Your daily dose of doggy goodness!
Every day, we celebrate our shared love of dogs and hopefully brighten your day. Enjoy!
Dog(s) of the Day:
Lucky
Happy Belated 20th Birthday!
Want your pup to be featured here? Join our Facebook group - Post Your Pooch!
Meme of the day: Uh oh!
The first pet rewards credit card with free pet insurance, meet Nibbles
Vet bills aren’t getting any cheaper. Costs have jumped more than 60% in the last decade, and pet owners are feeling it. But one new card is actually helping lighten the load.
The Nibbles Pet Rewards Credit Card offers 3x rewards on pet purchases - from vet visits to toys - and even includes free pet insurance for one eligible pet, with no annual fee. It’s a smart way to save while keeping your best friend happy and healthy.
Nibbles is not a bank. The Nibbles Card is issued by Lead Bank. Fees and T&C apply.
Give Them the Good Life: Wonderful Ways to Help Your Dog Live Longer
Our dogs aren't just pets; they're furry family members who fill our lives with unconditional love, laughter, and endless tail wags. Naturally, we want them by our side for as long as possible. While genetics play a role, the good news is that as their caretakers, we hold the keys to significantly influencing their health and longevity.
Here are some warm and engaging ways you can help your best friend enjoy a long, happy, and vibrant life.
Focus on Optimal Nutrition, Not Just Filling the Bowl
Think of your dog's food as their fuel. A high-quality diet is the foundation of long-term health, supporting everything from a shiny coat to robust immunity.
Choose Wisely: Look for foods that list a recognizable meat source (like chicken, beef, or salmon) as the first ingredient. Be wary of excessive fillers like corn, wheat, and soy.
Mind the Calories: Obesity is a leading cause of many canine health problems, including arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. Follow the feeding guidelines on the bag, but more importantly, adjust the amount based on your dog's body condition. They should have a visible waist and you should be able to feel their ribs easily.
The Power of Supplements: Talk to your vet about adding beneficial supplements, such as Omega-3 fatty acids for joint and cognitive health, or probiotics for gut wellness.
Keep Their Body and Mind Moving
Regular exercise is vital for maintaining a healthy weight, strong muscles, and a happy outlook.
Tailor the Activity: A young Labrador might need a vigorous run, while an older Beagle might thrive on a few brisk walks. Know your dog's breed and age-specific needs.
The 20-Minute Rule: Even just 20-30 minutes of good activity daily can make a huge difference. Consistency is more important than intensity!
Brain Games are Key: A long life isn't just about the body; it's about the mind. Engage them with puzzle toys, teach them new tricks, or scatter their kibble in the yard to encourage natural foraging. Mental stimulation prevents boredom and keeps cognitive function sharp.
Don't Skip the Dental Care
Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs and can be a silent killer. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and damage vital organs like the heart and kidneys.
Brush Regularly: Aim to brush your dog's teeth daily, or at least several times a week, using veterinary toothpaste.
Professional Cleanings: Schedule professional dental cleanings as recommended by your veterinarian. This allows them to scale below the gum line and address any issues before they become serious.
Chews & Rinses: Use veterinary-approved dental chews and water additives to help manage plaque between brushes.
Be Proactive with Veterinary Care
Annual (or semi-annual for seniors) check-ups are your best defense against age-related diseases. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
The Power of Routine Bloodwork: As dogs age, annual blood tests provide essential baselines and can uncover conditions like kidney disease or thyroid imbalances long before symptoms appear.
Stay Up-to-Date: Ensure vaccinations are current and that you are consistently using flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. These parasites transmit dangerous diseases that can significantly shorten a dog's life.
Know Your Dog's Norm: Be attentive to subtle changes in their behavior, eating habits, or mobility. Dogs are masters at hiding pain—if something seems "off," it's always worth a vet visit.
Shower Them with Love and Comfort
Emotional well-being contributes to physical health. A dog who feels safe, loved, and engaged is a dog who thrives.
Maintain Routine: A predictable daily schedule reduces stress and provides a sense of security.
The Power of Touch: Regular snuggles, petting sessions, and gentle massages not only strengthen your bond but also allow you to check for any new lumps, bumps, or tender spots.
Give Them a Purpose: Dogs, especially as they get older, still need to feel useful. Give them a "job," even if it's just being the official greeter or helping you fetch the slippers.
Caring for our dogs is one of life’s greatest joys. By focusing on these five areas—nutrition, exercise, dental care, veterinary partnership, and plenty of love—you are not just adding years to their life, but adding immeasurable life and quality to their years. Every extra tail wag is a testament to the love and care you provide.
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Dog Food and Supplement Recalls
Here are the recent recalls and advisories:
Bonnihill Farms (Fromm Family Foods) - BeefiBowls Beef Recipe gently cooked frozen dog food, 16 oz. chubs for potential plastic contamination
Foodynamics - Freeze Dried Pet Treats for potential Salmonella contamination.
Nature’s Own - Pet Chews Bully Bites Treats for potential Salmonella contamination.
Family Photo of the Day:
Epic!
We want to feature your pup!
We want to share your pup with our pack. Email us your favorite doggy pic or video with your pup’s name, and we'll try to feature it as a family photo in one of our upcoming newsletters or on our Facebook page.
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Meme of the day - Instagram: @88mphpodcast
