Lessons from a lifetime defending nature

Jane Goodall’s lifetime is a lesson in dedication, courage, and deep compassion.

Beginning with her immersive research in the Gombe Stream National park, she revealed the intelligence, emotions, and social complexity of chimpanzees, fundamentally changing ‘how’ humans ‘perceive’ the Natural world.  But her work didn’t stop there- in fact it was only just beginning to unfold.

Jane became an activist, a teacher, and a Global Advocate, reminding all of us that protecting nature requires persistent, mindful effort.

Lessons From a Lifetime Defending Nature.

“ A Lifetime Defending Nature, Jane Goodall’s lessons are ‘reminders’ that we, too, are ‘Guardians’ of the Earth.

Herd Of Horses, Mares and Foals Walking In Green Field- Credit: Unsplash

The Dog Goddess aligns with this vision. *This is the Second in a Series of Seven Articles from The Dog Goddess as a ‘Tribute To Jane Goodall’. We encourage you to read and share all of them and watch their accompanying videos and share them as well. Just as Jane encouraged humans to understand and defend wildlife, we encourage humans to connect with dogs, wolves, horses and dolphins as sentient wise beings with lessons to share.  From guiding humans to ‘respect’ wolf ancestry in our domestic dogs, to teaching about the Spirit and freedom of our Wild Horses, we create a ‘bridge’ between species, reflecting Jane’s philosophy : “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what ‘kind’ of difference you want to make. “

Come Join our Pack! and let’s Unite in connecting humans and our beloved animal brothers and sisters all over the world.

IN HER 20’S JANE GOODALL STEPPED INTO THE FOREST

In her mid twenties, Jane Goodall embarked on a journey that would forever alter the human understanding of animals.  With no formal training on primatology, she relied on her own curiosity, patience, and empathy to observe the chimpanzees of Gombe.  Her work reveals intelligence, emotion, and the social bonds that challenged ‘conventional’ scientific thought.

In Her 20’s Jane Goodall Stepped Into The Forest.

#janegoodall #the_dog_goddess #dogs #animals #chimpanzees #love #nature #gombestreamnationalpark #wild

This is the Third article in a Series of Seven Articles from The Dog Goddess as a ‘Tribute To Jane Goodall.’ We encourage you to read and share all of them and watch their accompanying videos and share them as well.

This fearless pursuit of understanding mirrors The Dog Goddess mission.  We, too, guide humans to step into the lives of animals with openness and reverence.  Dogs teach us love, loyalty, and patience, wolves teach us ancestry, family, and instinct, horses teach us grace, beauty, kindness, and power, and dolphins teach us playfulness, communication, and empathy.  By ‘honoring’ these lessons, humans can rediscover the sacred bond between species, fostering a deeper awareness and care for all life.

COME JOIN OUR PACK! AND LET’S UNITE IN CONNECTING HUMANS AND OUR BELOVED ANIMAL BROTHERS AND SITERS ALL OVER THE WORLD.

Hope is what keeps us moving forward

Chimpanzee in Forest- Credit: Unsplash- Simone Dinoia

Hope is more than a fleeting emotion; it is the foundation of courage, resilience, and purpose.  Jane Goodall’s life reminds us that even in moments of uncertainty, hope is what ‘drives’ action.  From her early years observing chimpanzees in the forests of Gombe, to her global advocacy for wildlife and the environment, she has demonstrated that one individual’s commitment can ripple across the entire world.

“Why We Should Be Hopeful”

“Hope is what keeps us moving forward”

#JaneGoodall #hope #the_dog_goddess #dogsandwolves #animalspirits

At The Dog Goddess, we mirror this mission by inspiring humans to see dogs, wolves, horses and dolphins, as well as other animals not as separate beings, but as guides and teachers.  This is the first of Seven journal articles from The Dog Goddess as a ‘Tribute to Jane Goodall’ . We encourage you to read and share all of them, and watch their accompanying videos as well. Hope is the sacred thread ‘connecting’ humans to these animals, helping us to understand the sacred interdependence of life.  By embracing hope in our own daily actions- rescuing a dog, protecting a wild horse, or advocating for dolphin conservation- we honor Jane’s legacy and ignite positive change in our communities all over the world. Come Join our Pack! and Let’s Unite In connecting humans and our beloved animal brothers and sisters all over the world.

THE HEART AND SOUL OF DOGS- WHY EVERY DAY SHOULD BE INTERNATIONAL DOG DAY

In a world where special days are set aside to honor and celebrate various aspects of life, International /National Dog Day stands out as a beacon of recognition for our loyal canine companions. While this dedicated day each year is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the joy and love that dogs bring into our lives, it’s worth considering why these incredible animals deserve more than just one day of recognition. In truth, every day should be celebrated as International/National Dog Day, given the profound and multifaceted ways dogs enrich our lives.

The Unwavering Loyalty and Unconditional Love

At the core of the human-canine relationship is an extraordinary bond defined by unwavering loyalty and unconditional love. Dogs have an innate ability to connect with humans on a deeply emotional level, often providing companionship and comfort during times of need. This bond is not only heartwarming but also scientifically significant. Most ‘dog people’ already know this and now Scientific Research has shown that interactions with dogs can lead to reduced stress levels, lower blood pressure, and enhanced overall emotional well-being. * Check out our article on Oxytocin and the powerful bond created by dogs and humans.

The Role of Dogs in Enhancing Human Lives

1. Emotional Support and Mental Health: Dogs have long been recognized for their therapeutic benefits. They offer emotional support and companionship, which is especially valuable for individuals facing mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety. *The simple act of petting a dog has been shown to release endorphins, boost oxytocin, and reduce cortisol levels, all of which contribute to improved mental health.

2. Physical Health and Well-being: Beyond emotional support, dogs also play a role in encouraging physical activity. Regular walks and playtime not only benefit the dog, but also help keep their human companions active and healthy. This aspect of dog ownership promotes cardiovascular health, aids in weight management, and enhances overall physical fitness for both parties.  Not to mention, when you think about it, how many of the people you have met thru your dogs being interested enough to stop and ’introduce’ you, would you have even talked with these people if it were not for your dogs?… Dogs are naturally social creatures and help us humans to become more so as well.  You have their great ancestor the Wolf to thank for this. If it were not for Wolves, we humans would not have the hundreds of recognized domestic dog breeds and mixed breeds that we know today. Curious, friendly wolves bonded with our human ancestors thousands of years ago and it was through this unique connection that both humans and wolves/dogs evolved in various ways. Through dogs, we can develop friendships that might have otherwise passed us by.

3. Assistance and Service: Many dogs serve as guide dogs for the visually impaired, therapy dogs in hospitals, and service dogs for individuals with various disabilities. Their specialized training and innate abilities make them indispensable in various aspects of support and assistance, showcasing their profound impact on improving quality of life.

Celebrating Dogs Every Day!

Given the extensive benefits that dogs bring to our lives, it is only fitting that we honor them every day. While International/National Dog Day provides a focused opportunity to celebrate and appreciate dogs, acknowledging their value should be a continuous practice. Here are a few ways to ensure that every day reflects the spirit of International/National Dog Day:

1. Daily Acts of Kindness: Small gestures of love and care, such as regular walks, quality playtime, and attentive grooming, can make a significant difference in a dog's happiness and health.

2. Advocacy and Awareness: Supporting animal welfare organizations and advocating for responsible pet ownership helps improve the lives of dogs in need. Spreading awareness about adoption and rescue can contribute to the well-being of countless dogs.

3. Cherishing the Bond: Taking quality time each day to appreciate the unique bond shared with a dog reinforces the special relationship between humans and their canine companions. Whether through a gentle pat, a warm hug, or simply spending quality time together, these moments of connection are invaluable.

Happy International Dog Day

Dogs embody the essence of unconditional love, loyalty, and pure joy. Their impact on our lives is profound and far-reaching, making every day a celebration of their presence. While National Dog Day provides a designated time to honor these remarkable animals, recognizing their significance and celebrating them daily is a tribute to the heart and soul they bring into our lives. Let us embrace the spirit of International/National Dog Day every day, cherishing the companionship, support, and boundless love that dogs so generously offer.

DO DOGS ACTUALLY NEED TO BE TAKEN FOR WALKS?

Out for a Walk In Nature

Yes, it’s just like for humans- a dog’s overall well being includes needing to be out and about on walks; preferably in a natural surrounding; even a neighborhood park.

If you are a pet parent/guardian and you think that just putting them out in the yard or on a patio is enough, think again.

You need to take your dog for walks for many of the same reasons you need to take your self for more walks including: exercise, mental stimulation, air circulation, sunshine, and more opportunities for safe socialization.

Here’s why regular walks are essential for dogs:

* Physical Health

Daily walks are essential for maintaining a healthy body weight and helping to prevent becoming obese; which we all know is unhealthy for all living sentient creatures.

* Joints and Muscle Health:Regular physical activity like daily walks helps to maintain both joint health and healthy oxygenated muscles, bones and blood; reducing the risk of mobility and other health problems. 

* Cardiovascular Health: Walks will obviously improve cardiovascular health and be beneficial to your dog’s overall well-being. 

* Mental Health and Well-being:

* Stimulation and Socialization: Walks in a safe environment like a friendly, neighborhood park can help to provide mental stimulation allowing your dog to walk with you exploring and experiencing the sights, sounds, and smells while helping to prevent boredom and frustration.  All creatures love learning new things in a safe environment. Nothing is better to a dog than knowing he/she can be out and about with you going places and doing things both familiar and new.  They just LOVE being with us and sharing in life’s experiences.  Observing what/who we react to and why helps us both to know and understand one another better. Remember, dogs ‘read’ energy and ‘tune into’ not just the environment we are in, but to how we humans act or re-act to it. * I’ve always said that “Energy travels up and down the leash.”

Walking Your Dog In A Safe Environment

* Stress Relief: Exercise helps release stress and anxiety, promoting a calmer and happier dog and most usually a healthier, happier human pet parent as well.

*If you are going to skip walks with your dog, you do need to remember that ‘rain or shine, snow or wind’, it is necessary for you to dress appropriately and if need be to get them dressed for the weather as well, and this should be a ‘given’ but you’d be surprised, maybe even shocked about how often we get asked the questions about ‘how often’ to take the dogs out to go to the bathroom, so- take them out to do their bathroom business as often as you would need to do yours. First thing when you get up in the morning you have to relieve your bladder.  So do they.  After you wake up from a nap or something ‘startling’ you have to go to the bathroom. So do they.  After you eat and or drink alot you have to go.  So do they.  You have to go again right before you go to bed for the nite. So do they.  This is all ‘common sense’.   Yes,You can skip the adventure and exploration walks on those days of inclement weather if you wish and instead learn how to play ‘indoor’ games such as hide and seek, find me, games with a lighted /squeaky ball, and perhaps some fun, interactive puzzle games together.    If you both love to get out and about no matter what the weather, great, there’s that option too.  Please DO Consider your dog’s feelings and thoughts about this as well as your own.  Sometimes dogs are only doing things because they ‘read’ that it pleases us, and they are not into it at all, and sometimes it’s the other way around.  Learn to read one another and live lovingly and respectfully together. Have fun. Learn what it’s like to be a dog. Be a good pet parent or guardian.

How You And Your Pets Can Live Safely And Peacefully With Coyotes

We had originally written this article on coyotes regarding the return of warmer temperatures, however, the information contained in the article is pertinent to all seasons.

Did you know that Coyotes play a very important role in our ecosystem by controlling rodents and other potential disease carrying animals often times referred to as ‘pests’?…  Coyotes are often more active in the Spring and Fall because they need extra food for their young pups, and like most intelligent, resourceful creatures, they remain active all year round; especially at dawn and at dusk.   Just so that you are aware- in Most parts of the USA/North America; January- March is Coyote Mating season. This means that coyotes will be out and about searching for a compatible mate and looking for or creating places to serve as their family home- otherwise known as a ‘Den’ in the Canine world. Please do be Respectful and know that these creatures have just as much of a right to be here as any other, and all they want to do is create and raise their little families in peace and harmony with as little interaction with humans as possible. * It’s a bit ironic, but in Summer months, that is also the time that is the smartest for all animals, including us humans, to go out exercising ourselves and our pets; so just be aware. Not afraid or ‘fearful’; aware.

Coyotes primarily hunt rodents and rabbits, but as highly intelligent, resourceful creatures they will take advantage of any available food source including pet food, garbage, and wild animals such as the red fox, and domestic animals such as small dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds.

You can help protect yourself, your pets, your property, and the coyotes themselves by following some Simple “Common Sense” Tips.

Never feed or attempt to tame coyotes no matter how cute they may look

Do not leave uneaten pet food outside

Pick up your pet’s waste

Bring pets inside at night and do not leave them outside unattended-ever; they are ‘pets’ and depend on you for love, comfort, protection, and survival.

Put garbage in tightly closed containers that coyotes and any stray domestic animals like cats, dogs, raccoons, possum, etc. cannot tip over.

Remove easy sources of water

Pick up fallen fruit from your trees- *a coyote’s diet consists of approximately 25% fruit, and remember to cover your compost piles, and DO consider a fence if need be.

Put away bird feeders at night to avoid attracting rodents and other coyote ‘prey’.

Install motion sensor lights, as coyotes do NOT like bright lights and loud noises.   * Just remember to ‘be courteous to your neighbors’ and not to install a ‘disco’ atmosphere, or you may get a call from your local HOA or City Code Enforcement.

Remember, If followed by a coyote, make loud noises, or if the coyotes do happen to get aggressive, which is not typical; you could get loud and throw rocks to ‘scare’ them away.  * we are NOT saying throw rocks to hit or hurt them.  We are saying for their own well being as well as yours and your pet’s, do not ever turn your back on them, and ‘yes’ do get loud and throw rocks IF you or your pets feel aggressively threatened by them.

*Share these tips with your neighbors*

A Natural part of our mountains and deserts, and countryside, beautiful coyotes are here to stay; because after all, this was their home FIRST, way before humans ever built their homes here and it will always be their home.  We can be respectful of one another.  You can do your part to encourage coyotes to remain in the wild where they are most safe and comfortable, by not doing anything foolish to attract them.  *Leave them alone to raise their families in peace and harmony with nature as they were meant to do, and they will leave you alone.

You and your pets will live more peacefully with coyotes if you have less contact with them and if they remain wary of you as humans. This is true for ALL wildlife species, including the squirrels you feed in your local parks. Remember- they have families they love, care about and protect, just the same as we humans do. Be respectful.

Happy Valentine’s Day

What is the most important thing in life? Ask anyone and you'll probably get the same answer.

Love.  All of existence in the Universe is interconnected; humans, animals, plants and minerals and we all require love.

HEART OF THE WORLD RADIATING LOVE

Who knows more about true, unconditional love than dogs?...  we personally cannot think of anyone; and those of you who have spent any time in the company of dogs will most likely agree with us.

All animals know how to feel and express love.  This is very apparent, as all you have to do is look around you at any given moment and witness the love they share with us, with their own animal families, and even with other species of animals.

We believe that animals live from their true and most authentic selves and can help inspire us to do the same.  They are the 'Essence of Pure Love' living truly from the heart and living only in the 'Now'.* To better understand what we are referring to when we say " in the Now", check out this book The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by author Eckhart Tolle in Paperback https://a.co/d/dqmKd5c or Kindle format https://a.co/d/6ZeckkF
Dogs are always there for you no matter what.  They are what our lead creator here refers to as true, 'all-weather' friends, and dogs would never even dream of abandoning you if you don't look perfect, are having a bad day, come home late, smell weird, and so on. They accept and love us unconditionally; whether we are young, old, in-between, male or female; regardless of age, race, creed, color, social status, political affiliation or religion.  They don't care what language we speak; because dogs have the ability and intelligence to understand them all. Think about that one for a moment. Just travel around a bit and you will see that this is true.  They live from the language of the heart.  Dogs teach us to 'let go' and see the mystery beyond the form and show us instead the love, intelligence, and spirit 'behind' the physical form.  Animals 'see' 'all' of this every day and they want us to tap into it too.

Loyal and True Mates for Life

Like their great and wise ancestors; the wolf, dogs are very social creatures who prefer the company of humans, and thank your lucky stars for the wolf, yes, that’s right, because without wolves none of us would have our modern-day companions the dog to share our life and our love with.  Like the wolf, dogs also know and live the true meaning of the word 'devotion' and are here on Earth to teach us this and many other life lessons every single day that we are blessed to be in their presence.

Valentine's Day is a day when the feelings of love, affection, appreciation, and friendship are shown and celebrated, and who better to celebrate with than your canine pal?...

Our love pups; are best buddies who share their love and affection for us, as well as for one another.  People tell us that when they see these two together that they are reminded of the movie, " Lady and the Tramp" * You can give or receive The 50th Anniversary year Edition of this Classic Love Story about Dogs https://a.co/d/6IcnhWF (Lady and the Tramp (Two-Disc 50th Anniversary Platinum Edition)

*Send Us your stories of your "Lady and the Tramp" just click on our ‘Guest Goddess’ page and Fill out our Short Form and see it posted in one of our Upcoming Journal Articles..

We would love to hear from you!

Happy Valentine's Day and may the long time sun shine upon you, all love surround you, and have a beautiful day!

~Blessed Be

Superbowl Snacks For Your Dog- Are they a ‘No’, or a ‘Go’?

Superbowl 59- Caesar’s Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana- Kansas City Chiefs Versus Philadelphia Eagles.

Superbowl Snacks For Dogs

So, You wanna celebrate Superbowl 59 with your Best Friend and your favourite snacks eh?… That’s just fine as long as you know which ‘people’ foods are safe for your best friend and which are not.

No matter if you’re rooting for the Kansas City Chiefs or the Philadelphia Eagles;

Here’s a little bit of helpful information on what treats are a “GO” and what treats are a “NO” for your dog.

*Let’s start with the “GO” category first; which it’s safe to say consists of sticking with the ‘Organic Fruit & Veggie Tray’ option for your pup as far as ‘healthy’ party food goes.

*Be sure to wash all fruits and veggies in a rinse of filtered water and white vinegar as unless you buy all organic there’s no guarantee that you won’t be ingesting pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides; all of which are harmful to you and your dog.

Organic Veggie Platter

GO! List:

Organic Baby Carrots- High in Vitamin A, Beta-Carotene, helps eye sight and the adrenals, thereby lowering stress; plus they’re a tasty crunchy treat dogs really love.

Organic Apples– * No seeds and cut into small bite-sized bits apples, like all fruits, are high in beneficial fiber, vitamins and minerals and the skin has Quercitin in it naturally. The old saying, “ An apple a day keeps the doctor away” holds true for dogs too, and refers to the fact that apples help lower the risk of certain cancers like breast, colon, liver, and lung cancer and new research is showing that they help fight off Alzheimer’s as well.

Bananas- Bananas are high in potassium and magnesium which are both great for optimum muscle function. They are also high in both Vitamin B6 and Vitamin C. * Cut these into slices then quarter them for easy bite-sized doggie treats.

Bell Peppers- Red, Orange, or Yellow bell peppers are high in Beta Carotene, Vitamins A, B6, and C and also high in potassium.

*No seeds. Slice and dice into bite-sized pieces.

Coconut- In all of its forms except the shell- Coconut is one of the most perfect foods on Earth. we just can’t say enough good things about coconut, but here are a few reasons why both you and your dog should be eating it on a more frequent basis, and not just for a Superbowl treat.

Its high in Vitamins B-6, C, Potassium, Magnesium, Iron, Calcium, Phosphorus, rich in Omega 3 & 6 “good” fatty acids, excellent for immune system support, high energy food, great for hydration, helps lower heart disease, promotes healthy thyroid and metabolism as well as digestive function, great for healthy fur, skin, and nails, excellent for brushing teeth and gums and is antibacterial, anti-fungal, antimicrobial, and antiviral.

Cucumbers- High in Vitamins A, C, K and potassium, plus a fiber and high water content make cucumbers the perfect party snack or ‘to-go’ treat. * In hot weather we keep a bag of peeled, quarter-cut cucumbers for our pup and I to share on walks, hikes, and errands around town

Garbanzo Beans(Chickpeas)- *One of our pup’s all-time favorites, they contain 71% of the Daily requirements for folate(Iron) and 84% for Manganese and also substantial levels of both copper and zinc. High in Vitamins A, B-6, and C and rich in potassium, magnesium, make an excellent veggie protein source.

Green Beans- High in Vitamins A & C, rich in calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus.

Canned Organic Pumpkin or shelled, ground pumpkin seeds- Fantastic for many things and packs a high serving of Vitamins A, C, calcium, iron, the amino acid- tryptophan, and is a holistic ‘de-wormer’ and works well for BOTH constipation and diarrhea. * always keep a can in your pantry.

Watermelon- (* sans seeds ) Full of Vitamins A, B6, & C, calcium, magnesium, potassium, amino acids, and has a high water content, so its another vegan snack that is great for hydration.

* All fruits and veggies have protein, otherwise there is no way that the plant could live in the first place, let alone produce fruit and veggies for us.

“NO!” List:

Alcohol- NO alcohol of any type, ever. All alcohol can not only be poisonous, but usually results in coma or death in dogs and cats as well.

Chili- NO-Although most Beans are good for dogs, the spicy concoction most of us make for our chili recipes includes tomatoes, onions, fatty hamburger(*Most dogs are allergic to beef), hot chili peppers, and none of these with the exception of (tomatoes- sans skins/ seeds are good for dogs.)

Chicken Wings- NO- Due to the fact that most are commercially prepared and who really knows what is in them as far as the chemicals and preservatives go, most are prepared/marinated using several spices that are not good for dogs.  Bad fats like butter and toxic fats like margarine are typically used, not to mention the risk of your dog ingesting one of those fragile bones in his throat or intestines, plus did you know that its estimated that over 1.3 BILLION chicken’s wings will be eaten in America just for this one game?  * There are definitely other more healthy alternatives.

Chocolate- Big NO!- This one can cause everything from irregular heart rate, bloody urine and stools, and even death due to the active naturally occurring ingredient called theobromine; which is great for humans, but toxic to dogs and most all other animals as well.

Guacamole- Although Haas Avocados in small amounts and without their seeds and skins are in fact beneficial for dogs due to their many benefits such as ‘good’ fats, anti-inflammatory properties, many vitamins and essential amino acids, ‘guacamole’ is NOT good for dogs because it is typically prepared with many ingredients such as onions, and tomatoes with the skins and seeds; both of which are a “NO!” for dogs; especially onions as they are toxic.

Nachos with corn chips- NO. Although some dairy products like kefir are great for daily immune system support due to it having so many live probiotic cultures as many fermented foods do; this is not what ‘nacho’ cheese sauce is made of. Nacho cheese sauce is typically a processed cheese; which are loaded with creepy chemicals like animal rennet, msg, hydrogenated soybean oils, food colorings, and ‘modified’ food starch; all of which are harmful to dogs. If for some odd reason you would want to share your Nachos with your dogs, we DO have a simple, limited ingredient VEGAN Cheez Sauce Recipe you could serve to your human guests and in limited amounts to share with your dogs.

Salsa and Corn Chips- NO.- Most salsas whether commercially prepared or homemade are made with tomatoes including the seeds and skins, which you already learned are not good for dogs;(only the tomato pomace is good for dogs) and NEVER eat or allow your dog to eat the stems or roots of a tomato plant. They are toxic to both humans and dogs.  Salsas usually include various hot peppers, onions, and some even include sugars and other artificial chemicals and preservatives.

The corn as you have already learned from our blog is not ‘species appropriate’ to canines and much of the corn used in North America is GMO (Genetically Modified Organism); which we all know that none of us, human or our beloved best friends should be eating.

Remember to adhere to the ‘NO’ list, and for the ‘GO’ list if your doggie is not used to eating these healthy snacks that it’s a good idea to start off slow and only give little bits of these foods until your poochie’s digestive system becomes used to them.

As Holistic Health & Wellness Consultants, we believe that it is a good idea to give them these treats AFTER their normal morning or evening meals. This is because fruits and veggies are higher in fiber, which is more filling and they will get the digestive system moving a bit quicker and ‘push’ the foods eaten at earlier meals through the system a bit faster. * This is very beneficial for healthy digestion, but you don’t want them to end up with diarrhea, so go easy, and you can begin adding any of these fruits and veggies to your doggie’s daily diet on a regular basis for optimum health and well being.

**This journal article was written based upon research done about some of the most common snacks that are prepared for Superbowl parties and after which we deemed them either a ‘GO’ and ‘NO’ for safety of your dog.

For a more extensive list on beneficial fruits, veggies, herbs and spices stay tuned to further blog articles here on thedoggoddess.com

Here’s wishing you and your best friend a wonderfully fun and healthy Superbowl 59 & may the best team win!!

Doggie Dental Care

Dog Receiving Her Dental Examination By Her Veterinarian

Although the month of February is Internationally known as Doggie Dental Care Canine Dental Care month, Let’s face it, your doggie’s dental care is just as important as your own dental care is. year round.  The thing is, your dog cannot brush her own teeth like you can, so it is up to you to do this for her in order to help her live a longer, healthier life.

There are many options available for dental care for your precious pooch, but let’s talk about a basic, inexpensive, daily routine at home for starters.

First of all it’s good to remember that this is a brand new experience for your pup, so start off slow and don’t worry if she only allows you to do a couple of teeth at a time the first few times.  It’s never a good thing to ‘force’ anything onto your dog or there’s a good chance that she will sense your anxiety and be leery of allowing you to do this again anytime soon, if ever.

You may start off with a good holistic product like unrefined coconut oil, as dog’s love the smell of it plus it’s great for the gums and is antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiviral and it is chocked full of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids; which are good for dogs just like they are for humans. 

Should you decide to go the commercially prepared product route, try a fabulous holistic product called “Gel-Me”, “Spray-Me”, or “Ora-Pup”- by one of our partner companies.

We also advocate and recommend a product called Dentahex; which you can order thru our link https://a.co/d/bZdBo23 on Amazon.

First step- is you will need to Get your dog to come and sit or lie down in front of you or at your side. * We like to have our pup come up on the bed and lie down on the command, and with a really happy and upbeat voice of  “ Let’s brush your teeth “ and we drape a hand towel across her paws.

Second Step- Put a little bit of the product on your index finger and lift your dog’s lip as seen in the photo above so that you can see her teeth on one side of her mouth.

Now just use your fingertip and let her smell but not eat the product (although it will not harm her if she does)

Third Step- Gently massage the product along the teeth and gumline on a couple of teeth at a time, along the outside surface that you can see.

Keep talking to her and offering praise for her doing such a good job of ‘brushing her teeth’.

If she’s ok with all of this attention and great tasting dental care product,

Fourth Step- is to then go ahead and massage a bit on the front teeth and along the other side of the mouth on her teeth and gums.

If she’s lovin’ it, you can say, “Open your mouth”,

and Fifth Step- proceed to take your thumb and index finger of one hand and gently ‘help’ her to open her mouth a bit wider.  Now with your other hand; the hand on which you have the product on your index finger, take that thumb and gently place it in the ‘smile’ pocket on one side of your dog’s mouth/face and pull it back a bit while using your other hand to open her mouth wider.

Now you can rub the product onto the other surfaces of her teeth and gums. 

This entire process should only take you under 4 minutes. BTW, This is the same amount of time recommended to brush our own teeth.

While you are brushing her teeth you will also be looking around for any broken or missing teeth, swollen or irritated gums, anything in her mouth that looks abnormal to you.

You can feel confident that the more you lovingly repeat this routine with your doggie the more you are helping to prolong her life.  You already know that plaque build-up, tartar, gingivitis, and gum disease can all lead to internal organ and tissue disease affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver.

We recommend making this a nitely routine just before bed because that way your pup will have had her nitely meal, walk, exercise and is likely to be more calm and relaxed.

Making ‘time’ of just a few short minutes per day can add years to your beloved companion’s life and save you time, worry, and expense at the veterinarian’s office.

BEST HERBS AND NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS FOR HORSES’ RESPIRATORY HEALTH

photo credit: Ellen Albiter

BEST HERBS AND NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS FOR HORSES’ RESPIRATORY HEALTH

This is the Third (3) of Three Articles on Best Herbs, Nutritional Supplements and Foods for Pets. Namely, Dogs, Cats, and Horses.

We received an outpouring of questions during the January 2025 Series of Fires in the Los Angeles, California area on how people could help their dogs, cats and horses as well as themselves and their overall immune system health as well as respiratory health. These articles were written in response those questions and we hope that they can help you and your pets in this particular situation, or for overall health and well being each and every day.

Horses, being large animals with unique respiratory systems, can benefit greatly from natural remedies to support lung health, particularly if they are exposed to dusty environments, allergens, or strenuous activities.

Below are safe and effective options:

Safe Herbs for Horses:

Mullein

• Soothes respiratory tissues and helps expel mucus. Mullein can be added to their feed as a dried herb.

  Licorice Root

• Helps reduce inflammation and soothe irritated airways. It’s particularly beneficial for horses with allergies or chronic respiratory conditions.

  Thyme

• Acts as a natural expectorant and antimicrobial agent. Thyme can be sprinkled into their feed in small amounts.

  Echinacea

• Boosts the immune system and helps prevent respiratory infections. Use as a dried herb or supplement always under veterinary guidance.

  Peppermint

• Aids in clearing nasal passages and soothing minor respiratory discomfort. Peppermint leaves can be added to feed in moderation.

  Rosemary

• Rosemary supports respiratory health and provides antioxidant benefits. It can be used in small quantities.

  Garlic

• Garlic can support immune health and respiratory function in horses. However, it should be given in moderation to avoid potential side effects. Horses have very sensitive digestive systems.

Herbs to Use with Caution:

• Lobelia: Not recommended due to its potency and potential toxicity.

• Eucalyptus: Avoid ingestion; it’s best used in aromatherapy for horses just like for all other mammals we discussed here in our articles on Respiratory Heath.

Additional Nutritional Supplements and Foods for Horses:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• Found in flaxseed and fish oil, omega-3s reduce inflammation in the lungs and improve respiratory efficiency.

  Vitamin C

• Supports lung health and immune function. Consult with a veterinarian for proper dosing.

  Honey

• Helps soothe irritated airways. Can be mixed with their feed in small quantities.

  Probiotics

• Promote gut health, which indirectly supports immune function and respiratory well-being.

  Alfalfa

• High in antioxidants and nutrients, alfalfa supports overall lung health and provides relief from respiratory irritation.

  Carrots

• Rich in beta-carotene, which supports lung tissue health. Offer as a treat or mix with their feed.

When incorporating herbs and supplements into your horse’s nutritional plan, always consult with a veterinarian and or an equine health expert to ensure safety and proper dosing. Just as with humans, dogs, and cats, natural remedies can complement the overall care of horses, helping to maintain their respiratory health and quality of life.

Since Humans have shared their lives for millennia with Dogs, Cats, and Horses and these animals in particular have evolved from Wolves, Panthers, and ancient species of horses and become domesticated by humans, we decided to include these top 3 animal brother and sisters species in our articles.

We will also share our Amazon Affiliates Link to our Page so that you can Shop there for any of these items all in one place referencing our article to make it easier for you.

BEST HERBS TO SUPPORT CAT’S RESPIRATORY HEALTH

Herbs and Nutritional Supplements for Cats’ Lung Health-

This article is Second (2) in a series of 3 Articles on Respiratory Health for Pets- Dogs, Cats, and Horses.

Salem- Tuxedo Cat

Cats’ unique physiology requires careful consideration when introducing herbs and supplements. While some herbs and foods beneficial for humans and dogs are also safe for cats, others can be toxic.

Below are safe options to support Feline lung health:

Safe Herbs for Cats:

            1. Mullein

• Mullein’s soothing properties make it safe for cats with respiratory issues. Mullein tea can be cooled and administered in very small amounts.

                                                     
  2. Licorice Root- Licorice root’s anti-inflammatory properties are helpful for cats with irritated airways or asthma. Consult a veterinarian for proper dosing.
  

• 3. Thyme

  In Small amounts, thyme supports respiratory health and aids in clearing mild infections. Avoid overuse as it can upset their stomach.

  
  4. Ginger

• Safe in tiny doses, ginger helps reduce inflammation and nausea. Grated ginger can be mixed into food occasionally.

               5. Rosemary

• Rosemary can help with respiratory health due to its antioxidant properties. Use in very small quantities.

*Herbs to Use with Caution:

• Peppermint: Can be irritating to cats in large amounts. Use only in diluted forms or aromatherapy under veterinary guidance.* see our articles on Respiratory Health in Dogs for more details on use in a diffuser.

• Eucalyptus and Lobelia: These are not recommended for cats as they can be toxic.

*Garlic: Generally not recommended for cats due to its ‘potential’ toxicity.

Additional Nutritional Supplements and Foods for Cats:

             1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

         Beneficial for reducing lung inflammation and supporting overall respiratory function.

*Use cat-specific fish oil supplements.

             2. Vitamin C

• Supports immune health. Consult with a veterinarian for the appropriate form and dose.
  3. Honey
  A small amount of raw honey can soothe a cat’s throat and alleviate minor coughing.
  4. Probiotics

• Promote gut health and enhance the immune system, indirectly supporting lung health.

• 5. Cooked Pumpkin

• High in antioxidants, cooked pumpkin provides nutrients that support respiratory health.

• 6. Blueberries In moderation, blueberries; especially WILD blueberries offer antioxidants that help protect lung tissue from damage.

• 7. Chicken Bone Broth

• Provides hydration, nutrients, and supports lung tissue health in cats. Ensure the broth is plain, with no added onions, garlic, or excessive salt and remember to remove even the smallest of bone fragments in order to prevent choking.
  When incorporating herbs and supplements into your dog’s or cat’s nutrition plan, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian to ensure safety and proper dosing. Supporting lung health in both humans and pets can improve quality of life and resilience against respiratory challenges. With careful selection and use, natural remedies are beneficial for many species of animals.