Your daily dose of doggy goodness!

Every day, we celebrate our shared love of dogs and hopefully brighten your day. Enjoy!

Dog of the Day:

Mugsy!

Meme of the day: Every time!

Give The Goodest Pup The Goodest Box

Discover what’s really in your dog’s treats and why thousands of pet parents are switching to our all-natural, small-batch Goodest Box. Each Goodest Box is filled with locally-sourced treats and durable toys — made by real makers, not big factories.

Pawsitive Vibes: A Guide to Safely Enjoying Candles with Your Canine Companion

There's something uniquely comforting about the soft glow and gentle scent of a candle flickering in your home. It creates an atmosphere of warmth, relaxation, and tranquility. For many of us, our furry best friends are an integral part of that peaceful domestic scene, curled up on the couch or snoozing by our feet. But if you're a dog owner who loves candles, you've likely asked yourself a crucial question: how do I enjoy this simple pleasure without putting my beloved pup at risk?

The good news is, with a bit of mindfulness and some smart safety precautions, you can absolutely have the best of both worlds. Here’s a guide to creating a cozy, canine-friendly candle experience for everyone in your household.

The Big "Why": Understanding the Risks

Before we delve into the solutions, it's essential to understand the potential risks. Dogs, with their curious noses and sometimes clumsy tails, can inadvertently turn a peaceful moment into a fire hazard.

  • Knock-Overs: A wagging tail, a sudden case of the zoomies, or a playful nudge could easily send a lit candle tumbling to the floor. This is, without a doubt, the most significant risk.

  • Curiosity and Burns: A dog might get a little too close, whether to investigate the intriguing smell or the dancing flame. A curious nose or paw could result in a painful burn.

  • Ingestion: Although less common, a dog might be tempted to chew on a wax tart or a candle that has fallen to the ground. Some waxes and essential oils can be toxic if ingested.

  • Air Quality: A dog’s sense of smell is far more sensitive than ours. Strong fragrances, especially those with synthetic oils, can irritate their respiratory system.

Smart and Safe Candle Practices for Dog Owners

Once you’re aware of the risks, mitigating them becomes simple. Here’s your go-to checklist for a safe candle experience:

1. Location, Location, Location: This is the golden rule. Never place a lit candle on a coffee table, a low shelf, or anywhere within tail-wagging distance. Instead, opt for high, stable surfaces that are well out of your dog’s reach. Think mantels, high bookcases, or sturdy shelves that your dog can’t access.

2. Use a Lantern: For an added layer of protection, consider placing your lit candle inside a decorative lantern. This beautiful solution not only adds to your decor but also acts as a physical barrier, preventing accidental knock-overs and keeping curious noses safely away from the flame.

3. Choose Your Scents Wisely: Not all fragrances are created equal. When selecting candles, look for those made with natural, pet-safe ingredients like soy or beeswax and scented with pure essential oils. Avoid candles with strong, synthetic fragrances, as these can be overwhelming and potentially irritating for your dog's sensitive respiratory system. Some dog-friendly scents include lavender, chamomile, and frankincense. Always avoid scents like tea tree oil, pine, and cinnamon, which can be toxic to pets.

4. Never Leave a Lit Candle Unattended: This rule applies to everyone, but it's especially critical when you have a pet. A moment of distraction is all it takes for a mishap to occur. If you need to leave the room, even for a few seconds, blow out the flame.

5. Consider Flameless Alternatives: If you’re not comfortable with an open flame, the world of flameless candles has blossomed! High-quality LED candles, especially those with realistic flickering flames, offer the same beautiful glow without any of the fire risk. Scented wax warmers and diffusers are also fantastic options for adding a pleasant aroma to your home.

The Final Word: Embrace the Cozy, Mindfully

Having a dog doesn't mean you have to give up the things you love. It simply means you get to enjoy them with a bit of extra care and consideration. By being mindful of where you place your candles, choosing pet-friendly options, and never leaving a flame unattended, you can create a safe, warm, and inviting home for both you and your four-legged family member.

So go ahead, light that candle, dim the lights, and settle in for a cozy evening. With a little forethought, you can enjoy the tranquil ambiance knowing that your home—and your dog—is safe and sound.

Dog Food and Supplement Recalls

Here are the recent recalls and advisories:

  • Viva - Ground Beef for Dogs and Ground Chicken for Dogs and Cats for potential Salmonella and Listeria contamination.

  • Savage Pet - Cat Food Chicken for potential bird flu exposure.

  • Wild Coast Raw - Frozen Boneless Free-Range Chicken Formula raw pet food for cats, for possible bird flu exposure.

The Smile Section

Family Photo of the Day:

Maxwell!

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