and calories, not to mention, your dogs don't need the (refined) grains in the junky bread either.

On rare occasion, my dogs will get a 'people treat' that has sugar in it.  I've made it, so it's made with organic sugar which does retain most of it's nutrients, and at least has some health benefit to it.  That's maybe once, or at the most, twice a year. (And small quantity)  Truly, sugar and salt, too much of either one is bad for humans.  It is evident in the diseases like high blood pressure and diabetes which are rising at incredible numbers.  Added to the canine diet, this could cause issues down the line that could have been avoided had we made better choices for them.

Keep Fido on a quality protein, along with vegetables and fruits, and dairy...and you will be supplying him with the best of what he needs.  We are in charge and need to do what is best for our pets.  I know mine would eat anything that isn't bolted down...so it is up to me to keep that under control.  Believe me, I know those 'looks', the ones that they're abused and starving...and you're eating something, so you should share it...yes, I'm very familiar with that.  Our pets are exposed to enough in this world that their bodies are stressed to adapt to...let's not add to it by feeding them unnecessary foods.

Dogs And Cancer: Part 1 - My Two Cents

I love dogs…big ones, little ones…in between. And not just my dogs, but ALL dogs. What I don’t love is the overwhelming need for rescues. The dogs are plenty, the workers are few. It is unfortunate that many dogs that end up in shelters are sick. This puts an extra strain on shelters, a burden on rescues, and a sad reality that most of these dogs are put down because they’re ‘sick’. The funds are just not there to truly help these loving creatures.
I believe my love for dogs is evident in the articles I post on this blog. I have a sincere desire to help ‘special needs’ dogs. I seem to be drawn to them…I want to make them well. I don’t want some ‘band-aid cover-up’…I want to dig and find the reason….why…why is this dog having problems? Most of it, I’m sure is nutrition related…then there’s environment….and so many other elements that make up the whole web of the issue. It’s a commitment to finding the cause, and a workable solution. Disease issues caught early enough are, in my opinion, fixable. What does that involve besides commitment? Consistency. It cannot be a ‘hit or miss’ approach. My first step is a diet review. If that is unknown, then it is necessary to start with those foods that will help build the immune system…as that is most likely why the dog got sick or got a disease or a skin issue in the first place.
This will be my first of many articles I will post regarding dogs and cancer, as I see it to be a growing issue in the canine environment. I am preparing to begin advanced studies in canine nutrition, and as I come across new information that I’ll learn…I will make that available. My human nutrition background and the additional that I learned through personal trainer certification will also come into play. I am certain there is a nutrition-disease connection. I’ve not encountered a dog, personally suffering from cancer. But I know this would be a terrible situation for a dog owner to be in. What do you do? Where do you start? I hope I can help. I have an extensive background, and I believe it will prove useful. What are you as a pet owner willing to do if you find out your dog has some form of cancer? What can you afford financially? What can you do physically? I can guarantee, it will involve more than pouring a bowl of kibble. In fact, it could be that bowl of kibble that got the dog into the situation in the first place. That’s what you have to get to the bottom of.
Quality supplementation and kibble (not ‘junk‘ food), environmental adjustments (I.e. reducing dog stress), exercise, or perhaps lack of, all these factors and more will enter in. You must be pro-active…don’t wait around thinking it’ll improve on it’s own…it won’t. I realize it is just about as overwhelming to understanding nutrition for dogs as it is for people. It can be confusing. What are some of these ingredients in this food? What does my dog really need and why? I hope through numerous articles, research and study I will help you to sort through it all and to be able to give you reliable answers to questions you may have. Is it a 100% guarantee? No…I don’t think anything is. And just as in humans, one thing doesn’t work for everybody. Sometimes ‘adjustments’ are necessary. If it doesn’t work, try something else…there’s options. It can be a point of no return if cancer is caught too late. I cannot stress enough that prevention is key. It is much less complicated to not get cancer in the first place, than it is to treat it after it’s set in. However, it is not always a death sentence. But it is a journey…one that will require attention, extra care and unconditional support, patience and dedication on the part of the caregiver. I hope you feel it’s worth it…I do.

Doogie Doo

What's the scoop on dog poop? I'll be going more in detail on this on my blog in the near future. but know that analyzing your dog's poo from time to time is a good idea, as many signs of illness can show up in it. For example, it's very easy to see certain kinds of worms. Odor, color and consistency all play a role in your dog's health, and this is a direct connection to how you feed your dog. It's probably not a very popular (or should I say 'poop'-ular!) subject, but it's an important one....stay tuned!

Psychological Space and Other Stuff

Did you know your dog can be very guarded about their personal space? I do, because I have one who is very sensitive about it.  Actually, I think he's a little more so than what would be considered 'normal'....I tell him it's all about his 3" of personal space, and lately, that's shrunk in half! Poor little guy! Seriously though, your dog does need psychological space...you don't want him/her to feel crowded in the space they're in.  Sometimes certain dogs like cuddling together, usually those that have grown up as litter mates...but with mine all having come from different homes and situations, they tend not to bond in that way, but when they do share a doggie bed, it's precious!

Each one of my dogs has a particular area they like to sleep in...and I make sure each one has a bed or an area prepped with a blanket where they can lay down.  My dogs are small, and my house is a moderate size, so I don't think they feel overcrowded, as there is plenty of room for just them where they are...makes for a calm mind.  You want to consider that when getting a dog, as to what size they are, how many you have, and how big your space (house) is...so that they don't feel like they're rubbing shoulders.

And speaking of rubbing shoulders...when was the last time you rubbed your doggie's shoulders? Or scratched their back?  My dogs love to get a massage from momma.  They get that far off look in their eyes as if to say, 'I'll give you four hours to stop that, and then I'll reconsider that!'  Always make sure if you are rubbing your dogs head/ear area, that you are supporting underneath their chin with your other hand.  Especially small dogs.  This helps to support their neck bones and muscles so that undue strain is not placed on that area.

Remember to allow your dog enough physical/psychological space and interact with them physically.  All these things help to make for a happy, healthy dog!

Egg Shell Powder: How To Make

Rinse out empty egg shells after use...rinse well.  Place on paper towel to allow to thoroughly dry, at least 24 hours.  Grind to a fine powder using a coffee bean grinder.  I store in a closed glass container in the refrigerator.  For a small dog, under 15 pounds, I sprinkle about an 1/8 of a teaspoon over meat and stir in.  They get this twice a day in their feeding.

Breakfast Picture

I just wanted to post a picture of a 'finished product'.  This is from this morning's breakfast.  Here's what everybody had:
Canned wild salmon with kibble (a couple of my dogs get supplements added into their meat)
Scrambled egg (organic) with (organic) ground parsley (sometimes I sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese in)
Plain organic yogurt with mashed organic banana (stir together) topped with chopped dried apricots

I also use powdered egg shell supplement for calcium.  I make this myself and you can too.  I believe I have posted how to do this, if not, I will post it.  I sprinkle it on the meat and stir it in...doggies don't even notice it's there, and it's one of THE best forms of calcium you can give your dog.

Also note, if you are starting to cook for your dogs, don't be upset if there's certain foods they won't eat at first.  Give it time.  Remember, you are introducing new foods into a diet that has only had kibble.

Dried Fruits

Prunes, apricots and figs are all good additions to your doggies home cooked meals.  These add beneficial fiber to the diet, which can ward off anal gland issues.  Always make water readily available for your dog, as the added fiber could cause constipation if they do not have enough water to drink.

For a small dog, start off with about 1/2 piece of the dried fruit, chop in small pieces...you can stir in with yogurt, sprinkle over squash, add to oatmeal...be creative.  Feed about every other day so your dog's digestive system can adapt to the change.

Note: If your dog has any issues with yeast infections, this problem can be made worse by feeding foods containing sugar, including fruit.

Buying Organic

I buy organic at every opportunity.  I cannot afford to buy all my foods organic, so I have to be selective.  I watch prices and look for sales.  There are certain foods I ONLY buy organic....celery, broccoli, cauliflower, peppers (any kind)....fruits and vegetables that have no 'shell' or hard covering that is removed are 100% vulnerable to pesticide penetration.  Fruits like watermelon and cantaloupe have a hard shell, therefore they are better protected...even so, these should be washed off good, and use a vegetable wash to rinse away any chemical residue before cutting.  I always buy organic milk, yogurt and eggs, and cheese and cottage cheese and butter when I can.  When it comes to meats, I rarely buy ground beef, as I do not have a connection to that particular meat in a hormone-free, antibiotic-free or organic type readily available.  Most ground chicken and chicken can be purchased without the hormones and antibiotics.  And turkey, ground and in other forms is typically a safe choice.  I do have some cuts of red meat, (i.e. round steak) available in the hormone-free, antibiotic-free option...and I purchase these on markdown and use immediately.  In cooking for our dogs, it is just as important for them to have the top quality of food as we would feed ourselves.  Our precious furkids are susceptible to many of the same diseases we get, especially cancer...and many of these foods, even though they're healthy can be not so when we over-consume ones that are grown with the use of chemicals and pesticides our bodies were not meant to breakdown.  This puts a stress on our immune system...same for our canine companions.  Prevention is key...it is much easier to avoid disease, such as cancer, than it is to treat it.  I will be doing further research, specifically on cancer in dogs and will be posting my findings in future blogs.  This is a very prevalent disease arising in the canine community, and in my opinion needs further research to find ways to prevent it, and I truly believe proper and top quality nutrition is the first step.

Banana Yogurt Surprise

Mash one ripe banana, add about 1/8 cup flaked coconut*, 5-6 Tablespoons of plain organic yogurt.....stir ingredients together to blend...spoon out in doggie dishes, watch furkids enjoy! As an extra added surprise you can even sprinkle in some organic cinnamon :-)

Note: *Soak coconut in some water in a dish in your frig overnight so it can absorb some moisture...probably about 1 Tablespoon will do it...stir before adding into recipe.

Doggie Treats

I'm somewhat of a dog food snob.  I'm sure my furkids appreciate that I am, they just don't realize it.  I picked up some new treats for them last night, so if you have a PetsMart close to you, check it out.  They're 'My Little Wolf' dog treats.  They're made in the United States.  My suggestions, do not buy dog food or dog treats that are made in China! They are lax on their regulations as to what goes into it, to sloppy manufacturing practices, to the long shipping involved.  We can and do have treats made here in our country!  These are grain free.  I got the Salmon-Licious and Pork Liver Recipe (two separate flavors)  They 5.29 ounce bag, for $3.99 each.  They have some great ingredients, the first one being the actual ingredient of the flavor of the treat!  There's dried pumpkin, dried honey, turkey liver, chicken fat...and they are preserved NATURALLY....with mixed tocopherols (which is Vitamin E)...never could understand why artificial preservatives need to be used (they don't)  These are a small soft treat, great for my little ones! Try them for yours....just 2.7 calories per treat!

Doggie Personalities

Fostering has taught me a lot.  I had only one dog when I started volunteering...and she is a very laid back, not to sociable type.  I knew her personality well, but didn't realize, not having any other dogs, I didn't have anything else to compare her to.

Of course, dogs are really just like human kids.  You can't compare them...they are each different.  They have their own unique personality...their likes and dislikes, and their little quirks, which I think make them even the more cuter!  It really wasn't until I started fostering my third dog, Mya that I began to understand some very important things about dogs.  She was just 7 years old and had been a breeder dog up to just 6 months before I got her.  She didn't have a 'normal' puppy life...she spent her time in a crate making babies for profit.  She didn't have any socialization skills.  She turned out to be my 'challenge' dog.  She has come a long way, but it took me a while to realize she needed her space.  So, I learned if Mya wanted to do something, let her, if not...no big deal.  She has come a long way.  I ended up adopting her, and she's been with us for almost four years.  She has turned out to be one of the easiest to get along with, sweetest little girls. 

Each dog that comes into my home is different.  All the ones I've adopted, all the ones I foster I have come to realize to love them for what individuality each one of them brings to me, and to celebrate that.  Just like our children, even though we may want them to be like us, they are an individual, and will pick their own style.  I've found by acknowledging this with dogs, it has made it easier for me to be around so many.    I still have a difficult time with dogs with aggressive behaviors, but those seem to be few and far between even in rescue fostering. 

Our dogs love us with unconditional love, but as humans we tend to place 'conditions' on them.  Let's love them for who they are, with what they have brought to us, and what they give...and the rest will fall into place.  It has been proven to me over and over.    It will make for happy doggies, happy mommies and daddies, and a happy home life! Always be kind, not harsh, never abusive, always loving...give them plenty of encouragement, hugs and kisses....see what your return is...I know, you will not be disappointed.

Recipe: Doggie Salmon Patties

(preheat skillet w/ about 1 Tablespoon Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil) 1 large can of wild caught salmon, (drain liquid and save in separate bowl). 1/2 cup organic quick oats, 1 organic egg, 1 teaspoon organic dried parsley. (can use fresh also, probably about 1 Tablespoon fresh)
Combine ingredients in a bowl...add back enough of the liquid to help the patties hold together. Form into patties and cook in skillet, turning patties to brown on both sides. Makes about 9 patties. You will need to add additional olive oil to the skillet, as the patties absorb the oil. Break up cooked patties with a fork, (you can use some of the extra liquid you saved back to drizzle over the top of the patties) mix with top quality dog kibble...(I added a tad bit of cottage cheese along side), and watch your furbabies gobble it up! This makes about enough for 2 meals with the 8 doggies the Chaplin Doggie Diner in currently feeding! ♥