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  • Vet Reveals 13 Surprising Superfoods For Your Dog

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    When it comes to feeding your dog, not all foods are created equal. Some ingredients are considered superfoods for dogs because they’re naturally rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other nutrients that support overall canine health.

    But what exactly are superfoods for dogs—and which human foods are actually safe?

    According to Dr. Ernie Ward, DVM, a member of the Petplan Veterinary Advisory Board, the following 13 superfoods can provide powerful health benefits when served properly and in moderation. As always, talk to your veterinarian before adding new foods to your dog’s diet, especially if your dog has allergies or underlying health conditions.

    What Are Superfoods for Dogs?

    Superfoods are whole, minimally processed foods that deliver concentrated nutrition. For dogs, these foods can help support:

    When used as treats or meal toppers (not meal replacements), superfoods can be a smart way to boost your dog’s diet naturally.

    1. Apples (Without the Seeds)

    closeup of a bin of apples in green grass

    Apples are a crunchy, low-calorie snack packed with fiber and vitamin C. Chewing apples can help clean your dog’s teeth and freshen breath.

    How to serve:
    Remove seeds and core (apple seeds contain cyanide). Slice into bite-size pieces.

    Best for: Digestion, dental health, weight management


    2. Canned Pumpkin Purée (Plain, Not Pie Filling)

    pureed pumpkin in a jar sitting on a green cloth

    Pumpkin is one of the best superfoods for dog digestion. It’s rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and carotenoids that support gut health, immunity, and skin.

    Pumpkin may help with both diarrhea and constipation, depending on your dog’s needs.

    How to serve:
    Plain canned pumpkin or cooked fresh pumpkin only.

    Best for: Digestive health, immune support, skin health


    3. Eggs

    brown and white eggs in a cardboard egg carton closeup

    Eggs are a highly digestible protein source loaded with essential amino acids, vitamins, and healthy fats. They support eye health, brain function, and heart health.

    Eggs can also be helpful for dogs with a low appetite.

    How to serve:
    Cooked (scrambled or boiled), unseasoned.

    Best for: Muscle health, coat shine, recovery


    4. Bananas

    hand offering a banana to a black and brown dog

    Bananas are excellent for active or athletic dogs. They contain natural sugars for quick energy, along with potassium, vitamin C, fiber, and electrolytes.

    How to serve:
    Small slices, occasionally—bananas are high in sugar.

    Best for: Energy, muscle function


    5. Carrots

    freshly dug up carrots on a wood cutting board

    Carrots are a low-calorie snack high in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. This supports eye health and may help reduce the risk of cataracts.

    How to serve:
    Raw or lightly steamed. Baby carrots are safer for small dogs.

    Best for: Vision, dental health, weight control


    6. Turkey (Skinless & Unseasoned)

    roasted whole turkey being carved

    Turkey is a lean protein that provides essential amino acids and potassium without excess fat when prepared properly.

    How to serve:
    Cooked, boneless, skinless, and unseasoned only.

    Best for: Muscle maintenance, protein variety

    RELATED: The Complete Dog Food Guide: Nutrition, Ingredients, Feeding & How to Choose


    7. Sweet Potatoes

    Sweet potatoes are a favorite among veterinarians for good reason. These nutrient-dense tubers contain fiber, antioxidants, and complex carbohydrates that help regulate digestion and support healthy aging.

    How to serve:
    Cooked and mashed or sliced; no added sugar or spices.

    Best for: Digestive health, immune support, senior dogs


    8. Kelp

    Kelp is a natural source of iodine, calcium, vitamin A, folic acid, and trace minerals. It may support thyroid health, energy levels, and immune function.

    How to serve:
    As a powdered supplement in very small amounts.

    Best for: Metabolism, immune health


    9. Quinoa

    Often called the “mother of all grains,” quinoa is technically a seed and is gluten-free, protein-rich, and easy to digest. It also contains fiber and important minerals.

    How to serve:
    Cooked plain, in small portions.

    Best for: Dogs with grain sensitivities, protein variety


    10. Sardines

    Sardines are one of the best natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids. They’re packed with vitamin B12, vitamin D, protein, and healthy fats that support joints, skin, and brain health.

    How to serve:
    Canned in water only, no added salt.

    Best for: Coat health, joints, active dogs


    11. Raw Local Honey

    Raw, local honey may help dogs with seasonal allergies by exposing them to trace amounts of local pollen, potentially increasing tolerance over time.

    It also has natural antibacterial properties.

    How to serve:
    Very small amounts only; not for puppies under 1 year.

    Best for: Allergy support, immune health


    12. Broccoli

    Broccoli contains cancer-fighting compounds, lutein for eye health, and essential nutrients like potassium, calcium, and fiber.

    How to serve:
    Lightly steamed and chopped; limit quantity to avoid gas.

    Best for: Antioxidant support, training treats


    13. Blueberries

    Blueberries are a true antioxidant powerhouse and one of the best fruits you can safely share with your dog. They’re rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and phytochemicals that help fight inflammation and oxidative stress.

    Studies suggest blueberries may support brain health and memory, especially in senior dogs.

    How to serve:
    Fresh or frozen, whole or lightly mashed.

    Best for: Brain health, immune support, anti-aging


    Final Tips on Feeding Superfoods to Dogs

    Golden Retriever holding a carrot

    • Always introduce new foods slowly

    • Keep superfoods as treats or toppers, not meal replacements

    • Avoid seasoning, salt, sugar, onions, garlic, or artificial additives

    • When in doubt, ask your veterinarian

    When used correctly, these dog-safe superfoods can be a simple, natural way to support your dog’s long-term health and happiness.

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    Kristina Lotz

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  • 7 Best Quail Dog Foods

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    iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

    In the diverse realm of canine nutrition, quail emerges as a novel protein that’s garnering attention from pet parents and nutritionists alike. As lean, gamey meat packed with essential nutrients, quail offers dogs a unique taste experience while delivering numerous health benefits. This article delves into the best quail dog foods on the market, focusing on their nutritional profiles, ingredient quality, and the advantages they bring to your dog’s bowl.

    Nutritious Quail Dog Foods Dogs Love to Eat

    #1 – Rawz 96% Meat Canned Wet Food for Dogs 

    Rawz 96% Meat Canned Wet Food for Dogs

    The Rawz 96% Meat Canned Wet Food for Dogs is a 12-pack of 12.5 oz cans that contain a blend of duck, turkey, and quail meat. Notably, this product does not include any gums or carrageenan, guar gum, or xanthan gum, making it suitable for dogs with dietary sensitivities. Furthermore, 100% of the profits from this product are donated to a charitable cause.


    #2 – Evanger’s Grain-Free Quail for Dogs & Cats

    Evanger's Complements Grain Free Quail for Dogs, Cats & Ferrets

    Evanger’s Grain-Free Quail for Dogs & Cats is a pet food product that is specifically formulated to cater to both dogs and cats. It comes in a case of 12 cans, each weighing 12.8 ounces. The product is made in the USA and is free from corn and wheat, making it suitable for pets with grain allergies or sensitivities.


    #3 – Walk About Pet, WA10040, Canine Exotics All-Natural Super Premium Dog Food

    WA10040, Canine Exotics All-Natural Super Premium Dog Food

    The Walk About Pet WA10040 Canine Exotics All-Natural Super Premium Dog Food is a grain and gluten-free dry kibble designed for adult dogs of all breeds. It is proudly made in the USA with wholesome ingredients, including farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, and exotic single-source wild boar protein. This balanced diet provides the highest level of canine nutrition with no extra calories, making it perfect for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities. The quail recipe is lean, rich in protein, and low in calories, offering essential vitamins and minerals for strong muscle development. Additionally, the food contains a delicious 3-course meal of air-dried farm fresh fruits and vegetables, slow-cooked, mouthwateringly aromatic sliced meat, and essential vitamin and mineral-packed crunch.


    #4 – Solid Gold Sensitive Stomach Dog Food 

    Solid Gold Sensitive Stomach Dog Food for Adult & Senior Dogs - Grain Free Healthy Dog Food

    Solid Gold Sensitive Stomach Dog Food is a gluten and grain-free dry dog food designed for adult and senior dogs with sensitive stomachs. It promotes muscle health with real and natural proteins and supports digestive health with fiber-rich superfoods like chickpeas and pumpkin. This holistic pet food by Solid Gold has been trusted since 1974 and includes functional superfoods, omega fatty acids, high-quality proteins, and protected probiotics to support overall well-being and gut health. It does not contain any fillers such as corn, wheat, or soy, making it a healthy option for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Customers can also try it with other dog food products from Solid Gold for variety and hydration.

    RELATED: The Complete Dog Food Guide: Nutrition, Ingredients, Feeding & How to Choose


    #5 – Black Gold Explorer Grain Free Real Meat Dry Dog Feed

    Black Gold Explorer Grain Free Real Meat Dry Dog Feed

    The Black Gold Explorer Grain Free Real Meat Dry Dog Feed, Game Bird Recipe with Turkey & Quail is a wholesome dog food made in the USA without by-products, artificial colors, or chemical preservatives. It contains DHA sourced from fish oil, which helps with brain and vision development in dogs. Additionally, this formula includes an essential oil blend of Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty acids for DHA and EPA, prebiotics and oatmeal for sensitive stomachs, and antioxidants sourced from real fruits and vegetables to support a stronger immune system.


    #6 – Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance, Duck & Quail Formula Dry Dog Food

    Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance 30/20 Turkey Duck Quail Formula Dry Dog Food

    The Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance 30/20 Turkey, Duck & Quail Formula Dry Dog Food is a high-quality dry dog food that is formulated with real turkey and other proteins. It is designed to optimize oxygen metabolism for increased endurance, making it suitable for active dogs. With 30 percent protein and 20 percent fat, it provides the necessary fuel for metabolic needs and helps maintain lean muscle. Additionally, it contains glucosamine and Omega-3 fatty acids for joint health and mobility.


    #7 – Dancing Tail Freeze-Dried Cat and Dog Treats

    Freeze Dried Cat and Dog Treats, Limited Ingredient Quail Egg Yolk Healthy Tasty Snacks for Training

    The Dancing Tail Freeze-Dried Cat and Dog Treats are made from 100% premium quail egg yolk that meets USDA standards for human consumption. The treats do not contain any corn or soy, making them suitable for pets with dietary restrictions. Quail yolk is rich in lecithin and vitamins, promoting the development of the animal’s body and hair growth. Additionally, chewing on these treats can make a cat’s stud jowls wider, making them stand out in a group. These treats are not limited to cats and dogs and can be safely eaten by other animals such as hamsters, Anglo martens, and turtles. It is important to follow the feeding instructions to avoid overfeeding and causing excess nutrition and burden to the pet.


    What Are The Benefits of Quail Protein Dog Foods?

    1.Novel Protein Source: Quail is considered a novel protein, meaning it’s less commonly used in dog foods. This makes it an excellent choice for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to more traditional protein sources like chicken or beef.

    2. Lean Protein: Quail is lean meat, which can be beneficial for dogs that need a lower-fat diet. It’s rich in essential amino acids that are vital for muscle development and overall health.

    3. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Quail meat is packed with essential nutrients like vitamin B6, phosphorus, niacin, and riboflavin. These contribute to various bodily functions, including energy production and red blood cell synthesis.

    4. Natural Omega-3 and Omega-6: These essential fatty acids, present in quail, support skin and coat health, reduce inflammation, and promote overall well-being.

    5. Hypoallergenic Qualities: Due to its status as a novel protein, quail is less likely to cause allergic reactions in dogs that suffer from food allergies, making it a suitable option for hypoallergenic diets.

    6. Taste Appeal: Quail has a distinct, gamey flavor that many dogs find palatable, making it an excellent option for picky eaters.

    Incorporating quail protein into a dog’s diet can be a flavorful way to introduce variety, address potential allergies, and ensure a balanced intake of essential nutrients.

    Related: Top Dog Food Brands With No Recalls

    Frequently Asked Questions About Quail Dog Foods

    1. What is quail dog food?

    Quail dog food is formulated using quail as the primary protein source. It offers a unique and novel alternative to more common proteins like chicken, beef, or lamb, providing essential nutrients while reducing common allergenic reactions.

    2. Is quail a novel protein for dogs?

    Yes, quail is considered a novel protein for most dogs because it’s less commonly found in dog foods. This makes it an excellent choice for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies to more traditional protein sources.

    3. Is quail meat beneficial for dogs with allergies?

    Absolutely! Quail, being a novel protein, can be an ideal option for dogs that show allergic reactions to common proteins. It’s often recommended by veterinarians for dogs with food-related sensitivities.

    4. What nutrients does quail meat provide?

    Quail meat is nutrient-dense, offering a variety of essential amino acids, vitamins like B6, niacin, and riboflavin, as well as minerals like phosphorus. It’s also a source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health.

    5. Are there any cons to feeding quail-based dog food?

    While quail is nutritious, it’s essential to ensure the dog food is well-balanced. Some quail-based foods might be more expensive than traditional options due to the specialty nature of the protein.

    6. Can puppies eat quail dog food?

    Yes, puppies can eat quail dog food as long as it’s formulated for their life stage. Ensure the food meets the nutrient profiles set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for puppies.

    7. How do I introduce quail dog food to my dog’s diet?

    Start by mixing a small amount of quail dog food with your dog’s current food, gradually increasing the amount over 7-10 days. This slow transition helps reduce potential digestive issues.

    8. Do all brands use whole quail meat in their formulations?

    Not necessarily. While some brands use whole quail, others might use quail meal or a combination. Always read the ingredient list to understand the composition.

    9. Is quail dog food suitable for all breeds?

    Yes, quail dog food can be suitable for all breeds when formulated correctly. However, always consider the specific nutritional needs of your dog’s breed when selecting any food.

    10. How does the taste of quail compare to other meats for dogs?

    Quail has a distinct, gamey flavor that many dogs find appealing. While taste preferences can vary among dogs, quail offers a unique taste profile that can be a hit, especially for picky eaters.

     

    Making the Best Choice With Quail Dog Foods

    Quail dog food offers a fusion of taste and health that’s hard to match with other proteins. Not only does it provide an alternative for dogs with common meat allergies, but it also introduces them to a unique flavor they might find irresistible. As you consider transitioning or supplementing your dog’s diet with quail, remember to choose high-quality brands that prioritize natural ingredients and holistic nutrition. Your dog deserves nothing less than the best, and with the right quail dog food, you can ensure they get just that.

    iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

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    Arlene Divina

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  • 7 Surprising Things To Know About Kibble

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    The vast majority of pet parents feed their dogs a dry food diet, commonly referred to as kibble. And for decades, kibble has been marketed as a complete, balanced, and even “ideal” way to feed our dogs. Its long shelf life, affordable price point, and ease of use make it the go-to choice for millions of households. But convenience doesn’t always mean optimal nutrition, and many pet parents are shocked when they look more closely at what’s actually in that bag of dry food.

    Understanding the realities behind dry dog food empowers you to make better choices, avoid common pitfalls, and take simple steps to improve your dog’s overall nutrition, without blowing your budget or overhauling their diet overnight. Let’s take a closer look at seven eye-opening facts about kibble that many dog parents are surprised to learn about this popular food option.

    The Facts You Need to Know About Dog Kibble

    1. Kibble Contains Roughly 50% Carbohydrates

    Many dog owners are surprised to learn that dogs have no biological requirement for carbohydrates. This is why when you look at the guaranteed analysis on the back of your dog’s food label, you won’t see carbohydrates listed. Despite this undisputed fact, carbs are still the most prominent ingredient in all kibbles, sometimes composing over 50% of the ingredients by weight. Why? Simply because grains and starches are cheap for manufacturers and often subsidized.

    This is the very reason why kibble is so much lower cost compared to canned food or fresh food. There is no way around it, animal protein adds substantially to the cost. But let’s not forget, dogs are primarily carnivores!

    To make matters worse, much of the protein found in kibble is from lower-quality plant sources such as corn, wheat, peas, or soy. These plant sources are missing one or more amino acids that your dog’s body needs. A sign of low-quality food is that you’ll often see amino acids such as L-Lysine, DL-methionine, L-threonine, L-tryptophan, and taurine on the ingredient panel.

    Think grain-free food is better? Think again! Many pet parents are shocked to learn that grain-free foods can often contain more carbohydrates than grain-based foods!

    Related: Top Dog Food Brands With No Recalls


    2. Kibble Does NOT Clean Your Dog’s Teeth

    A popular myth that has circulated for years is that somehow kibble cleans your dog’s teeth better than other foods. Nothing could be further from the truth!

    Imagine if your dentist told you that all you needed to do to clean your teeth was eat cookies! Wouldn’t that be nice?

    Sadly, it’s impossible for a food that contains roughly 50% carbohydrates to clean your dog’s teeth. The carbohydrates inside kibble are, in fact, the reason why your dog’s teeth need to be cleaned in the first place!

    Related: Best Dog Foods


    3. The Fats In Kibble Begin To Go Rancid After 4 Weeks Of Being Opened

    That huge bag of dog food you just bought to save money? Odds are, the fats inside it are going rancid within weeks of opening, putting your dog at risk. When fats in your dog’s food go bad, free radicals are created in the process. These free radicals can scavenge your dog’s body, causing untold damage over time.

    Unfortunately, dry food that has become rancid will not necessarily look or smell bad. But rest assured, the moment oxygen comes in contact with kibble, the process of oxidation has begun. Because of this, we like to recommend using the entire bag of food within 3-4 weeks. In general, beef or lamb-based foods go rancid slightly slower than chicken or poultry foods.

    If you have a pet food storage container, it’s always better to put the entire pet food bag inside the container, and not pour the kibble directly into the bin. Pet food packaging is actually pretty advanced these days and does a better job at keeping the food fresh than a storage bin alone.


    4. “Made In The USA” Does Not Necessarily Mean “Made In The USA”

    Sadly, it’s nearly impossible to find a dry dog food that contains 100% of ingredients sourced from the USA. It simply means that the final product was cooked and assembled in the USA.

    This is due to the fact that China produces an overwhelming amount of the world’s vitamins in the form of premixes. These vitamins are not sourced from nature but rather created in a lab. While synthetic vitamins are sufficient to prevent most deficiencies, they do differ chemically from vitamins and minerals derived from nature and should not be a replacement for whole food sources. This is the reason so many dog owners add fresh or freeze-dried food toppers over their dog’s kibble.

    Related: The Best Dog Food Toppers


    5. Dogs Would Never Eat Kibble If It Weren’t For This Little Trick Food Manufacturers Use

    Dogs are very flexible with their diets, adapting to whatever is available. However, their sharp incisor teeth prove that a dog’s ancestral diet was meant to consist primarily of meat. If that’s the case, why do dogs gobble down kibble, which often contains less than 20% protein and more than 50% carbohydrates? Simple, manufacturers spray a flavor booster on the final product at the end of production. This flavor enhancer is usually some kind of animal fat and serves to make the product attractive to our dogs.


    6. You Cannot Trust the Recommended Feeding Amount On The Bag

    Let’s be real here: Would you trust McDonald’s recommendations on how much to eat their food? Of course not!

    Pet food manufacturers can often recommend too much food for your individual dog’s needs. Recommending too much only plays in their favor, as it leads you to buy more.

    The recommendations on the bag are an ok starting place, but remember that based on your dog’s activity level, you may need to substantially modify the suggested servings.

    Most importantly, learn to recognize a healthy weight and shape for your dog. Understanding the signs of obesity in your dog and adjusting their diet accordingly is absolutely vital to preventing obesity-related diseases such as arthritis and cancer.


    7. Meat Listed As The First Ingredient Does NOT Necessarily Mean The Food Is Good Quality

    Manufacturers love to brag with the following claim: “real meat is our first ingredient!”

    Here’s why that isn’t as big a deal as you think. The ingredient list is always listed in the order of weight, prior to processing. Whole meat, such as chicken breast, contains roughly 70% water, which means that after the ingredient is cooked in the kibble manufacturing process, it often represents a tiny amount of the total protein, as low as 5%.

    Odds are, the ‘meat meal’ listed later on in the list of ingredients represents more total protein than the first ingredient! Strange, but true.


    5 Inexpensive Tips For Boosting The Nutrition Of Your Dog’s Kibble

    RELATED: The Complete Dog Food Guide: Nutrition, Ingredients, Feeding & How to Choose

    We understand why dry dog food exists; it’s inexpensive and very convenient! Kibble still plays a partial role in my dog’s diet for these reasons, but I seek to follow these guidelines as well:

    1. Rotate Your Kibble – Dog food companies don’t like this suggestion. They want you all to themselves! But just like you rotate the foods and restaurants you eat from, your dog needs variety as well.

      Freeze-dried food toppers have become a popular way to supplement a dog’s kibble.

    2. Add in fresh fruits and vegetables: While not absolutely essential for dogs, fresh fruits and vegetables contain valuable vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals that can fight disease. Some of my favorites are green beans, carrots, and blueberries. If your dog won’t eat fruits and veggies, many pet owners have luck with a freeze-dried food topper that contains them in the formula.
    3. Add in fresh protein – Raw eggs are my absolutely favorite add-in! Simply crack an egg over your dog’s existing food (remove a bit of kibble to watch those calories), then watch your pup go crazy! Freeze-dried raw meat toppers are another great option.
    4. Rotate in some canned foods – Canned foods can be pricey, but they offer substantially more protein and hydration. They are often more palatable as well, so it’s a nice change of pace for your pup.
    5. Add in healthy fats not found in your dog’s food – Even if your dog food claims to contain Omega-3 fatty acids (which are absolutely essential for dogs), those healthy fats likely do not survive processing, and are present in extremely low amounts. Considering adding in krill oil (excellent for skin, coat, and allergies) and coconut oil (great for brain health).

    If you’re concerned about your dog’s stomach being upset by any of these changes, make sure to start slow and add in a probiotic.

    We hope these tips were helpful for you. Remember, just like us, our dogs are what they eat. They rely on us to make healthy choices for them. Let’s give them the best, they deserve it!

     

    About The Author: Justin Palmer is the co-founder of iHeartDogs.com, a DNM certified pet food nutrition expert, and dog dad to Splash, a 14-year-old rescued Siberian Husky.

     

    These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional.

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    Justin Palmer, Certified Pet Nutrition Expert

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  • After 10 Loyal Years, Sweet Dog Was Left Behind When the Family Packed Up

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    A quiet home tour turned into a life-changing moment for April Morgan and her fiancé, J.C. What began as a simple walkthrough of a property they were considering buying quickly became something neither of them could ignore. As they stepped into the backyard, expecting to evaluate the space and imagine their future there, their attention shifted to an old, weathered doghouse in the corner of the yard. Inside was a senior dog, tied up and watching them closely, as if silently hoping these strangers might be different.




    Credit: YouTube

    Sitting beside an old, weathered doghouse was a senior dog, tethered to a leash and watching them with tired, uncertain eyes.

    At first, Morgan thought there had to be some mistake. Maybe a neighbor’s dog had wandered over. Maybe someone was coming back for her. But as the reality sank in, so did the heartbreak.

    The dog had been intentionally left behind.

    In the real estate purchase agreement, the previous owners had stated they were leaving her on the property because they did not want her anymore. After 10 years together, they walked away from the dog they had raised since she was a puppy.

    Morgan was stunned.



    “Honestly, I was just in shock,” she later shared. “I was like, ‘I have to do something.’”

    The pup was older now, her muzzle slightly grayed with age. She had likely spent days confined to that small space, tied up in the yard of the only home she had ever known. No explanation. No comfort. Just silence.

    Despite it all, when Morgan approached her, the dog’s tail gave a soft wag.



    “When I first met her, I thought she was the sweetest dog ever,” Morgan said.

    There was no anger in her eyes. No fear-driven growl. Just a gentle, hopeful spirit that seemed to be asking for kindness.

    J.C. walked over and carefully unclipped the leash that had kept her restrained. The moment the tension released, the dog stepped forward hesitantly, then began to wander the yard. She sniffed the grass. She stretched her legs. It was as if she understood something had shifted.



    For the first time in who knows how long, she was free.

    A Second Chance for Molly

    Credit: YouTube

    The decision came easily. There was no debate. Morgan and J.C. knew they could not leave her behind again.

    They named her Molly.



    Bringing her into their home meant introducing her to their cats and other dogs. At first, Molly moved slowly through the house, taking in every scent and sound. She seemed cautious but curious. As the days passed, her personality began to shine.

    She discovered soft beds instead of hard dirt. Fresh water bowls instead of waiting. Gentle hands instead of isolation.

    Bath time became a spa experience. Playtime in the yard replaced lonely hours tied to a leash. She learned the rhythm of her new home and quickly embraced it.



    “[S]he’s just spoiled rotten,” Morgan said with a smile.

    And Molly soaks it all in.

    Though she loves every member of her new family, she has formed a particularly close bond with J.C. Maybe she remembers that he was the one who first knelt beside her and set her free. Maybe she simply feels safe near him.



    “She follows him around everywhere,” Morgan shared.

    Where he goes, she goes. Through the kitchen. Into the living room. Down the hallway. Her loyalty is quiet but constant.


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    For Morgan, watching Molly rest peacefully in a warm home brings a deep sense of comfort. The image of her tied up in that yard still lingers, but it is slowly being replaced by new memories. Molly stretched out on the couch. Molly is playing with her siblings. Molly drifts off to sleep without fear.

    After a decade of devotion that ended in abandonment, Molly now spends her days surrounded by affection.

    Credit: YouTube

    It means everything to Morgan to know that Molly will never feel discarded again.



    “It’s just very heartwarming to know that she’s in a safe place,” she said.

    And for Molly, that safe place is no longer a backyard she was left behind in. It is a home where she is cherished, protected, and finally treated like she has always mattered.

    Click ‘SHARE’ below to pass it on to family and friends!



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    Russel Moneva

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  • Meet Tilly, The Little Pup With A Short Spine Who Loves Life

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    Before Anna Marie Giannini ever held the tiny Tibetan Spaniel in her arms, something about the little puppy had already reached her heart. She had answered a simple online listing for free puppies, expecting a routine visit and a quick decision. Instead, she walked into a moment that would change her life. While the other puppies tumbled around with playful energy, one small fluff ball seemed set apart. She was quieter, visibly different, and described as unwanted. To Anna, that difference made her impossible to ignore.




    Credit: Instagram

    Among a litter of playful puppies, one little fluff ball sat apart, quiet and unsure. That was Tilly.

    Anna had responded to an online ad offering free puppies. She expected wagging tails and excited yips. Instead, she was met with a heartbreaking warning. One of the puppies had been born with a deformity. The family feared no one would want her. They worried euthanasia might be the only option.

    Anna barely heard the rest.

    She had already fallen in love.

    Tilly was born with short spine syndrome, a rare condition that compresses the vertebrae. It gives her the appearance of having no neck and a shortened back. To some, she looked unusual. To Anna, she looked perfect.



    When Tilly was finally placed in her arms, she was small enough to fit in one hand. Her fur was dusty and unkempt. Her body felt fragile. But her big brown eyes were steady and searching. On the drive home, she curled into Anna’s lap and stared up at her as if silently asking one question.

    Are you staying?

    Anna promised right then that Tilly would never feel unwanted again.



    A Tiny Dog With A Mighty Spirit

    Credit: Instagram

    As Tilly grew, her unique shape became more noticeable. Her back stayed short. Her neck remained stiff. But her spirit expanded in every direction.

    Despite her condition, Tilly runs, plays, and explores just like any other dog. Her body adapted beautifully. She has had no health complications related to her spine. Vets expect her to live a long, healthy life.

    At home, small accommodations make a big difference. Soft stairs help her climb onto the couch and bed. Because she cannot turn her head easily, she relies on Anna for gentle scratches and massages. These quiet moments have become part of their daily rhythm.



    Tilly closes her eyes during those massages. Her small body relaxes completely. It is clear she feels safe.

    She sleeps tucked under the blankets like a person, her head resting on a pillow. She insists on being close at all times. When Anna cooks, Tilly stands between her legs. When homework is spread across the table, Tilly presses her paws against her side. About once every hour, she trots over for a quick round of kisses before returning to her spot.

    It is her way of checking in.



    Out on walks, Tilly draws attention. Strangers stop and stare, sometimes curious, sometimes confused. Other dogs approach her gently, as if sensing she is different. Tilly does not seem to notice. She greets dogs of every size with fearless excitement. In her mind, she is capable of anything.


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    And in many ways, she is.



    Anna often reflects on how much Tilly has changed her life. Adopting a puppy who others overlooked brought unexpected lessons. Patience. Gratitude. Perspective.

    Credit: Instagram

    There was once uncertainty about how much time they would have together. That unknown made every ordinary day feel precious. Each cuddle, each playful bark, each sleepy sigh under the blankets carries weight.

    Tilly does not see herself as special. She simply lives.



    But through her quiet resilience, she proves something powerful. Being different does not make you less. Sometimes it makes you extraordinary.

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  • Poor Dog Was Freezing On A Dumpster Couch Until Someone Finally Noticed Her

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    On a bitterly cold Mississippi evening, while most people were settling in under warm blankets, a small stray dog was fighting to endure the night alone. Curled tightly on a torn couch abandoned beside a dumpster, she tried to shield herself from the biting wind that cut through the darkness. The worn cushions offered little protection from the freezing air. Her thin body trembled without pause, and her wide, uncertain eyes scanned the empty lot around her, as if silently hoping someone would finally see her and care.




    Credit: Instagram

    That someone turned out to be Lisa Reams.

    Safe in her warm bed, the local rescuer received a message that would change everything. A concerned neighbor had spotted a stray dog shivering alone on the discarded couch and sent a photo. The image was heartbreaking. The pup’s thin frame was hunched against the cold. Her eyes looked tired, yet quietly hopeful.

    Lisa did not hesitate. She slipped out of bed, pulled on her shoes, and drove into the night in her pajamas.

    “My heart broke because I knew how cold it was outside,” Reams shared. “I wasn’t going to rest until I had her safe and warm.”

    When she arrived, the scene was even more painful in person. The couch was torn and sagging. Trash bins towered nearby. The air was sharp with winter chill. And there, on the worn cushions, was the dog.



    The moment their eyes met, something shifted.

    The pup slowly lifted her head. Despite shaking uncontrollably, she wagged her tail. It was a small gesture, but it spoke volumes. She wanted to trust. She wanted comfort. She was ready to be saved.

    Lisa approached gently, speaking in a soft voice. The dog, later named Cammi, did not pull away. Instead, she leaned in. Her body trembled from the cold, but she allowed Lisa to wrap a leash around her collar. Within moments, Cammi climbed down from the couch and followed her rescuer to the truck as if she had been waiting for this invitation all along.



    Credit: Instagram

    Inside the vehicle, warmth surrounded her. A thick blanket covered the back seat. The seat warmers were already on. Cammi curled into the fabric and pressed her small body against it. For the first time that night, she stopped shaking.

    “She was so relaxed and slept all the way home,” Reams said.

    It was as if she finally felt safe enough to rest.



    A New Chapter for Cammi

    At just one and a half years old, Cammi quickly began adjusting to a life she may have never known before. No more dumpsters. No more cold nights. No more waiting alone.

    “She is adapting brilliantly to the good life,” said Rachel Larkin, director of social media for NYC Second Chance Rescue. “She loves to sun herself, run around outside and melt into any affection she is shown.”


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    In her foster environment, Cammi’s personality has blossomed. She stretches out in sunny spots by the window. She bounds happily across the yard. Most of all, she leans into every gentle touch, soaking up the love she had once been missing.

    The frightened dog who once trembled on a broken couch now sleeps peacefully indoors. Her eyes are brighter. Her tail wags freely. The fear that once defined her has been replaced with trust.

    Credit: Instagram

    Soon, Cammi will make the trip to New York, where she will be available for adoption through NYC Second Chance Rescue. Her rescuers are hopeful that the next chapter of her life will include a forever family of her own.



    And even if she has to wait a little longer, she will never again face the cold alone. A foster home stands ready to guide her forward, ensuring her journey remains filled with warmth and care.

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    Russel Moneva

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  • How Your Dog’s or Cat’s Tissues and Organs Deteriorate with Age | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    As our furry companions grow older, their bodies go through natural changes. Understanding how aging affects dogs and cats can help you provide better care during their senior years.

    How Aging Affects Tissues and Organs

    Just like in people, aging causes gradual wear and tear on your animal’s body. Over time, several important changes happen:

    Joint cartilage breaks down. The cushioning material between bones becomes thinner and less effective. Joint fluid also decreases, which means less shock absorption during movement. This leads to arthritis, causing pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving around.

    Cells don’t repair themselves as quickly. Young, healthy cells constantly replace damaged ones. As dogs and cats age, this repair process slows down. Tissues throughout the body—including organs, muscles, and skin—gradually lose their ability to bounce back from daily stress.

    Inflammation increases. Older bodies tend to have more inflammation, which speeds up tissue damage. This creates a cycle where inflammation causes damage, and that damage causes more inflammation.

    Organs work less efficiently. The heart, kidneys, liver, and other organs slowly lose function over time. This happens because cells die and aren’t replaced as effectively as before.

    Conventional Options to Combat Aging-Related Issues

    Your veterinarian can offer several proven approaches:

    • Pain medications like NSAIDs help manage arthritis discomfort and reduce inflammation
    • Regular monitoring through blood work and check-ups catches problems early
    • Prescription medications target specific age-related conditions
    • Some injectable treatments can provide longer-lasting pain relief for arthritis
    • Surgery may help when specific problems like joint disease become severe

    Alternative and Natural Approaches

    When it comes to age-related organ deterioration, there isn’t really a solution that can reverse or completely stop the aging process. However, there are several supportive approaches that may help maintain your pet’s quality of life and support their organ function:

    Nutritional Support:

    Diet and supplements play a huge role. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate support joint health. Omega-3 fatty acids fight inflammation throughout the body. Always discuss supplements with your veterinarian before starting them.A balanced, high-quality diet is essential for senior pets. Proper nutrition helps support overall health and can be especially important for aging organs. Some senior pets may benefit from specific dietary changes or supplements, but this should always be discussed with your veterinarian first. Over-supplementing can sometimes cause more harm than good.

    Depending on which organs are affected, your veterinarian might recommend certain supplements. For example:

    • Omega-3 fatty acids (from fish oil) have good research support for helping with inflammation
    • Probiotics can support digestive and immune health
    • Specific vitamins or minerals may help, but only under veterinary guidance

    Weight Management:

    Weight management is critical. Extra pounds put more stress on aging joints and organs. Fat cells also create inflammatory substances that speed up tissue damage. Keeping your pet at a healthy weight reduces stress on their organs and joints, which can help them feel better overall.

    While these supportive measures may help maintain quality of life, they aren’t cures. The specific approach depends entirely on which organs are affected and how severely.

    Exercise:

    Low-impact exercise keeps muscles strong and joints mobile without causing additional wear. Swimming and gentle leash walks are excellent choices.

    Rehabilitation:

    Physical rehabilitation including acupuncture, underwater treadmills, and therapeutic exercises can significantly improve quality of life.

    Environmental modification:

    Environmental modifications help too. Non-slip rugs prevent falls, and ramps reduce stress on aging joints.

    The Bottom Line

    While we cannot stop aging, we can slow tissue deterioration and keep our dogs and cats comfortable. The key is starting early—before severe damage occurs—and using multiple approaches together. Severe organ damage calls for organ transplant. Regular veterinary visits remain essential for catching problems early and adjusting treatment plans. Always consult your veterinarian to develop the best personalized care plan for your aging companion’s specific needs.

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    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

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  • The Practice of Presence: A Farewell to Londolozi – Londolozi Blog

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    They say it takes 10,000 hours to master something. I spent four years at Londolozi learning that mastery in the bush isn’t about hours or knowledge—it’s about presence. About being so completely where you are, that time both stops and rushes forward.

    Four years. Two roles. One lesson: the art of being fully present.

    But perhaps more remarkably, I learned that childhood dreams don’t have to fade if you’re present enough to recognise the door when it opens.

    In a world where everyone says “life got in the way” of their childhood dreams, I got the chance to say yes. Twice.

    I arrived at Londolozi as a camp manager. The seven-year-old inside me who’d dreamed of being a game ranger was still there, tucked away quietly, but I’d learned to be practical. This was close enough. Working in the bush, even if not in the way I’d imagined.

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    My original work wife! Having worked together with Dom Johnston in Varty Camp will certainly be one of the greatest highlights from my time as a Camp Manager.

    What I didn’t expect was how deeply I would fall in love with hospitality. Being present not for animals, but for people.

    As a camp manager, presence meant everything. Reading a room like I would later learn to read the bush. Anticipating needs before they were spoken. Holding space for other people’s joy, quiet griefs and lifetime memories.

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    A magical evening around the fire in Varty Camp Boma with a wonderful performance by the Choir.

    I learned that creating space for others’ experiences is sacred work. That sometimes the greatest gift is simply being fully, completely there. Every moment was preparing me for what came next, teaching me that presence is a practice. One that would serve me whether I was hosting guests or tracking leopards.

    And then Londolozi opened a second door.

    An opportunity. A feeling inside of me.

    I could train as a ranger.

    The seven-year-old inside me was nervous, not in fear, but in recognition. This. This was what I had always known.

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    In a world where people tell you that childhood dreams are called childhood dreams for a reason, that practical adults make practical choices, that life gets in the way, here was Londolozi offering something rare: the chance to honour my seven-year-old self. To prove that sometimes, life doesn’t get in the way. Sometimes life shows you the way.

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    Head Ranger James Souchon and I, together on an afternoon drive drinks break with the new trainees.

    The training was a brutal learning curve. People dropped out. I stayed, not because I was the strongest, but because that inner seven-year-old wouldn’t let me quit.

    But staying and succeeding are different things. This process broke me in ways I hadn’t anticipated. I’d removed myself from an established role that I knew I loved and that I was growing in. I threw myself into the unknown. Yes, I could follow my childhood dream—but at what cost? I’d lost all my confidence. I felt disconnected. I had made regrettable mistakes that made me question who I was. I had lost myself in the doubt that whispered I wasn’t good enough to join the team of incredible guides that Londolozi has. And often questioned, “Was I in too deep?

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    What a privilege it has been to track, find, spend time with and learn more about my favourite animals. The Leopards of Londolozi will certainly stay with me forever. Photo by James Tyrell.

    The gruelling training period (even after I had qualified) forced me to confront these questions daily. But it was the mentorship, the effort poured into us, that changed everything. It forced me to reflect on who I was fundamentally. And what I discovered was a family that cares more about the development of their people than the individual roles. A place that asks you to be unapologetically yourself, not a copy of anyone else, not fitting into some predetermined idea of what a ranger “should” be.

    Once I realised that, once I understood that being myself was not just enough, but exactly what was needed. Something inside of me clicked. Things started to feel right. All those hours as a camp manager, reading people, creating space, being of service, suddenly made perfect sense. I wasn’t abandoning what I’d learned; I was building on it. Still in service, just in a different vehicle.

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    A sighting I will never forget as the Maxim’s Male graced us with his presence and was probably the most relaxed I ever saw this elusive male. Photo by James Tyrell.

    Guiding taught me a different language of presence.

    Silence during the golden hour, trusting the land to speak. Knowing when to track and when to sit still. When to explain and when to simply point.

    My tracker, Geshom, has become one of my greatest teachers and my brother for life. Hundreds of hours together in focused silence that said more than words. We learnt to understand one another without the use of words. He taught me that presence isn’t just about being there, it’s about being so attuned that you and the moment become inseparable.

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    My brother for Life. Gesh, what a special man you are. I love you, Malume!

    Through this, I’ve learned to read the bush the way I’d learned to read people. Both roles teaching me the same thing: radical attention.

    There was one moment during my guiding career where every thread of what led me to Londolozi in the first place proved that I was exactly where I needed to be.

    By complete chance, Gesh and I were allocated to drive a particular guest who had a significance that was unmatched.

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    Arguably my favourite Leopard to view on Londolozi, the Nkoveni Female. She certainly was the leopard I had the privilege of viewing the most during my time here. 

    When I was sixteen, I had to write a report on a book of my choice. I chose “My Life with Leopards’’, a book set entirely at Londolozi during the early days, written by an author who had never actually visited. She’d crafted an entire world from a guide’s stories, imagining the magic of Londolozi and the leopards that graced the land.

    That book was my first real introduction to Londolozi. It planted something in me. A seed of longing, a sense of recognition I couldn’t explain.

    Later, I’d come across Londolozi’s marketing materials, and something would resonate deeply. The way they spoke about the bush matched exactly how I felt about it. An innate connection to the wild. Friends would later join the Londolozi family, leaving breadcrumbs. By the time I graduated from university, every sign pointed here. It felt like coming home to a place I’d never been.

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    And then, a year into my guiding career, there was that author’s name on the allocation board.

    Her first visit to Londolozi. Her first time seeing the places she’d brought to life through pure imagination. As we drove out that afternoon, I could barely form words. How do you tell someone they shaped your life without knowing it?

    In that moment, every invisible thread became clear. My very own “Full Circle” moment.

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    The Shingi Male as a cub, curiously investigating our vehicle.

    The sixteen-year-old was absorbing every word. The marketing materials that spoke to my soul. The friends who came before me. The camp manager learning presence through service. The ranger learning presence through the wild. The guest, seeing her imagined world made real. All of it woven together in that single afternoon.

    I knew in all the chaos of life, in all the choices and chances, I had made the right decision. I was exactly where I needed to be. Present. Finally, completely, utterly present. The threads had been woven long before I knew I was holding them. I just had to show up fully enough to see them catch the light.

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    The animals of the land became further teachers in the journey of practising presence.

    How to wait without anxiety, how to trust that what needs to reveal itself will, in its own time. That you can’t force magic, only be present enough to receive it. That presence doesn’t mean intrusion. That sometimes the most present thing you can do is give space, honour distance, witness without interfering. They showed me that family is everything. That strength is both fierce and tender. That we survive together or not at all. How every moment should be lived fully because there might not be another. How presence is also about pure joy. And the land itself that held me in cathedral silence, the rivers that taught me about flow, the sunrises proving that every day is a new beginning if we’re present enough to receive it.

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    One of my favourite shots that I managed to capture of the Ntomi Male when he was newly independent.

    To the guests who trusted me with their experience of the wild, you taught me as much as I could ever teach you. To those who returned year after year, showing me that Londolozi becomes part of who you are. To those who sat in silent awe, teaching me that sometimes the greatest gift is simply witnessing.

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    Moments with special people that I will cherish forever. Photo by Connor Death (Guest).

    To Gesh – my partner in presence, my teacher in the language without words. Hundreds of hours together and I still learn from you every drive. You made me a better ranger and a better man.

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    It has been the greatest privilege to be able to work alongside this incredible team of guides and trackers. I would not be the guide that I am today without all of you.

    To the staff who became family, who understood that magic lives in the details of our daily actions but also in the bond of community. Thank you for teaching me that presence shows up in every small act of care. It is a privilege to call you family.

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    To my fellow rangers and trackers who stand alongside me as custodians of this land, facilitating a sacred connection between our guests and the wild—making Londolozi feel like a homecoming for those who arrive as strangers and leave as family. This journey would not have been possible without learning from people who share this same deep reverence for the bush and for understanding what it means to hold this responsibility together.

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    To the Varty Family, Duncan MacLarty, James Souchon and Londolozi’s senior management team, thank you for providing a young and inexperienced 22-year-old an opportunity to be a part of something bigger than myself. Thank you for seeing the potential of someone who believed wholeheartedly in what Londolozi is and for providing a space for me to figure out and to grow into the best version of myself. Thank you for allowing me to be unapologetically ‘Reece’.

    To everyone who has been part of this journey, you were all my teachers in the practice of presence.

    In a world where everyone says “life got in the way” of their childhood dreams, I received something rare: the chance to say yes twice. First, to discover I loved hospitality – the art of holding space for others’ joy, of being in service to moments that matter. Then, to honour the seven-year-old who’d dreamed of being a game ranger.

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    The team (from left to right): Rangers Robyn, Nick, Kelsey, Meg & Reece. (Matt and Tayla absent)

    But the rarest gift was learning that both roles taught me the same lesson: presence. That magic happens when you’re completely and utterly here.

    So when you come to Londolozi, or wherever your own dreams take you, I urge you:

    Don’t wait for life to get in the way. Don’t let the seven-year-old inside you fade. Be present. Show up fully. Say yes to the doors that open, even if they’re not what you expected. Especially then. Just be where your feet are.

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    Allow your environment to speak to you in languages you never thought you’d understand. Honour your inner child by being fully alive in the moment you’re in. And maybe you’ll discover what I did: that childhood dreams and grown-up wisdom aren’t opposites, they’re partners. That a book read at sixteen can lead you home years later. That the threads are woven long before we know we’re holding them.

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    During my time at Londolozi, I was fortunate to grow my love for wildlife photography and it is something that I will be able to continue to enjoy for the rest of my life.

    Londolozi gave me that gift. The chance to serve and the chance to guide. The chance to grow up without losing the seven-year-old who knew, even then, where I could make a difference.

    When that book calls to your sixteen-year-old self, when those signs point toward something that feels like home, when that door opens, say yes. The threads are already woven. You just have to be present enough to see them clearly.

    Thank you for being part of this journey.

    It’s not goodbye, its until next time.

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    Best place in the world to watch the sun go down.

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  • 500 Mythology Inspired Dog Names

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    One thing I always struggle with when getting a new pet is coming up with the perfect name. You want one that sounds good, fits their personality, and one the whole family can agree on.

    But with so many options it’s hard to know where to even begin — so to help you out I put together big name lists for inspiration. And today’s theme is mythology. So if you’re looking for a mythology inspired name for your new dog you’ve come to the right place. Here’s 500 mythology inspired dog names to choose from.

    Greek Mythology

    1. Zeus
    2. Poseidon
    3. Hades
    4. Hera
    5. Demeter
    6. Hestia
    7. Athena
    8. Apollo
    9. Artemis
    10. Ares
    11. Aphrodite
    12. Hermes
    13. Hephaestus
    14. Dionysus
    15. Persephone
    16. Heracles (Hercules)
    17. Achilles
    18. Odysseus
    19. Perseus
    20. Theseus
    21. Jason
    22. Orpheus
    23. Bellerophon
    24. Atalanta
    25. Ajax
    26. Hector
    27. Paris
    28. Agamemnon
    29. Menelaus
    30. Patroclus
    31. Cronus
    32. Rhea
    33. Uranus
    34. Gaia
    35. Atlas
    36. Prometheus
    37. Epimetheus
    38. Pandora
    39. Nyx
    40. Erebus
    41. Chaos
    42. Tartarus
    43. Hypnos
    44. Thanatos
    45. Morpheus
    46. Leto
    47. Iris
    48. Hebe
    49. Eileithyia
    50. Asclepius
    51. Pan
    52. Echo
    53. Narcissus
    54. Medusa
    55. Circe
    56. Calypso
    57. Scylla
    58. Charybdis
    59. Cyclops
    60. Minotaur
    61. Cerberus
    62. Chimera
    63. Hydra
    64. Pegasus
    65. Arachne
    66. Daedalus
    67. Icarus
    68. Midas
    69. Tantalus
    70. Sisyphus
    71. Niobe
    72. Andromeda
    73. Cassiopeia
    74. Europa
    75. Ganymede
    76. Psyche
    77. Eros
    78. Hecate
    79. Nemesis
    80. Tyche
    81. Adonis
    82. Priapus
    83. Triton
    84. Nereus
    85. Thetis
    86. Amphitrite
    87. Proteus
    88. Oceanus
    89. Tethys
    90. Coeus
    91. Phoebe
    92. Hyperion
    93. Theia
    94. Crius
    95. Mnemosyne
    96. Themis
    97. Metis
    98. Dione
    99. Selene
    100. Eos

    Norse Mythology

    1. Odin
    2. Thor
    3. Loki
    4. Frigg
    5. Freyja
    6. Freyr
    7. Tyr
    8. Baldr
    9. Heimdall
    10. Njord
    11. Skadi
    12. Idun
    13. Bragi
    14. Sif
    15. Forseti
    16. Ullr
    17. Vidar
    18. Vali
    19. Hodr
    20. Hel
    21. Fenrir
    22. Jormungandr
    23. Sleipnir
    24. Garm
    25. Surtr
    26. Ymir
    27. Audhumla
    28. Bergelmir
    29. Thrym
    30. Hymir
    31. Aegir
    32. Ran
    33. Norns
    34. Valkyries
    35. Sigurd
    36. Brynhild
    37. Fafnir
    38. Andvari
    39. Volund
    40. Wayland
    41. Ask
    42. Embla
    43. Bor
    44. Bestla
    45. Vili
    46. Ve
    47. Jord
    48. Fulla
    49. Gefjon
    50. Eir
    51. Sjofn
    52. Lofn
    53. Var
    54. Vor
    55. Syn
    56. Lin
    57. Hlin
    58. Gna
    59. Sol
    60. Mani
    61. Alvis
    62. Dvalin
    63. Durin
    64. Mimir
    65. Kvasir
    66. Hreidmar
    67. Regin
    68. Hugin
    69. Munin
    70. Geri
    71. Freki
    72. Gullveig
    73. Angrboda
    74. Sigyn
    75. Glut
    76. Eisa
    77. Einmyria
    78. Logi
    79. Muspel
    80. Niflheim
    81. Midgard
    82. Asgard
    83. Vanaheim
    84. Alfheim
    85. Svartalfheim
    86. Jotunheim
    87. Nidavellir
    88. Bifrost
    89. Yggdrasil
    90. Ratatosk
    91. Nidhogg
    92. Veðrfölnir
    93. Hræsvelgr
    94. Skoll
    95. Hati
    96. Gulltopp
    97. Tanngrisnir
    98. Tanngnjóstr
    99. Huginn
    100. Muninn

    Egyptian Mythology

    1. Ra
    2. Amun
    3. Osiris
    4. Isis
    5. Horus
    6. Set
    7. Anubis
    8. Thoth
    9. Hathor
    10. Bastet
    11. Ptah
    12. Sobek
    13. Sekhmet
    14. Mut
    15. Khonsu
    16. Atum
    17. Shu
    18. Tefnut
    19. Geb
    20. Nut
    21. Nephthys
    22. Ma’at
    23. Ammit
    24. Apophis
    25. Bes
    26. Taweret
    27. Hapi
    28. Khnum
    29. Neith
    30. Selket
    31. Serqet
    32. Wadjet
    33. Nekhbet
    34. Khepri
    35. Montu
    36. Min
    37. Resheph
    38. Anat
    39. Astarte
    40. Sia
    41. Hu
    42. Heqet
    43. Meskhenet
    44. Renenutet
    45. Shai
    46. Nefertum
    47. Imhotep
    48. Amenhotep
    49. Isis
    50. Osiris
    51. Horus
    52. Harpocrates
    53. Duamutef
    54. Hapi
    55. Imsety
    56. Qebehsenuef
    57. Aker
    58. Amunet
    59. Kuk
    60. Kauket
    61. Nun
    62. Naunet
    63. Heh
    64. Hauhet
    65. Amun-Ra
    66. Aten
    67. Serket
    68. Pakhet
    69. Menhit
    70. Nebtet
    71. Satet
    72. Anuket
    73. Arensnuphis
    74. Dedun
    75. Mandulis
    76. Mehen
    77. Meretseger
    78. Nehebkau
    79. Neper
    80. Qetesh
    81. Sah
    82. Sopdu
    83. Wepwawet
    84. Bat
    85. Mehet-Weret
    86. Mafdet
    87. Shezmu
    88. Sia
    89. Hu
    90. Heqet
    91. Ihy
    92. Nefertem
    93. Shed
    94. Sothis
    95. Sopdet
    96. Tatenen
    97. Weneg
    98. Werethekau
    99. Yam
    100. Ahti

    Hindu Mythology

    1. Brahma
    2. Vishnu
    3. Shiva
    4. Lakshmi
    5. Parvati
    6. Saraswati
    7. Ganesha
    8. Kartikeya
    9. Durga
    10. Kali
    11. Krishna
    12. Rama
    13. Hanuman
    14. Indra
    15. Agni
    16. Varuna
    17. Surya
    18. Chandra
    19. Yama
    20. Vayu
    21. Kubera
    22. Nairriti
    23. Ishana
    24. Aditi
    25. Diti
    26. Danu
    27. Kashyapa
    28. Garuda
    29. Shesha
    30. Vasuki
    31. Takshaka
    32. Arjuna
    33. Bhima
    34. Yudhishthira
    35. Nakula
    36. Sahadeva
    37. Draupadi
    38. Karna
    39. Duryodhana
    40. Bhishma
    41. Drona
    42. Ashwatthama
    43. Ravana
    44. Kumbhakarna
    45. Vibhishana
    46. Vali
    47. Sugriva
    48. Jatayu
    49. Angada
    50. Nandi
    51. Airavata
    52. Kamadhenu
    53. Uchchaihshravas
    54. Kalki
    55. Narasimha
    56. Varaha
    57. Vamana
    58. Parashurama
    59. Matsya
    60. Kurma
    61. Hayagriva
    62. Mohini
    63. Ayyappan
    64. Shitala
    65. Santoshi
    66. Annapurna
    67. Radha
    68. Rukmini
    69. Sita
    70. Mandodari
    71. Kaikeyi
    72. Kunti
    73. Gandhari
    74. Shakuni
    75. Hiranyakashipu
    76. Hiranyaksha
    77. Mahishasura
    78. Andhaka
    79. Banasura
    80. Narakasura
    81. Madhu
    82. Kaitabha
    83. Shumbha
    84. Nishumbha
    85. Chanda
    86. Munda
    87. Raktabija
    88. Daksha
    89. Sati
    90. Veerabhadra
    91. Narada
    92. Vishwamitra
    93. Valmiki
    94. Vyasa
    95. Markandeya
    96. Agastya
    97. Vishwakarma
    98. Tvashtr
    99. Savitr
    100. Pushan

    Chinese & Japanese Mythology

    1. Yuhuang
    2. Pangu
    3. Nuwa
    4. Fuxi
    5. Guan Yu
    6. Chang’e
    7. Hou Yi
    8. Sun Wukong
    9. Zhu Bajie
    10. Sha Wujing
    11. Guanyin
    12. Caishen
    13. Mazu
    14. Nezha
    15. Erlang Shen
    16. Lei Gong
    17. Dian Mu
    18. Longwang
    19. Ao Guang
    20. Zhong Kui
    21. Zhong
    22. Yanluo Wang
    23. Meng Po
    24. Qilin
    25. Fenghuang
    26. Xuanwu
    27. Qinglong
    28. Zhuque
    29. Baihu
    30. Amaterasu
    31. Susanoo
    32. Tsukuyomi
    33. Izanagi
    34. Izanami
    35. Inari
    36. Raijin
    37. Fujin
    38. Hachiman
    39. Benzaiten
    40. Ebisu
    41. Daikokuten
    42. Bishamon
    43. Fukurokuju
    44. Jurojin
    45. Kichijoten
    46. Kappa
    47. Tengu
    48. Yuki-onna
    49. Kitsune
    50. Tanuki
    51. Oni
    52. Jorogumo
    53. Rokurokubi
    54. Kuchisake-onna
    55. Yamauba
    56. Nure-onna
    57. Akaname
    58. Zashiki-warashi
    59. Kodama
    60. Kirin
    61. Nue
    62. Baku
    63. Shuten-doji
    64. Momotaro
    65. Urashima Taro
    66. Kintaro
    67. Issun-boshi
    68. Kaguya-hime
    69. Okuninushi
    70. Ninigi
    71. Jimmu
    72. Toyotama-hime
    73. Hoori
    74. Watatsumi
    75. Ryujin
    76. Otohime
    77. Sarutahiko
    78. Ame-no-Uzume
    79. Takemikazuchi
    80. Futsunushi
    81. Omoikane
    82. Tajikarao
    83. Sukunabikona
    84. Konjin
    85. Dosojin
    86. Jizo
    87. Ksitigarbha
    88. Yama-no-Kami
    89. Yamauba
    90. Lü Dongbin
    91. Li Tieguai
    92. He Xiangu
    93. Han Xiangzi
    94. Cao Guojiu
    95. Lan Caihe
    96. Di Jun
    97. Ku
    98. Houtu
    99. Ao Shun
    100. Nüying

    Looking for even more dog name ideas? Be sure to check out the following:

    500 Cute Puppy Names
    500 Historical Dog Names
    300 Badass Dog Names
    500 Old Fashioned Dog Names
    500 Unique Dog Names

    500 Mythology Inspired Dog Names

    Please share with your friends 🙂

    Recommended Reading:

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  • Ask Dr. Paola- Help! My Dog’s Won’t Stop Barking! (February 23, 2026)

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    Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their dog’s health and well-being.

    Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned dog lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Stay tuned for expert guidance on a range of topics that matter most to you and your dog, so you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your canine companion. ‎Have‎ a ‎question? Send it in here! divider single dog paw oct 2024

    Help! I Want to Change My Puppy’s Dog Food!

    “Cher is a 9-month-old female Shih Tzu puppy. She is presently eating Royal Canin puppy food wet and dry. I am considering transitioning her to Diamond Natural small-breed adult dry food. My thought is that the Diamond Natural brand is less expensive and seems to have similar ingredients. I am asking for your advice on this Diamond Naturals brand vs Royal Canin. Thank you in advance for your advice.  – Alan

    Hi Alan.

    That is an important and very fair question, because many pet parents wonder whether the difference between brands reflects science or simply marketing power. Larger companies like Royal Canin invest in feeding trials, employ veterinary nutrition professionals, and evaluate how dogs perform on their diets over time rather than relying only on calculated nutrient profiles. That level of testing and quality control requires significant financial resources, which is why it is more common among large manufacturers. At the same time, it is important to recognize that much of the research in the pet food industry is company-funded, so while it provides useful information about safety, digestibility, and performance, it is not the same as independent clinical research.

    Smaller or mid-size brands, including Diamond Naturals, typically formulate diets to meet established nutrient standards using laboratory analysis and formulation software. This approach is acceptable and meets regulatory requirements, and many dogs maintain good health on these foods. A helpful way to explain this to pet parents is to think of two medications that meet safety standards. One has more internal testing behind it, while the other is developed to meet the required specifications with less in-house clinical evaluation. Both can work, and neither approach automatically guarantees superior long-term health outcomes for every dog.

    From a broader nutritional perspective, it is also helpful to step back and see the bigger picture. Both Royal Canin and Diamond Naturals are extruded kibble, or canned wet food, meaning they are highly processed and rely on synthetic nutrients to replace what is lost during manufacturing. If the goal is to move beyond comparing brands within the same processing category, a meaningful improvement in nutritional quality comes from reducing processing altogether. Complete and balanced, gently cooked, fresh diets provide nutrients in a more natural and bioavailable form, more like whole meals than packaged cereal, and commercially prepared options make this approach practical while avoiding the nutritional imbalances that often occur with home-cooked recipes. Ultimately, the most important measure of any diet is the dog’s overall health, body condition, digestion, and long-term well-being.

    Regards,

    Dr. Paola

    If you want real time answers to your questions, you can talk to one of our veterinarians online. Click on the image or button below:


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    divider dog paws 3 oct 2024

    Help! Can Food Affect Behavior?

    “Can dog foods affect a dog’s hormones? I have an 8-year-old lab mix who has become more testy, and his penis will elongate, and he wants to hump objects. Chief has been neutered for over 7 years. The only change to his diet is that I have started adding some wet dog food to his diet for variety. Could that be influencing his behavior? He is one of 3 dogs who have all been around for 6 years. His behavior is creating a tense environment for all. – Sophia

    Dear ​​Sophia,

    I understand how stressful this change can feel in a previously stable household. In most cases, commercial dog foods, including wet foods, do not contain hormones and are not known to influence reproductive hormone levels or trigger sexual behavior. The bulbus glandis, the normal swelling at the base of the penis, can enlarge with arousal, excitement, anxiety, or even social tension, and this can happen in neutered males because the behavior is not driven solely by testosterone. Mounting in neutered dogs is often a communication behavior rather than a sexual one, much like a person pacing or fidgeting when emotionally overstimulated.

    When a neutered adult suddenly becomes more testy or begins mounting, the most common causes are increased stress, changes in social dynamics, pain, medical discomfort, cognitive aging, or increased arousal levels, rather than diet. Even small environmental shifts, subtle tension between dogs, changes in routine, or underlying medical issues such as urinary discomfort, skin irritation, or endocrine disease like hypothyroidism can lower a dog’s emotional threshold. At eight years old, it is also wise to consider a medical evaluation, since behavior changes in mature dogs often have a physical component. The new wet food is unlikely to affect hormones, but if the addition increases calorie intake or palatability, it could contribute to higher energy or arousal in some individuals.

    Because the behavior is creating tension in the group, early intervention is important. Managing arousal through increased mental enrichment, structured exercise, and calmly interrupting mounting before escalation can help, but a veterinary exam should be the first step to rule out medical causes. Think of this situation less as a hormonal surge and more as your dog’s emotional pressure valve opening, and the goal is to identify what is increasing that internal pressure so the household can return to a calm, balanced state. Good luck!

    Dr. Paola

    divider dog paws 2 oct 2024

    Help! I Dogs Won’t Stop Barking!

    “I have 2 Hanesse. Benthic and Shelby. We just moved into an apartment, and both dogs are barking all the time. What barking device would work for both dogs? They are 9 years old. – Susan

    Hi Susan,

    When barking increases after a move, the behavior is usually driven by stress and uncertainty rather than disobedience. Your dogs are adjusting to a new environment filled with unfamiliar sounds, neighbors, and changes in routine, so they are reacting like sensitive alarm systems that have not yet learned what is normal. At nine years old, major changes can feel especially overwhelming, so the most effective approach is to help them feel secure and lower their overall stress level, rather than focusing only on stopping the noise.

    A very helpful foundation in this situation is a calming pheromone diffuser, such as Adaptil Calm Home Diffuser. These release a synthetic version of the natural calming pheromone produced by mother dogs and can reduce stress-related behaviors, including excessive barking. Think of it as turning down the volume on their emotional alarm system so everyday apartment sounds feel less threatening. Most homes notice improvement within one to two weeks. This works best alongside predictable routines, daily exercise, enrichment, and background noise like a fan or white noise to soften hallway or neighbor sounds.

    Before choosing a barking device, it is important to know that many tools, especially shock or harsh automatic ultrasonic systems, can increase anxiety and make barking worse over time, particularly in sensitive or older dogs. If you want a device, the safest options are humane handheld or collar-based ultrasonic or vibration trainers that interrupt the barking without pain. These work best when the barking is triggered by specific events rather than constant anxiety. Timing is essential. The interrupter should be used right as the barking begins, and the moment your dogs pause, calmly reward the quiet so they learn that calm behavior is what earns attention. Automatic room devices are often unreliable in apartments because walls, echoes, and multiple dogs can trigger them unpredictably. It helps to think of these tools as a brief pause button, not a solution, while the real progress comes from reducing triggers, building enrichment, and teaching that quiet brings good things. I hope this helps.

    Dr. Paola

    This article is a part of our weekly Ask Dr. Paola series

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Dr. Paola Cuevas

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  • Top 17 Dog Food Brands With No Recalls

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    iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

    Choosing dog food from brands with no recalls can give pet owners greater confidence in safety, quality control, and ingredient sourcing. Many dog owners prioritize brands with strong manufacturing standards and consistent testing to reduce the risk of contamination or nutritional issues. Dog food brands with no recalls often stand out for transparency, reliable sourcing, and careful production practices. Selecting from trusted options helps support long-term health and peace of mind at every meal.

    Dog Food Brands With No History of Recalls

    The following dog food brands have never had a recall, so dog parents can feel at ease knowing these recipes follow strict safety standards.

    1. OllieOllie fresh dog food

    Fresh dog food is becoming increasingly popular with pet parents who want to know exactly what they’re feeding their dogs. Not just the ingredients that go into it, but also the nutritional content and the calories their dog is getting per meal.

    Ollie is a recall-free, fresh dog food company. Their recipes are formulated by veterinary nutritionists to ensure that every meal is complete and every ingredient is human-grade. Feeding your dog Ollie is like feeding them a meal you would make for yourself, but balanced to fill your dog’s unique nutritional needs. Every recipe from Ollie meets AAFCO standards. Every recipe has a complete list of ingredients and nutritional content, so you know exactly what your dog is getting in each bowl.

    Ollie’s food is packed with high-quality, responsibly sourced protein and supplemented with fruit, veggies, and superfoods to round out your dog’s diet. For dogs with allergies, Ollie offers recipes free from any of the common allergens that irritate dogs.

    For added benefit, this company ships your dog’s food right to your door. The meals are pre-portioned into servings for your pup, so all you need to do is open the package and serve. Ollie is customized for your dog’s specific needs, so it’s great for dogs of any age, from the smallest puppy to the oldest senior!

    Interested in fresh dog food? See all the benefits and compare The Best Fresh Dog Food Brands.


    2. Jinx

    Jinx is a premium kibble brand that uses natural ingredients like real animal protein, superfoods, and probiotics, avoiding fillers like preservatives and artificial ingredients. Real meat is always listed as the first ingredient.

    This brand prioritizes safety, so it implemented rigorous development and testing procedures. They always research new technology and update their safety processes as needed. They work with scientists, veterinarians, nutritionists, and regulatory specialists when formulating the food. They also have strict criteria when considering new suppliers to purchase ingredients from.

    All their food is manufactured in the United States, and the facilities adhere to strict maintenance and sanitation regulations. Each product has a unique code to track where the ingredient supplies are and where the product was manufactured, formulated, and distributed. These strict safety protocols are likely why this brand has never faced a recall.

    petsmart


    3. PetPlate

    PetPlate fresh dog food

    PetPlate is a fresh dog food delivery brand, similar to Ollie. They create personalized meals for their canine customers that can be delivered to your door on a set schedule. To get started, you just need to answer a few questions about your furry friend so PetPlate can decide which recipes and portions are best for them.

    The meals are always made with human-grade ingredients in USDA kitchens. Before the products are shipped, they’re hot-filled for safety and then flash-frozen to preserve the freshness of the nutrients. The recipes are formulated by the company’s veterinary nutritionist, and the process exceeds AAFCO and USDA standards. For these reasons, PetPlate has never faced any recalls.

    When you receive the food, you can store it in the freezer and then move it to the fridge when you’re ready to thaw it. PetPlate offers a meal plan or a topper plan for pet parents who only want to mix this fresh food with their dog’s current food. Fresh food is usually a great option for picky eaters.

    Save 60% off your first PetPlate box with code HEARTDOGS60!


    4. The Farmer’s Dog

    best puppy dog foods

    The Farmer’s Dog is another excellent fresh dog food brand that has never had any recalls. This company is committed to providing high-quality, personalized dog food that can be shipped right to your door for added convenience. Those interested in this food can start with an online questionnaire where dog parents provide comprehensive details about their pet’s health, age, breed, activity level, and any specific dietary needs or allergies.

    With the information provided, The Farmer’s Dog creates a customized meal plan, ensuring that each dog receives a diet that’s tailored to their individual needs. The meals are prepared with human-grade ingredients, including high-quality meats, fresh vegetables, and wholesome grains. These ingredients are carefully chosen to provide balanced nutrition, meeting the standards set by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for dog health.

    What sets The Farmer’s Dog apart is not just the quality of its food but also its delivery and packaging system. The meals are pre-portioned according to each dog’s dietary needs and are shipped in eco-friendly packaging. This system ensures that the food remains fresh from the kitchen to the customer’s doorstep.


    5. Nature is Good

    Although a newer brand, Nature is Good is an ultra-premium freeze-dried dog food that is completely filler-free and has never had a recall. Formulated with the highest-quality freeze-dried ingredients, this food guarantees not only meal satisfaction but also a transformation in your pet’s health, bite after healthy bite. It is veterinarian-approved, filler-free, and ultra-high in protein. 

    Nature Is Good Freeze-dried raw meat for dogs is made by removing the water from raw meat using very cold temperatures. This method keeps all the important nutrients, like proteins, enzymes, vitamins, and minerals, that dogs need to stay healthy. It helps them digest their food better and provides a complete and balanced meal similar to their ancestral diet (they’re descendants of wolves).


    Plus, it’s super easy to handle and store because it’s mess-free and doesn’t need to be kept in the fridge. This way, dogs can enjoy the goodness of raw meat in a simple and clean way. It’s available in Chicken and Beef, but best of all, every time you purchase a bag, 10 meals are donated to shelter dogs in need!


    6. The Pets Table

    The Pets Table brings a refreshing mix of personalization, quality, and convenience to the world of fresh dog food. When pet parents sign up, they fill out a short quiz about their dog’s age, weight, activity level, and dietary preferences. From there, The Pets Table crafts a tailored meal plan designed to meet each pup’s nutritional needs. Their recipes, like Chicken Casserole, Beef Stew, and Turkey Casserole, are made in USDA- and FDA-monitored kitchens using human-grade meats and whole produce. Everything arrives frozen and well-packaged, with clear feeding instructions that make transitioning easy and stress-free for owners.

    What sets The Pets Table apart is the flexibility it offers. Customers can choose between gently cooked fresh meals, air-dried recipes, or a combination of both. This versatility makes it easy to customize based on budget, storage space, or a dog’s specific texture preferences. Every recipe is formulated by veterinary nutritionists to meet AAFCO and WSAVA standards for complete and balanced nutrition. The meals avoid artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products, focusing instead on real, nutrient-rich ingredients that support digestion, energy, and overall wellness. The ability to adjust portion sizes or delivery schedules also makes the service practical for busy households.

    Dog parents who switch to The Pets Table often report that their pups eat more enthusiastically and maintain healthier coats, energy levels, and digestion. It’s a particularly great option for picky eaters or dogs with sensitive stomachs who need simple, clean ingredients. While it’s pricier than standard kibble, the noticeable difference in quality and the convenience of doorstep delivery make it a worthwhile investment for pet owners who view their dogs as family. For anyone looking to elevate their dog’s diet with fresh, vet-approved meals, The Pets Table delivers on both taste and nutrition.

    Get 50% off First Box + 10% off your Second and Third Boxes!


    7. The Honest Kitchen

    Honest Kitchen dehydrated dog foodWith a whole line of dehydrated dog foods, your pup will have so many choices when it comes to mealtime! When you scroll The Honest Kitchen’s dehydrated dog foods page, you’ll find whole grain, grain-free, gourmet grains, and limited ingredient recipes with whole meats like ranch-raised beef, free-range chicken, turkey, fish, or duck. And these quality proteins are combined with fresh vegetables and fruits to provide dogs with the vitamins and minerals that help keep their bodies healthy.

    And if you’re kicking around the idea of becoming a chef for your dog, you can choose The Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Veggie & Fruit Dog Food Base Mix to help you ease into cooking dog food. Simply add warm water and your own source of protein to the mix, and you’ve made your pup a tasty meal! The Honest Kitchen provides a variety so large even the pickiest eater will be hard-pressed to turn up their nose.

    Get 15% off your first order with code WELCOME15!


    8. Nature’s Logic

    Nature's Logic dog food

    If you look through the history of dog food recalls, you’ll find that the issues often come down to bad suppliers or a manufacturing process that isn’t controlled by the brand putting its name on the label. Nature’s Logic avoids those issues by directly purchasing or approving all of the ingredients themselves. They only source their meat, fruits, and vegetables from facilities that process the same food for humans, so if it’s not good enough for humans to eat, they don’t expect your dog to eat it.

    Every batch of Nature’s Logic dry dog food is tested to make sure it meets the high standards they set. They also ensure each batch is fresh and free from toxins and harmful bacteria, like Salmonella or E.coli, which are responsible for several other brands’ recalls.

    Nature’s Logic offers nine different recipes, each held to the same lofty standards the company sets for its food. It’s a great choice for people who want to feed their dog a quality diet but enjoy the convenience kibble offers. If your dog is craving something more flavorful than kibble, this brand also has plenty of wet food options.

    This brand not only cares about making safe food for dogs, but they also prioritize helping the environment. For every pound of food they sell, they buy 1 kWh of renewable energy.

    RELATED: The Complete Dog Food Guide: Nutrition, Ingredients, Feeding & How to Choose


    9. Ziwi

    ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food – Beef

    Ziwi is a New Zealand-based company that sources 100% of its ingredients from within the country’s borders. This company also does everything the right way ethical meat sourcing, sustainable seafood harvesting, no fillers or artificial binding agents, BPA-free cans, no antibiotics, and no caged animal testing. Ziwi has ethics at the top of everything they do.

    In the roughly 15 years Ziwi has been in business, they have never had a recall on any of their products. Like the other brands listed, they do all their own manufacturing to ensure product safety and quality.

    The company’s main type of dog food is air-dried formulas. The air-drying process helps lock in the flavor and nutrients of raw ingredients to make it healthier and more appealing for dogs. It combines the benefits of raw and fresh dog food with kibble’s convenience. Ziwi also offers wet dog food. Both options are great for serving on their own, but they can also be great flavor boosters to mix with kibble.


    10. Acana

    Acana dog food

    Acana uses award-winning kitchens in the United States to craft their high-protein kibble. They track and record every step of the process, including when the ingredients leave the suppliers and when they get cooked into the food. The company begins testing the ingredients as soon as they enter the kitchens.

    The ingredients always come from sustainable sources. They come from farmers, ranchers, and fishers that the company has trusted for decades. The recipes are always protein-rich, and the first two ingredients are always animal proteins.

    Acana has formulas for dogs of all life stages, including puppy, adult, and senior formulas. Some foods also cater to the needs of certain dogs, such as dogs with allergies or needing to lose weight. Their most popular formulas are their dry dog food, but they have wet food and freeze-dried food available, too.

    For more information on puppy food, see our list of the Best Puppy Dog Food.


    11. Zignature

    Zignature dog food

    Zignature dog food specializes in limited ingredient formulas to cater to dogs with allergies. Their formulas avoid common allergens like chicken, potatoes, and grains. They have both dry food and wet food options.

    The ingredients are globally sourced because the company believes in finding the best quality proteins. The pork, turkey, and fish are from the United States, the kangaroo and goat are from Australia, the lamb and venison are from New Zealand, and the duck and guinea fowl are from France. All the recipes are made in kitchens in the United States, and the recipes are crafted by nutritionists and food scientists.

    While selling safe products, this brand also provides food to animal shelters year-round. So, they care about the happiness and safety of all dogs, whether they’re customers or not.


    12. Open Farm

    Open Farm gently cooked dog food

    Open Farm offers a variety of dog food options, including dry food, wet food, freeze-dried raw food, and gently-cooked fresh food. Even with so many products, none have been recalled due to the company’s high safety standards. The company carefully sources all its ingredients, focusing on certified suppliers that care about animal welfare and ethical practices. The meat never comes from animals confined to cages, and the animals are raised on a nutritious diet that’s free of growth hormones.

    This brand keeps track of where every ingredient comes from, so there’s never any unknown information. Customers can enter the lot code of their products to find out where every ingredient came from. The food is made in US kitchens that consistently follow USDA and FDA standards. They’re open about their manufacturing process and happy to answer any questions about where they source their ingredients.

    Open Farm avoids filler ingredients and meat meals because they’re harder to trace to the source and regulate. The company only uses ingredients they feel confident in.


    13. Annamaet Petfoods

    Annamaet Petfoods never recalled

    Annamaet Petfoods offers holistic dry food for dogs, including options with and without grains. The company is family-owned and operated, creating pet products for over 30 years with no recalls. They focus on providing premium pet nutrition by using each ingredient with a specific purpose in mind.

    These products are manufactured in the United States, following strict standards for quality control. They carefully select the sources they get their ingredients from to make sure all their products are safe for their canine customers. The meat used in these formulas is fit for human consumption, and the company avoids unnecessary items like corn, wheat, and soy.

    Annamaet Petfoods offers dog food for all life stages, so every dog can benefit from it. Whether you have a puppy, senior, or dog with a sensitive stomach, this brand has kibble that may fit your dog’s needs. They also offer some supplements to further assist with canine health.


    14. Blackwood Pet Food

    Blackwood dog food

    Blackwood is a brand of dry dog food that’s slow-cooked in small batches to preserve the nutrients in the food. The food is always produced in the United States, and the headquarters are in Ohio. There are manufacturing plants in Ohio, Wisconsin, and New York. All the ingredients are sourced from reputable suppliers, most of which are local.

    The ingredients used in this dog food can provide a wide variety of health benefits, including everything from heart health to hips and joints to skin and coat. The company offers a variety of dry food formulas to cater to dogs of all life stages and lifestyles, including seniors, large breed dogs, and dogs with sensitivities. There are also wet food recipes.

    Blackwood has been in business for over 40 years without a single recall. They’re a family-owned business that puts the health of their canine customers above all else. The company donates thousands of pounds of food to shelter pets every year.


    15. Holistic Select

    Holistic Select Dog Food

    Holistic Select offers dry dog food that aids in good digestive health. The food uses probiotics, prebiotics, digestive enzymes, and natural fiber to prevent tummy troubles in your dog. The food also offers balanced nutrition to ensure that your dog absorbs as many nutrients as possible. This brand has a rigorous ingredient selection process to ensure everything in the food is safe. Their website provides details for every ingredient to explain why they use it in their products.

    Also, this brand utilizes rigorous food safety programs to ensure the food is always handled and stored according to standards. The food is thoroughly tested for quality and safety before being shipped to customers. With so many strict safety and ingredient selection processes in place, the brand has never faced any recalls.

    While most of Holistic Select’s food is kibble, there are a few wet dog food options that cater to picky dogs. This company continuously proves it’s passionate about animal welfare by supporting relevant organizations.


    16. Sundays for Dogs

    Sundays for Dogs never recalled

    Sundays for Dogs offers fresh dog food without needing to be refrigerated. The food is made with all-natural, human-grade ingredients and gently air-dried to preserve the flavor and nutrients. The recipes are formulated by vets who couldn’t find the perfect food for their own dogs, so they decided to make it themselves. This food meets high FDA safety standards, so it’s safe enough for humans to eat.

    All the ingredients come from natural sources with no synthetics added to them. The food is always formulated to meet AAFCO standards. All the food is manufactured in the same USDA-monitored facility in the United States. It’s a human-grade facility, so the food is held to the same high standards as human food. Thus, the brand has never had a recall because of its solid safety procedures.

    You can get started by filling out a questionnaire for your dog, and then Sundays will offer food customized to your pup’s needs. The pieces of food look and smell similar to what you’d give your dog as a treat, so it intrigues picky dogs while still being healthy. The food is ready to serve with no preparations needed.

    Get 40% OFF your order when you use code: IHEARTDOGS


    17. A Pup Above

    A Pup Above fresh dog food

    A Pup Above is a dog food company that produces both dry food and fresh food. They also offer combos of the two types for customers wanting to mix the two. Their dry food doesn’t look like typical kibble because it’s made by gently drying out the fresh ingredients to preserve the nutrients and flavor. Both types of food are made with human-grade ingredients only.

    All the food is prepared in a USDA-inspected facility, where every product is strictly tested before heading out to customers. This company only sources non-GMO produce and meat, making food that’s good enough quality for humans. So, you can feel at ease serving these meals to your dog, especially since the company is recall-free.

    A Pup Above not only cares about its canine customers, but it also values the environment. This company uses 100% recyclable packaging, and they use “ugly” ingredients that are often unwanted by companies despite having the same amount of nutrients. They source their ingredients locally and use renewable energy whenever possible. Using the information on the food bag, you can track where every ingredient in the food was sourced, so there’s no mystery.

    Try A Pup Above and get $50 off your first order of $100 or more with code IHEARTDOGS.


    Related: Best Dog Foods Rated

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Recalls can be complicated, so it’s a good idea to gather as much information about them before you have to deal with any. Here are some questions dog parents commonly ask.

    1. Where Can I Go to Find Out if My Dog Food Has Been Recalled?

    You can search the FDA’s website to see if there are recall records for your dog’s food. You can also do a Google search to find recall details. Many sites, such as DogFoodAdvisor.com, compile a list of dog food recalls. To stay up-to-date, you can sign up to receive recall alerts on DogFoodAdvisor.

    2. What are the Most Common Reasons for Dog Food Recalls?

    The most common reason dog food gets recalled is contamination. It could be a toxin, like moldy grain, or a bacteria such as Salmonella. Food exposed to dangerous substances is recalled as a precaution.

    3. Who is Responsible for a Dog Food Recall?

    Most recalls are voluntary. If the brand detects an issue, they often initiate the recall themselves. If the issue goes unnoticed, the FDA investigates and announces the recall.

    4. How Can I Report an Issue with My Dog’s Food?

    If you suspect your dog’s food is hazardous or defective, contact the FDA by calling your local consumer complaint coordinator.

    5. What Should I Do if My Dog Food is Recalled?

    If your dog’s food is recalled, follow the instructions from the recall notice. Usually, you’ll be told to dispose of the food, clean any surfaces it touched, and contact the listed number for details. If your dog ate the recalled food, call your vet, especially if they show symptoms.

    6. What Should I Do if My Dog Gets Sick After Eating Recalled Food?

    If your dog becomes ill after eating recalled food, take them to a veterinarian immediately. You can also file a complaint with the FDA so they can track the impact of the recall.

    7. Can I Get a Refund or Replacement if My Dog Food Is Recalled?

    Yes, most companies will offer a refund or replacement for recalled products. Check the official recall notice or the company’s website for instructions, which typically require proof of purchase, packaging, or a UPC code.

    8. Does Your Dog Food Brand Keep Safety in Mind?

    You don’t need to feed a specific brand to keep your dog healthy, but researching your brand is essential for safety. Consider these questions:

      • How much of the production process does the brand control? Do they outsource or own their facilities?
      • Where does your dog food company source ingredients? Are they imported from overseas?
      • How often has the company recalled products? Check this FDA recall page or search online for their recall history.

    With so many dog food options available, research is vital to finding the safest and healthiest food for your pup. Choosing a top dog food brand with no recalls is a great step toward ensuring your pet’s long-term health.

    To see any current dog food recalls, visit the iHeartDogs Dog Food Recalls page.

    Choosing Safe and Trusted Dog Food Brands

    Finding dog food brands with no recalls is about more than avoiding problems, it is about choosing companies that value quality and consistency. Reliable brands focus on rigorous testing, responsible sourcing, and clear labeling to support safe feeding. Once a trustworthy brand is identified, maintaining a consistent diet can help support digestion, energy, and overall wellness. With careful selection, pet owners can feel confident they are providing safe, dependable nutrition for their dogs.

    iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

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    Molly Weinfurter

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  • Recent Study Raises Questions About High Levels Of Heavy Metals in Dry Dog Food

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    Why This New Dog Food Study Should Matter to Every Dog Owner

    A recent report from the nonprofit Clean Label Project has sent ripples through the pet-food world. Their comprehensive dog food category study found elevated levels of heavy metals and industrial contaminants in many popular dry dog foods. This is the same kibble that more than 85% of dog owners serve their dogs every day.

    The organization tested 79 different dry, air-dried, freeze-dried, and fresh/frozen products and compared their contaminant levels to decades of data from thousands of human food, beverage, and supplement products. What they found was striking. On average, dry dog food contained significantly higher levels of arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead than human food. In some cases, the amounts were many times greater than those found in products made for people.

    It’s no wonder this has dog parents across the country pausing at their pup’s food bowl.

    What the Study Tells Us About Dog Food 

    Here are a few of the most important takeaways from the study:

    • Dry dog food had the highest levels of heavy metals and industrial chemicals when compared with fresh or frozen foods and human consumables.
    • Mercury in dry kibble samples was found at levels that were, on average, notably elevated compared to fresh/frozen diets, and up to 20.7 × higher than fresh/frozen dog foods in this study’s comparison.
    • Fresh and frozen products were generally much lower in contaminants.

    Experts emphasize that while the long-term health effects of these contaminants are not fully understood, heavy metals can accumulate in organs over time, and that concern alone is prompting pet parents to rethink what goes into the bowl each day.

    Why This Matters Now

    With millions of U.S. households owning dogs (about 68 million according to industry reports) and the global dog food market valued at $72.58 billion in 2024, how we feed our pets isn’t a niche question…it’s a mainstream concern.

    Dog food isn’t just an annual purchase like a toy or a leash. Most dogs eat the same food every day, meaning whatever contaminants are present could be a daily exposure. The Clean Label Project notes that because dogs rely on the same diet repeatedly over months and years, even low-level contaminants may warrant attention.

    A Better Choice? Why Some Dog Parents Are Looking at Human-Grade Options

    So what can dog owners do if they’re uneasy about these findings?

    One trend gaining traction is moving away from traditional dry kibble toward fresh, human-grade dog food, made with ingredients that meet the same safety and quality standards as those for people. These foods aren’t just “premium-looking.” They are made in facilities that follow strict human-food safety protocols and are often formulated by veterinary nutritionists.

    A brand that often comes up in these conversations is The Farmer’s Dog. They make human-grade, fresh meals that are gently cooked and delivered directly to your door, meeting safety standards that many traditional pet foods don’t meet. Each recipe is formulated by board-certified veterinary nutritionists, reflecting a commitment to clean ingredients, rigorous standards, and food that’s designed to support long-term canine health.

    Pet owners who choose human-grade diets often cite peace of mind as a key reason: if the food is safe enough for humans to eat, it should be safe for daily feeding to dogs, too. The Farmer’s Dog’s recipes are designed to meet balanced nutritional needs, and because they’re made fresh with higher-quality ingredients, they naturally result in fewer contaminants than ultra-processed dry foods.

    Put simply: choosing foods made from whole, minimally processed ingredients, especially those tested rigorously for purity, can be one way to reduce potential exposure to the kinds of contaminants highlighted in the Clean Label Project’s report.

    best puppy dog foods

    Rethinking What’s in the Bowl

    The Clean Label Project’s study doesn’t mean every bag on the shelf is dangerous, but it does challenge us to think more critically about what’s actually in dog food. Whether that means choosing certified low-contaminant brands, blending fresh foods with other foods, or exploring human-grade options like The Farmer’s Dog, there are choices available that can help pet parents feel confident in the food they serve.

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    [ad_2] Kelli Brinegar
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  • 5 Best Homemade Dog Food Supplements

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    #1 – JustFoodForDogs DIY Nutrient Blend for Homemade Dog Food

    JustFoodForDogs DIY Nutrient Blend for Homemade Dog Food is a veterinarian-developed supplement that allows dog owners to make their own nutritionally complete dog food at home. It can be used as a full meal or as a dog food topper for picky eaters. Each blend comes with a cooking guide and step-by-step instructions to ensure a well-balanced diet for dogs. Formulated to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles when prepared according to the provided recipes, the blend uses 100% human-grade nutraceuticals regulated by the FDA. Recipes are designed for various protein and carbohydrate combinations, making it easy to choose an option that suits your dog’s tastes and dietary needs.

    JustFoodForDogs is the #1 vet-recommended fresh pet food brand in the U.S., based on a survey of nearly 16,000 veterinarians. They’re also the only fresh pet food company actively conducting long-term feeding trials and publishing results in peer-reviewed journals, further validating the safety and health benefits of their formulations. With the JustFoodForDogs DIY Nutrient Blend, pet parents get the control and transparency of homemade feeding without the guesswork of balancing nutrients on their own—making it a great choice for dogs with specific dietary requirements or sensitivities.


    #2 – Azestfor Homemade Dog Food Supplement Dog Vitamins

    The Azestfor Homemade Dog Food Supplement is a powdered formula that contains 21 vitamins and minerals, chia seeds for omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and natural kelp. It is designed to be added to holistic whole-food diets, including raw and BARF diets, for puppies and adult dogs of all breeds. The product also includes simple and healthy recipes to customize a diet plan based on a dog’s specific dietary needs, such as grain-free, weight loss, or allergies. Additionally, the supplement is manufactured in the USA.



    #4 – Wholistic Pet Organics Canine Complete: Multivitamin for Dogs

    The Wholistic Pet Organics Canine Complete is a dog food supplement that aims to improve a dog’s daily health. It contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, prebiotics, probiotics, digestive enzymes, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants. The supplement is made with organic ingredients and is easily digestible, making it suitable for dogs of all ages. Some potential benefits include improving appearance, restoring gut health, regulating immune function, and promoting normal cell, tissue, and organ function. The company has been trusted by professionals for over 15 years and is certified in all 50 states.


    #5 – The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Grain Free Fruit & Veggie Base Mix

    The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Grain Free Fruit & Veggie Base Mix Dog Food is a versatile and convenient option for raw feeders and home cooks. It provides a healthy base that can be easily customized by adding meat or fish. Made with 100% human-grade ingredients and produced in a human food facility, this recipe guarantees higher quality and safety standards. It also contains no preservatives, by-products, fillers, or GMO ingredients, making it a natural and trustworthy choice for dog owners.


    What Should I Look for When Choosing a Supplement for My Dog’s Homemade Food?

    When choosing a supplement for your dog’s homemade food, there are several key factors to consider to ensure that your furry friend receives a balanced and nutritious diet:

    1. Nutritional Completeness and Balance: The supplement should provide the nutrients missing from your dog’s homemade meals. Look for products formulated to complement a home-cooked diet and balance vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients.
    2. Quality and Source of Ingredients: High-quality, natural ingredients are preferable. Check the source of the ingredients to ensure they are safe and appropriate for dogs. Avoid supplements with fillers, artificial colors, or preservatives.
    3. Specific Nutritional Needs: Consider your dog’s age, breed, size, and health issues. Puppies, seniors, and dogs with health conditions like arthritis or allergies may need different supplements.
    4. Form and Palatability: Supplements come in various forms, such as powders, liquids, and chews. Choose a form that is easy to administer and appealing for your dog to consume.
    5. Certifications and Standards: Look for supplements that meet industry standards and have certifications from reputable organizations. This ensures the product has been tested for safety and efficacy.
    6. Veterinarian Recommendation: Consult your veterinarian before supplementing your dog’s diet. They can provide personalized advice based on your dog’s health history and nutritional needs.
    7. Customer Reviews and Brand Reputation: Research the brand and read customer reviews to gauge the effectiveness and safety of the supplement.

    By carefully considering these factors, you can select a supplement that complements your homemade dog food, ensuring your pet gets a well-rounded and nutritious diet.


    Can I make homemade dog food without giving my dog a supplement?

    Yes, you can make homemade dog food without using a commercial supplement, but it requires careful planning to ensure that the diet is nutritionally complete and balanced. Dogs have specific nutritional needs that must be met through their diet. Here are some key points to consider:

    1. Balanced Nutrition: A homemade diet must include the right balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. This balance is crucial for your dog’s overall health and well-being.
    2. Variety of Ingredients: Incorporate various ingredients to provide a range of nutrients. This includes lean meats for protein, vegetables, and fruits for vitamins and minerals, and appropriate carbohydrates like rice or sweet potatoes for energy.
    3. Proper Preparation: Cooking methods matter. Overcooking can destroy nutrients while undercooking can pose health risks. Research the best ways to prepare different ingredients for dogs.
    4. Consult a Veterinarian or a Canine Nutritionist: Before starting a homemade diet, it’s essential to consult with a professional. They can help formulate a diet that meets your dog’s needs and may suggest adding specific foods or natural supplements like bone meal for calcium or fish oil for omega-3 fatty acids.
    5. Regular Monitoring and Adjustments: Monitor your dog’s health and adjust their diet. Look for signs of nutritional deficiencies or excesses, such as changes in weight, coat condition, energy levels, and overall health.
    6. Avoid Toxic Foods: Be aware of foods toxic to dogs, like onions, garlic, grapes, and chocolate. Always check the safety of ingredients before including them in your dog’s diet.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Supplements for Dogs on Homemade Diets

    1. What are the essential supplements for a homemade dog diet?

    Essential supplements for a homemade dog diet typically include vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. These can include calcium, for bone health; omega-3 fatty acids, for skin and coat health; and a range of vitamins, such as A, D, and E, to support overall wellbeing. The specific supplements needed can vary based on the ingredients used in the homemade diet and the individual dog’s health requirements.

    2. How do I know if my dog needs supplements in their homemade diet?

    Knowing if your dog needs supplements in their homemade diet involves observing your dog’s overall health and consulting with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist. Poor coat quality, lethargy, or other health issues can indicate a nutritional deficiency. A professional can help analyze your homemade diet and recommend appropriate supplements.

    3. Can I use human vitamins and supplements for my dog?

    It is not advisable to use human vitamins and supplements for dogs. Dogs have different nutritional needs and metabolisms compared to humans. Human supplements may contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs or provide incorrect dosages of nutrients. Always use supplements specifically formulated for dogs.

    4. Are there natural sources of supplements I can add to my dog’s homemade food?

    Natural sources of supplements can be added to a dog’s homemade food, such as bone meal powder for calcium, fish oil for omega-3 fatty acids, and cooked eggshells for additional minerals. However, it’s essential to research and consult a professional to ensure these are provided in safe and effective amounts.

    5. How can I ensure my dog’s homemade diet is balanced with the right supplements?

    Ensuring a dog’s homemade diet is balanced with the right supplements involves doing thorough research and potentially working with a canine nutritionist. A professional can analyze your homemade recipes and recommend specific supplements to fill nutritional gaps. Regular health check-ups and monitoring your dog’s condition can also help adjust the diet.

    6. What are the risks of over-supplementing my dog?

    Over-supplementing a dog can lead to health issues such as vitamin toxicity, imbalanced nutrient ratios, and organ damage. For instance, too much calcium can affect bone health, and excess vitamin A can lead to toxicity. It’s crucial to follow recommended dosages and consult with a veterinarian.

    7. How do I choose the right supplement brand for my dog?

    Choosing the right supplement brand for your dog involves researching the brand’s reputation, checking for certifications and quality standards, and reading customer reviews. Look for supplements specifically formulated for dogs and consider your dog’s needs based on age, size, and health.

    8. Can supplements replace a balanced diet for dogs?

    Supplements cannot replace a balanced diet for dogs. They are meant to complement the diet and fill nutritional gaps, not serve as the primary source of nutrients. A well-rounded diet that meets a dog’s nutritional requirements is essential for their overall health.

    9. How often should I give supplements to my dog?

    The frequency of supplement administration depends on the type of supplement and your dog’s specific dietary needs. Some supplements are given daily, while others might be needed only a few times a week. Always follow the dosage instructions provided on the supplement label or recommended by a veterinarian.

    10. Can dietary supplements help with specific health issues in dogs?

    Dietary supplements can help manage specific health issues in dogs, such as joint supplements for arthritis or omega-3 fatty acids for skin conditions. However, they should be used as part of a comprehensive health management plan, often in conjunction with other treatments prescribed by a veterinarian. Always consult a professional before using supplements for health issues.

    11. Should I rotate supplements or keep my dog on the same regimen long-term?

    Rotating supplements is generally not necessary unless advised by a veterinarian. Most supplements are meant to address specific nutritional needs or deficiencies and should be given consistently to be effective. However, as your dog ages or their health status changes, their supplement needs may also evolve. It’s a good practice to periodically reassess your dog’s supplement regimen with a vet or canine nutritionist to ensure it still aligns with their current health and dietary requirements.

    dog supplements

    Conclusion: Best Homemade Dog Food Supplements

    In conclusion, incorporating the right homemade supplements into your dog’s diet can make a significant difference in their overall health and well-being. By understanding the specific nutritional needs of your dog and opting for natural, high-quality ingredients, you can create a balanced and nourishing diet that supports their growth, energy, and longevity. Remember, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian before making any major changes to your dog’s diet or introducing new supplements. With the right approach and knowledge, you can ensure that your homemade dog food not only tastes great but also provides all the essential nutrients your beloved pet needs.

    iHeartDogs is reader-supported. Some of the links below may be paid affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on a product at no additional cost to you. 

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    Arlene Divina

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  • Celebrate Your Lucky Dog With These St. Patrick’s Day Goodies

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    iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

    St. Patrick’s Day isn’t just for humans; it’s the perfect excuse to spoil your lucky pup, too. Whether your dog is big, small, or somewhere in between, there’s something extra sweet about celebrating the season with a little green-themed fun. From shamrock-shaped treats to festive toys and cheerful surprises, these St. Patrick’s Day goodies are a playful way to add joy to your dog’s day. After all, our pups bring us luck all year long. This holiday is the perfect time to return the favor.

    Lucky Looks for Dogs

    Realeaf St. Patrick’s Day Dog Bandanas 2 Pack

    Realeaf St. Patrick's Day Dog Bandanas

    The Realeaf St. Patrick’s Day Dog Bandanas add instant charm without any fuss. Simply tie one on and your pup is parade ready in seconds. The soft, lightweight fabric keeps them comfortable during walks, parties, and photo sessions. With two festive designs, you can switch up the look or share with a furry sibling. You get adorable holiday photos and plenty of compliments. Your dog gets to join the celebration in easy, wearable style.


    Buckle-Down St. Pat’s Clovers Seatbelt Collar

    Buckle-Down Dog Collar Seatbelt

    The Buckle-Down St. Pat’s Clovers Collar combines festive flair with dependable strength. The seatbelt-style buckle clicks securely into place, giving you confidence on daily walks or busy outings. Bright clover prints pop beautifully against your dog’s fur, making them the most stylish pup on the block. It is durable, adjustable, and built for real-life adventures. You get peace of mind and holiday spirit. Your dog gets comfort and standout charm.


    Polkadog Lucky Duck Training Bits

    Polkadog Lucky Duck Crunchy Training Bits

    Polkadog Lucky Duck Training Bits make good behavior even more rewarding. These crunchy treats are perfectly sized for training sessions, neighborhood strolls, or festive gatherings. The rich flavor keeps your pup focused and eager to please, while the simple ingredients help you feel good about every bite. Slip a few into your pocket and watch your dog light up with excitement. You get smoother training moments. They get delicious motivation with every lucky crunch.


    cyeollo St. Patrick’s Day Dog Dress

    cyeollo St. Patrick's Day Dog Dress

    The cyeollo St. Patrick’s Day Dog Dress brings sweet charm to any celebration. With festive green tones and playful details, it turns your pup into the star of every gathering. The lightweight material keeps her comfortable while she mingles, poses, or prances around the yard. Easy to slip on and off, it makes dressing up simple for you. You get heart-melting photos. She gets to shine in a look that feels as fun as it looks.


    Dog Apparel Lucky Boy Clover Dog Shirt

    Dog Apparel Lucky Boy Letter

    The Lucky Boy Clover Dog Shirt is perfect for pups who prefer comfy and cool. The soft fabric feels gentle on their skin, while the bold clover design announces their lucky status loud and proud. It is great for casual walks, family parties, or cozy couch cuddles. You will love how easy it is to wash and wear again. Your dog will love the lightweight fit that lets them move freely.


    St. Patrick’s Day Green Rope Toy

    St. Patrick's Day Dog Toy

    This St. Patrick’s Day Green Rope Toy delivers festive fun with every tug. The textured fibers help support dental health as your dog chews and pulls. It is perfect for interactive play that strengthens your bond while burning off extra energy. Durable enough for enthusiastic games, it quickly becomes a favorite. You get a happy, tired pup at the end of the day. They get a toy that satisfies both their playful spirit and chewing instincts.


    The Worthy Dog Luck ‘O the Irish Gnome Nylon Dog Collar

    THE WORTHY DOG Collar for Large Dogs

    The Worthy Dog Luck O the Irish Gnome Collar adds personality in the cutest way. The whimsical gnome print feels playful yet polished, making it ideal for holiday outings. Crafted from sturdy nylon, it stands up to everyday adventures while staying comfortable. Adjustable sizing ensures a secure fit. You get a collar that feels special without sacrificing function. Your dog gets to show off their festive side wherever luck takes them.


    Adorable Shamrock Headband St. Patrick’s Day Costume Set

    Adorable Shamrock Headband

    The Shamrock Headband Costume Set is made for photo moments you will treasure forever. The soft headband sits gently without squeezing, giving your dog a playful holiday look. It is ideal for quick snapshots, parties, or spreading smiles on social media. Easy to put on and remove, it keeps the experience light and stress free. You capture priceless memories. Your pup gets extra attention and treats for being such a good sport.


    Luck O the Irish Gnome Plush Toy

    The Worthy Dog Luck O' the Irish Gnome Squeaky Plush Dog Toy

    The Luck O the Irish Gnome Plush Toy brings cuddles and squeaky excitement together. Its soft texture makes it perfect for snuggling, while the built in squeaker sparks playful bursts of energy. Lightweight and easy to carry, it quickly becomes your dog’s lucky companion. You will love watching them toss and pounce. They will love the comforting feel and interactive fun that keeps boredom at bay.


    Lionheart Glory St. Patrick’s Day Leash

    Lionheart glory St. Patrick's Day Strong Dog Leash

    The Lionheart Glory St. Patrick’s Day Leash keeps your walks safe and stylish. Designed for strength and reliability, it gives you secure control without sacrificing festive flair. The bright design pairs beautifully with matching collars or harnesses. Comfortable in your hand and sturdy in motion, it is built for real-world adventures. You get confidence on busy sidewalks. Your dog gets to step out in coordinated, lucky style.


    Huxley & Kent Funny Dog Toy w/Squeaker – Lucky Pup Irish Latte

    Huxley & Kent Funny Dog Toy w/Squeaker

    The Huxley and Kent Lucky Pup Irish Latte Toy adds humor to playtime. Shaped like a cheeky holiday drink, it features a squeaker that keeps dogs engaged and curious. The plush exterior is soft enough for gentle play yet durable for spirited fun. It is a conversation starter at any gathering. You get laughs and adorable photos. Your pup gets a festive toy that satisfies their love of squeaky surprises.


    SiliDog The Silent Pet Tag Silicone Shamrock

    SiliDog - The Original Silicone Silent Dog Tag

    The SiliDog Shamrock Silent Tag keeps things quiet while looking cute. Made from flexible silicone, it eliminates the constant jingling of traditional tags. That means more peaceful naps and less noise around the house. The shamrock design adds a festive touch that lasts beyond the holiday. Durable and waterproof, it stands up to everyday adventures. You enjoy a quieter home. Your dog enjoys lightweight comfort without irritating metal sounds.


    Plush Shamrock Clover Toy

    St. Patrick's Day Dog Toy

    The Plush Shamrock Clover Toy is simple, soft, and full of charm. Its gentle texture makes it perfect for cuddling after a long day of celebrating. The festive shape adds a playful seasonal touch to your dog’s toy basket. Lightweight and easy to carry, it invites gentle chewing and tossing. You get sweet holiday vibes around the house. Your pup gets a comforting buddy that feels lucky to love.


    PUPTECK Adjustable Harness Set

    PUPTECK Adjustable Dog Harness Collar and Leash Set

    The PUPTECK Adjustable Harness Collar and Leash Set delivers coordinated style with everyday comfort. The harness distributes pressure more evenly than a collar alone, supporting safer, more comfortable walks. Adjustable straps help you find the perfect fit. The festive design makes every outing feel like part of the celebration. You gain better control and peace of mind. Your dog enjoys freedom of movement wrapped in lucky green flair.


    Dog St Patrick’s Day Outfit Funny Irish Leprechaun Costume

    Dog St Patrick's Day Outfit Funny

    The Funny Irish Leprechaun Costume transforms your pup into the life of the party. Designed for comfort and easy wear, it lets your dog join the festivities without fuss. The playful details make for unforgettable photos and lots of smiles from friends and neighbors. It is perfect for gatherings, parades, or simply brightening your day. You create joyful memories. Your dog gets extra attention and admiration for their charming look.


    Buckle-Down Clover Dog Leash

    Buckle-Down St. Pat's Clovers Scattered Dog Leash

    The Buckle-Down Clover Dog Leash combines durability with bold holiday style. Made with sturdy materials and a reliable clasp, it keeps your dog secure during walks. The scattered clover design adds just the right amount of festive fun. It pairs easily with matching collars for a coordinated look. You get dependable performance. Your pup gets to strut confidently in gear that celebrates the luck of being loved.


    Green Beer Shamrock Dog Collar

    St Patricks Day Dog Collar for Medium Dogs

    The Green Beer Shamrock Dog Collar adds playful personality to your dog’s everyday wardrobe. The vibrant print stands out beautifully, making it perfect for holiday outings and photo ops. Built for comfort and durability, it adjusts easily for a secure fit. You get a festive accessory that still handles daily wear. Your dog gets a collar that feels comfortable while showing off their spirited side.


    Bark Bros – Liquor Bottle Dog Toy – Jamuttson

    Bark Bros - Liquor Bottle Dog Toy

    The Bark Bros Jamuttson Dog Toy brings cheeky humor to playtime. Styled like a playful bottle parody, it features a squeaker that keeps dogs intrigued and entertained. The plush material is soft enough for cuddling yet sturdy enough for spirited games. It adds a festive twist to your dog’s toy collection. You get laughs and memorable snapshots. Your pup gets a fun, engaging toy that keeps tails wagging.


    Celebrate the Luck of Love

    At the end of the day, the real luck is having a dog who greets you like you hung the moon. Dressing them up, spoiling them with toys, and snapping festive photos are just joyful extras. When we create happy homes filled with love and laughter, we move closer to a world where every dog matters and shelters are empty. So grab the green gear, make memories, and celebrate the sweetest luck of all.

    iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

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    Arlene Divina

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  • Petition: Close SeaWorld and Release All Captive Marine Animals to Sanctuaries | Focusing on Wildlife

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    In a massive victory for animal rights, the Miami Seaquarium has closed its doors for good!

    The “marine theme park,” which operated for 70 years, spent decades profiting off of the misery of captive animals.

    We must keep the momentum up! It’s time for SeaWorld to close all locations and move every single captive animal to a sanctuary now!

    Sign now to tell SeaWorld: it’s time to shut down its locations and move ALL captive animals to sanctuaries!

    Miami Seaquarium made its money by imprisoning hundreds of animals, including many innocent, beautiful orcas. And — completely unsurprising to those of us who know about the impacts of captivity on wild animals — those orcas suffered tremendously.

    The park’s first orca, named Hugo, literally died of a brain aneurysm after years of banging his head against the walls of the tank and injuring himself. Hugo’s companion, Lolita, was trapped in a shallow pool for more than fifty years, most of them spent without the company of another orca. Lolita died tragically before she could move to a natural sea pen.

    There are too many stories of marine mammals suffering in captivity to list here. In the year 2025, we must defer to the history and research: orcas and other marine animals in captivity wallow in misery, die tragically, and are not allowed to fulfill their natural behaviors.

    The closing of Miami Seaquarium is a huge victory, and now it’s time we set our eyes on the next goal: closing SeaWorld for good, too.

    The science is clear: marine animals aren’t meant to be trapped in tiny cages, they’re meant to be in the wild or in sanctuaries. We can’t let SeaWorld continue profiting off of the suffering of these beautiful creatures! It’s time for SeaWorld to close its locations and move all animals to sanctuaries permanently! Sign the petition now if you agree!

    This article by Nicholas Vincent was first published by One Green Planet on 1 December 2025. Lead Image Credit: Felix Mizioznikov/Shutterstock.

     

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  • Woman Charged After Abandoning Dog at Airport and Attempting to Board Flight

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    Airports are places where thousands of lives briefly intersect each day, filled with hurried footsteps, rolling luggage, and emotional farewells. In the middle of that constant motion, one small dog experienced a moment that would change his life forever. Surrounded by strangers and the overwhelming noise of a busy terminal, he was unknowingly about to be left behind by the very person he trusted most. What should have been just another travel day quickly turned into a heartbreaking scene that stunned airport staff and would soon spark a story of both cruelty and compassion.




    Credit: Facebook

    At Harry Reid International Airport, a woman attempted to board a flight with her pet, claiming the dog was a service animal. Airline staff informed her that she needed to complete the required online documentation before traveling. Without the proper paperwork, she was denied a boarding pass.

    Instead of pausing to fix the issue or finding a safe alternative for her companion, the woman made a shocking choice. She walked away from the dog and continued through the airport toward her departure gate, leaving the confused animal behind in the crowded terminal.

    The dog stood alone in an unfamiliar place. The noise of rolling suitcases echoed across the floor. Voices blended into a constant hum. Bright lights reflected off the polished tiles. Amid the chaos, he waited. He did not understand why his person had disappeared.

    Airport officers were alerted and later located the woman. As they escorted her back through the security checkpoint, she reportedly became hostile and resisted their attempts to detain her. Authorities arrested her on charges of animal abandonment and resisting arrest.

    Meanwhile, the abandoned pup was finally in safe hands.



    A Second Chance for JetBlue

    Credit: Facebook

    The dog was taken in by local animal services, where staff members quickly stepped in to comfort him. They offered food, water, and gentle reassurance. Though understandably shaken, he showed a calm and trusting nature. His soft eyes followed the volunteers as if searching for stability in the sudden storm of change.

    He was soon given a new name that honored the place his story began. They called him Jet Blue.

    In foster care, Jet Blue began to decompress. Away from the harsh airport lights and constant noise, he settled into a quiet home environment. He discovered the comfort of a warm bed and the simple joy of a steady routine. Each day brought small signs of healing. A cautious tail wag. A relaxed sigh. A willingness to lean into a caring touch.




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    Foster caregivers report that Jet Blue is affectionate and gentle. He enjoys calm companionship and responds well to kindness. Though he was left behind, he has not let that moment define him.

    His journey is no longer about abandonment. It is about resilience.



    Credit: Facebook

    JetBlue is now safe and receiving the care he needs. Soon, he will be ready for a new chapter with a loving forever family who will value his loyalty and protect his tender heart.

    What began as a heartbreaking scene in a crowded airport is turning into a story of hope. In the midst of confusion and loss, one small dog found compassion, safety, and the promise of a brighter future.

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    Russel Moneva

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  • Sloths Keep Showing Up in the Strangest Places, So This Man Steps In Every Time

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    It is not every day that a fire station becomes a temporary sanctuary for a creature of the treetops, yet that is exactly what has been happening in Miranda, Venezuela. Firefighters and rescue workers have grown used to surprising visitors arriving slowly and silently from nearby neighborhoods. Instead of alarms and smoke, they sometimes find themselves face to face with a wide-eyed sloth clinging gently to a pole or structure, far from the forest canopy where it truly belongs.




    Credit: Facebook

    The team at Fundación Chuwie often receives calls about sloths slowly making their way through town. These gentle climbers are built for the treetops, not sidewalks or traffic. But shrinking green spaces and expanding neighborhoods mean they sometimes wander far from the forest canopy they depend on.

    One recent rescue began inside a local fire station. A young female sloth had somehow made her way onto the property. Calm but clearly out of place, she clung to a structure as firefighters looked on with careful curiosity. Later that same day, another sloth was found nearby. This adventurous male had traveled across a wide stretch of the area, even gripping a pole as if it were a tree trunk. His slow movements may have looked almost playful, but every step in a busy town put him at risk.

    In Miranda, rescuing a sloth is not as simple as it sounds. Their long limbs and curved claws are designed to cling tightly to branches. When frightened, they hold on even harder. That makes careful handling essential.

    Juan Carlos, who works closely with Fundación Chuwie, spends his days responding to these delicate situations. With patience and steady hands, he gently loosens each sloth’s grip and secures them for transport. His experience helps keep both the animals and the rescuers safe.

    Credit: Facebook

    Most of the sloths are found in residential neighborhoods or near busy roads. The sounds of engines, voices, and construction can overwhelm animals that are used to the quiet rhythm of the forest. By the time they are rescued, many are tired and stressed.



    A Second Chance in the Treetops

    Once brought to safety, every sloth is carefully examined. The team checks for injuries, dehydration, or signs of illness. Some arrive dusty and worn from their unexpected journey. Others simply seem confused, their wide eyes blinking slowly as they adjust to their new surroundings.

    If they are healthy, the next steps are simple but important. They are offered food suited to their diet and given time to rest. Sloths sleep for long stretches, and those peaceful naps are often the first sign that they feel secure again.


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    When the moment is right, the team returns them to protected forested areas. The release is quiet and gentle. A rescuer lifts the sloth toward a sturdy tree trunk. Almost instantly, instinct takes over. The animal reaches out, grips the bark, and begins the slow climb upward.

    Credit: Facebook

    There is something deeply moving about watching that ascent. Each careful movement brings the sloth closer to safety, back into the green world where it belongs. The noise of the town fades behind it. Leaves rustle softly overhead.

    For the firefighters and rescuers, these moments make every call worthwhile. What begins as an unusual sight in a fire station ends with a peaceful return to the treetops. And for each wandering sloth, it means another chance to live the quiet, unhurried life nature intended.



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    Russel Moneva

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  • He Went to Check on a “Sheep” and Found a Dog in Chains

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    At first, it was hard to believe she was a dog at all. In a quiet rural area of Bulgaria, a small, motionless figure stood alone in the dirt, her body so matted and thin that she blended into the landscape. From a distance, she resembled a stray farm animal more than a pet who once belonged to someone. A heavy collar clung tightly around her neck, and a long chain dragged at her feet. She was so still that her rescuer hesitated, unsure whether the fragile creature in front of him was even alive.




    Credit: YouTube

    That was Tina’s reality before someone finally stopped.

    Up close, the truth was even more heartbreaking. Her fur was dirty and tangled. Her frame was painfully thin. The chain attached to her collar suggested a life of confinement and neglect. She did not bark. She did not growl. She barely moved.

    She simply stood there, quiet and defeated.

    When her rescuer approached, there was a moment of uncertainty. Was she alive? Then came the smallest sign. A faint shift. A soft breath. Tina was still fighting, even if her body seemed ready to give up.

    She was gently lifted and rushed to safety.



    At the veterinary clinic, the full extent of her suffering became clear. Tina had a double fracture in her front leg. The injury had likely gone untreated for some time, leaving her in constant pain. Every step she had taken before her rescue must have hurt.

    Despite everything, she remained calm. Silent. Trusting.

    A Silent Dog Learns to Feel Safe

    Credit: YouTube

    Tina underwent surgery to repair the fractures in her leg. It was the first real act of care she had likely experienced in a long time. The procedure was successful, but her journey was far from over. Recovery would take twelve weeks, with careful monitoring and limited movement to allow her bones to heal properly.



    She is now six weeks into that recovery.

    Her days look very different from before. Instead of being chained outside, she rests in a warm, quiet space. Soft bedding cushions her healing body. Gentle hands check on her. She no longer has to brace herself for discomfort at every movement.

    Louis, one of the people caring for her, describes Tina as sweet, innocent, and incredibly quiet. She does not make a sound. No barking. No whining. It is as if she learned long ago that her voice would not change anything.



    Yet her eyes tell another story.


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    She watches every person who enters the room. She leans into soft touches. She craves affection in a way that feels almost childlike. When someone sits beside her, she relaxes. When a hand strokes her head, she closes her eyes.



    It is clear she wants to trust completely.

    Physically, she still has weeks of healing ahead. Her leg must continue to mend. Muscles need to regain strength. But emotionally, something beautiful is already happening. Tina is learning that people can be kind. That hands can comfort instead of restrain.

    Credit: YouTube

    In about six weeks, once her recovery is complete, the search for her forever home will begin. A place where she can stretch her legs without pain. A place where she will never wear a chain again. A place where her silence is met with patience and her gentle spirit is cherished.



    Tina’s story began in neglect and uncertainty. Today, it is filled with cautious hope. A dog once mistaken for an ailing sheep now stands clearly as what she has always been.

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    Russel Moneva

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  • Understanding Canine Ancestors for Better Digestive Health in the Modern Dog | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    If you’ve noticed your furry companion struggling with loose stools, excessive gas, or vomiting undigested food, you’re not alone. Many dogs today face digestive challenges that can affect their overall health and happiness. Is there something we can improve to make the digestive health of our dogs better?

    Canine Ancestral Diet

    Dogs are descendants of wolves. Wolves primarily ate raw meat, bones, and occasional vegetation. Modern dogs have adapted over thousands of years of living alongside humans. This means your canine companion’s digestive system has evolved to handle a more varied diet than their wild ancestors. But are there still some things that should not be forgotten? Can humans do better with the diets they give to their canine friends?

    In the wild, canine ancestral diet was very different than what most dogs eat today. When wolves and wild canines caught their prey, they didn’t just eat the muscle meat—they consumed nearly everything, including organs like the pancreas. The pancreas provided natural digestive enzymes that helped break down food efficiently. Modern dogs, however, rarely get these natural sources of enzymes.

    Moreover, a breakthrough study has uncovered a unique strain of “good” bacteria in wolves within the Paenibacillus genus. Classified as a probiotic, this microbe provides essential health advantages and may be a key tool in treating canine inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). For dogs struggling with this persistent condition, the strain could help alleviate common symptoms such as a lack of appetite, gastrointestinal gas, painful stomach cramping, and the characteristic “rumbling” stomach sounds associated with the illness.

    Why Digestion Matters

    When your dog can’t digest food properly, several problems can develop. They may not absorb essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins their body needs. This can lead to weight loss, low energy, and a weakened immune system. That constant hunger you’re seeing? It might be because their body isn’t getting the nutrition it needs from their meals. Study of canine ancestral diet for digestive health in today’s dog can give us useful clues. 

    Signs Your Dog May Have Digestive Issues

    Watch for these common warning signs:

    • Loose or watery stools
    • Frequent gas or bloating
    • Vomiting, especially with undigested food visible
    • Constant hunger, even after eating a full meal
    • Weight loss despite eating normally
    • Gurgling stomach sounds

    These symptoms can indicate that your dog isn’t properly breaking down and absorbing nutrients from their food. Different nutrients are needed for organs to function properly. Nutrient deficiency can lead to problems. 

    What You Can Do

    Feeding Organ Meats Safely:

    Start Small: Introduce organ meats gradually and in small amounts. Too much too quickly can cause digestive upset or diarrhea.

    Variety is Important: Different organs provide different nutrients. Feeding pancreas can provide digestive enzymes and other nutrients, liver is rich in vitamins, while heart is a good source of protein and taurine.

    Follow the 10% Rule: Organ meats and other extras should make up no more than 10-15% of your dog’s total daily diet. This helps maintain nutritional balance.

    Cook or Serve Raw: You can feed organs either cooked or raw. If you choose raw, make sure the meat comes from a reliable source.

    Watch for Reactions: Monitor your dog after introducing organ meats. Look for signs of digestive upset like vomiting or diarrhea.

    Important Cautions:

    • Balance is key – Organ meats alone don’t provide complete nutrition
    • Too much liver can cause vitamin A toxicity
    • If you’re considering a home-prepared diet that includes organs, ensure the diet is complete and balanced

    Discuss your plans with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet. They can help you determine the right amounts and ensure your dog’s nutritional needs are being met properly.

    Other Key Nutritional Principles Based on Canine Ancestral Diet 

    Protein Requirements

    Dogs require protein as a cornerstone of their diet. Their ancestors consumed high amounts of animal protein, and this remains important today. Adult dogs generally do well with diets containing at least 25-30% protein. Senior dogs may actually need even more protein – about 50% more than younger dogs – to maintain healthy muscle mass.

    The Role of Fats

    Wild canines obtained essential fatty acids from their prey. Modern dogs still need these fats for energy, healthy skin, and proper organ function. However, too much fat can lead to health problems like pancreatitis, so balance is important.

    Carbohydrates – A Modern Addition

    Unlike their ancestors who rarely ate grains or vegetables, modern dogs can digest carbohydrates effectively. Their bodies have adapted to use these nutrients as energy sources. Quality carbohydrate sources like sweet potatoes, oats, and barley can be healthy components of your dog’s diet.

    Choose Complete and Balanced Foods

    Ensure your dog receives complete, balanced nutrition. Look for commercial foods with an AAFCO (American Association of Feed Control Officials) statement on the label, which confirms the food meets nutritional standards.

    Tailoring Diet to Individual Needs

    Remember that not all dogs have the same requirements. Factors that affect nutritional needs include:

    • Age (puppies, adults, and seniors have different needs)
    • Activity level
    • Health conditions
    • Body weight

    If your dog is having any digestive trouble, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian right away. They can run tests to determine the underlying cause and rule out serious conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, parasites, or pancreatic problems.

    Your veterinarian can recommend:

    • A complete digestive workup including bloodwork and fecal testing
    • Dietary changes to a more easily digestible food
    • Probiotic supplements to support gut health
    • Enzyme supplementation to aid digestion

    It’s important to know that what works for one dog may not work for another. Your veterinarian can create a customized plan based on your dog’s specific needs, age, and health status.

    Remember, chronic digestive issues aren’t normal and shouldn’t be ignored. Early intervention can prevent more serious complications down the road. Your veterinarian is your best partner in getting your canine companion back to feeling their best.

    Focus on providing complete, balanced nutrition through quality diets. Always consult with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet. They can help you determine the best feeding plan based on your individual dog’s needs, health status, and lifestyle. Your veterinarian may also refer you to a veterinary nutritionist for specialized dietary guidance if needed.

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    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

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  • A Moment To Remember With The Shingi Male Leopard – Londolozi Blog

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    One cannot deny the value that the young Shingi Male has provided us with over the past two years in terms of some incredible sightings. Although sightings of him and his mother have become less frequent, he still roams safely within her territory.

    The impressive size of the Shingi Male next to his mother


    The last surviving cub of a litter of three, he is on the cusp of independence.


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    Spotted this leopard?

    You’ve seen this leopard

    18 sightings by Members



    Londolozi’s most viewed leopard and prolific mother. This gorgeous female has raised multiple cubs to independence.


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    Spotted this leopard?

    You’ve seen this leopard

    107 sightings by Members


    Young leopards are often agile, enthusiastic and playful, frequently running to climb trees and termite mounds as they navigate their environment, and the Shingi Male is no exception.

    Nkoveni Young Male Change In Direction Kj

    The enthusiastic change of direction as the Shingi Male quickly climbed this marula tree

    One afternoon, after unsuccessfully trying to find his mother, the Nkoveni Female, another vehicle found the Shingi Male not too far away, lying in a marula tree. My guests and I had been hoping throughout their stay to capture a sighting of a leopard in a tree, and this seemed like it might be our moment.

    Unfortunately, it was not. As we made our way there, we could see him resting in the tree from a distance, but just as we came into full view, he descended into the long grass below. A minor moment of disappointment as the sun began to set, we realised we had missed the opportunity.

    We continued to follow him as the sky shifted from yellow and orange hues to soft pinks and blues. Suddenly, he ran off, stopped abruptly, and leapt into the long grass. Two Harlequin Quails (small ground birds) flushed as he pounced in their direction. It seemed that his rest in the tree had given him renewed energy, as he continued to hunt several of these birds—unsuccessfully, but very entertaining to watch.

    Rmb Leopard Nkoveni Young Male Stalking New 1

    With the grasses being lush and long this time of year, the leopards can stalk effectively by getting down low.

    As the light continued to fade, he walked through the clearings ahead of us. A fallen marula tree in the distance appeared to guide his path, and with the long grass surrounding him, we looped ahead and waited. Soon, we were delighted as he came bounding onto the fallen marula tree.

    Kj Shingi Male Smelling In A Fallen Over Marula

    He climbed way up to the upper parts of this fallen Marula and appeared to have picked up the scent of something.

    As we watched him, something incredible was brewing behind us, and with that we spun around, and to be honest, I could not quite believe my eyes…

    Kj Shingi Male In A Fallen Over Marula Spectacular Sky 4

    It looks almost too good to be true, but with all the moisture and clouds around this time of year and the glimmers of the fading sun, this is a sighting I will always remember.

    He then rubbed his face on the end of the branch before turning back and climbing back down.

    Kj Shingi Male In A Fallen Over Marula Spectacular Sky 2

    Kj Shingi Male In A Fallen Over Marula Spectacular Sky

    Combing his whiskers on the branch beneath him, he then spun around and climbed down the marula tree.

    He walked through the long grass once more before settling on a termite mound, scanning the nearby herd of impala as the last of the sun set faded behind him. We left him here and journeyed home with an exceptionally memorable moment that we were fortunate enough to share together.

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    Kirst Joscelyne

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