#eat hot chip (kibble)

[incorrectbatfam]

What tricks do the pets know?

Ace:

Operate the Batcomputer

Alert Bruce to possible threats

Microwave his own kibble

Speak multiple canine languages

Drag Bruce to bed

Do a headcount of the batfam before they go out

Use Bruce's credit card to buy chew toys

Titus:

Greet Damian

Secret handshake with Damian

Pose for Damian's drawings

Hug Damian

Comfort Damian

Retrieve lost batarangs for Damian

Put Robin costume in laundry for Damian

Guard Damian from the people in the TV

Reach tall shelves for Damian

Love Damian unconditionally

Alfred the cat:

Curl up around a tennis ball

Admire his reflection

Gaslight

Walk all over the dinner table

Bat-Cow:

Sit like a French girl

Do her 10-step skincare routine

Order a 4-course meal from Moober Eats

Unlatch the barn door

Book the private jet

Have a hot girl summer at the Running of the Bulls

Get caught in a love triangle between a bison and a buffalo

Spark an international conflict

Retreat to a Himalayan yak sanctuary on a journey of self-discovery

Meet a dashing steer only to realize they could never work out

Return home and put the plane back before anyone notices

Ghostwrite the next Nicholas Sparks novel

Goliath:

Sleep 20 hours a day

Breathe manually

Bite rocks

Jerry:

Be gay

Fall in love with plastic lawn flamingos

Attack the same flamingos

Peck people indiscriminately

Evade baths

Wiggles:

Ignore commands

Arson

Haley:

Shed all over the furniture

Run away from the vacuum

Weaponize puppy dog eyes

Convince Ace and Titus to share their treats

Clean out an entire jar of peanut butter in the time Dick takes to answer a phone call

Isis:

Bring rare birds to Selina

Leave scathing comments on dog videos

Cough up hairballs on demand

Blair Witch it in the corner of the room

Be bisexual

Eat hot chips

Lie

Dog:

Bark at nothing

Eat dirt

Play hide-and-seek with Jason's guns

Run into glass doors

Occasionally poop outside

Refuse to respond to her name

Chew her own tail

Meow for some reason

Moldy:

Help scientists discover new species of fungi

Induce vivid hallucinations

Cultivate an industrial society

BONUS – Krypto:

Chase airplanes

Aim for a fire hydrant from 50 feet up

Mark typos in Clark and Lois's drafts

Babysit Jon

[cellsshapedlikestars]

a feral resolution

for the @jonsadungeonsanddrabbles New Year event.

Prompt: Resolutions or Dreams read it on ao3 here .. The winter air is bitter cold and she curses and picks up her pace towards the school. It's an hour earlier than she was supposed to be here – Rickon was supposed to wait in aftercare until she got off work, but the call had come in and she'd had to excuse herself to her boss (he was not thrilled) and run all the way down here – and for what?

Don't worry, sweetheart, mom had said. Rickon's always calmer after the holidays, he gets all his energy out then.

And yet here she is, not even a full day back in school and Rickon's already in trouble. 

As she reaches the main doors to the building, she curses her parents and their second honeymoon (why do they even need a second honeymoon? Rickon is proof enough that they're still going at it like rabbits after all these years), and she curses too-swamped-with-work-Robb and suddenly-won't-answer-her-phone-Arya and smokes-too-much-pot-Bran, because of course that leaves her to take care of Rickon while they're away.

Does she want kids someday? Sure. Yes, obviously. But right now she is twenty five and trying to focus on her career, not ditching work early for her feral little brother.

She makes her way to the principal's office and at the desk outside sits old Ms Mordane, who takes a moment before smiling at her.

“Sansa Stark,” she greets and waves her back into Principal Mormont's office.

She expects to see Principal Mormont. She expects to see Rickon. What she does not expect, though, is to see Rickon sitting on the floor and a man she's never seen before standing near the windows.

Oh gods, is her first thought. Rickon's been in a fight. This must be the other parent, the dad. Please, please, please tell me Rickon didn't hit someone.

“Ah, Miss Sansa,” Principal Mormont greets with a smile and she feels a wave of relief – he doesn't seem angry, which is a good sign. “I was hoping not to have to call you, that we could clear this up ourselves, but it's getting towards the end of the day and we've had no luck.”

She's about to ask with what when Rickon comes bounding over on all fours and sits at her feet and leans into her leg.

“You see,” Mormont says with a stern look that just barely contains his amusement, “Rickon has decided that he's a wolf.”

She looks down and Rickon looks up, grins, then butts his head into her leg and makes a growling noise and... there are no words.

“We think it's because of this,” the unknown man says and turns from the window with a piece of paper in his hands and seven save her do they normally make dads this hot? And young? Is he young? Maybe he's her age? Still young to have an eight year old (though look at her own parents, who started popping out kids at eighteen and just never stopped).

“Ah, Sansa, this is Mr. Snow. Mr. Snow, Rickon's sister, Sansa. She used to go here, perfect attendance, if  I recall.”

Mr. Snow?

This is Mr. Snow? She's heard Rickon talk about his teacher, with enthusiasm, and even mom had raved once that he was the only teacher to get Rickon to behave, but Sansa had assumed he'd be... old? Some graying, jovial professor type. Not...

She snaps herself out of it in time to take the paper from his hands and when she looks down, she sees, in Rickon's scrawl: my new years resolution is to be a wolf because wolfs don't have to do homework. Under that is a drawing of what she thinks is supposed to be a wolf and just... well, she resists the urge to correct his spelling, that can wait until later. Right now she has bigger problems. She thinks for a moment before speaking.

“So, I guess I have a wolf now instead of a little brother?” she asks Rickon, who only growls and headbutts her leg again. She sighs. “Alright, we'll have to stop at the store and pick up some kibble,” she looks up thoughtfully and taps her finger on her lips. “And a dog bed? I don't need you shedding on my couch.”

At the word kibble, Rickon had looked up at her with a little furrow between his eyebrows.

“Well, wolves can't eat people food,” she tells him in her most Sansa-is-right voice. “Which is a shame, because I was going to take you to McDonald's tonight and I guess now I'll have to eat all those brownies myself...”

Rickon lets out a whine and she resists the urge to smile – Rickon's sweet tooth rivals her own. She knows this. She exploits this. She's walking a fine line here – Rickon isn't stupid, if she's obvious, he'll realize she's trying to manipulate him and then dig himself deeper into his wolf game. Luckily, food is his blind spot.

“Brownies?” Mr. Snow says, “they sound great.”

She looks up at Mr. it-should-be-illegal-to-be-that-hot-and-a-teacher Snow and she can see the smile tugging at the corners of his lips as he plays along.

“I made them with extra chocolate chips,” she nods. “Maybe I'll give them all to Arya-”

“No!” Rickon cries and then he's suddenly on his feet.

Gods her siblings are so easy.

She pretends she doesn't see Mormont or Mr. Snow trying to hide their smiles as she leads Rickon out of the room and promises the two men that Rickon will be doing his homework that night.

So what if she wraps up an extra brownie in Rickon's lunch the next day and tells him to give it to Mr. Snow as an apology? That's just her being polite. Mr. Snow sending a thank you note back in Rickon's homework folder? Also polite. 

  And, in a few months when Rickon's school play comes up, if she tags along with mom and dad to come see it and ends up flirting with Mr. Snow in the hallway while all the eight year olds sing showtunes in the auditorium?

Well that's... less polite.

[thespiantherepist]

Werewolf Bakugou x reader |Part one|

Warnings: Mentions of nudity, abusive relationships, cussing, euthainasia, and sucky writing.

Your boyfriend was always an asshole. You didnt even know why you started dating. He'd stolen, lied, hit you, bossed you around.

Hell, just as you thought life was getting better the cunt goes, and cheats on you!

The man told you flat out, "I've been screwing another chick, its been a gas!"

Then he left.

When you called him about his dog that you thought he left at your house, he said he left it at the vet.

Even worse, he took it to go get euthanized!

The dog he'd just gotten. Sure the dog was almost always in a foul mood, but at least he'd never hurt anyone!

You were livid.

You almost started crying on your way to the vet. Stepping in through the door you told the vet the story.

They knew you, and knew how your boyfriend had acted towards you. They let you get him from the back.

"HI Papa!" The large Fawn coloured dog turned its eyes to you. They burned into your soul.

You shivered, the dog had spooked you sure, but you took pity on him.

"Lets take you home yeah?"

The dog seemed a bit happy to hear that he was going home. He still looked annoyed though. Grabbing his Red leash you attached it to his spiked collar.

Getting him in the car was a hastle. He kept crawling over the seats. Then when you put your hand up to block him from the front he'd growl off handed.

"Down Katuski!" You yelled excitedly, pointing your finger to the ground.

He didnt move.

"Katsuki baby, down!" You said softer this time.

The dog huffed, and layed down instead.

"Uggh, forget it."

Then he barreled out if the car, hoping over you, and dragging your body through the lawn.

"Katsuki!"

The dog stopped abruptly. He looked at you, seeming aggrivated. You stared right back up at him.

When he got inside he ran straight to your boyfriends room. Then he turned in a circle.

He walked to the Garage.

He looked at his chair, and he placed his paw on it.

He layed his head down. He looked sadly at the empty space of the couch.

When you saw the sad display your heart nearly broke. In the time you, and your boyfriend were together the only time he seemed happy was when he was with Katsuki.

You went to go pet him.

It backfired.

he bit you hard.

You lurched backwards, holding your now bleeding hand. Tears sparked in your eyes, and with all the stress built through the day you broke.

The dog in front of you seemed genuinely shocked, he started slowly walking forward.

You backed up.

He growled, taking faster steps to you, and pushing your chin with his snoot. He leaned the top of his head against your uninjured hand. He sniffed you, nudging his nose agaist you, he started licking your tears. Getting more assertive, he started licking tears from your cheeks rougher than before.

You started to giggle, as you were being pushed over. You fell on your back, chuckiling as the dog above you tried to lick your mouth.

You pet him, lightly shoving his face away from yours. He huffed as you stood up.

He sat down. Then cocked his head to the kitchen. You turned your head as well.

"You hungry pa?" He looked at you as if you were stupid.

"Ill take that as a yes."

You walked to the kitchen, dog trailing proudly behind you. Wrapping your hand in gauze first, you gave him some kibble. The dog thanked you by licking your uninjured hand briefly.

He wagged his tail slightly, you giggled taking out some chips to munch on.

He looked up at you.

Then he nudged your crotch.

"Wha!"

Your crunchy treats fell to the ground.

"No!" You cried in despair, as you saw the oval shaped crisps beibg eaten by the dog.

"TRAITOR!" You yelled playfully.

The dog waved his tail.

"Youre an asshole." You joked. The large dog in front of you boofed indignantly.

You sat down on the couch after you, and your dog were finished with your meals. You looked at the fluffy monster. "I love you so much you overgrown Pomeranian!" You said grabbing the side of his face, and shaking it.

He barked loudly, several times. Sometimes in a series. It would die down with a boof, then pick back up again.

"Yah, Yah thats enough. Im going to bed."

You got up, and walked to your bedroom, keeping an eye on the dog laying on your couch.

When Katsuki knew you were asleep he changed. He looked to the door where your room was separated from the living area.

He rolled his eyes , as he walked to the landry room to get changed. He thought about you while walking there. His tail mindlessly waving.

'Where the fuck is the dude?' He thought as he made his way there. His tail stopping its maneuvers. He opened the door to the landry room quietly. He stepped inside.

Looking around he noticed most of your ex boyfriends belongings were gone. His jackets, his favourite bong, his t.v and gaming system in the corner.

'So thats why the chic-... she. was crying.'

He thought to himself. Looking around the laundry room, he searched for your ex's clothing. He only found a discarded Nirvana tank, and some basketball shorts.

'He's not going to be using these anymore.' He thought, he painstakingly tried pulling on the shorts. 'WHY DO HUMANS WEAR THESE THINGS?'

He heard a chocking sound from the door, still butt naked, as he couldbt fit his tail inside the shorts.

There you stood, one hand on your quickly beating heart. The other curled around the doorframe.

"What the fuck are you staring at shorty?" Bakugou asked rudely, turning around fully.

'Who is this man, and why is he naked?'

"w-who are you?" You asked confused, and trying not to look down, instead looking at the ceiling.

"My eyes are down here." He said loudly.

"Youre naked!"

"I dont see the problem with that." He said confused, and angry.

"GET OUT BEFORE I CALL THE COPS!" You yelled.

"Why should I its my house!"

He yelled back the dropping the shorts in his hands. Then you noticed, the bright red eyes, the colour of his hair matched your dogs. He stood tall, and proudly, had a tail, and ears. But you didnt want to believe it. You took a step back in fear, to which the man took a few steps forward.

"Listen human, I want to be comfortable too!" He shouted, angrily. "I was only trying to put on clothes incase of a situation like this!"

This guy was loud.

"I dont know what you're talking about. Youre a human too." You said out of breath, and trying to keep yourself from looking down once more.

Then he roughly pushed your head back with his middle finger.

"Im a dog dumbass!"

"YOUR HUMAN BODY SAYS OTHERWISE SIR!"

"DONT CALL ME SIR!"

You flinched at his volume. He sighed, "Let me get dressed, and I'll explain it to you."

"So youre a werewolf?"

"If you want to phrase it like that, yeah dumbass." He said gruffly, trying to open a bag of hot cheetos with his teeth.

"I dont thi-"

"I Dont Think Dogs Should Hav- SHUT UP ALREADY, LET ME EAT THE DAMN CHIPS!"

"Okay!"

--Part two coming soon--

[fujoshiribbon]

all ai kibbles know how to do are sit around look cute love vul eat hot chip and throw boomerang cutter

their lives are so simple and yet full of joy

[greenbaconsmoothie]

Tell me about the dog!! :D

Oky so this dog, we found her walking in traffic 12 years ago. Me and my sister had fancy dresses on because my Grammy was going to take us to see a ballet. My mom is fucking insane so she stopped her car in traffic and got out and stopped traffic with her tiny human body while she had me try to get this black round dog, that more closely resembles a bear (except small), and this dog is so thrilled to be talked to it just starts running around and takes off into a neighborhood. So we follow it, it takes us to a door and whines to be let in this house, but no ones home and the gates locked, so I catch it and we take it to the vet and leave it there while my mom takes us to Grammy's house. The vet calls back and says the dog is in fact chipped, but when they called the people said "we dont want that dog anymore" and hung up. So we just. Have a filthy, 4inch of matted hair, underweight dog now. My mom took the dog and groomed it with the help of a lovely fellow who ran my favorite do it yourself dog wash, and right as my mom gets home with this dog, my Grammy brings me and my sister back Grammy takes one look at the dog and says she wants it but will need to talk my grandad into it as he absolutely doesnt want a dog. They end up taking it a few days later and the dog, now named sophie, and my grandad become inseparable.

She gets called Princess Sophie all the time because this dog is too Proper and Spoiled. From day one, she would only eat her food while lying down on a soft surface, it had to have something besides kibble, and she just was all around absurdly well mannered and calm. Except for one thing.

She is wildly proficient at killing everything that's not a human or another dog. Bugs, lizards, rabbit, birds that she would snatch out of the air, nothing is safe. If she sees it, it's going to die. And for all her prim attitude, she becomes a brutal murderer as soon as another animal is in her presence, I've never seen a kill from her where the thing wasnt immediately killed by being bitten in two. Her kill count is modestly in the 100s. The day she bit the Gila Monster (pronounced Heelah monster) in two and the head was still clapped to her lip in death is when my grandad decided to get her snake trained so she at least wouldnt try to murder Diamondback or Mojave rattlesnakes. It worked surprisingly well, so theres one animal she will not try to rend.

She also wants to murder hot air balloons, though she has only ever managed to hurt herself as she hurls her self against fences and gotten cactus in her for all her murderous intent. Shes now around 15 years old and still very homicidal and very obsessed with my grandad.

First pic would have been when she was around 9. The second pic is current so shes about 14 or 15

[jovialyouthmusic]

Special Delivery

I make plans to take in a lodger, and we discuss living arrangements. Ginger chafes at being kept inside.

Word Count 2839

A/N no warnings, just fluff and a little frisson of excitement. No under 18s please

6 Working things out

It was the day I had booked the removal company to move my belongings to my new home, and take some other items back to my terraced house ready to rent out in a month or two. I also had to put Ginger in his cat basket and take him there. The house had a porch, and the main door lead into the kitchen with the dining room just off it. There was a hall beyond the kitchen, with stairs leading to the first floor. The lounge was to the right of the kitchen, and to the left there was the bathroom and a good sized downstairs room that could be a study, but which I had decided would be Fabio’s bedroom. Upstairs there were two more rooms, one of which was to be my bedroom, and the other I would use as a box room or study. There was a tiny ensuite bathroom for my use.

Ginger was confined to the upstairs spare bedroom while the removal men brought in the furniture. I planned to keep him inside for a week before being allowed the freedom of the garden and the fields beyond, so he knew it was his new home and wouldn’t try to find his way back. I felt sure he would be very happy with the countryside behind the house and wouldn’t stray, but thought it best to get him familiar with the inside of the house.

The day was difficult, directing the men as to what went where, and making sure Ginger was safe and undisturbed upstairs. We all stopped for a lunch break and I took a look at my phone for missed messages, which I had put on airplane mode. I stared at the number of text messages from Fabio, and opened the first.

Lisa, I was bad last night

Are you busy? Call me?

Please answer, I’m sorry

I dialled his number straight away, and it was answered in a flash

‘Fabio, it’s me…’

‘Senora – Lisa’ his voice was raw. ‘I was bad, I drank too much…I didn’t go to the gym’ I interrupted before he got any further

‘Fabio, all you did was throw stones at my window’

‘I’m sorry’ he said faintly

‘It’s fine, we all make mistakes. I told you to go home, that’s all’

‘What did I say to you, senora?’

‘Just that you think about me a lot’ He was silent for a moment

‘I do. I’m sorry Lisa, I can stay in my flat, you don’t have to have me at your house’

‘It’s fine, really’ I assured him. ‘Look Fabio, I’m still busy, but when I’m settled you can come and see me and we’ll talk. Is that okay?’

‘Yes. Thankyou, you are kind’

‘Do you have a hangover?’

‘My head hurt. I’m better now.’

‘Good.’ I answered ‘Next time we get drunk together.’ At last I heard him chuckle

‘Perhaps. We talk later, yes?’

‘Yes, I promise.’ I rang off, and took a deep breath. It would be a good idea to lay some ground rules with my new lodger – presuming that we went ahead with him moving in. I wanted him to come, of course, who wouldn’t? He was my Instagram crush made flesh. But meeting him in person was different. He was genuine, inquisitive, and funny, and I enjoyed his company. I knew he wouldn’t be around for long, so I was going to take things as they came.

‘Hey – Miss?’ The removal foreman was trying to get my attention. ‘We’re good to go now – what next?’

-------

By the time I had everything where I wanted it, checked on Ginger and had something to eat, I knew Fabio was working, and I was exhausted. I made sure all the windows were closed and the door locked, and let the cat investigate the house. He was hesitant at first, and went round sniffing everything. He wolfed down his kitty kibble when he saw it, and cast a disdainful eye over his litter tray. I was too tired to do anything but go to bed, so that’s what I did, leaving the door open so Ginger could join me if he wanted. Before I put my head on the pillow I sent a text to Fabio.

All moved now. Tired, will call you tomorrow.

You don’t want to order pizza?’

Not now thanks, going to bed.

Sweet dreams senora x

I stared at the little kiss at the end of his message, and found myself kissing my fingertips and placing them on the screen before I put the phone by the side of the bed and laid my head on the pillow. Ginger jumped up on the bed and nestled into the crook of my knees again as I drifted off to sleep.

-------

The next day dawned with sunlight creeping around the edges of the curtains. I had slept well as it was so much quieter. That would be different in the spring and summer when the dawn chorus was at its height, but in late autumn it wasn’t light until a decent time anyway. Ginger raced in from whatever place he had moved to and butted his head against me to tell me his dish was empty.

‘Okay Ginge, breakfast it is. Do you like your new home?’ He wound round my legs as I pulled my dressing gown on, and yowled at me to hurry up. As I sat in the dining room eating toast he jumped up onto the windowsill and chittered at the birds outside.

‘Not yet, Ginger.’ I told him. ‘you’ll have to stay inside a week or two, can’t have you going back to Jackson Street.’ I scratched his head and he huffed at me in surprise before breaking into a purr. I looked at the time and thought that perhaps he would be up and about after a long night shift.

Morning Fabio

He didn’t answer straight away, so I went outside, making sure Ginger was shut out of the kitchen, effectively meaning he couldn’t slip outside when I went back in the house, which didn’t please him at all. I hated being unkind to him but it was for his own good. My phone rang and I sat on a bench looking over the lawn, still neat from Martin’s good deed the other day. It felt strange to think it was my home now.

‘Buenos dias senora.’ His voice was sleepy.

‘Oh, I’m sorry did I wake you?’

‘Yes, but is okay.’ I wondered if he was still in bed, and thoughts of his toned and bare chest and belly filled my mind. ‘It went well?’

‘Yes, all to plan. We should meet up and talk about things.’

‘Si, si – ah yes. We go for coffee after the gym?’

‘Yes, where would you like to go?’

‘You choose, senora – somewhere English.’ 

‘Okay. How about the coffee shop under the town hall – Suzie’s Pantry?’

‘I find it – I call you after the gym?

‘Okay, see you later.’

As promised, I arrived not much later than I had planned, to find him sitting waiting with a cup of black coffee. He got up and greeted me with his usual kiss on the cheek and a warm smile.

‘Hola Lisa’ he said ‘Tell me, what would an Englishman have for a late breakfast?’

‘How hungry are you?’ I asked.

‘Not too much’ he replied. ‘I know about your ‘full English’

‘You could perhaps have a bacon butty if the full English is too much’ I suggested. Typically, the full English breakfast was a bit of a belly filler, consisting of bacon, sausage, egg, and other things such as baked beans, tomatoes and black pudding depending on where in the country you were and what was on hand. He raised his eyebrows in query ‘a buttered bread roll with bacon inside’ I explained ‘and you can have sauce – you know, like we had with chips – ketchup or brown sauce’ He nodded, and I called the waitress over to order.

‘I pay’ he offered ‘you are hungry?’

‘It’s a little early for lunch but I’ll have the same as you.’ I called the waitress over to order, and she went off behind the counter to talk to the cook.

‘I am embarrassed, Lisa.’ he said as she disappeared. ‘I came to your house and threw stones at the window. I think I only wanted to talk – but it was wrong of me. Can you forgive me for being stupid and drunk?’

‘Of course I can, Fabio.’ I said gently ‘But I came here to talk about you moving in with me.’

‘You don’t want.’ he said sadly. ‘I understand.’

‘’No, it’s okay. We should just probably set a few ground rules.’ He looked puzzled again, and I thought perhaps that wouldn’t translate properly. ‘What I mean is, decide how much you pay, how much you help in the house, that sort of thing.’

‘You want me to move in?’ he asked.

‘Yes Fabio, I do.’ He reached across the table and took my hand in his, his gaze intense.

‘Eso es muy, muy bueno - maravilloso – it’s good.’ he said earnestly. ‘I tell you now, the person below me, he called me bad names. Is not a good place.’

‘Oh Fabio, why didn’t you tell me?’ He shrugged.

‘It is no big deal, but I want good memories of England. Staying with you will…’ he smiled at me ‘I will remember it well’ I noted that he had not said like a brother again, and drew a shaky breath. The waitress brought our order, and I asked for more coffee. Fabio put sauce in his bacon butty and tucked into it with relish. I smiled and took my time with my butty. The window seat we had was good for watching people outside walking from shop to shop in the autumn sunshine.

‘I try to get some modelling work.’ he said ‘Fly from Newcastle or Glasgow to Germany or Spain.’ I quirked an eyebrow at him. ‘Is easy, no? I go and work for a week, come back here, rest, another shoot until I have money for the flight to Argentina and more.’ I shifted uneasily in my seat. The idea that I could lend him the money to go home was at the back of my mind, but the truth was that I didn’t want him to leave – not yet.

‘People think the life of a model is glamorous.’ he went on, taking another sip of his coffee. I carried on munching my food. ‘I told you – there is much waiting around, sitting in makeup, waiting for the right light if you’re outside. The pay sometimes is not good, but if I don’t work, people don’t see me and it’s hard to get more work. So this winter I look in Europe for the summer shoots. If I am lucky, it will still be summer when I go back to Argentina, and then I work there.’ He grinned ‘Some times I don’t know if it’s summer or winter. I model winter clothes in summer too, that is hot work’ Inwardly I breathed a sigh of relief that I had not offered to help him pay as evidently he had been expecting to spend some months in Europe anyway.

‘Your Instagram account must help raise your profile.’ I commented.

‘Yes, I must take some more photos soon. Perhaps I drink tea in your garden.’

‘If you like, you can move in tomorrow on your day off. How about you pay half the rent you’re paying now, and do some work in the garden – and maybe some housework – washing up and so on? You don’t have to give me any money until you’re settled up with your landlord.’

‘Yes. I like. We should write it down.’ His face brightened ‘I can cook for you – my paella is muy bueno’ He made a gesture with his fingers, pressing them together with his thumb, kissing his fingers and gesturing upward with his hand.

‘You might struggle to find good ingredients. We can go shopping and take a look in the supermarket.’ Something struck me just then as he went back to finishing off the muffin.

‘I have a bicycle in the shed. You could use that to get to work – I don’t have to drive back and forth, you don’t have to wait for the bus or call a taxi – and you keep fit.’

‘Marveloso!’ he grinned. ‘I ride your bike to work.’

‘It’ll be easy going in.’ I remarked. ‘It’s all downhill, but coming back will be hard in the dark, and if it rains…’

‘There is an English saying for this – we cross the bridge when we reach it?’ I smiled.

‘Well done - we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.’ I corrected him. He had a good vocabulary, only the word order and some tenses were not quite right, but I reminded myself again that I would do no better with a foreign language. Besides, it was adorable and added to his charm. I suspected that unless one learned a language very early on in life, you would be unlikely to be fluent, and the matter of accents added to the complexity of language.

I decided we should go back to the house to take a look and see if he needed anything else and work out a few details, so Fabio paid and we walked to the car and drove straight there. Once there I greeted Ginger again, who baulked for a moment at Fabio, then remembered who he was and rolled over to show his belly, stretching luxuriously before leaping up and rubbing round his ankles for a head scratch. I showed my guest the downstairs room and its layout and briefly showed him the two upstairs rooms.

‘If you have the downstairs room, I’ll have these.’ I explained. ‘And we can share the other downstairs rooms – lounge, kitchen, dining room.’ I had my own tiny ensuite bathroom upstairs with a shower and toilet, and the downstairs bathroom had a bath with shower over it. He was happy with the room, and we sat down and wrote out a rough agreement.

After that, we went outside to the shed, which was full of gardening tools, the lawnmower and various DIY tools that my father had used in the past. Fabio helped clear a way to get the bicycle and took it out onto the lawn to check it over and give it a test run while I lingered in the shed and smiled fondly, remembering my father showing me how to saw wood or hammer in a nail. I was an only child, so he had no sons to pass his skills on to, but he taught me all the same.

After making adjustments to the saddle and checking the brakes and tyres, Fabio declared that the bike was roadworthy. However, if he was going to ride it after dark he would need lights, and I made a note to visit a bike shop in town to get them.

‘You offered to make paella some time’ I reminded him ‘I need to do some food shopping, so we can go and see what the fish counter at the supermarket is like’

‘But yes.’ he grinned. ‘We go now?’

‘Sure, we just need to put the bike away and get some bags and we’re good to go.’

‘Good to go.’ He gave me a thumbs up ‘I know this one.’

‘Great – you see to the bike and I’ll lock up the house.’

-------

A little while later, I dropped Fabio off at his flat. He had decided to get fresh ingredients when he cooked, which wouldn’t be for the next couple of days, and I had done some food shopping for the next week or so. Once home, I had pasta with pesto, and a glass of white wine. We had agreed that he would move in the next day, as Mario had allowed him to quit the flat straight away – Fabio thought he had a couple of tenants waiting and would be glad of the income. It did mean he lost his deposit, but he thought it was a price worth paying, and he said he was looking forward to sleeping somewhere quiet with plenty of fresh air and outdoor space. I could understand that, as it was a major reason for me quitting the other house.

I went to bed after washing the few dishes I had used, realising that I’d have to tell Martin at some point what I had done. He would probably give me more dire warnings, but I was happy with things as they were – or would soon be. Everything had happened so fast, but then, I told myself as Ginger snuggled up behind my knees that I deserved some excitement and romance.

[mundane-pleasures-are-best]

This Can’t be Real

Post-KH3 Akusai/Fluffy Grief

Isa opened his eyes, feeling warm fingers weaving through his hair, soft breath ghosting his round ears as he let out a pleased sigh, blinking once to test if this was an illusion. 

Master Xehanort had been fond of those, making him relive Lea whispering sweet nothings to him and then stabbing him with a chakram and a deadly smirk, yanking it out and lighting his insides on fire. A deep laugh echoing in his brain as Master Xehanort delighted in his screams. 

“Isa?” He turned to the redhead with a look of dread, pinching his own arm as Lea sighed. 

“It happened again?”

“This can’t be real Lea, I can’t have happiness. I don’t deserve it.”

“Why?” Lea’s eyebrows raised, his face making a mixture of emotions- empathy, anguish, and worst of all- the pity. Isa hated the pity. Lea was only treating him well now, three years after the final battle, because of that pity. He was sure of it. 

Isa sat up and looked down at his chest, free of scars, his aches limited to his thrashing during nightmares. He looked at Lea who scooted closer to him under the covers, wrapping his arms around him and pulling him to his body. Isa enjoyed the body heat, sleeping next to Lea was like having a living hot compress next to him. Isa was naturally cold, he had an iron deficiency as a child and it had not improved with age.  He wondered if that’s why he was attracted to Lea in the first place, Axel had developed an affinity with fire. His body as a nobody had not suffered the faults of his human form, and he had been grateful, but now he was more grateful for the spooning as it started again, a leg wrapping around him, pulling him tight. He did hate being the little spoon though. 

“Isa?” The redhead had been waiting for an answer, but saw the other was still distant, and as he started to nuzzle and mess with the blue locks he watched Isa’s eyes droop. Those lovely blue-green orbs something he had missed for years, but had not realized until he was staring back into them.  “Alright nap-time again?” He chuckled. The taller male feeling cold toes touch his, making him shiver before he rubbed his feet against the other to get them warm again. He felt Isa lean into him subconsciously, so he reached for the weighted blanket the other had kicked to the end of the bed in his sleep and placed it back over them. Lea started placing soft kisses on the pale neck, enjoying the shivers and trembles against his frame. Isa bit his lip and he closed his eyes trying to resist the moan threatening to escape his throat.

“N-no.”

“No?” Lea stopped kissing his neck, terrified he had gone too far. It had been just a year ago when Isa allowed him to share a bed. They had been sleeping in different rooms for the first two years after the last battle.

“I just....I’m not. Lea what are you doing?”

“Kissing your neck?” Lea wondered where this was going, if Isa was going to dive back into his own mind and wander the home their parents had chipped in to rent for them. The whine at the door caused Isa to raise his head and look at it, the incessant clawed pawing and whines led Isa to untangle his body from Lea, in an effort to reach the door before the dogs took it down. Lea touched his shoulder softly, “I got it.” 

He got out of bed, missing the spooning already; Lea opened the door as two large dogs pushed past him in an instant and jumped on the bed, taking his spot behind Isa and on the other side. Isa was smiling as they licked his face and nuzzled him, whining to alert him they had sensed his emotion again, and wanted him to feel better. Lea sighed and pushed the Saint Bernard slowly, with a LOT of effort, down the bed so he could reclaim his spot. The dog barely looked bothered, its tail wagging madly as it barked happily at him, army-crawling up as Lea spooned Isa quickly before his side of the bed could be stolen again. As soon as he he assumed it was safe the fluffy male dog placed its huge head on his hip, falling asleep on his legs, something he hated as it left him absolutely numb the next day. The other dog, a female rescue, peered over Isa’s shoulder at him with a look of interest to see if she was going to need to move as well. Instead she let out a pleased woof as Isa let her spoon against his stomach and lick his fingers, making Isa chuckle softly and whisper, “Good girl.” 

Lea sometimes wondered if the dogs understood more than him about the man he knew for years. They always barged in to greet Isa, grabbed Isa’s arm and started to lead him to the kitchen, demanding food yet also forcing Isa to eat something as well. They barked when he didn’t eat, whined when he refused to do things, and licked his face to wake him up. Lea knew it was depression, or PTSD from being a vessel, or worse it was the guilt eating at him like when he looked at Roxas and Xion talking to Lea outside the house (they were not yet welcome inside with Isa yet, as he had started to stare at Xion as if she were a demon, now that had saw her actual face). Isa made Roxas angry, despite the other apologizing gruffly to him, and Xion felt extremely uncomfortable as she tried to understand why her presence affected him so. However, she dragged Roxas with her to visit Lea, hoping eventually Isa would open the door and invite them inside instead of retreating when Lea invited them in. The blue-haired man would disappear for hours, coming back with papers or something in his hands to make it seem like he had been busy. 

Lea knew it a lie when he brought a book, Isa hadn’t been able to complete a book in ages and often he’d pick up a book with a daily astrology horoscope stuck in the middle. He found a book on the stages of grief under a towel by the tub, a book on astrology compatibility under the bed, and sadly some questionable searches on their home computer, thanks to him asking Ienzo to hack into the internet history. His heart broke when he read the searches about “how to live with onself,” “how can I say what I want,” and the worst “the afterlife and hell.” It wasn’t a religious quandary he was searching for, it was Isa struggling with conversations. His mother had advised him to try to talk to Isa more, but he was just as slippery with his words as he had been as Saix.  Lea asked Isa’s parents and they told him to keep trying. 

He tightened his grip on Isa, kissing the back of his neck, “I love you, you know?”

“I have it memorized,” Isa’s voice was dry, but soft. Lea knew he was mocking him, but the hand gripping his told him he appreciated the words.

They both feel asleep briefly and Lea didn’t need to coax the dogs to remain in bed as he woke up again and slipped out of the covers to make breakfast. He found the Saint Bernard hogging the bed again when he returned, both dogs eyeing the bacon on the plate and licking their lips. He pointed his thumb over his shoulder back at the kitchen, “Your breakfast is in there, I slipped some bacon-” they jumped off the bed and pushed him aside again, he could hear kibble flying everywhere from here, “Great...”

He rounded the bed as the other was rubbing his eyes, the dogs forcing him to wake up sooner than he wanted. Lea pulled the cup of coffee off of the plate and handed it to the other, Isa sipped at it immediately, looking at the plate of food that Lea set next to him a little too much like the dogs had. Isa set his mug down and started eating, as Lea went to the kitchen to pick up the glass of orange juice and plate of toast he had been forced to leave behind on the first trip.  He kicked an ottoman near Isa and set them on top, as the blue eyes stared at him in surprise. 

“Wow, you ...went all out. What’s the occasion? You sick?” Isa reached up to touch Lea’s forehead and then let his hand fall, “No.” 

“Maybe I just like you.” 

“Why?” Isa continued to look at him, suspiciously, wondering at Lea’s motive. 

“Isa, not everything is a trap.”

The blue-haired man started eating more, hesitantly forking up eggs and still watching Lea, as the taller male sat on the bed next to him and cupped his face, licking the jam from the pink lips causing Isa to let out a sound of surprise, “Mm strawberry.” 

Isa turned red, his blush carrying to his ears as he set the food down before he dropped it, scooting from his friend and looking down, turning a deeper red when Lea leaned over and kissed him, his soft lips grazing and brushing against his, hungrily sucking at Isa’s lips like they were breakfast to him. When Isa broke for air he managed to get out, “Where’s your food?”

He poked Isa square in his chest, “Right here.”

Isa smacked the hand aside and tried to seem composed as he headed for the bathroom, Lea following closely behind, finding that persistence was the only way to make Isa reveal what he was thinking. Isa whipped his head around as he had stepped into the bathroom, “And you’re going to take a bath now too?”

“No I was planning on running you a bath, oh yeah, watch your food.” Isa looked confused until he heard claws clicking on the floor as the dogs tried to sneak into the bedroom for scraps. 

“Jupiter! Callisto!” Isa’s voice raised enough for the dogs to stop and freeze, caught in the act. He pointed to the living room as they retreated to their beds, and he closed the bedroom door, hearing Lea already starting the bath for him. For some reason he thought Isa was incapable of doing things for himself. Apparently unless he went berserk and hit people they had no respect for his own abilities. 

Lea called over to him, “It’s getting warm, you better get in before I make it too hot again, as much as I enjoy your ass getting as red as my hair.” 

Isa huffed and blushed again, his eyes narrowing at Lea, “You did that on purpose.” 

“Not really, I just don’t get affected by the heat anymore, sorry Babe.” 

“Babe?!” Isa choked out, feeling more insulted as the pet name had been uttered. 

“Yeah, Babe, Pig in the City.” Lea smirked at him, turning the water down to a slow trickle as he added in bubble-bath and set out towels for him to dry off after the bath.

“I’m a pig now?” His voice was raising. 

“Yeah a cute pink thing that squeals a lot.” His smirk widened. 

Isa stomped his way over to him, as Lea took advantage of the situation and yanked Isa’s sleep-pants and boxers down in one swift motion, then shoved him into the tub. Lea had been careful not to overfill the claw-foot tub, so that it would not splash out as he pushed the other in. 

The naked man fumbled as he fell, splashing and rearranging himself so that he was sitting up, moving his wet hair out of his face, about to yell at Lea about how immature that was, how he could have been injured, how he would kick his ass to next week, how he would- 

Lea stripped off his pants and boxer-briefs quickly before he stepped into the tub from the other side, spreading his legs so they laid on either side of Isa’s hips, enjoying the way Isa stared then jerked his eyes away, huffing and muttering swears at him. Lea was amused how Isa’s cheeks matched his flaming head of hair now. It was cute. 

“C’mon Isa, we have the same equipment, don’t act like a girl.” For emphasis he gathered a wave of bubbles between his legs, his eyebrows raised, “Better? Watch out I think I might have seen your dick when I threw you, oh no, now I’m just gonna get cooties.” 

Isa glared at him, “Shut up. You’re just a pervert taking advantage of the situation.” 

“Which one?” Lea cocked his head to one side, a smile playing on his lips. 

“Me.  You’re just enjoying what I am now,” Isa replied sharply, his voice getting cold, a strange resemblance to his nobody, “Useless. You just want something to pity, to help you get over the terrible things you did in the Organization.” 

Lea moved his legs back, sitting up, as Isa’s eyes immediately rose to avoid looking down, Lea scooted closer to him, his tone even and eyes locked as he placed his hands on Isa’s knees, “Are you talking about me or you, Isa?” He ignored the glare, finally seeing past it, “You’re acting like Saix again, to make me leave you again.” He scooted further, his hips between Isa’s legs, his hands brushing up pale legs to grip the other’s hips, “I’m not leaving, do your worst, you can’t keep doing this.” 

Isa took a breath, his glare wavering the closer Lea got, “Doing what?”

“Acting like a dick when you’re just feeling sad. I didn’t like that little asshole Vanitas, but my god do you act real similar when you get upset. I love you, and I know you hate to hear it, but I do. You’re allowed to have that.”

“What? An annoying friend that never stops bothering me?” 

“I was going to say happiness and a life with a really hot friend,” Lea warmed up his hands and enjoyed the wordplay and the other’s squirm. Isa continued to avoid his eyes, shifting when Lea nibbled at his collarbone, finally closing the distance and kissing the side of Isa’s mouth, nipping at his lower lip, pulling it and letting it snap back. He felt Isa turn and kiss back, soft at first, his own hair getting a rough yank as he closed his eyes and enjoyed the older male’s tongue shove into his mouth, in a pathetic attempt to establish dominance in a relationship centered on rebuilding equality. He trapped Isa’s tongue with his teeth, holding it ransom as Isa growled at him, swiftly letting go with another laugh.  As Isa went to yell at him he kissed him deeply, feeling his friend lean back into the wall of the tub, wrapping his arms around Lea’s neck until Lea parted and placed another kiss on his pale nose. 

“Why...did you stop?” Isa was out of breath, watching Lea pull back with a soft whine in his tone. Lea smiled and got back to his knees, tugging Isa forward and managing to wiggle him around so that Isa was between his legs and he could rest his chin on Isa’s shoulder. He felt the other shiver, this time from both the air and the closeness.  Lea turned the water back on and grabbed Isa’s comb from the small table next to the tub that held grooming products, mostly Isa’s. 

He started to comb his hair, placing his hand at the other’s scalp and holding his hair at the base to avoid yanking his head during snarls in the locks.  Isa slowly sank back into Lea’s chest, closing his eyes as the other gently combed out his hair, occasionally kissing the top of his head and ears, rubbing his nose against the other’s ear as he stopped combing and pulled stray hairs out of the comb, tossing them onto the towel next to the tub. Once it was free of hair he began combing again, humming some of Isa’s favorite songs as he worked, only stopping when the other’s head lolled to the side, as he heard Isa start to snore softly, his face more calm than it had been in weeks. He chuckled softly, soaking in the tub and using his thighs to lock Isa in place as he slept so that he wouldn’t drown.  He waited until the water started to get cold and his toes pruned to move Isa. It was hard lifting him without waking him in the tub and he was glad he had thought ahead and moved the bathroom rug close to the tub before they got in. He took Isa back to the bed, taking one of their many throw blankets that Isa had acquired and lightly dried him off and finally wrapped in another dry blanket, tucking him into the bed after he slipped Isa’s boxers back on so that if he woke up he wouldn’t assume anything unwanted had happened. Lea walked back to the bathroom to drain the tub then went back to the bed to take a nap, curling around Isa again to warm him as he slept. The dogs took care of his other side and the foot of the bed, surrounding Isa in a toasty embrace. 

---

It was afternoon when Lea woke up, he looked at the clock with a smile, they had managed to waste half of the day snuggling. It was an improvement.  He looked down and smiled wide, Isa had turned in his sleep and his head was buried in Lea’s chest, his legs between the redhead’s and toes touching his. Isa turned out to be quite the little needy snuggler.  Lea reached for the remote that was teetering stupidly on the top of the headboard and turned on the science channel at a low volume, watching a show on explosions and feeling happy, today seemed right. This was how it was supposed to be. 

Isa opened his eyes halfway through the second episode of the show Lea was watching, his eyes moving without turning his head. His body was warm, relaxed, it was....comforting? He felt fur against his back, Lea’s chest was a pleasant temperature keeping him cozy and not uncomfortable. Isa’s guilt returned again, hands stroked his cheek, fingers in his damp hair curling the blue strands at the tips. Those same fingers running through the combed hair and causing him to moan lightly at the feeling, the guilt weakened, a warmth sneaking past it, a feeling he was unfamiliar with...  

This was how it was supposed to be? 

He buried his face in Lea’s chest, he still smelled the breakfast from the nightstand, the dogs snored loudly next to him, television hummed with noise from the show, and his friend let out a happy sigh. 

“Lea?” Isa’s eyes were closed, his breathing soft and even. 

“Mm?” Lea looked down, stroking the other’s cheek with the back of his hand. 

“I...I think I can get used to this.” 

Lea smiled, his fingers tracing Isa’s chin, thumb rolling over soft skin on his forehead, no longer bearing a horrible scar, “I think I can too. I love you, Isa.”

Isa snorted lightly, a playful smile on his lips, “I didn’t forget.”   

[centralparkpawsblog]

What Does It Mean When a Dog Eats Grass?

http://www.centralparkpaws.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Dog-eating-grass-300x200.jpg

Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?

“This is Shasta. She’s a vegan”

That was the simple introduction made by my hubby as he placed the little blue-eyed husky mix – cleverly disguised as a ball of fur with giant ears and a pink tongue – into my open arms.  Through the “getting to know you” puppy kisses, I waited for the punchline.

The look on his face told me he was dead serious.

After having the new fluff ball at home for a few hours I knew he was right – and I was about to embark on an adventure through the twilight zone that I had never expected with a dog.

Shasta ate grass. I’m not kidding – she ate it.

I’m not talking about the occasional nibble as if she had a bellyache – you know, the old wives’ tale about dogs and grass.

Nope, the puppy was out there chowing down my lush green lawn like a kid with an after school snack of chocolate chip cookies and no homework. All day, every day. Grazing away like the cow she wasn’t.

Was there something wrong with her? Was she sick? Was she hungry?

Or worse – was my puppy really a vegetarian?

So, the hunt was on for an explanation to solve the canine mystery we’ve all encountered – why does our dog eat grass?

Are Dogs Carnivores or Herbivores?

Actually, our four-legged furbabies are both.

The correct term is omnivore, and this is an unpopular fact that has been proven through various phases of scientific study, as well as genetic markers in the domesticated Canis Lupus Familiaris, as well as Canis Lupus – the wild wolf.

So, although they commonly considered steadfast carnivores, studies are more and more supporting that both dogs and wolves alike are omnivores.

Clearly, canines are preferential carnivores. Heck, if given the choice between a thick, juicy steak or a grilled chicken breast, and a bowl full of boring field greens – which would you choose?

Getting his “roughage”

It’s the same with dogs. They go for the meat every time.

A cursory look inside the mouth of the beast shows dentition perfectly designed to rip and tear – trademarks of a carnivorous bend. But that doesn’t mean there is no need for vegetation in their diets.

A closer inspection shows the intestinal design supports an omnivorous diet.

Heck, studies show that even wolves have been known to seek out and ingest the various berries that their dinner from the previous days had snacking on. This fact, that seeking vegetation of various kinds to supplement their diets, in itself is proof of the omnivorous nature of the beast.

Unfortunately, another problem with identifying canines as omnivores is that it goes against the current fad of “grain free” diets that are becoming more and more popular – as well as the resurgence in “raw food diets“.

Rather than go into the benefits or evils of grains – and other so-called “fillers” –  or open the Pandora’s box of debating raw versus kibble in our dog’s daily nutritional plans, we’re going to focus on the vegetation en masse.

So one scientific – and practical – reason about why dogs eat grass and other leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables, in addition to their chicken and beef, is that it’s in their DNA.

Vegetation, along with quality meat products, are both components of a balanced diet. And besides – they like it!

But we’re still left with a question – is grass bad for my dog?

Should I Let My Dog Eat Grass?

Okay, since we’ve established that eating grass isn’t the end of the world – it still doesn’t answer why my beautiful little husky is cross-dressing as a billy goat. So let’s take a look at some of the why’s that could be rational explanations;

Just like you and I get food cravings that can be indicative of a missing nutrient from our daily diet, the same can be said for our canine companions. And while we can grab a handful of potato chips to get a little sodium boost, it’s different for Fido.

We do the best we can to make sure they have a balanced diet – and that includes the occasional yummy treats – but every now and then they need a little extra. And since it’s programmed into them, they know just where to look.

Grasses not only add roughage to aid in digestion (dogs can’t process the grass), they can add various other minerals – as well as quick rehydration on hot days or after rough and tumble play.

The common explanation for dogs eating grass is because they’re sick and need help to get whatever is ailing them out of their system.

But in reality, it’s been proven that only a small percentage of dogs vomit after eating grass, and even then the general consensus of research veterinarians can’t agree if it is a driving force to seek out and eat grass for the gastrointestinal relief, or a learned pattern of behavior – or simply a coincidence.

If your dog is sick, he’s gonna be sick – grass or no grass. And like every other dog owner on the planet, nothing can rouse me from a dead sleep in the middle of the night like one of my dogs about to get sick on the carpet.

Speaking of things that go burp in the night … I don’t mean to gross you out here – but are you sure your little angel is eating grass?

Stop and think of the potential nasties that could be hiding there, enticing Fido. Another dog’s scent. A parting gift leftover from a rabbit passing through. Remnants from last night’s chow that still smells so yummy.

The term pica refers to the eating of non-food items – and trust me, there are plenty of non-food items out there to be discovered and ingested.

What Can You Do About Your Grass-Eating Pooch?

Well … Just like in every other realm of life, you’ve got options available.

First things first, identify what’s getting eaten – and why.

Yeah, we just covered why dogs might be eating grass or other leafy stuff, but have you done your homework? Do you know why your pup is eating the grass? Or should we say – do you know what your dog is actually eating?

That’s a pretty big key to deciding what to do about it.

Figuring out the what in the equation is key, and then the answer why will be pretty obvious. Just open your eyes and watch. Look at where he stops and watch what he does.

Nonchalantly walk around the yard while your dog is sniffing out a spot to make a deposit, and pay attention to his actions and reactions.

Is he looking for specific grass or leaves to eat? Is he sniffing and gently licking? Is he uncovering a dainty morsel to devour? Is he heading directly to the previously digested dinner for a second helping?

If it’s traces of scents your pup is going after, say from a neighborhood dog remarking territory, that’s easy enough to handle.

A short conversation explaining the problem and asking the dog’s owner to walk across the street, or not allowing them to stop along your property line should suffice; most dog owners understand some of the quirkiness that comes with the leash and collar.

Rinsing the spot on a daily basis works as well – especially if you can catch it as soon as the offender completes his rounds. You can also try a soap-suds rinse; it will eliminate not only the offending odor but discourage remarking.

“Tootsie rolls” are a common delicacy – and the fresh ones even more so. Again, this takes a respectable amount of vigilance on your part to identify and eliminate (no pun intended) the temptations. The first step could be keeping a close eye of Fido as he wanders the yard to identify the offender.

If it’s from a rabbit or other wildlife, then consider rabbit fencing to reinforce any areas that the bunny might be slipping through, or even wildlife sprays. A few nights of the offending fragrance will curtail the wildlife from crossing into your territory.

If you find that your dog is recycling his own “tootsie rolls”, that will take a little more effort to correct. Dogs re-ingest food for three primary reasons:

1. The food is still yummy. That means there’s undigested goodness in abundance. If this is the case – and your dog is not absorbing all the available nutrition from his meal – then it’s time to look at a change in food.

2. There’s a nutritional need. Just like we crave what our bodies need, there might be nutrients in the waste – whether his own or another animal’s – that he needs. This takes more consideration, and perhaps a trip to the vet to ensure his nutrition is where it should be.

3. Compulsions occur in our four-legged friends just as easily as they do in us. If there is no rational explanation – or you find that your little bundle of joy is eating poo indiscriminately, then it is time for a serious intervention.

Training, as well as physical aids such as muzzles can eliminate eating the non-food items. Proper dog training can also be very effective. If it’s serious, your veterinarian can add a medicinal component to change the behavior.

If you discover it’s really just about the sweet, succulent grass or plants, you can simply let nature take its course and let your dog continue to eat grass. It really won’t hurt anything.

One small caveat: if you use any weed or pest control chemicals, you will want to discontinue them – these chemicals can be dangerous when ingested.

Also, get a book – or scour the internet – and eliminate any potentially toxic plants and weeds.

Lastly, you can take steps to eliminate the draw of the offending vegetation altogether.

Don’t Want Your Dog to Eat Grass?

Okay, so you’ve decided that you’re taking grass off the canine menu. No more vegetarian diet for you. Now you need a plan. And patience – lots and lots and lots of patience.

Basically, if you don’t want your dog to eat the grass – you eliminate the grass.

See how easy that was?

Consider a pea-gravel run. With some proper preparation, and special emphasis on drainage, you can create an area for your dog that’s both grass-free and healthy – and easy to clean up.

Keeping to leashed walks is another way to ensure your pup isn’t stopping for a quick meal while out and about. Just remember to pay attention when they stop and sniff – a bit of solid leash training can go a long way.

Do a little recon work – does Bruiser like to eat grass in the morning? After he’s had his nightly meal? Is there only a certain area that he eats the grass?

Information is knowledge – and knowledge is power. Filling in the blanks can not only help you understand what he is eating – it can help you avoid it.

Another way to deal with eating grass without turning your backyard into a rock garden is with discouraging sprays and scents. These chemical-based sprays can be either bitter tasting, or an acrid odor that repels dogs altogether.

Although they can be quite effective, they can be expensive between initial purchase and reapplication after the rain washes them away – or they can be more dangerous because of their caustic make-up that repels or gives a bad taste.

The truth is that while eliminating grass from their diet is possible – it really might not be all that practical once you’ve weighed out the options.

Should I Let My Dog Eat Grass? Probably

When it comes right down to it, our pups are pretty smart. If they pick up a strange new habit, it’s a good idea to look into it and ask why – but if it’s not hurting anything, maybe the best action is to just let it run its course.

Shasta? Yeah, she still eats grass. I’ve made sure that we no longer treat for weeds and grubs in the yard, and I’ve even taken to planting some of her favorites in a small area just for her. She rolls all through them and munches away to her heart’s content.

But she is also getting a good, solid diet rich in meat, minerals, and vitamins.

My puppy is not going to be a vegan.

The post What Does It Mean When a Dog Eats Grass? appeared first on Central Park Paws.

from http://www.centralparkpaws.net/pet-health/why-dogs-eat-grass/

[jenniferskaggs]

A budget guide to Glasgow, Scotland

While Edinburgh may woo visitors with its genteel charm, and there’s no escaping the sheer beauty of the Scottish countryside, visitors to Scotland too often overlook Glasgow as a destination.

Scotland’s largest city has plenty to offer the budget traveler, whether it’s tremendous free museums or the city’s renowned social life. It’s a working city full of contrasts, by turns gritty, glamorous and generous – and one well worth getting to know a little better.

Here’s how to enjoy this great city while saving along the way.

Budget Guide to Glasgow

How to get to Glasgow

Air Glasgow’s International Airport handles most of the flights and is well served by the budget airlines such as easyJet and Ryanair (with a £10.50 shuttle bus into the center of town). If you’re traveling within Europe, check out Ryanair flights from Prestwick Airport too. Slightly farther out, but it’s an easy and inexpensive journey into the city by bus.

Train Traveling within the UK? Getting to Glasgow by train is probably the most convenient option: Make sure to book your journey well in advance for the best fares, or consider buying a BritRail pass before you go if you’re planning to do a lot of travel. Edinburgh is also just over an hour away by train. There are regular departures and tickets cost around £10-13.

Bus Getting the bus is by far the cheapest option — although going by bus from London, for example, will take at least double the time than the train. Check out the MegaBus and National Express for prices starting at around £15 going all the way from London to Glasgow (book well in advance) and just £3.50 from Edinburgh.

What to see and do

There are plenty of tours that will help you get your head around the city’s rich history, although many, unfortunately, will leave your budget a little poorer. However, there are some great free downloadable options to be explored here, with self-guided walks covering everything from an “obscure history guide” to a tour celebrating Glasgow’s musical heritage.

Your reward for climbing the stairs of the Lighthouse? A grand view over Glasgow. Photo: Alastair Bennett

Mackintosh, with a great view

The works of architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh are among Glasgow’s main attractions (you can read more about it in our Glasgow Art Nouveau guide), but many of the Mackintosh attractions do charge admission.

A happy exception is the Lighthouse building, which was Mackintosh’s first architectural commission. It now hosts displays and exhibitions, including one about Mackintosh himself. For an added free bonus, climb its spiral staircase to the top of the tower for a fantastic view over the city.

The Kelvingrove Art Gallery is one of the most visited museums in the country. Photo: Gordon Chirgwin

Free galleries and museums

There’s an amazing array of free museums and galleries in Glasgow, which often comes in handy in a city not blessed with the sunniest of weather! This is just a taster of what’s on offer:

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of most visited museums in the country, with a collection that caters to all tastes, and encompasses everything from Salvador Dali to Spitfire planes, stuffed animals and armor.

The Hunterian, part of the University of Glasgow, is the oldest museum in Scotland. Head here for its archaeological and ethnographical displays.

The People’s Palace offers an excellent overview of the social history of the city, while the Gallery of Modern Art does exactly what it says it does. Take note of the statue of the Duke of Wellington outside and his alternative headwear: It’s actually a proud Glasgow tradition that he wears a traffic cone! 

The modern architecture of the Burrell Collection in Pollock Country Park. Photo: Mark Ferbert

Parks

Glasgow is blessed with lots of parks, perfect for relaxing. Pollok Country Park in the south of Glasgow is the city’s largest green space. It’s also the site of another excellent free museum, the Burrell Collection. Housed in a distinctive 1970’s-era building, this gallery includes medieval and Gothic art, Chinese ceramics and masterpieces by the likes of Degas, Manet and Rembrandt.

You’ll find the Botanical Gardens in the west end of the city. Established in 1817, it’s home to many rare and valuable plants, as well as being a lovely place to escape the bustle of the city. Don’t miss the magnificent Kibble Palace glasshouse.

Glasgow Cathedral

The building of this impressive cathedral was begun in the late 12th century, making it intrinsically linked to the history of the city. It’s still in use for Christian services today and is open for free visits.

Adjacent is the imposing Victorian Necropolis. More than 50,000 people are buried here, and although you may not have heard of its most famous “residents”, it’s still well worth a look. Take one of the free guided walks to find out more about its fascinating stories.

The Horse Shoe is a classic with a gigantic bar and plenty of Scottish ale. Photo: Adam B.

Affordable restaurants and bars

You are spoiled for choice for both eating and drinking in the city. Often you don’t have to decide between the two activities, as many bars and pubs also serve tasty and reasonably priced food. It’s also definitely worth seeking out a traditional fish and chip shop (although whether you want to test out the Scottish habit of deep-frying everything is up to you) — let your nose guide you to the best!

Bread Meats Bread

One for the carnivores. This no-bookings restaurant attracts rave reviews for its burgers. Prices start at £6.50 for a classic Scottish beef burger, but there are many variations on offer. See how Scotland tackles North American classics such as Poutine, hot dogs and pulled pork. Tempting extras include caramelized sweet fries.

Stereo

To atone for all that meat, pay a visit to this vegan restaurant, which — in true Glasgow style — also doubles as a late-night bar, gig and club venue. The food is reasonably priced but especially worth checking out on a Monday when you can indulge in five tapas dishes for £12. Like this? The 13th Note is another vegetarian (and arty!) option to consider.

Saramago

Another late night license bar/veggie restaurant in yet another great free gallery. It’s housed in the Centre for Contemporary Arts, a venue specializing in film, music, literature, and spoken word. A particular bargain is the theater menu, served between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., where a three-course meal is priced at £12.95. At other times, expect to pay around £10 for a generous main.

The Horse Shoe Bar

More of a traditional pub, this is named for the shape of its bar – all 104 feet and three inches of it! Its dark wood and antique-tiled interior (topped with an ornate ceiling!) gives a taste of what drinking in Glasgow was like in the past. It’s far from being a museum piece however: you’ll be drinking from its great range of Scottish drinks alongside sports on the TV and the pub’s legendary karaoke sessions!

The quaint lobby of the affordable and family-owned Argyll Hotel. Photo: Booking.com

Where to Stay

Like most of the UK, it can be hard to find super cheap accommodations, but Glasgow does offer a few budget gems in good locations.

If you want to be in the heart of the city center on the main shopping streets, the Alexander Thomson Hotel is just a few feet from the Central Rail Station and offers rooms for under $100.

Sandyford provides a full Scottish breakfast (eggs, meat, mushrooms, beans, the whole deal) and is within easy reach of good shops, museums and galleries.

The family-run Argyll Hotel is close to Kelvingrove Museum and rooms are equipped with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.

For more options, search over 145 Glasgow hotels.

The post A budget guide to Glasgow, Scotland appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

from EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/a-budget-guide-to-glasgow-scotland.html Publish First on

[jeffreyrwelch]

What to Feed a Dog With Cancer

The post What to Feed a Dog With Cancer by Arden Moore appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Many people are becoming carb conscious in an effort to lose weight and feel healthier. But before you toss that pizza crust or a few french fries to your begging dog, reconsider. People and dogs aren’t the only ones who crave carbohydrates. It turns out so do cancer cells. “Cancer loves carbs and thrives on them,” says Jean Hofve, DVM, holistic veterinarian, best-selling author and founder of the Little Big Cat website. “While early research was only on lymphoma, it can now be said that all cancers are fed by carbs. By severely limiting carbs, the dog’s system will learn to function with ketones — even the brain.” Wondering what to feed a dog with cancer then? Let’s take a look.

Can food really fight cancer in dogs?

Can you really combat canine cancer through food? Photography ©miki-tiger | Getty Images.

Before we look at what to feed a dog with cancer — does what a dog with cancer eats really affect the disease? We are what we eat. And that also applies to our dogs. But are there verifiable cancer-combating foods for dogs? For now, the answer has to be maybe.

“There are no proven general strategies to nutritionally improve outcomes in dogs with cancer,” says Sean Delaney, DVM, DACVN, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist who operates the site Balance It, which offers food-grade products, menus and food-cooking videos. “However, supporting known nutritional needs should be beneficial. Not consuming enough calories to maintain an ideal body condition would be a concern in a dog with cancer. With that said, the most effective and proven treatment for dogs with cancer is drug therapy and not nutritional or dietary therapy.”

Still, making healthy choices about what foods and what supplements to give your dog dealing with cancer can’t hurt. It can only help.

“With cancer, the biggest issue is loss of muscle mass,” says Ernie Ward, DVM, America’s Pet Advocate and founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. “You are trying to feed to save or preserve muscle mass. “Lymphoma loves carbohydrates, so you should work with your veterinarian to try to reduce the carbohydrates in your dog’s diet and boost his diet with more fats and proteins.”

So, what to feed a dog with cancer? Let’s take a look.

Photos ©Getty Images.

“I’m a fan of feeding human foods that are enjoyed and not toxic to the dog with cancer,” Dr. Delaney says. “One can look for food that has an organic seal per the USDA National Organic Program. One might select a lean piece of meat or poultry to increase dietary protein or arginine intake.” Dr. Hofve singles out these healthy choices: dark meat chicken; salmon; eggs; green, leafy vegetables like spinach, as well as broccoli, cucumber and cauliflower. She adds that the vegetables should be cooked to be easily digested, and the proteins should be fresh and non-farmed.

What not to feed a dog with cancer

Foods to avoid include carbohydrate-loaded ones, such as high-carb kibbles (there are low-carb kibbles on the market), as well as any people treats high in carbs, such as potato chips, french fries, bread and corn chips. Corn, peas and bananas should be skipped. Also avoid giving your dog any processed proteins, such as hot dogs, ham or pig’s ears.

What supplements are best for dogs with cancer?

When asking what to feed a dog with cancer, you might want to consider giving your dog some supplements, too. Dogster asked our experts to recommend supplements or vitamins to give to dogs dealing with cancer.

Topping their lists:

Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA): Possessing anti-inflammatory properties, omega- 3s are vital to the health of cell membranes.

Dr. Hofve recommends fish oil products from non-farmed fisheries, cod liver oil and green-lipped mussels. Adds Dr. Delaney: “Consider marine fish oil, but the dose must be carefully customized to the dietary intake of n-6 fatty acids in the diet.”

Adaptogens: Astragalus and Rehmannia offer many beneficial pluses for the whole body and help to reduce stress. Adds Dr. Hofve: “They can broadly improve immune function and for dogs on chemotherapy, they may increase white blood cell counts.”

Medicinal mushrooms: They are touted to have anti-cancer effects by enhancing the immune system. Reishi mushrooms are potent and popular choices. Adds Dr. Ward: “I recommend mushroom extracts. There are no real studies to support, but in most of my canine cancer patients, it is a known immune stimulant to improve the body to fight off or slow down cancers.”

Balance It Carnivore Blend: This supplement adds essential minerals and vitamins.

Sample recipe for a dog cancer diet

Dr. Jean Hofve knows firsthand the jarring impact of discovering your dog has cancer.

When her Australian Shepherd mix, Willy, was 12 years old, he developed a malignant hemangiopericytoma on his elbow that was surgically removed. It was a very aggressive tumor, but Dr. Hofve fed Willy a homemade diet and gave him a homeopathy treatment called Ojibwa Tea (Essiac), and Willy lived cancer-free for another two years. “Willy was special — that’s for sure,” she says. “Even my dog-averse mother adored him.” Dr. Hofve shares this basic recipe for your dog dealing with cancer. Before feeding, discuss with your veterinarian how to customize this recipe for your dog’s specific needs.

75 percent cooked fatty meat, such as dark poultry, non-farmed salmon or ground lamb (eggs can also be used as a protein source)

25 percent non-starchy vegetables that are cooked or pureed to make them easy for your dog to enjoy and thoroughly digest. Top picks: broccoli, cauliflower, cucumbers, mushrooms and green leafy vegetables.

Add extra fat in the form of olive oil, flaxseed oil, hempseed oil or avocado oil

Provide a vitamin-mineral supplement approved for dogs

Add a calcium supplement and antioxidant blend supplement

To learn more about what to feed a dog with cancer:

Find out more info on canine nutrition and cancers at these websites. And always work in conjunction with your veterinarian.

BalanceIt.com – balanceit.com

Little Big Cat – littlebigcat.com

Dr. Ernie Ward – America’s Pet Advocate – drernieward.com

Dr. Harvey’s Paradigm – drharveys.com

Keto Pet Sanctuary – ketopetsanctuary.com 

Canine Cancer – caninecancer.com

What else can you do if your dog is diagnosed with cancer?

If your dog is diagnosed with a form of cancer, it is definitely time to boost your relationship with your veterinarian, who can recommend veterinarians board-certified in holistic medicine, nutrition and oncology. And carefully critique all food and treat labels.

“Dogs with cancer already have a compromised immune system — even more so if they are on chemotherapy, so I don’t recommend raw meat for them,” Dr. Hofve adds. “Supplements and oils should be generally added after cooking due to heat’s ability to harm them.”

Thumbnail: Photography ©elenaleonova | Getty Images.

About the author

Arden Moore, the Pet Health and Safety Coach, is a pet behavior consultant, master certified pet first-aid instructor, author and host of the Oh, Behave Show on Pet Life Radio. Learn more at ardenmoore.com.

Editor’s note: This article appeared in Dogster magazine. Have you seen the new Dogster print magazine in stores? Or in the waiting room of your vet’s office? Subscribe now to get Dogster magazine delivered straight to you! 

Read more about canine cancer on Dogster.com:

8 Things to Remember When Fighting Cancer in Dogs

Are All Dog Tumors Cancerous? Here’s What to Know

8 Alternative Dog Cancer Treatments

The post What to Feed a Dog With Cancer by Arden Moore appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

[daddyslittlejuliet]

What to Feed a Dog With Cancer

The post What to Feed a Dog With Cancer by Arden Moore appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Many people are becoming carb conscious in an effort to lose weight and feel healthier. But before you toss that pizza crust or a few french fries to your begging dog, reconsider. People and dogs aren’t the only ones who crave carbohydrates. It turns out so do cancer cells. “Cancer loves carbs and thrives on them,” says Jean Hofve, DVM, holistic veterinarian, best-selling author and founder of the Little Big Cat website. “While early research was only on lymphoma, it can now be said that all cancers are fed by carbs. By severely limiting carbs, the dog’s system will learn to function with ketones — even the brain.” Wondering what to feed a dog with cancer then? Let’s take a look.

Can food really fight cancer in dogs?

Can you really combat canine cancer through food? Photography ©miki-tiger | Getty Images.

Before we look at what to feed a dog with cancer — does what a dog with cancer eats really affect the disease? We are what we eat. And that also applies to our dogs. But are there verifiable cancer-combating foods for dogs? For now, the answer has to be maybe.

“There are no proven general strategies to nutritionally improve outcomes in dogs with cancer,” says Sean Delaney, DVM, DACVN, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist who operates the site Balance It, which offers food-grade products, menus and food-cooking videos. “However, supporting known nutritional needs should be beneficial. Not consuming enough calories to maintain an ideal body condition would be a concern in a dog with cancer. With that said, the most effective and proven treatment for dogs with cancer is drug therapy and not nutritional or dietary therapy.”

Still, making healthy choices about what foods and what supplements to give your dog dealing with cancer can’t hurt. It can only help.

“With cancer, the biggest issue is loss of muscle mass,” says Ernie Ward, DVM, America’s Pet Advocate and founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. “You are trying to feed to save or preserve muscle mass. “Lymphoma loves carbohydrates, so you should work with your veterinarian to try to reduce the carbohydrates in your dog’s diet and boost his diet with more fats and proteins.”

So, what to feed a dog with cancer? Let’s take a look.

Photos ©Getty Images.

“I’m a fan of feeding human foods that are enjoyed and not toxic to the dog with cancer,” Dr. Delaney says. “One can look for food that has an organic seal per the USDA National Organic Program. One might select a lean piece of meat or poultry to increase dietary protein or arginine intake.” Dr. Hofve singles out these healthy choices: dark meat chicken; salmon; eggs; green, leafy vegetables like spinach, as well as broccoli, cucumber and cauliflower. She adds that the vegetables should be cooked to be easily digested, and the proteins should be fresh and non-farmed.

What not to feed a dog with cancer

Foods to avoid include carbohydrate-loaded ones, such as high-carb kibbles (there are low-carb kibbles on the market), as well as any people treats high in carbs, such as potato chips, french fries, bread and corn chips. Corn, peas and bananas should be skipped. Also avoid giving your dog any processed proteins, such as hot dogs, ham or pig’s ears.

What supplements are best for dogs with cancer?

When asking what to feed a dog with cancer, you might want to consider giving your dog some supplements, too. Dogster asked our experts to recommend supplements or vitamins to give to dogs dealing with cancer.

Topping their lists:

Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA): Possessing anti-inflammatory properties, omega- 3s are vital to the health of cell membranes.

Dr. Hofve recommends fish oil products from non-farmed fisheries, cod liver oil and green-lipped mussels. Adds Dr. Delaney: “Consider marine fish oil, but the dose must be carefully customized to the dietary intake of n-6 fatty acids in the diet.”

Adaptogens: Astragalus and Rehmannia offer many beneficial pluses for the whole body and help to reduce stress. Adds Dr. Hofve: “They can broadly improve immune function and for dogs on chemotherapy, they may increase white blood cell counts.”

Medicinal mushrooms: They are touted to have anti-cancer effects by enhancing the immune system. Reishi mushrooms are potent and popular choices. Adds Dr. Ward: “I recommend mushroom extracts. There are no real studies to support, but in most of my canine cancer patients, it is a known immune stimulant to improve the body to fight off or slow down cancers.”

Balance It Carnivore Blend: This supplement adds essential minerals and vitamins.

Sample recipe for a dog cancer diet

Dr. Jean Hofve knows firsthand the jarring impact of discovering your dog has cancer.

When her Australian Shepherd mix, Willy, was 12 years old, he developed a malignant hemangiopericytoma on his elbow that was surgically removed. It was a very aggressive tumor, but Dr. Hofve fed Willy a homemade diet and gave him a homeopathy treatment called Ojibwa Tea (Essiac), and Willy lived cancer-free for another two years. “Willy was special — that’s for sure,” she says. “Even my dog-averse mother adored him.” Dr. Hofve shares this basic recipe for your dog dealing with cancer. Before feeding, discuss with your veterinarian how to customize this recipe for your dog’s specific needs.

75 percent cooked fatty meat, such as dark poultry, non-farmed salmon or ground lamb (eggs can also be used as a protein source)

25 percent non-starchy vegetables that are cooked or pureed to make them easy for your dog to enjoy and thoroughly digest. Top picks: broccoli, cauliflower, cucumbers, mushrooms and green leafy vegetables.

Add extra fat in the form of olive oil, flaxseed oil, hempseed oil or avocado oil

Provide a vitamin-mineral supplement approved for dogs

Add a calcium supplement and antioxidant blend supplement

To learn more about what to feed a dog with cancer:

Find out more info on canine nutrition and cancers at these websites. And always work in conjunction with your veterinarian.

BalanceIt.com – balanceit.com

Little Big Cat – littlebigcat.com

Dr. Ernie Ward – America’s Pet Advocate – drernieward.com

Dr. Harvey’s Paradigm – drharveys.com

Keto Pet Sanctuary – ketopetsanctuary.com 

Canine Cancer – caninecancer.com

What else can you do if your dog is diagnosed with cancer?

If your dog is diagnosed with a form of cancer, it is definitely time to boost your relationship with your veterinarian, who can recommend veterinarians board-certified in holistic medicine, nutrition and oncology. And carefully critique all food and treat labels.

“Dogs with cancer already have a compromised immune system — even more so if they are on chemotherapy, so I don’t recommend raw meat for them,” Dr. Hofve adds. “Supplements and oils should be generally added after cooking due to heat’s ability to harm them.”

Thumbnail: Photography ©elenaleonova | Getty Images.

About the author

Arden Moore, the Pet Health and Safety Coach, is a pet behavior consultant, master certified pet first-aid instructor, author and host of the Oh, Behave Show on Pet Life Radio. Learn more at ardenmoore.com.

Editor’s note: This article appeared in Dogster magazine. Have you seen the new Dogster print magazine in stores? Or in the waiting room of your vet’s office? Subscribe now to get Dogster magazine delivered straight to you! 

Read more about canine cancer on Dogster.com:

8 Things to Remember When Fighting Cancer in Dogs

Are All Dog Tumors Cancerous? Here’s What to Know

8 Alternative Dog Cancer Treatments

The post What to Feed a Dog With Cancer by Arden Moore appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

[stiles-wtf]

What to Feed a Dog With Cancer

The post What to Feed a Dog With Cancer by Arden Moore appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Many people are becoming carb conscious in an effort to lose weight and feel healthier. But before you toss that pizza crust or a few french fries to your begging dog, reconsider. People and dogs aren’t the only ones who crave carbohydrates. It turns out so do cancer cells. “Cancer loves carbs and thrives on them,” says Jean Hofve, DVM, holistic veterinarian, best-selling author and founder of the Little Big Cat website. “While early research was only on lymphoma, it can now be said that all cancers are fed by carbs. By severely limiting carbs, the dog’s system will learn to function with ketones — even the brain.” Wondering what to feed a dog with cancer then? Let’s take a look.

Can food really fight cancer in dogs?

Can you really combat canine cancer through food? Photography ©miki-tiger | Getty Images.

Before we look at what to feed a dog with cancer — does what a dog with cancer eats really affect the disease? We are what we eat. And that also applies to our dogs. But are there verifiable cancer-combating foods for dogs? For now, the answer has to be maybe.

“There are no proven general strategies to nutritionally improve outcomes in dogs with cancer,” says Sean Delaney, DVM, DACVN, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist who operates the site Balance It, which offers food-grade products, menus and food-cooking videos. “However, supporting known nutritional needs should be beneficial. Not consuming enough calories to maintain an ideal body condition would be a concern in a dog with cancer. With that said, the most effective and proven treatment for dogs with cancer is drug therapy and not nutritional or dietary therapy.”

Still, making healthy choices about what foods and what supplements to give your dog dealing with cancer can’t hurt. It can only help.

“With cancer, the biggest issue is loss of muscle mass,” says Ernie Ward, DVM, America’s Pet Advocate and founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. “You are trying to feed to save or preserve muscle mass. “Lymphoma loves carbohydrates, so you should work with your veterinarian to try to reduce the carbohydrates in your dog’s diet and boost his diet with more fats and proteins.”

So, what to feed a dog with cancer? Let’s take a look.

Photos ©Getty Images.

“I’m a fan of feeding human foods that are enjoyed and not toxic to the dog with cancer,” Dr. Delaney says. “One can look for food that has an organic seal per the USDA National Organic Program. One might select a lean piece of meat or poultry to increase dietary protein or arginine intake.” Dr. Hofve singles out these healthy choices: dark meat chicken; salmon; eggs; green, leafy vegetables like spinach, as well as broccoli, cucumber and cauliflower. She adds that the vegetables should be cooked to be easily digested, and the proteins should be fresh and non-farmed.

What not to feed a dog with cancer

Foods to avoid include carbohydrate-loaded ones, such as high-carb kibbles (there are low-carb kibbles on the market), as well as any people treats high in carbs, such as potato chips, french fries, bread and corn chips. Corn, peas and bananas should be skipped. Also avoid giving your dog any processed proteins, such as hot dogs, ham or pig’s ears.

What supplements are best for dogs with cancer?

When asking what to feed a dog with cancer, you might want to consider giving your dog some supplements, too. Dogster asked our experts to recommend supplements or vitamins to give to dogs dealing with cancer.

Topping their lists:

Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA): Possessing anti-inflammatory properties, omega- 3s are vital to the health of cell membranes.

Dr. Hofve recommends fish oil products from non-farmed fisheries, cod liver oil and green-lipped mussels. Adds Dr. Delaney: “Consider marine fish oil, but the dose must be carefully customized to the dietary intake of n-6 fatty acids in the diet.”

Adaptogens: Astragalus and Rehmannia offer many beneficial pluses for the whole body and help to reduce stress. Adds Dr. Hofve: “They can broadly improve immune function and for dogs on chemotherapy, they may increase white blood cell counts.”

Medicinal mushrooms: They are touted to have anti-cancer effects by enhancing the immune system. Reishi mushrooms are potent and popular choices. Adds Dr. Ward: “I recommend mushroom extracts. There are no real studies to support, but in most of my canine cancer patients, it is a known immune stimulant to improve the body to fight off or slow down cancers.”

Balance It Carnivore Blend: This supplement adds essential minerals and vitamins.

Sample recipe for a dog cancer diet

Dr. Jean Hofve knows firsthand the jarring impact of discovering your dog has cancer.

When her Australian Shepherd mix, Willy, was 12 years old, he developed a malignant hemangiopericytoma on his elbow that was surgically removed. It was a very aggressive tumor, but Dr. Hofve fed Willy a homemade diet and gave him a homeopathy treatment called Ojibwa Tea (Essiac), and Willy lived cancer-free for another two years. “Willy was special — that’s for sure,” she says. “Even my dog-averse mother adored him.” Dr. Hofve shares this basic recipe for your dog dealing with cancer. Before feeding, discuss with your veterinarian how to customize this recipe for your dog’s specific needs.

75 percent cooked fatty meat, such as dark poultry, non-farmed salmon or ground lamb (eggs can also be used as a protein source)

25 percent non-starchy vegetables that are cooked or pureed to make them easy for your dog to enjoy and thoroughly digest. Top picks: broccoli, cauliflower, cucumbers, mushrooms and green leafy vegetables.

Add extra fat in the form of olive oil, flaxseed oil, hempseed oil or avocado oil

Provide a vitamin-mineral supplement approved for dogs

Add a calcium supplement and antioxidant blend supplement

To learn more about what to feed a dog with cancer:

Find out more info on canine nutrition and cancers at these websites. And always work in conjunction with your veterinarian.

BalanceIt.com – balanceit.com

Little Big Cat – littlebigcat.com

Dr. Ernie Ward – America’s Pet Advocate – drernieward.com

Dr. Harvey’s Paradigm – drharveys.com

Keto Pet Sanctuary – ketopetsanctuary.com 

Canine Cancer – caninecancer.com

What else can you do if your dog is diagnosed with cancer?

If your dog is diagnosed with a form of cancer, it is definitely time to boost your relationship with your veterinarian, who can recommend veterinarians board-certified in holistic medicine, nutrition and oncology. And carefully critique all food and treat labels.

“Dogs with cancer already have a compromised immune system — even more so if they are on chemotherapy, so I don’t recommend raw meat for them,” Dr. Hofve adds. “Supplements and oils should be generally added after cooking due to heat’s ability to harm them.”

Thumbnail: Photography ©elenaleonova | Getty Images.

About the author

Arden Moore, the Pet Health and Safety Coach, is a pet behavior consultant, master certified pet first-aid instructor, author and host of the Oh, Behave Show on Pet Life Radio. Learn more at ardenmoore.com.

Editor’s note: This article appeared in Dogster magazine. Have you seen the new Dogster print magazine in stores? Or in the waiting room of your vet’s office? Subscribe now to get Dogster magazine delivered straight to you! 

Read more about canine cancer on Dogster.com:

8 Things to Remember When Fighting Cancer in Dogs

Are All Dog Tumors Cancerous? Here’s What to Know

8 Alternative Dog Cancer Treatments

The post What to Feed a Dog With Cancer by Arden Moore appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

[buynewsoul]

What to Feed a Dog With Cancer

The post What to Feed a Dog With Cancer by Arden Moore appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Many people are becoming carb conscious in an effort to lose weight and feel healthier. But before you toss that pizza crust or a few french fries to your begging dog, reconsider. People and dogs aren’t the only ones who crave carbohydrates. It turns out so do cancer cells. “Cancer loves carbs and thrives on them,” says Jean Hofve, DVM, holistic veterinarian, best-selling author and founder of the Little Big Cat website. “While early research was only on lymphoma, it can now be said that all cancers are fed by carbs. By severely limiting carbs, the dog’s system will learn to function with ketones — even the brain.” Wondering what to feed a dog with cancer then? Let’s take a look.

Can food really fight cancer in dogs?

Can you really combat canine cancer through food? Photography ©miki-tiger | Getty Images.

Before we look at what to feed a dog with cancer — does what a dog with cancer eats really affect the disease? We are what we eat. And that also applies to our dogs. But are there verifiable cancer-combating foods for dogs? For now, the answer has to be maybe.

“There are no proven general strategies to nutritionally improve outcomes in dogs with cancer,” says Sean Delaney, DVM, DACVN, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist who operates the site Balance It, which offers food-grade products, menus and food-cooking videos. “However, supporting known nutritional needs should be beneficial. Not consuming enough calories to maintain an ideal body condition would be a concern in a dog with cancer. With that said, the most effective and proven treatment for dogs with cancer is drug therapy and not nutritional or dietary therapy.”

Still, making healthy choices about what foods and what supplements to give your dog dealing with cancer can’t hurt. It can only help.

“With cancer, the biggest issue is loss of muscle mass,” says Ernie Ward, DVM, America’s Pet Advocate and founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. “You are trying to feed to save or preserve muscle mass. “Lymphoma loves carbohydrates, so you should work with your veterinarian to try to reduce the carbohydrates in your dog’s diet and boost his diet with more fats and proteins.”

So, what to feed a dog with cancer? Let’s take a look.

Photos ©Getty Images.

“I’m a fan of feeding human foods that are enjoyed and not toxic to the dog with cancer,” Dr. Delaney says. “One can look for food that has an organic seal per the USDA National Organic Program. One might select a lean piece of meat or poultry to increase dietary protein or arginine intake.” Dr. Hofve singles out these healthy choices: dark meat chicken; salmon; eggs; green, leafy vegetables like spinach, as well as broccoli, cucumber and cauliflower. She adds that the vegetables should be cooked to be easily digested, and the proteins should be fresh and non-farmed.

What not to feed a dog with cancer

Foods to avoid include carbohydrate-loaded ones, such as high-carb kibbles (there are low-carb kibbles on the market), as well as any people treats high in carbs, such as potato chips, french fries, bread and corn chips. Corn, peas and bananas should be skipped. Also avoid giving your dog any processed proteins, such as hot dogs, ham or pig’s ears.

What supplements are best for dogs with cancer?

When asking what to feed a dog with cancer, you might want to consider giving your dog some supplements, too. Dogster asked our experts to recommend supplements or vitamins to give to dogs dealing with cancer.

Topping their lists:

Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA): Possessing anti-inflammatory properties, omega- 3s are vital to the health of cell membranes.

Dr. Hofve recommends fish oil products from non-farmed fisheries, cod liver oil and green-lipped mussels. Adds Dr. Delaney: “Consider marine fish oil, but the dose must be carefully customized to the dietary intake of n-6 fatty acids in the diet.”

Adaptogens: Astragalus and Rehmannia offer many beneficial pluses for the whole body and help to reduce stress. Adds Dr. Hofve: “They can broadly improve immune function and for dogs on chemotherapy, they may increase white blood cell counts.”

Medicinal mushrooms: They are touted to have anti-cancer effects by enhancing the immune system. Reishi mushrooms are potent and popular choices. Adds Dr. Ward: “I recommend mushroom extracts. There are no real studies to support, but in most of my canine cancer patients, it is a known immune stimulant to improve the body to fight off or slow down cancers.”

Balance It Carnivore Blend: This supplement adds essential minerals and vitamins.

Sample recipe for a dog cancer diet

Dr. Jean Hofve knows firsthand the jarring impact of discovering your dog has cancer.

When her Australian Shepherd mix, Willy, was 12 years old, he developed a malignant hemangiopericytoma on his elbow that was surgically removed. It was a very aggressive tumor, but Dr. Hofve fed Willy a homemade diet and gave him a homeopathy treatment called Ojibwa Tea (Essiac), and Willy lived cancer-free for another two years. “Willy was special — that’s for sure,” she says. “Even my dog-averse mother adored him.” Dr. Hofve shares this basic recipe for your dog dealing with cancer. Before feeding, discuss with your veterinarian how to customize this recipe for your dog’s specific needs.

75 percent cooked fatty meat, such as dark poultry, non-farmed salmon or ground lamb (eggs can also be used as a protein source)

25 percent non-starchy vegetables that are cooked or pureed to make them easy for your dog to enjoy and thoroughly digest. Top picks: broccoli, cauliflower, cucumbers, mushrooms and green leafy vegetables.

Add extra fat in the form of olive oil, flaxseed oil, hempseed oil or avocado oil

Provide a vitamin-mineral supplement approved for dogs

Add a calcium supplement and antioxidant blend supplement

To learn more about what to feed a dog with cancer:

Find out more info on canine nutrition and cancers at these websites. And always work in conjunction with your veterinarian.

BalanceIt.com – balanceit.com

Little Big Cat – littlebigcat.com

Dr. Ernie Ward – America’s Pet Advocate – drernieward.com

Dr. Harvey’s Paradigm – drharveys.com

Keto Pet Sanctuary – ketopetsanctuary.com 

Canine Cancer – caninecancer.com

What else can you do if your dog is diagnosed with cancer?

If your dog is diagnosed with a form of cancer, it is definitely time to boost your relationship with your veterinarian, who can recommend veterinarians board-certified in holistic medicine, nutrition and oncology. And carefully critique all food and treat labels.

“Dogs with cancer already have a compromised immune system — even more so if they are on chemotherapy, so I don’t recommend raw meat for them,” Dr. Hofve adds. “Supplements and oils should be generally added after cooking due to heat’s ability to harm them.”

Thumbnail: Photography ©elenaleonova | Getty Images.

About the author

Arden Moore, the Pet Health and Safety Coach, is a pet behavior consultant, master certified pet first-aid instructor, author and host of the Oh, Behave Show on Pet Life Radio. Learn more at ardenmoore.com.

Editor’s note: This article appeared in Dogster magazine. Have you seen the new Dogster print magazine in stores? Or in the waiting room of your vet’s office? Subscribe now to get Dogster magazine delivered straight to you! 

Read more about canine cancer on Dogster.com:

8 Things to Remember When Fighting Cancer in Dogs

Are All Dog Tumors Cancerous? Here’s What to Know

8 Alternative Dog Cancer Treatments

The post What to Feed a Dog With Cancer by Arden Moore appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

[grublypetcare]

What to Feed a Dog With Cancer

The post What to Feed a Dog With Cancer by Arden Moore appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Many people are becoming carb conscious in an effort to lose weight and feel healthier. But before you toss that pizza crust or a few french fries to your begging dog, reconsider. People and dogs aren’t the only ones who crave carbohydrates. It turns out so do cancer cells. “Cancer loves carbs and thrives on them,” says Jean Hofve, DVM, holistic veterinarian, best-selling author and founder of the Little Big Cat website. “While early research was only on lymphoma, it can now be said that all cancers are fed by carbs. By severely limiting carbs, the dog’s system will learn to function with ketones — even the brain.” Wondering what to feed a dog with cancer then? Let’s take a look.

Can food really fight cancer in dogs?

Can you really combat canine cancer through food? Photography ©miki-tiger | Getty Images.

Before we look at what to feed a dog with cancer — does what a dog with cancer eats really affect the disease? We are what we eat. And that also applies to our dogs. But are there verifiable cancer-combating foods for dogs? For now, the answer has to be maybe.

“There are no proven general strategies to nutritionally improve outcomes in dogs with cancer,” says Sean Delaney, DVM, DACVN, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist who operates the site Balance It, which offers food-grade products, menus and food-cooking videos. “However, supporting known nutritional needs should be beneficial. Not consuming enough calories to maintain an ideal body condition would be a concern in a dog with cancer. With that said, the most effective and proven treatment for dogs with cancer is drug therapy and not nutritional or dietary therapy.”

Still, making healthy choices about what foods and what supplements to give your dog dealing with cancer can’t hurt. It can only help.

“With cancer, the biggest issue is loss of muscle mass,” says Ernie Ward, DVM, America’s Pet Advocate and founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. “You are trying to feed to save or preserve muscle mass. “Lymphoma loves carbohydrates, so you should work with your veterinarian to try to reduce the carbohydrates in your dog’s diet and boost his diet with more fats and proteins.”

So, what to feed a dog with cancer? Let’s take a look.

Photos ©Getty Images.

“I’m a fan of feeding human foods that are enjoyed and not toxic to the dog with cancer,” Dr. Delaney says. “One can look for food that has an organic seal per the USDA National Organic Program. One might select a lean piece of meat or poultry to increase dietary protein or arginine intake.” Dr. Hofve singles out these healthy choices: dark meat chicken; salmon; eggs; green, leafy vegetables like spinach, as well as broccoli, cucumber and cauliflower. She adds that the vegetables should be cooked to be easily digested, and the proteins should be fresh and non-farmed.

What not to feed a dog with cancer

Foods to avoid include carbohydrate-loaded ones, such as high-carb kibbles (there are low-carb kibbles on the market), as well as any people treats high in carbs, such as potato chips, french fries, bread and corn chips. Corn, peas and bananas should be skipped. Also avoid giving your dog any processed proteins, such as hot dogs, ham or pig’s ears.

What supplements are best for dogs with cancer?

When asking what to feed a dog with cancer, you might want to consider giving your dog some supplements, too. Dogster asked our experts to recommend supplements or vitamins to give to dogs dealing with cancer.

Topping their lists:

Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA): Possessing anti-inflammatory properties, omega- 3s are vital to the health of cell membranes.

Dr. Hofve recommends fish oil products from non-farmed fisheries, cod liver oil and green-lipped mussels. Adds Dr. Delaney: “Consider marine fish oil, but the dose must be carefully customized to the dietary intake of n-6 fatty acids in the diet.”

Adaptogens: Astragalus and Rehmannia offer many beneficial pluses for the whole body and help to reduce stress. Adds Dr. Hofve: “They can broadly improve immune function and for dogs on chemotherapy, they may increase white blood cell counts.”

Medicinal mushrooms: They are touted to have anti-cancer effects by enhancing the immune system. Reishi mushrooms are potent and popular choices. Adds Dr. Ward: “I recommend mushroom extracts. There are no real studies to support, but in most of my canine cancer patients, it is a known immune stimulant to improve the body to fight off or slow down cancers.”

Balance It Carnivore Blend: This supplement adds essential minerals and vitamins.

Sample recipe for a dog cancer diet

Dr. Jean Hofve knows firsthand the jarring impact of discovering your dog has cancer.

When her Australian Shepherd mix, Willy, was 12 years old, he developed a malignant hemangiopericytoma on his elbow that was surgically removed. It was a very aggressive tumor, but Dr. Hofve fed Willy a homemade diet and gave him a homeopathy treatment called Ojibwa Tea (Essiac), and Willy lived cancer-free for another two years. “Willy was special — that’s for sure,” she says. “Even my dog-averse mother adored him.” Dr. Hofve shares this basic recipe for your dog dealing with cancer. Before feeding, discuss with your veterinarian how to customize this recipe for your dog’s specific needs.

75 percent cooked fatty meat, such as dark poultry, non-farmed salmon or ground lamb (eggs can also be used as a protein source)

25 percent non-starchy vegetables that are cooked or pureed to make them easy for your dog to enjoy and thoroughly digest. Top picks: broccoli, cauliflower, cucumbers, mushrooms and green leafy vegetables.

Add extra fat in the form of olive oil, flaxseed oil, hempseed oil or avocado oil

Provide a vitamin-mineral supplement approved for dogs

Add a calcium supplement and antioxidant blend supplement

To learn more about what to feed a dog with cancer:

Find out more info on canine nutrition and cancers at these websites. And always work in conjunction with your veterinarian.

BalanceIt.com – balanceit.com

Little Big Cat – littlebigcat.com

Dr. Ernie Ward – America’s Pet Advocate – drernieward.com

Dr. Harvey’s Paradigm – drharveys.com

Keto Pet Sanctuary – ketopetsanctuary.com 

Canine Cancer – caninecancer.com

What else can you do if your dog is diagnosed with cancer?

If your dog is diagnosed with a form of cancer, it is definitely time to boost your relationship with your veterinarian, who can recommend veterinarians board-certified in holistic medicine, nutrition and oncology. And carefully critique all food and treat labels.

“Dogs with cancer already have a compromised immune system — even more so if they are on chemotherapy, so I don’t recommend raw meat for them,” Dr. Hofve adds. “Supplements and oils should be generally added after cooking due to heat’s ability to harm them.”

Thumbnail: Photography ©elenaleonova | Getty Images.

About the author

Arden Moore, the Pet Health and Safety Coach, is a pet behavior consultant, master certified pet first-aid instructor, author and host of the Oh, Behave Show on Pet Life Radio. Learn more at ardenmoore.com.

Editor’s note: This article appeared in Dogster magazine. Have you seen the new Dogster print magazine in stores? Or in the waiting room of your vet’s office? Subscribe now to get Dogster magazine delivered straight to you! 

Read more about canine cancer on Dogster.com:

8 Things to Remember When Fighting Cancer in Dogs

Are All Dog Tumors Cancerous? Here’s What to Know

8 Alternative Dog Cancer Treatments

The post What to Feed a Dog With Cancer by Arden Moore appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

[demitgibbs]

National Responsible Pet Owner’s Month

February is National Responsible Pet Owner’s Month and whether you are getting a puppy from a respectable breeder or a rescue from the local shelter, there are some basic elements to being a responsible fur parent. Your life will be easier as will that of your new pet.

 Consider the breed carefully 

Are you an active family? Do you like to be outdoors a lot, hiking or running? Or do you prefer to ride the sofa? Do you have a fenced in yard or are you an apartment dweller? Do you mind dog hair everywhere or is there someone in your home with mild allergies? There are a lot of considerations when choosing a breed of dog that would be suitable for your family. 

For example, a large dog might not be suitable for a small apartment but would be fine if you have a large fenced in yard it could play in. A very small dog—like a chihuahua, for example—might not be suitable for families with very young children. And if you want to go running with your dog, you’ll need a breed that can keep up with you and needs that level of exercise—an Australian shepherd dog, for example. 

It’s very important to look at your life, your family, and your work: how much time you can be home and how much time you have to spend with the dog is important. Dogs are a 10-20 year commitment, depending on the breed: you want to get it right! 

Check your home for hazards 

Particularly if you are bringing home a puppy, you need to look at your home from their point of view. As a parent of a toddler would do, see your living space, and the area they will be allowed to walk around in, from their level. Get down on all fours and really take a look around! Suddenly, you’ll notice that there are wires that are easily accessible (read: chewable), that certain heavy knick knacks could be knocked down and broken. 

Ideally, a puppy would have a safe space that is blocked off from less friendly areas of the house. In the early days, a puppy pen, set up on flooring that is EASILY washed (puppies have accidents!) makes a lot of sense. When they’ve got more control over their bladders, you can give them more range, but as you do, re-visit the space with them in mind, to make sure it’s safe. 

At that point, gates are an ideal way to stop them from going up or down stairs, which can be hazardous to puppies. They could easily take a tumble and a lot of stairs can be hard on their still developing hips and knees, leading to problems down the road. The double benefit is that you can keep parts of the house, say the upstairs that is wall to wall broadloom for example, puppy pee free for longer! 

Spay / neuter your pet 

Most breeders require that you agree to this prior to purchasing a pet and many shelters will too. It makes sense to spay or neuter your pet and it’s the responsible thing to do. Particularly with females, dealing with the heat cycles can be very difficult and ultimately, you don’t want an ‘oops’ situation!

Microchip them for peace of mind 

Collars can fall off and fences can be broken, so microchipping your dog ensures that if they ever got lost, anyone who brings them to a shelter or vet will be able to check the chip and reunite you with your pup.

TIP: Don’t forget to add changing the address associated with the chip, if you move! Otherwise, if they are lost—and during a move is one of the most common ways dogs get separated from their families—you can still be located. 

Crate training for a happy dog 

While some people view crates as tiny dog prisons, that’s not how most dogs see it, if properly crate trained. Indeed, a crate is a safe place that they can retreat to for sleep and relaxation, when life around the house gets to be a bit too much. There is also the reality that most puppies won’t defecate where they sleep, so you can get ‘potty training’ well in hand, quickly and easily. 

Crate training ensures that if you have to be out of the house for a while every day, your puppy or dog is safe and comfortable. Just make sure it’s large enough to allow them to move around and sleep comfortably. It also makes travelling with your dog possible as they can be placed in the crate when you need to leave your pet-friendly resort without them for a little while. 

Feeding the right foods 

Yes, those puppy eyes watching you eat every bite of your dinner are hard to resist, but it’s important to do just that! Table scraps and other foods not intended for dogs are bad for their overall health, including their dental health.

A diet of kibble and appropriate treats that are high in protein and natural ingredients may be a little more expensive than the store brand dog food, but it’s worth it. Your dog will be happier, healthier and live a long life on the right diet. Ask your breeder or veterinarian for their opinions on this one! 

Socialization is key 

If you don’t want your dog to be timid or afraid, it’s important to socialize them. Once they’ve had all their necessary vaccines, puppy school (or training school for a rehomed dog) are great ways to socialize them with other dogs, in a controlled setting.

It’s not just other dogs that your pup needs to meet! They should get used to different people, sounds and smells, depending on where you live and your lifestyle. And if you want to make travelling a dream, get them used to riding in the car. Make sure you use a crate or some sort of harness restraint to ensure that, in the event of an accident, they’re safe too. 

Pet insurance could save their life 

Diagnosing an illness or repairing an injury can be very expensive, so the solution, particularly with puppies, is pet insurance. Its health insurance for your pet and, depending on the policy, can provide excellent coverage for those unexpected expenses. A dog can tear a foot pad, eat something it shouldn’t have, or encounter any number of other health related issues, so having the insurance will give you the peace of mind you need to ensure that you can take care of them, no matter what happens!

Having a dog is one of the most rewarding experiences that anyone can have.  It can also be difficult if you are not prepared and don’t ‘parent’ your dog responsibly.  They want to be good boys and girls for you, so help them get there and keep them safe.  

Donna Potter is the founder of Fusion Gates. Fusion Gates are modern pet and baby safety gates engineered for safety but designed as a work of art. Their designer gates feature a patented interchangeable art screen system and an ongoing collection of beautiful screens ranging from trendy to traditional. These beautiful designs allow for seamless integration and harmony into your home’s décor. With Fusion Gates, you can say goodbye to the unattractive pet gates of the past! Fusion Gates are your portal to harmonious living. fusiongates.com.

from Hotspots! Magazine https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2019/02/20/national-responsible-pet-owners-month/ from Hot Spots Magazine https://hotspotsmagazine.tumblr.com/post/182960263035

[cynthiajayusa]

National Responsible Pet Owner’s Month

February is National Responsible Pet Owner’s Month and whether you are getting a puppy from a respectable breeder or a rescue from the local shelter, there are some basic elements to being a responsible fur parent. Your life will be easier as will that of your new pet.

 Consider the breed carefully 

Are you an active family? Do you like to be outdoors a lot, hiking or running? Or do you prefer to ride the sofa? Do you have a fenced in yard or are you an apartment dweller? Do you mind dog hair everywhere or is there someone in your home with mild allergies? There are a lot of considerations when choosing a breed of dog that would be suitable for your family. 

For example, a large dog might not be suitable for a small apartment but would be fine if you have a large fenced in yard it could play in. A very small dog—like a chihuahua, for example—might not be suitable for families with very young children. And if you want to go running with your dog, you’ll need a breed that can keep up with you and needs that level of exercise—an Australian shepherd dog, for example. 

It’s very important to look at your life, your family, and your work: how much time you can be home and how much time you have to spend with the dog is important. Dogs are a 10-20 year commitment, depending on the breed: you want to get it right! 

Check your home for hazards 

Particularly if you are bringing home a puppy, you need to look at your home from their point of view. As a parent of a toddler would do, see your living space, and the area they will be allowed to walk around in, from their level. Get down on all fours and really take a look around! Suddenly, you’ll notice that there are wires that are easily accessible (read: chewable), that certain heavy knick knacks could be knocked down and broken. 

Ideally, a puppy would have a safe space that is blocked off from less friendly areas of the house. In the early days, a puppy pen, set up on flooring that is EASILY washed (puppies have accidents!) makes a lot of sense. When they’ve got more control over their bladders, you can give them more range, but as you do, re-visit the space with them in mind, to make sure it’s safe. 

At that point, gates are an ideal way to stop them from going up or down stairs, which can be hazardous to puppies. They could easily take a tumble and a lot of stairs can be hard on their still developing hips and knees, leading to problems down the road. The double benefit is that you can keep parts of the house, say the upstairs that is wall to wall broadloom for example, puppy pee free for longer! 

Spay / neuter your pet 

Most breeders require that you agree to this prior to purchasing a pet and many shelters will too. It makes sense to spay or neuter your pet and it’s the responsible thing to do. Particularly with females, dealing with the heat cycles can be very difficult and ultimately, you don’t want an ‘oops’ situation!

Microchip them for peace of mind 

Collars can fall off and fences can be broken, so microchipping your dog ensures that if they ever got lost, anyone who brings them to a shelter or vet will be able to check the chip and reunite you with your pup.

TIP: Don’t forget to add changing the address associated with the chip, if you move! Otherwise, if they are lost—and during a move is one of the most common ways dogs get separated from their families—you can still be located. 

Crate training for a happy dog 

While some people view crates as tiny dog prisons, that’s not how most dogs see it, if properly crate trained. Indeed, a crate is a safe place that they can retreat to for sleep and relaxation, when life around the house gets to be a bit too much. There is also the reality that most puppies won’t defecate where they sleep, so you can get ‘potty training’ well in hand, quickly and easily. 

Crate training ensures that if you have to be out of the house for a while every day, your puppy or dog is safe and comfortable. Just make sure it’s large enough to allow them to move around and sleep comfortably. It also makes travelling with your dog possible as they can be placed in the crate when you need to leave your pet-friendly resort without them for a little while. 

Feeding the right foods 

Yes, those puppy eyes watching you eat every bite of your dinner are hard to resist, but it’s important to do just that! Table scraps and other foods not intended for dogs are bad for their overall health, including their dental health.

A diet of kibble and appropriate treats that are high in protein and natural ingredients may be a little more expensive than the store brand dog food, but it’s worth it. Your dog will be happier, healthier and live a long life on the right diet. Ask your breeder or veterinarian for their opinions on this one! 

Socialization is key 

If you don’t want your dog to be timid or afraid, it’s important to socialize them. Once they’ve had all their necessary vaccines, puppy school (or training school for a rehomed dog) are great ways to socialize them with other dogs, in a controlled setting.

It’s not just other dogs that your pup needs to meet! They should get used to different people, sounds and smells, depending on where you live and your lifestyle. And if you want to make travelling a dream, get them used to riding in the car. Make sure you use a crate or some sort of harness restraint to ensure that, in the event of an accident, they’re safe too. 

Pet insurance could save their life 

Diagnosing an illness or repairing an injury can be very expensive, so the solution, particularly with puppies, is pet insurance. Its health insurance for your pet and, depending on the policy, can provide excellent coverage for those unexpected expenses. A dog can tear a foot pad, eat something it shouldn’t have, or encounter any number of other health related issues, so having the insurance will give you the peace of mind you need to ensure that you can take care of them, no matter what happens!

Having a dog is one of the most rewarding experiences that anyone can have.  It can also be difficult if you are not prepared and don’t ‘parent’ your dog responsibly.  They want to be good boys and girls for you, so help them get there and keep them safe.  

Donna Potter is the founder of Fusion Gates. Fusion Gates are modern pet and baby safety gates engineered for safety but designed as a work of art. Their designer gates feature a patented interchangeable art screen system and an ongoing collection of beautiful screens ranging from trendy to traditional. These beautiful designs allow for seamless integration and harmony into your home’s décor. With Fusion Gates, you can say goodbye to the unattractive pet gates of the past! Fusion Gates are your portal to harmonious living. fusiongates.com.

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2019/02/20/national-responsible-pet-owners-month/ from Hot Spots Magazine https://hotspotsmagazin.blogspot.com/2019/02/national-responsible-pet-owners-month.html