Apple Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits-Vegan Recipe

1 cup apple pulp or shredded apple (We juiced 3 apples)
1/2 cup peanut butter * Only use Organic Peanut ONLY Peanut Butter- NO Sugar or other oils added. Best to buy this at a Health Food Store.
3/4 cup brown rice flour (plus a little additional for kneading, rolling)
1 Flax or Chia egg

Core and juice 3 apples, reserving pulp. Combine apple pulp and peanut butter, then add egg and flour.

Knead into a ball and Roll flat with rolling pin or jar to about 1/2 inch thickness.

Cut with a Cookie Cutter or a Knife and place on uncreased cookie sheet

Bake at 350 for 20 minutes.

Cool completely then Store in an airtight container.

Either of these mixtures will have the Consistency of an Egg

To make a Flax Egg:

Combine One(1) Tablespoon of organic ground flaxseed meal

and Three(3) Tablespoons of Filtered Water and allow to sit for about 5 minutes.

To Make a Chia Egg:

Combine One (1) Tablespoon of Chia Seeds(Whole) with

Two and a Half (2.5) Tablespoons of Filtered Water

Whisk in bowl and allow to sit minimum of Five(5) minutes.

We used Granny Smith Apples, but you can use other varieties like Gala, Fuji, Honeycrisp.

All Ingredients are Organic

• NEVER use any Core or Apple Seeds. Ever. These can seriously harm dogs.

• Yes, use the skins; this is where many nutrients like Quercitin are. Quercitin of course is beneficial for both bone and heart health as well as protection against bad cholesterol.

DO DOGS HAVE A SORT OF ‘SIXTH’ SENSE?

While there is no scientific evidence to suggest that dogs possess a psychic sixth sense, we believe that dogs do have remarkable sensory abilities and can detect things that humans may not be able to. They can detect certain scents or sounds and these abilities can be explained by their ‘highly acute senses’ although some ‘dog people’ might dispute that they indeed possess a sort of supernatural or psychic ability. * remember that anything defined as ‘not natural’ could be interpreted as being or having ‘SUPERnatural’ qualities or abilities.

It is possible that dogs are able to sense things that humans cannot due to their exceptional sense of smell and hearing, as well as their ability to pick up on subtle energy changes in body language and behavior. For example, dogs are often able to detect changes in their owner's mood or emotional state, which may be due to their ability to read facial expressions and body language. Everything is ‘energy’ and dogs are highly capable of being able to sense or ‘pick up on’ even the most ‘subtle’ changes in energy; especially in energies connected with/to themselves and their people and their immediate environment.

Take their sense of smell, for example. Dogs have up to 300 million olfactory receptors in their noses, while humans only have around 6 million. This means that dogs can detect scents that are far beyond our range of detection, making them excellent at detecting things like drugs, explosives, and even certain medical conditions.

In addition to their sense of smell, dogs also have an incredible sense of hearing. They can detect sounds at much higher frequencies than we can, and can even pick up on sounds that are too faint for us to hear. This is why dogs are often used in search and rescue operations, as they can hear people calling for help from miles away. In fact, did you know that dogs hear 100 to 1000 times as loud as we humans do and as mentioned at MUCH higher ‘frequencies’ than we can? * this is often why they are crying or whining from things we take for granted like the sound of the blender, vacuum cleaner, hair dryer. It makes sense why they run away from super loud, sudden sounds like fireworks, a car backfiring, a nail gun or jackhammer on a construction site, or obviously from the sound of gunfire. Sometimes its not that they are ‘afraid’ of these sounds, but that they are ear-piercingly loud; therefore it is a ‘natural’ instinct of dogs to cry out and to try to ‘get way’ from that sound as quickly as possible. These ‘loud’ sudden noises are often the cause of why many dogs run away. In fact, the Fourth of July weekend is the time in the USA when the greatest number of both dogs and cats run away. They are trying to escape the sounds of all of those sudden, unfamiliar and ear-piercingly loud noises and they do not understand why their humans are partaking in such obviously offensive activities or why they are often being left alone.

To recap, dogs are incredibly perceptive when it comes to reading human behavior and body language. They can pick up on subtle cues like changes in tone of voice or body posture, and can often sense when their owners are feeling sad, anxious, or stressed.

So, while our dogs may seem to have a sixth sense at times, it's really their divinely amazing natural abilities that make them so special. So go ahead and give your pup a hug, a pet on the head, and a treat for being such a talented little sensory powerhouse!

HOW TO CHOOSE A COLLAR OR A HARNESS FOR MY DOG AND HOW DO I KNOW WHICH ONE IS BEST?

Choosing the right collar or harness for your dog is important for their safety and comfort.

Here are some things to consider when making your decision:

1. Purpose:

   What is the purpose of the collar or harness? Is it for everyday use, training, or walking? Is your dog a puppy that is still growing and whose body shape as well as size will change over time? Each collar and harness is designed for different purposes and different ages and stages of your dog’s life.

2. Breed, Behavior, Size, Fit:

   It's important to choose a collar or harness that fits your dog and the size they’re at the particular point in time that you are buying the collar/harness, and choose it properly. Measure your dog's neck for a collar or chest for a harness to ensure a proper fit. A collar or harness that is too tight can cause discomfort, while one that is too loose may slip off and your dog could escape or get caught up on something. * Most all collar/harness manufacturers will include the correct way to measure your dog in order to buy the correct fit/size of their individual products, so best to follow their guidelines.

   Breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs may have trouble breathing in a collar, so you may want to choose a harness for them.

   Breeds from the Spitz group like Huskies, Malamutes, American Eskimo Dogs and Samoyeds were literally ‘bred to pull’ as in ‘pull a sled’ , so you may want to not only consider a Harness rather than a collar for them, but consider looking for the ‘type’ of harness that has a ‘Martingale’ type attachment for their leash to attach to in front on their chest,https://a.co/d/66KOG2e

   rather than a harness where you can only hook the leash to a place on the harness at the back of their shoulders. *Dog breeds that are bred to pull will ‘instinctually’ do so when Hooking a leash to a harness that has a hook on the back of the shoulders. That’s not going to be a nice, easy walk for either of you. We would suggest a Harness with a ‘martingale’ front like the ‘Easy Walk Harness’ from a brand by the name of Pet Safe, or something like the The ‘Front Range Harness’ from Ruffwear https://a.co/d/1dySoUP , which is a padded everyday dog harness that is easy to put on like a vest and comfortable for dogs to wear. Ruffwear says it is ’ A key piece of gear for canines embarking on a life of adventure with their humans.’ All of our former pups wore the Easy Walk harness and the little pup we have now wears the Ruffwear brand ‘Front Range’ harness. *This harness features two leash attachment options: an aluminum V-ring centered on the dog's back for everyday walks, and a reinforced front clip webbing at the dog's chest to ‘redirect’ dogs that pull on leash, like some of the breeds we mentioned above. This Ruffwear harness even has an ID pocket which keeps dog tags quiet and easily accessible, and the reflective trim and light loop for The Beacon™ boost visibility in low-light conditions. *Harnesses are generally recommended over collars these days as so much research has been done to confirm that attaching a leash to a collar; which is obviously worn around the neck, and then jerking the leash - either you or the puppy/dog pulling on the leash can oftentimes cause neck and spine issues. Harnesses do not cause these types of neck and spine issues as they distribute pressure more evenly. So unless you are prepared to set up regular visits to a canine chiropractor for neck and back/spine adjustments, we’d recommend starting off with the appropriate type of harness rather than a collar.

3. Material: Collars and harnesses are made from different materials such as leather, nylon, and neoprene. Consider your dog's age, activity level and behavior when choosing the material.

4. Comfort: Choose a collar or harness that is comfortable for your dog. Look for features like padding or a wider band for added comfort. https://a.co/d/49BhQVs

5. Safety: Your dog's safety should always be a top priority. Consider features like reflective materials or a quick-release buckle in case of emergency and dual clasps like one at the front of the chest and one on the top of your dog’s shoulders for choices to attach their leash to.

   Ultimately, the choice between a collar and a harness will depend on your dog's breed, size, behavior, and specific needs. Consult with your veterinarian or a professional dog trainer for further guidance.

   Ultimately, choosing between a collar and a harness for your dog depends on a variety of factors including breed, size, behavior, purpose, and training. *Consider all of these factors before making a decision, and consult with your veterinarian or a professional dog trainer if you need additional guidance. In our experience we have also found that there are many knowledgeable people working at the more reputable pet supply shops who are often willing to help you choose the correct collar or harness for your pup and some will even help you get them properly fitted. * Just be considerate and go at a time when they are not super busy. That way they will be able to devote more quality time and attention to you and your pup when choosing such an important items as a harness and you will all be alot more stress free.

Purchasing the Correct Supplies to Welcome Your New Puppy Home

Now that you have done your breed research, talked with reputable dog breeders, visited or volunteered at shelters, like we shared with you in our first article; Choosing The Right Puppy For You And Your Lifestyle, and you’ve decided on the breed for you, it’s time to purchase the correct supplies to welcome your new puppy home.

HERE ARE THE BASICS YOU WILL NEED:

1. Food and water bowl- Stainless Steel made in the USA and size appropriate OR Glass. https://a.co/d/9TjU23A https://a.co/d/cu6ptCI https://a.co/d/5WU7sRt

2. No-Pull Harness like the ‘Easy-Walk’ Harness by Pet Safe https://a.co/d/fRR8U2F

Open Range Harness by ‘Ruffwear’ https://a.co/d/ic0Uxqi

and/or 3. a ‘Quick release’ Collar like https://a.co/d/0yp8Eb4

3. 6 Foot web nylon or cotton Training Leash https://a.co/d/1TY74uK or https://a.co/d/20ddjW9 * do NOT get a Retractable or Leather leash for a puppy or untrained puppy/dog. The retractable leashes are very dangerous; especially in the hands of an inexperienced dog handler, and the leather leashes are wonderful; but not for puppies because typically, puppies like to chew. Alot. So save the leather leash for when they are a bit older and finished with teething. You’ll thank us then. * Also keep in mind that a 6 Foot leash or under is the ‘typical’ leash required by many city, county, and state parks and on many trails in National Parks.

4. Crate for Crate Training- Either a Plastic more ‘den-like’ crate like a PetMate Vari-Kennel https://a.co/d/9jQcLlH which we highly recommend, or a

Wire Crate with Removable Tray https://a.co/d/5ygzi7K .

Don’t try one of those Collapsible Travel crates https://a.co/d/fxzVuOi UNTIL your puppy is FULLY over teething and potty training. Trust us. Those are great for later on in life when your dog is less likely to destroy it. These types of crates are great for short travel, hotel stays, dog related events such as agility competitions where the dog must stay in a cool shaded space until it’s their turn to participate in the event. Things of this nature.

5. Grooming Supplies including a Brush https://a.co/d/gkwej7D https://a.co/d/iNM7ROf

Comb https://a.co/d/a22rhRK

Flea comb https://a.co/d/cMXx0z6 * This comb is the one we have for our little American Eskimo Dog.

Nail Clippers https://a.co/d/hJs4bwW https://a.co/d/e5rCJMq

and/or a

Dremmel Nail file https://a.co/d/hsbg5P7 and you may need or wish to use a

Muzzle for helping to destress the dog and you or your dog groomer- https://a.co/d/89CuD1y

6. Toothbrush like a Finger brush https://a.co/d/dihbMHo or you can use Gauze https://a.co/d/03C7PQ3 or pressed cotton pads with the Dental Rinse https://a.co/d/dBPAWwa on it. * Dentahex or Gel-Me are two dental rinses we would recommend.

7. Bath towel like the Soggy Doggy https://a.co/d/03C7PQ3 and Bath Brush- We recommend the “Soggy Doggy” Super absorbent Microfiber chenille bath towel and the ConairPRO dog & cat Shampoo Massage Brush https://a.co/d/8nXIDH2 to start off with. *These tools are all inexpensive and easy to use investments for your grooming supply arsenal.

8. Toys-* age and size appropriate. * Remember that puppies will be ‘teething’ for several months, and that just like their human baby/toddler counterparts, this is a very frustrating and painful time for them and therefore, they will need a variety of different textures and types of safe, non-ingestible toys for them to get thru this phase in the most comfortable ways as possible. Trust us, you will NOT want to skimp on this. https://a.co/d/7NkAZLs https://a.co/d/4uBAscl https://a.co/d/5H5ZLbw https://a.co/d/8nBF7Wa https://a.co/d/drvN2fn * this JW Pets Toy is great for stuffing with favorite Treats such as https://a.co/d/bNIXKNN we use these for our Miniature American Eskimo Doggie along with these etta says Yumm! our pup is hooked on these Chicken sticks https://a.co/d/8BGdH97 they are like Jerky for humans and are human-grade food as well. We LOVE them for easy to bring along on car travel or air travel trips. You can also cut them into smaller bites and stuff them into a toy for a challenging puzzle for your pup. Keeps them busy in mind and body for at least a few minutes til they retrieve the treats.

* Remember to read the labels and NEVER buy Toys made in China. Never. No matter how inexpensive the price is. It’s not worth it for your baby to accidentally ingest lead, or other types of toxic materials. Of course you will want to supervise your puppy family member just as you would a human baby/toddler to make sure they do not swallow and or ingest parts of a toy. You don’t want anything bad to happen to them or have any unnecessary visits to the veterinarian. Way too many stories of puppies/dogs and other pet animals eating inanimate objects; things like clothing, blankets, polyester fiberfill out of doggie beds, pieces of toys and having to have intestinal surgery, and so on.

9. Premium Quality Puppy Food https://a.co/d/6Z4W11v https://a.co/d/6XyMFsk https://a.co/d/aXwSXOq

and/or Homemade Food, if you are highly experienced with Canine Nutritional needs, or want to learn how- [CONTACT US FOR A CONSULTATION]

10. Premium ‘High Value’ Training Treats - Once you determine what their primary sources of protein will be, this will make it easier for you to choose a High Value treat. We recommend The ‘Real Meat’ brand Dog and Cat food in either Chicken or Turkey, https://a.co/d/cRBrTmA as they are high in all essential nutrients and easily digestible and ‘Charlee Bear’ Grain-Free chicken crunchy treats https://a.co/d/ezBy4lo or Bixby Pet ‘Pocket Trainers’ https://a.co/d/g9A5qaX for everyday walks and training. *All of these treats are sourced and made in the USA.

11. A reputable Veterinarian for Regular Visits and Exams and An Emergency Veterinarian; just in case your regular vet is not open ‘after hours’. * Also, we HIGHLY recommend that when traveling with your pet you either research in advance emergency veterinarians in the area you will be staying OR find out who and where they are located as soon as you arrive at your destination, ‘just in case’. * We are not veterinarians and are not affiliates with these two links listed below. The first link if for more allopathic veterinary care and the second one is for more Holistic care. You will need to Copy/Paste them into your browser.

https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/yourvet/finding-veterinarian

https://ahvmf.org

Optional items to purchase may include:

A Travel Carrier/Crate for safe trips in the car, to the veterinarian’s office, airline travel , etc. * For small dogs under 20 pounds we recommend the “Sherpa” brand Airline Travel approved Carrier, https://a.co/d/2YpyUcN https://a.co/d/atlD7Yl https://a.co/d/fyLhBNO and for medium to larger dogs we recommend a PetMate Vari Kennel https://a.co/d/dbmXMlX in the appropriate size for your pup. *And No matter how many photos or videos of pets riding in the front seat you see online and in social media, don’t fall for this unsafe practice. * Think about it- if a front seat of a vehicle has an airbag that will deploy in event of an accident, and anyone under the weight of 150 pounds and under Five Feet tall cannot ‘safely’ sit in the front seat of a vehicle, do you believe that a tiny animal such as a dog or puppy will be safe and protected while riding there?…

a Baby/Puppy Gate https://a.co/d/6m8D3yA https://a.co/d/av2urOc to ‘Safely ‘Puppy-Proof’ Your Home’ and partition off sections of your home that you don’t want the puppy in initially. We would recommend a metal gate rather than one with wooden parts for obvious reasons like chewing/teething. * You can gradually introduce/allow your pup into rooms as they become potty trained and more trustworthy and are no longer teething.

We’ll have a separate article on “How to Safely Puppy-Proof your Home” coming soon.

A Potty pad tray and packages of appropriately sized Potty Pads https://a.co/d/2gsd5oP https://a.co/d/1xFH04j if you will be Potty Pad training your pup * for example if you live in an apartment or place you cannot always quickly take your pup out when the need arises, the weather is really bad outside, or if you travel frequently and want to ensure that your pup always knows where it’s ok to ‘go’ potty. * Dogs are creatures of habit & once they are trained on where to do their pottying business, they will always want to do it there and not disappoint you, so its always best to bring their ‘regular’ items such as the potty pad tray/pads, etc. along while travelling and save incurring unnecessary hotel/AirBnB charges for pet damages whenever possible and alleviate your pet’s anxiety. * We found that once our pup was house trained not to go potty in the house, and on ly on the potty pad/tray we ended up replacing the artificial grass with the potty pads. That way it was super easy clean up to fold up the used pad and put in the trash or diaper pail.

Identification Tags https://a.co/d/cYkYAaW

Air Tag https://a.co/d/d67it6K with Air Tag Holder for Dog Collar https://a.co/d/eJJu7SS https://a.co/d/6D4dffv

FiCollar: https://a.co/d/j0E9xjV

Microchip or Tattoo: You will want to consult your local veterinarian and or reputable pet supplies store for trustworthy references and contact information for these services.

Pet Insurance; Most Pet Insurance is for Accidents and Illness and we are working on partnerships with them as we speak, but there are some companies that do offer Preventative Health and Wellness packages as ‘add-ons’ and we will have another article on Choosing the Right Pet Insurance later on. * Usually, the Earlier you purchase Pet Insurance the better in terms of pricing, deductibles, and so on.

Choosing The Right Puppy FOR You And Your LIfestyle

Choosing the right puppy for you, your family and your lifestyles is crucial to the well being and longevity of your new pup.   There are steps you are going to want to take in order to choose the best puppy for you and your family.

Follow the articles in this series.

*Please do your 'breed' research by going online, talking to trainers, pet sitters, reputable registered dog breeders, go visit and volunteer at shelters, and spend quality time hands-on with the breed(s) or mixed breed(s) you think you are considering before bringing a new puppy home.  Realize that not every breed fits every person or family.  You must remember that each breed was bred for specific tasks and temperaments, not just ‘looks’.   That cute, fluffy, exotic, energetic or yippy little darling puppy may not be right for you at this point in your life.                                                                                             As of this writing in November, 2022, there are over 200 recognized breeds and many mixtures thereof,  so you will find one that is right for you, just be patient.               Please also consider 'fostering' through a reputable breed rescue or shelter program first, and thoroughly understand that the life of this sentient being depends on your choices.  Puppies are loving, devoted friends and not disposable merchandise you can just throw away and go buy another one when you decide you don't like it anymore, or when some social media site tells you their breed is not ‘on trend’.  Speaking of social media, do not go out and buy a puppy just because they say it is a popular breed. Over a period of several years we have witnessed firsthand many puppies and dogs of all breeds; both purebred and mixed breed alike and of all ages, sizes and personalities become the hopeless victim of some human's selfish and or unwise choices.  Consider and be honest with yourself if you even have, or will be willing to make the quality and quantity of time necessary for a puppy or a dog.  They are a lot more time consuming and expensive than many people think.  If you’re ready for a puppy and the puppy is ready for you, trust us, you will be united with one another as the universe has a way of doing this.  We are not trying to dissuade you from welcoming a puppy in to your home. We are encouraging you to please make caring and wise choices, and enlist the help of qualified professionals like us for any questions or issues you may have or perceive to have encountered during this, or any phase of your dog's life.  Dog people like us are here to help you be your best for your dog.  You can do it.  Just don't get frustrated and always stay positive because dogs are extremely perceptive and can actually sense our emotions.

PS-If you did just bring home a puppy; hopefully your breeder and or veterinarian told you, that just like human babies, puppies need to build up their immune levels and make sure they have had ALL of their necessary core vaccines up to the age of 16 weeks ‘before’ you go carting them around in public.  Especially do not take them to settings like dog parks or even public parks where there could possibly be sick humans or animals until that immunity is built up nice and strong.

*Our next article in Choosing The Right Puppy for You and Your Lifestyle Series will be about Purchasing the Correct Supplies to Welcome your New Puppy Home.

HIKING WITH YOUR DOG- EXPLORING THE BEAUTY AND GRANDEUR OF NATURE TOGETHER

*We don’t recommend wearing shoes like the pair in the above illustration. Wear sensible footwear.

There's something truly special about hitting the trails with a four-legged companion by your side. Dogs bring an unparalleled enthusiasm and unbounded joy for life to every adventure, and hiking with your faithful canine friend takes the experience to a whole new level. As you dive into the great outdoors, exploring rugged landscapes and immersing yourself in nature's beauty, the bond between you and your dog deepens, creating memories that will last a lifetime. So, lace up your boots, grab your backpack, doggie gear, and embark on an incredible journey of hiking with your dog!

Hiking with a dog offers a unique set of advantages and enriching experiences that differ from camping with a dog. While camping allows for a more extended period of immersion in nature, hiking offers a dynamic and ever-changing environment that stimulates both human and canine senses. The rhythmic sound of crunching leaves beneath your feet, the scents of wildflowers after a cleansing rain wafting through the air, and the breathtaking views that emerge at each summit—all these elements come together to create an exhilarating hiking experience for both you and your canine companion.

One of the most remarkable aspects of hiking with a dog is witnessing their infectious enthusiasm and zest for the outdoors.  We believe that simply being able to observe and witness the joyful expressions on their little faces is priceless. Dogs are natural explorers, constantly curious about their surroundings. As you traverse new terrains and conquer challenging trails, their excitement is obvious. They bound ahead, tails wagging, noses to the ground, and ears perked up, ready to uncover the secrets hidden within nature's embrace. Their seemingly tireless energy is contagious, infusing you with a renewed sense of adventure and pushing you to go further, climb higher, cleanse and clear your senses, and explore deeper than you ever thought possible for a day outing.

Hiking with your dog also offers countless opportunities for mutual growth and strengthening of your bond. Dogs are incredibly perceptive creatures, attuned to your emotions and body language. Through the shared experience of hiking, you develop a silent, almost telepathic  communication that transcends mere words. Your dog learns to trust your guidance, following your lead through challenging terrain and potentially dangerous situations. Likewise, you learn to rely on your dog's instincts, observing their behavior and adapting your own actions accordingly. We can’t even begin to tell you the many times that our dogs have shown us the safer way for various reasons unbeknownst to us at the time.  This harmonious collaboration fosters a deep sense of companionship and mutual understanding, strengthening the bond between you and your dog in a way that is truly remarkable.

While camping with a dog provides an immersive experience in nature, hiking offers a sense of accomplishment and exhilaration as you conquer each trail. With every step forward, you are challenged physically and mentally, pushing yourself to new limits. Your dog, ever faithful, serves as a source of motivation and encouragement, inspiring you to keep going, even when the trail becomes steep or arduous. Together, you celebrate each triumph, from conquering that seemingly insurmountable peak to crossing a stream.  These shared victories become the building blocks of a lifetime of cherished memories.

Additionally, hiking with a dog promotes health and wellness for both of you. The physical benefits are undeniable—hiking, like walking is an excellent form of exercise that keeps you and your dog active and fit. The varied terrain provides a natural obstacle course, engaging muscles and joints while boosting cardiovascular health. Beyond the physical, spending time in nature has a profound impact on both you and your pup’s mental well-being. The peaceful tranquility of the forest, the calming sounds of flowing water, and the fresh air invigorate the soul, reducing stress and restoring a sense of tranquility. We can’t imagine anyone better to share these healthful experiences with than your loyal canine companion.

Hiking with your dog is a truly transformative experience that immerses you both in the wonders of the natural world. The unique advantages it offers, compared to camping with a dog, include the dynamic and ever-changing environment, the infectious enthusiasm of your canine companion, the opportunity for mutual growth and bonding, the sense of accomplishment, and the promotion of health and wellness.  Not to mention that a hike is often more easily attainable as it is often closer to home than planning and going on a camping trip.

So, as we mentioned, whether you choose to camp with your dog or embark on a hiking adventure, both experiences hold their own charm and rewards. Camping allows for a deeper connection with nature, providing the opportunity to unwind, relax, and fully immerse yourself in the wilderness. It offers a slower pace, where you can savor the tranquil moments, build a campfire, and enjoy the simple pleasures of outdoor living. Your dog can join you in exploring the surroundings, sniffing out hidden treasures, and curling up beside you under the starlit sky. It is a time to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and allow in the beauty of nature, with your faithful companion by your side.

On the other hand, hiking ignites a sense of adventure and exploration, inviting you and your dog to conquer new trails, scale breathtaking peaks, and witness awe-inspiring vistas. It fuels your sense of curiosity, as you eagerly anticipate what lies beyond the next bend or over the next ridge. The physical exertion, coupled with the mental focus required, elevates the experience, leaving you with a profound sense of accomplishment and a newfound appreciation for your own resilience. The shared triumphs and challenges strengthen the bond between you and your dog, forging an unbreakable connection forged in the crucible of the great outdoors.

In the end, whether you opt for camping or hiking with your dog, what truly matters is the quality time spent together, away from the distractions of everyday life. These experiences offer a ‘break from routine’ and an opportunity to reconnect with nature and with your beloved companion. They provide a chance to appreciate the simple joys, find solace in the beauty of the natural world, and create lasting memories that will warm your heart for years to come.

*Don’t forget that whether you are going hiking or camping with your dog that it is pretty similar to having a human toddler or child along with you in the sense that you will need to remember to ‘pace’ yourself.  Even the most zealous adult dog will need rest and water breaks, maybe a treat break or two.  You will obviously need to bring along water for both of you, perhaps a snack for you, treats in a ziplock bag for your pup, just like you’d bring along snacks and water for your toddler/small child. * Please note-If you are bringing a puppy along, (any dog under the age of Three is technically considered a puppy) then remember that they are not fully developed physically, mentally, or emotionally.   Their little bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons and paws cannot endure on long, strenuous, or vigorous hikes yet, and even though they may appear to be zealous about the adventure with you, dogs are very stoic animals and do not ever want us to see them in pain or appear as weak, just like their great wolf ancestors, as that would be sign for a predator to pounce.  So be prepared to start off on slow, easy, low grade hikes and shorter camping trips for them until they mature in all of these ways and get the hang of it. Speaking of wildlife, don’t forget to ‘leave them be’, be respectful, don’t litter, and pick up after yourself and your pup along the way. The natural environment belongs to the animals first that make and have made their homes there for eons. We humans came along much later and it’s up to us to learn how to be respectful and to ‘share’ this world ‘with’ them.

So, pack your tent and camping gear, or lace up your hiking boots and their protective dog boots too!—it’s time to embark on an adventure with your best canine friend.

Main Chakras in Dogs

All Creatures Have Chakras

Humans, as well as our beloved animal friends all have these energy centers all over our bodies, and it is important that we learn how to keep them in balance as much as possible.

It is well known that we all have 7 active Primary Chakra centers, 21 Minor Chakras, and 6 Bud Chakras (4 paw pads in Dogs are akin to the 4 fingertips in humans, and the bud of skin at the opening of the ears is like on our own human ears. )

For purposes of basic illustration on this website, we have chosen the chart displaying the 7 Main Chakras in Dogs.

Ok, you may notice there are 11 color dots on the diagram, but as you can see by the chart; on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th chakras- they apply on the anterior and posterior of the dog’s body, and we will explain this in a moment.

Just a little introduction to the chakras here for beginners and a recap for those of you who are already familiar with this subject.

Each chakra is associated with specific parts of the body, mind, spirit, and a color, and it is said that chakras are the openings for life energy to flow into and out of our auras.

ROOT CHAKRA/TAIL CHAKRA IS RED AND IS ASSOCIATED WITH THE EARTH ELEMENT:

IT IS LOCATED AT THE BASE OF THE SPINE/TAIL. In relation to the body, it deals with kidneys, bladder, vertebrae, bone marrow, hips, legs, back paws, colon, anus and tail.

In relation to the mind and the spirit it deals with grounding, excellent health, survival instincts, overall vitality, and well-being, and when out of balance your dog may exhibit anger, constipation, frustration, and survival fears.

To help keep your dog in proper balance it is a good idea to spend some time every day just sitting to get ‘grounded’ with your pup. Our girls also love to dance. All we have to do is say the word “Dance” and a huge smile emerges onto their little faces and up they go to dance!

SACRAL/SPLEEN CHAKRA IS ORANGE AND IS ASSOCIATED WITH THE ELEMENT OF WATER: IT IS LOCATED ON THEIR TUMMY JUST ABOVE THE SEX ORGANS. In relation to the body, it deals with genitals, pelvis, reproductive organs, stomach, small and large intestines, and the sacrum vertebrae.

In relation to the mind and spirit it deals with pleasure, desire, sexual energy, and creativity, and when out of balance your pup may experience lower back pain, uterine, prostate, or bladder problems, reproductive/sexual problems, possessiveness over toys, food, their humans, or other animal friends.

You might want to go on a calm walk around bodies of water, invent interesting new games to help stimulate their creativity levels; especially in the more intelligent and active breeds and a nice relaxing lower back massage is as great for dogs as it is for humans.

SOLAR PLEXUS CHAKRA IS YELLOW:AND IS ASSOCIATED WITH THE ELEMENT OF FIRE: ON DOGS, AS WELL AS ON MOST ANIMALS IT IS LOCATED ON THE UPPER CHEST JUST A FEW INCHES BACK FROM THEIR FRONT LEGS.

In the body it deals with the lumbar vertebra, the nervous system, kidneys, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, stomach, and diaphragm, will power: not just for life in general, but in breeds like herding and working dogs this really shines through their determination to get a job done and please their humans. Dogs may exhibit what we refer to as that ‘happy pup face’, smiling and barking with pure joy when this Third Chakra is in balance.

When imbalanced, your pup may exhibit signs such as poor digestion and other food-related issues, lack of will, fear-based aggression, and other anger issues.

Since yellow is the color of the Sun: the source of all life on this planet, you may wish to spend time out in the sun with your pup just taking in its radiance and allowing it to restore your life force. Dogs also like to have their ‘puppy tummy’ gently rubbed, and herbs that help restore balance to the Solar Plexus are Organic Rosemary and Turmeric.

HEART CHAKRA IS GREEN, THE ELEMENT OF AIR, AND ASPECT OF PURE LOVE: ON ALL ANIMALS INCLUDING HUMANS IT IS LOCATED IN THE HEART AREA.

In relation to the body, it affects the heart, immune system, cells, blood circulation, thoracic vertebra, the chest, and lower lungs.

In relation to the mind and spirit, it obviously attributes to what animals are best at teaching us: and that is ‘the spirit of pure and unconditional love’, empathy, compassion, patience, tolerance, peacefulness, and the love of being with the pack or group of animals or humans that they feel most close to. Dogs are always trying to get us and or their animal friends to be as joyful about life as they are, and to join in the fun!

When a human’s or a dog’s heart chakra is imbalanced we may notice signs such as physical heart problems, anger stemming from what is actual or perceived as being ‘lack of love’ in our lives. This can cause one to become more aloof and withdrawn. The Same behavior patterns are exhibited in dogs.

To balance this chakra, you may wish to do as we do and seek out a place of ‘green’ in nature such as a park, open space, or hiking trail. You and your dog can reconnect with nature and what really makes your heart sing! Green can really inspire the feeling of Freedom and lightness of being.

Consuming greens such as kale, green beans, and parsley and placing crystals such as rose quartz, green calcite, green jade, and emeralds on or near the heart chakra are helpful in balancing it. One of our pups likes to wear a blue or green bandana. You might try this as well for an additional boost to balance the heart and throat chakras in your dog.

THROAT CHAKRA IS BLUE AND IS ASSOCIATED WITH THE PURITY OF THE AKASHA, THE ETHER: ON ALL ANIMALS, AS IT IS WITH HUMANS, IT IS LOCATED ON THE UPPER THROAT AREA.

In relation to the body, it deals with the vocal chords, throat, upper esophagus, respiratory system, lungs, nose, forelegs, and paws.

When in balance, you will notice that the level of communication and expression with which you and your dog ‘speak’ to one another is almost effortless.

When this area becomes unbalanced you may notice that any of these bodily systems mentioned above may be adversely affected; such as getting something caught in the throat, hoarseness, or the dog may become frustrated with you not ‘understanding’ how she is trying to communicate with you through her voice.

As many of you know, animals LOVE music and soft voices; so singing to them and playing soothing, non-lyrical, relaxing music is received with great gratitude by all animals. We have several recommendations for music/music channels we can share with you. Just reach out and ask us.

One of our pups personally LOVES it when we place her favourite Aqua Aura crystal on or near her throat. She also has an affinity for blue kyanite, and turquoise, and her absolute favorite fruit is organic blueberries. Interestingly enough she is also an Australian Shepherd with a Blue Merle coat coloring! We’re pretty sure blue is her favourite color.

THIRD EYE ( BROW) CHAKRA IS INDIGO AND IS ASSOCIATED WITH BOTH THE SUN AND THE MOON: IN ALL ANIMALS IT IS THE CENTER OF WISDOM AND ‘ALL-KNOWINGNESS’ AND RESIDES IN THE PINEAL GLAND BETWEEN THE EYES.

In the body it relates to the ears, nose, Left eye, base of the skull known as the occipital ridge, forehead, side of head, the nervous system, and the Left brain hemisphere; which of course is considered to be adept at tasks that involve language and reasoning.

Where mind and spirit are concerned, this chakra relates to the powers of intuition, concentration, imagination, and visualization.

We personally believe that this is one of the most heightened chakras in dogs or in any animal for that matter, because they have innate intuition, they ‘think in pictures’, and they have amazing powers of focus and concentration.

This Third Eye Chakra is the psychic center’, and if any creature is telepathic and psychic in response to their humans and the world around them it is the dog. As ‘man’s best friend’ dogs are super ‘in tune’ with us and with our vibrations, and they can ‘sense’ things way before most of us can. They are greatly affected by our thoughts, feelings, and emotions, so it is important for us to try to function at a higher vibrational level as well, and then the universe has no choice but to ‘match’ that vibration when it comes back to us. * Many of you know this as ‘ The Law of Attraction’ and others of you may know it as ‘simple physics’.

If this chakra becomes imbalanced you may notice signs such as a headache, lack of concentration, poor eyesight, and detachment, or maybe just a positive desire to go into a quiet place and reconnect through dreams.

To make sure that the Third Eye Chakra is balanced, our pups love ‘third eye kisses’; which of course stimulate the pineal gland, and they love the ethereal smell of the ‘essential oil’ of Frankincense massaged into this chakra area; especially at nap time or bedtime. Believe it or not they also enjoy hanging out with us as we meditate to music filled with isochronic tones and binaural beats, the Celtic harp, Andean Flute, Tibetan bowls, and ‘sounds of nature’ music, and they do their ‘stretches’ as we do our kundalini yoga and pilates.

Dogs are really connected to us humans on a day to day basis more than any other animal. One reason for this is because they have been with us for perhaps over 40,000 years now. Of course their great ancestor the Wolf is responsible for this, because it is they who were curious and social enough to choose to interact with humans in the first place. If it were not for the Wolf, we would not have any of our dog breeds that we have today. You have wolves to thank for this, so do your part to ensure that they are protected. * Horses and cats of course are right up there in closeness to humans, however, this article is about dogs.

CROWN CHAKRA IS VIOLET AND ASSOCIATED WITH THE ELEMENT OF COSMIC ENERGY ITSELF: ON ALL ANIMALS AS WELL AS HUMANS, IT IS LOCATED ON THE ‘CROWN’ TOP OF THE HEAD; BETWEEN THE EARS.

Although the bodily areas it is associated with are the Right brain hemisphere, cranium, cerebral cortex, right eye, and right side of the face, it is most closely associated with being more of a spiritual chakra than any other type of chakra because it is filled with the attributions of wisdom, spirituality, collective consciousness, and inspiration.

If this chakra becomes imbalanced, you may notice signs such as depression, and a lack of interest in your dog in joining in the usual fun, or in being unsocial when she is usually the ‘social butterfly’ type of personality.

One of our pups will actually take the biggest clear quartz crystal or Angel Aura crystal we have off of our bed pillow and lie on it all nite as we sleep. She also is very fond of her Amethysts and Rainbow Fluorite crystals, and we know that whenever ‘we’ start off with them on ‘Our’ pillows or in the space between us and she ends up wth them, that she is instinctually trying to rebalance her Seventh Chakra( Crown Chakra). The best way to explain this is to say that it is the higher expression in all of us.

So, we hope that this gives you a bigger picture of The 7 Main Chakras and how each one relates to the overall holistic health and well balanced needs of your dog.

Dogs: Spiritual Companions On Our Human Journey

Throughout history, perhaps going back over 40,000 years when dogs were wolves, dogs have held a special place in the hearts and lives of humans. Beyond being mere pets or loyal companions, dogs possess a unique and profound spirituality that resonates with our souls. Their unwavering loyalty, unconditional love, and divinely intuitive understanding make them invaluable partners on our earthly voyage. We will delve into the profound spiritual connection between dogs and humans, exploring the reasons behind their integration into our lives and their ability to touch our deepest souls.

The Essence of Unconditional Love: One of the most remarkable aspects of dogs is their innate ability to offer unwavering and unconditional love, for the very definition of love IS Unconditional isn’t it?  Regardless of our human flaws, mistakes, or insecurities, dogs accept us wholly and without judgment. Their love is pure, uninfluenced by any societal norms or expectations. This unconditional love resonates deeply within us, touching our very souls in ways that are sometimes difficult to express in mere words.  This love reminds us of our inherent worthiness and teaches us to love and accept ourselves and others without reservation. This spiritual connection enables dogs to become compassionate mirrors, reflecting the best parts of ourselves back to us. Honestly, there is no way one could be anything other than happy when in the presence of a dog, for this sense of joy, fun, love and happiness is their very essence.

Intuitive Companions: Dogs possess an extraordinary level of intuition that often surpasses our  human comprehension. They seem to possess an uncanny ability to sense and understand our emotions, anticipating our needs even before we can even articulate them ourselves. Their keen senses perceive the unspoken and the hidden, allowing them to provide comfort for us during times of distress and celebrate our joys with boundless enthusiasm. Their intuition acts as a guiding light, leading us towards emotional healing and spiritual growth. In their presence, we find solace and comfort, knowing that someone truly comprehends us at the deepest soul level.

Guardians of Our Well-Being: Beyond their emotional support, dogs also play a vital role as guardians of our well-being on a physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual level.  They can detect impending danger, alert us to hazards, sense and smell human feelings and emotions, and provide us with a sense of security and protection. In this capacity, dogs embody a spiritual connection as our earthly protectors, guiding and shielding us from harm as we navigate this 3D realm.  Their loyalty, courage, and bravery remind us that we are not alone.  This bond fosters a profound sense of trust and spiritual kinship between humans and dogs.

Dogs, with their inherent spirituality, touch our lives in profound ways. They embody the qualities of unconditional love, intuitive understanding, and steadfast devotion and loyalty, guiding us on our spiritual journey. Through their companionship, they offer solace, healing, and joy, reminding us of our interconnectedness with all living beings. Dogs integrate seamlessly into human lives, not merely as pets, but as spiritual beings who help us discover our true selves. As we open our hearts to their love, we embark on a shared spiritual adventure, finding solace, growth, and fulfillment in their unwavering presence.

Choosing The Right Age of Dog For You and Your Lifestyle

It’s Fall now and that means its getting cooler faster and many people are preparing for the upcoming Winter months where pretty much no matter where you are, it will be getting a bit cooler than normal very soon.  Many of you are considering adding a dog, maybe a new puppy to your life to keep you company and this is great!

We’d like to talk to you about considering adding the right ‘age’ of a dog to your family though.

The right ‘age’ you say?… yes… the right age of dog can be just as important as selecting the right breed of dog for you, your family, and your lifestyles if you want to not just add a whole lotta fun and love to your lives, but peace and harmony as well.

Puppies are cute and fun yes, but they are ‘baby’ animals and babies of any species require a lot more time and constant attention and supervision than an adult version of any of us; human or animal.

Be honest with yourself and consider if you even have the quality and quantity of time in the first place to bring another sentient being, which you will have full responsibility of caring for, into your household.  Puppies are an around the clock full time responsibility to care for, supervise, protect, train, and love.

Yes, an adult dog requires these qualities from you as well, but not to the degree that a baby does.  Unlike a human baby that can wear diapers until you can change them, puppies will require you to take them out multiple times; both day and nite to relieve themselves, and for you to clean and pick up after them.  Sometimes this will mean in the middle of the nite.  Sometimes this will mean in weather conditions you and the pup may not be too keen on going out in.  You can’t make puppies ‘hold it’ when they have to go out, they have to go out because they have developing bodily systems and their control is not the same as an older, mature dog until those systems have matured and developed.

Miniature American Eskimo Puppy Playing and Teething With Various Types And Textures Of Toys

Puppies, just like any of us animals will go through conditions like ‘teething’ and with teething they will be in some degrees of pain and discomfort and will instinctively try to soothe themselves.  Just like some children, they may do this by crying, whining, putting an item such as a blanket or toy in their mouths.  Maybe it will be one of your shoes.  Let’s hope not, but you must have several different types and textures of toys available to them and of course you must have an incredible amount of love and patience to give them, and always remember that their needs come first, not yours.  * Yes, we do know that you must ‘take care’ of your self first or you will not be able to take care of others. We are not dis-advocating ‘Self-Care’. What we are saying is that Puppies, just like all babies are pretty much constantly hungry, tired, and exploring their new world, so you will be feeding them multiple times a day/nite, taking them out to relieve themselves, making sure they have a clean, quiet, safe place to sleep in, and all the while you will be training them with positive reinforcement for their desired behaviors, as well as deterring them from potential accidents and destructive behaviors.

Please consider adopting an older, more mature dog into your family if you are honestly not up for all a puppy requires. Much of the time older dogs have had some basic obedience training and are usually housebroken as well.

Older dogs can ‘learn new tricks’, so to speak.  Dogs are eager to learn in positive ways, and there is a reason the phrase ‘man’s best friend’ was coined in the first place, because they are so much like us.  They want to do things.  They want to keep body, mind, and spirit active and healthy, just like humans do and they wish to spend it with us; in the company of someone who loves to be with them sharing those activities.

Yes, puppies can and will want to learn these things, but an older, more mature dog will as we mentioned, most likely already be completely potty trained, will have some or all basic obedience commands learned such as ‘Sit’, ‘Stay’, ‘Come’, ‘Down’, ‘Stop’, they will most likely have already learned how to walk nicely on a leash with you.  An older dog most likely will not have such high energy that you feel as though you can’t keep up with her demands, yet have enough energy to still go places and do things with you at your own pace.

Also, don’t feel like an older dog won’t ‘bond’ as closely with you as a puppy would, because that is just not true.  ALL ages of dogs are just like all the different ages of people.  We all want to belong, be secure, and feel love and acceptance and feel worthy.

First, do your ‘breed research’ , then consider what ‘age’ of dog will fit you and your lifestyle as well,  and of course you may [CONSULT US ] for any guidance and help in making your decision. There are thousands of “Breed Rescue’ Groups for pretty much every dog breed and many of the new hybrid breeds as well. There are also thousands of Local, County, Regional, and State run Animal Shelters and Rescue Organizations and believe it or not, we can tell you for Certain that you can OFTEN find more Pure Breed dogs in these places than you can mixed breeds. Why?…. Simple- Humans did NOT do their ‘Breed Research’ , visit rescue groups, ‘breed’ rescue groups, shelters, volunteer, ask friends, neighbors and people they saw at the park with the dog they ‘thought’ they wanted BEFORE they ran right out and bought or adopted the dog/puppy. Then they got home and were overwhelmed and under prepared. * Remember- EVERY puppy/dog is ‘cute and ‘sweet’ and ‘loving’- but every dog was NOT bred to be and do ALL of the same things. If you give yourself a chance, do an Internet search and attend some Dog Shows and SEE for yourself what it takes for each dog breed to be their best, what they are bred for, and so on.

* As of today’s writing, there are now over 200 ‘Recognized’ by the AKC (American Kennel Club) Breeds of Dogs and MANY more mixed breeds too! Trust us when we say, if you do the research, you will find that there is the right one for you. * We Encourage you to Take the time to do this so that more puppies and dogs, pure breeds and mixed breeds alike do not end up in a shelter, where more often than not they will be sleeping on a cold hard floor, sometimes an elevated mesh type bed, they will NOT have their normal food, toys, treats, interactions with you and their animal family and friends, they will most likely not be adopted in time, and their ONLY reason for being killed (euthanized) is generally because the shelter does not have room for them.

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WHAT ARE THE TOP SUPERFOODS FOR DOGS?

Well, anyone familiar with canines and canine nutrition ‘should’ tell you that the Top Superfoods for Dogs are going to include a QUALITY Sourced Lean Protein as the Number One choice, and this protein source should also include the top ORGAN meats; Heart and Liver. 

Some obvious choices would be Grass Fed Beef from a reliable, trustworthy source.  Lean Ground Turkey 93% - 97%, Lean Ground Chicken Breast 93%-97% and Wild Caught Salmon are also great choices for Lean Protein. Preferably this source should be local or at least regional, and from a smaller more conscious, conscientious supplier rather than feedlot mass produced and from way outside of your own geographical area. * Unless you know and trust the ‘source’ personally, always try to go with local when it comes to food sources, just like you would for yourself and the rest of your family.  After all, dogs are our family members too and just like us, we want them to have the best possible food and nutritional sources.

Next should come QUALITY VEGETABLES rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and abounding in good beneficial fiber.

These would include vegetables such as:

1.) Sweet Potatoes; which of course have loads of Vitamin A for healthy eyes and which are known to be good for the waistline, just like they are for humans. Rich in vitamins C, and B6, as well as fiber and potassium, Sweet Potatoes can help regulate digestion and promote a healthy immune system. * when selecting root vegetables, try to obtain organic if at all possible as root veggies are some of the most highly sprayed with nasty chemicals like herbicides, pesticides, fungicides; including glyphosate.

2.) Pumpkin is another great vegetable which in addition to being full of fiber and antioxidants is dual purpose for a dog or a human who has issues with digestion.  It has the ability to help counteract both constipation and diarrhea and it knows what to do in either case all on its own.

We would highly recommend and advise to always keep a can or two of organic pumpkin in your kitchen pantry. * NOTE* DO NOT buy the kind with any spices, like for pumpkin pie. Only buy the one with pumpkin as the single ingredient. * Dogs are allergic to many spices and some can prove very harmful or fatal if ingested. Amazon Brand Happy Belly Canned Pumpkin https://a.co/d/8AymGR1 .

3.) Broccoli of course is great for dogs just as it is for humans as it has sulfuric compounds. This cruciferous vegetable is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. It can help support your dog's immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy digestion. We would advise going easy with adding broccoli to your dog’s nutrition because since it is a cruciferous veggie with sulfuric compounds, it can cause gas and flatulence, just as it can in humans if you don’t take it slow.

4.) Spinach: This leafy green vegetable is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants. It can help promote healthy bones, teeth, and skin, and reduce inflammation.

5.) Kale: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron, kale can help promote healthy bones and teeth, support digestion, and reduce inflammation.

FRUITS such as:

6.) BLUEBERRIES would be one of the Top Superfoods for Dogs, just like they are for us humans and for the same reasons.  These are a great source of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins C and K. Blueberries can help boost your dog's immune system, improve cognitive function, and promote a healthy digestion.

If your dog has no sensitivities or allergies to fish, then fish like

7.) Salmon; preferably wild caught since their nutritional value is far superior to that of farm raised and the wild caught salmon is also higher in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon can help improve your dog's skin and coat health, reduce inflammation, and support brain and eye development. * Don’t buy the ‘smoked’ version or any version with additives.

Sardines can be a healthy addition to a dog's diet when fed in moderation. Sardines are a type of oily fish that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have several potential health benefits for dogs. Omega-3s can help support healthy skin and coat, promote joint health, and support cardiovascular health.

In addition to their omega-3 content, sardines are also a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus. However, it's important to feed sardines in moderation, as they are also high in calories and can lead to weight gain if fed excessively.

When feeding sardines to your dog, it's best to choose fresh, canned, or frozen Wild Caught sardines that are free from added salt, seasonings, or sauces. You can feed sardines as a treat or mix them in with your dog's regular food.  We like to choose only ONE (1) sardine fresh or canned in spring water and smash and mix it in with our pup’s food and do this maybe only once or twice per week.* We’re not a paid affiliate, but we love the Wild Caught Sardines in Water from Trader Joe’s. They’re good quality and priced right.

As with any new food, it's best to introduce sardines gradually and monitor your dog for any adverse reactions.  See our Journal Article : How to Transition Your Dog To a New Food for more information.

8.) Turmeric: This spice contains curcumin, an active compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric can help reduce joint pain, improve digestion, and boost your dog's immune system.

GO easy when adding this spice to your dog’s food and do it in very small amounts as ‘a little goes a long way.’ For example: 1/4 teaspoon per day to start.
SEEDS AND ROOT VEGETABLES like:

9.)  Chia Seeds: These seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. They can help support healthy digestion and promote healthy skin and coat. * Try sprinkling seeds over wet dog food (or adding it to water, yogurt or kefir if you feed dry food)

Ratio is: One teaspoon to 40 pounds of your dog’s weight. So, if your dog weighs:

• 10 pounds = 1/4 teaspoon chia seeds

• 20 pounds = 1/2 teaspoon chia seeds

• 30 pounds = 3/4 teaspoon chia seeds

• 40 pounds = 1 teaspoon chia seeds

We suggest that you divide this up during the day into more than one meal or treat/snack. * Do not feed Chia seeds dry because they are very absorbent and will ‘expand’ when wet; including inside of your/your dog’s digestive tract. * Always feed Chia Seeds either soaked before feeding OR mixed into wet foods.

10.) Flaxseed: Similar to chia seeds, flaxseeds are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. They can help support healthy digestion and promote healthy skin and coat.

• We suggest that you buy them WHOLE and grind them up as needed for easier mixing and digestion. We love, use, and recommend either of these two brands: Terrasoul https://a.co/d/72n2dir

  Anthony’s Organic https://a.co/d/9rbNmKo

11.) Carrots: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, carrots can help support healthy vision, promote healthy skin and coat, and support healthy digestion.

12.) Beets: These root vegetables are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and essential minerals like potassium and iron. They can help support healthy digestion, promote healthy blood circulation, and support healthy liver function. When whole organic beets are not in season or unavailable, we keep this in the pantry: Anthony's Organic Beet Root Juice Powder, 1 lb, Gluten Free, Non GMO, Vegan Friendly https://a.co/d/84OKESp . We recommend Beet Root powder be added dry or mixed with water to your dog's food. * The dosage depends on your dog's weight and individual nutrition plan. As a guide, you can use the following recommendations:

• Small dog breeds: 1 level teaspoon daily

• Medium dog breeds: 0.5 tablespoons daily

• Large breeds: 1 tablespoon daily

10 g of beet powder is equivalent to about 100 g of fresh beet. You should increase the dosage slowly and observe your dog's tolerance.

13.) Parsnips: Similar to carrots, parsnips are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber. They can help support healthy digestion and promote healthy skin and coat.

• When choosing Root vegetables it is highly advised that you choose Organic over Conventionally grown produce as Root vegetables are one of the vegetables that are most sprayed with toxins like glyphosate, and other things like herbicides, fungicides, and pesticides and no one wants anything with ‘icide’ in their food.

A.G.E.'s Advanced Glycation Products- are another important subject altogether that needs to be brought to light and discussed when it comes to Canine Nutrition and commercial pet foods in general.  We have an entire article in our Journal for you on this.

14.) Ginger root can be good for dogs in small amounts, as it has several potential health benefits. Ginger root contains compounds called gingerols and shgaols, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This means that ginger may help reduce inflammation and support healthy immune function in dogs. In addition, ginger has been known to help alleviate nausea and vomiting in dogs, making it a popular natural remedy for motion sickness, car sickness, and other types of stomach upset. However, it's important to note that ginger should not be given to dogs in large amounts, as it can cause digestive upset and other side effects. We would recommend consulting with your Holistic Veterinarian on the type and dosage.

As with any new food or supplement, it's best to consult with your veterinarian before giving ginger to your dog.

We like these two Trustworthy brands of Organic Ginger Root Powder: Terrasoul Superfoods Organic Ginger Powder, 1 Lb - Lab-Tested | Raw | Potent Spicy Flavor https://a.co/d/h5HNUqn Micro Ingredients Organic Ginger Powder, 2 lbs/32 ounces, https://a.co/d/begFNTz .

15.) Dandelion Greens: the stem and leaf parts of the plant — are a natural source of vitamins A, C, K, D, and B. In addition, they have minerals like calcium, potassium, and prebiotics like inulin. Dandelion Greens are especially adept at supporting digestion.

16.) Cranberries: Often known as a natural supplement for supporting urinary health, cranberries have many additional benefits. They are a natural source of vitamins C, E, and K. Also, like blueberries, they are low in calories and fats, but high in fiber and antioxidants.

With so many nutrients, cranberries for dogs can be a good addition to complement their diet. However, you should not feed your dog raw cranberries, because dogs have a difficult time digesting them. Instead, you can find cranberry supplements like Dr. Mercola’s Bladder Support or pick up some healthy treats with cranberries as an ingredient like the treats from Honest Kitchen to share this superfood with your pup. We do include Dried cranberries for our dogs, however, it is incredibly important to buy the Organic and Unsweetened, NO SUGAR added .

*There are also Several Essential Vitamins and Minerals Dogs need on a daily basis just like we humans do and there are some Adaptogens that would be considered Superfoods and beneficial to dogs.

*We have Separate Journal Articles on these subjects below for you to read and learn about since the list and information is much to extensive to include it all here under ‘TOP SUPERFOODS FOR DOGS.’

Recommended Daily Amounts of Essential Vitamins and Minerals for Dogs

Which Adaptogens are Most Beneficial to Dogs and Why?

Are Certain Species of Mushrooms like Lion's Mane and Turkey Tail Beneficial for Dog’s Nutrition?

A.G.E.'s Advanced Glycation Products- are another important subject altogether that needs to be brought to light and discussed when it comes to Canine Nutrition and commercial pet foods in general.

What Do Pet Sitters Do?

Lately we have received several inquiries as to what do pet sitters do, how much do they charge, I know that they are ‘service professionals’ so am I supposed to be tipping my pet sitter?, and other questions like these.

This will be the first article in a ‘series’ of articles about Pet Sitters; although we did post an article during the Holidays entitled,  “Tipping Your Petsitter During The Holidays”.

So, you may ask, ” What do pet sitters do? ” Well, for one thing, most of them don’t sit around all day eating bon-bons and watching t.v. because pet sitting, just like babysitting is a busy, active, and oftentimes demanding job.

Pet sitting is not just an occupation, it is a profession that is built upon trust, dependability, integrity, and a deep love of all animals.  These are qualities that you should possess yourself, and look for when choosing to hire a professional pet sitter for your precious pet family members.

Pet Sitters do so much more than provide food and water for your beloved pets while you are away.  They do many different ‘jobs’ while working as a pet sitter.

Pet Sitters spend ‘quality’ time with the pets, and in addition to providing them the basics of food and water while you are away, they also give them love and attention, they clean up pet waste and any other little ‘accidents’ like vomiting, etc. Some pet sitters may administer necessary medications and serve, or prepare and serve special diets and treats for your beloved pets.  Pet Sitters provide your pets with healthy exercise, conversation, petting and playtime, listening to ambient music with them; all of which make for a healthier, happier, much more socialized dog.  Some pet sitters also provide training and may teach your dogs helpful skills which will improve their behavior, and some also teach your pets fun new games and tricks.

Most dogs do not want to be left all alone because as most of you know, dogs are pack animals and they naturally crave the closeness and security and safety feelings they receive when they are members of their pack. The right pet sitter can help you and your dog to go a long way, as dogs are very social creatures and it is in their very nature from the time that they were once wolves and vital members of their ‘pack’, for them to want to be with us.  We humans along with other canine members of our households are their pack now. A pet sitter can help your dog to become more social with you, with other animals, and with other people, and to become less anxiety-ridden.   This will help see that your dog is the kind of dog that gets invited to your friend’s and relative’s homes and you are not asked to ‘please leave your dog at home because he’s a bit too rowdy, mannerless, or fearful to come over to our house.’

Many pet sitters also take care of your treasured home while you are away; making it look ‘lived’ in and ‘busy as usual’ to the outside world.  They bring in your newspapers, get your mail, keep your lights on and off and your shades drawn at strategic and sensible times of the day and nite to deter unwanted guests as well as potential vandals.  They water your plants and maybe your lawn, deal with your regularly scheduled contractors such as your pool man, gardener, delivery services, and other service professionals while you are away at work, out and about, or on vacation.  Most pet sitters tend to your pets on as close to your daily schedule as humanly possible too.  Many pet sitters bundle all of their services and they do all of these jobs we just mentioned, however, some separate them and charge ‘a la carte’ for the side services they provide for you such as: watching your home, getting your mail, dealing with your other service professionals, etc.

Of course it goes without saying that ‘Training’ is a professional service that would be billed separately.  Either way, pet sitters deserve the utmost appreciation and respect for the selfless work that they do because they are watching and caring for your beloved pets.  Although your home and your mail may be important, your pets are your priceless family members.

The bottom line is that your pet gets to stay in the environment she knows best and have her regular routine, and you get to go about your plans with the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your beloved pet is safe and cared for by a professional, and that your home is being watched over by someone of integrity.  A Big plus in hiring a ‘professional’ is that you don’t have to impose on your neighbors or relatives to do a job or jobs that they may not have the time, skill set, experience or patience to deal with; and that they may not have the heart to tell you that they don’t.

Pet sitters are highly respected service providers who often work seven days per week, all year long; some, like nannies for humans, are live-ins, and some even travel long distances for these assignments, and as service providers; just like your hair stylist, gardener, pool man, restaurant server, massage therapist, etc. although it is not required it is certainly appropriate to tip them for their services.

Today’s acceptable tip rate for most service professionals is typically 20-30% of the total services rendered.

Tips don’t always have to come in the form of ‘money’.  Gift Cards, or in some cases a barter might be a suitable arrangement.

We hope that this answers some of your questions about “What does a Pet Sitter do?”

*Always remember to be grateful and remain in the ‘giving’ spirit all year long.  You don’t have to wait for a holiday.   You might just surprise someone and really make their day by honoring the Universal Law of both giving and receiving with acceptance and gratitude.

~Peace, Love, Light, and Abundance to You and Yours