Pet’s Corner

How To Reset Your Dog’s Health

Simple Solutions for Better Quality of Life & Longevity

If dogs could talk, many of them would probably say the same thing: “Less processed junk. More fresh air. More real food. More squirrels.”

Modern dogs live longer than ever in some ways, yet they are also experiencing increasing rates of obesity, allergies, digestive disorders, arthritis, diabetes, anxiety, and even cancer. While genetics certainly play a role, lifestyle matters too — just as it does for humans.

The good news? You do not need a veterinary degree, a trust fund, or a freezer full of elk meat harvested under a full moon to improve your dog’s health. Often, the biggest changes come from returning to simple basics.

Here are three foundational principles that can help “reset” your dog’s health and improve both quality of life and longevity.

1. Nutrition: Food Is Information

Most commercial kibble was designed for convenience and shelf life — not necessarily optimal health. While some dogs appear to do “fine” on dry food, many owners notice improvements in energy, coat quality, digestion, skin health, and mobility when fresh foods are added to the diet.

The Problem With Strictly Feeding Kibble

Dry kibble is heavily processed. Many formulas are cooked at extremely high temperatures, which can damage delicate nutrients and alter proteins and fats. In some foods, inexpensive fillers, artificial preservatives, rendered by-products, or low-quality oils are used to reduce manufacturing costs.

Over the years, multiple pet food companies have faced recalls and lawsuits involving contamination, misleading ingredient claims, mold toxins, excessive vitamins, and even euthanasia drugs found in rendered ingredients. Consumers can research past recalls and legal actions through resources such as:

• The FDA pet food recall database

• Truth About Pet Food

• Dog Food Advisor

• Consumer Affairs complaint archives

This does not mean every kibble is dangerous. It simply means dog owners should ask more questions instead of assuming a colorful bag with a happy Golden Retriever on the front automatically equals health. (If marketing photos were reality, every dog in America would apparently be sprinting through a wheat field in slow motion while violin music plays.)

Adding Fresh Foods Slowly You do not have to overhaul your dog’s diet overnight. Sudden dietary changes can upset digestion. Instead, begin gradually.

Start by replacing a small percentage of kibble with fresh, species-appropriate foods such as:

Healthy Protein Sources

• Lean beef

• Turkey

• Chicken

• Sardines

• Eggs

• Salmon

Dog-Friendly Vegetables

• Green beans

• Carrots

• Zucchini

• Spinach (in moderation)

• Broccoli

• Pumpkin

Avoid onions, grapes, raisins, excessive garlic, xylitol, and other toxic foods. A good rule is: introduce one new food at a time and watch for digestive changes, itching, or sensitivities.

Supporting the Gut

A healthy gut affects nearly every system in the body, including immunity, inflammation levels, mood, skin health, and nutrient absorption.

Many dogs benefit from nutraceutical support such as:

• Probiotics

• Digestive enzymes

• Omega-3 fatty acids

• Colostrum

• Medicinal mushrooms

• Bone broth

• Prebiotic fibers

Think of the gut as your dog’s internal garden. If the soil is damaged, weeds take over. If the environment is healthy, beneficial bacteria flourish.

2. Detoxification: Reducing the Toxic Load

Dogs live much closer to the ground than we do. They walk barefoot across chemically treated lawns, lick their paws, breathe household fumes, and absorb toxins through skin and digestion. Their exposure level can be surprisingly high.

Common Sources of Toxins

Many everyday products may contribute to toxic burden over time:

• Air fresheners

• Scented candles

• Harsh floor cleaners

• Pesticides and herbicides

• Flea and tick chemicals

• Synthetic fragrances

• Mold exposure

• Heavy metals in water or food

Dogs also groom themselves constantly, meaning substances that land on their fur often end up being ingested. Reducing Exposure Simple changes can make a meaningful difference.

Helpful Strategies:

• Use unscented or natural cleaners whenever possible

• Avoid synthetic air fresheners

• Filter drinking water

• Remove shoes indoors after lawn chemical exposure

• Wipe paws after walks

• Improve home ventilation

• Choose cleaner food and treats

Even reducing toxic exposure by 20–30% may lessen stress on the liver, kidneys, immune system, and skin.

Supporting Detox Pathways

The body already has natural detoxification systems — primarily the liver, kidneys, digestive tract, skin, and lymphatic system. The goal is not trendy “detox miracles,” but rather supporting the organs that already perform these jobs.

Many owners research supportive options such as:

• Milk thistle for liver support

• NAC (N-acetyl cysteine)

• Probiotics for gut balance

• Increased hydration

• Omega-3s to reduce inflammation

• Kidney-supportive nutrition in older dogs

Again, gut health matters enormously. A balanced microbiome helps prevent harmful compounds from recirculating throughout the body.

3. Exercise and Fitness: Movement Is Medicine

Many dogs today live oddly human-like lifestyles:   Wake up. Eat. Sit. Snack. Nap. Scroll social media. Okay… maybe not the last one. But if dogs had thumbs, some would absolutely have TikTok accounts.

Dogs were designed to move. Especially working breeds. Border Collies, German Shepherds, Australian Shepherds, Huskies, Labs, and similar breeds were bred for physical and mental tasks — not twelve straight hours of sofa contemplation.

When dogs do not receive adequate exercise, the consequences may include:

• Obesity

• Anxiety

• Destructive behavior

• Joint stiffness

• Poor cardiovascular health

• Depression-like symptoms

• Weakened muscle tone

One of the best things about dog exercise is that it benefits us as well.

For BOTH species regular walks improve:

• Blood circulation

• Lymphatic flow

• Cardiovascular health

• Immune function

• Stress levels

• Mood and mental health

Sunlight exposure also helps regulate circadian rhythms and supports healthy sleep patterns.

Many people discover that their dog accidentally becomes their therapist, personal trainer, and emotional support comedian all at once.

Fitness Doesn’t Have To Be Extreme

Not every dog needs to train for the canine Olympics.

Simple activities matter:

• Daily walks

• Tug-of-war

• Swimming

• Fetch

• Nose work games

• Gentle hikes

• Puzzle toys

• Backyard obstacle courses

Older dogs still need movement too — just adapted to their abilities. Motion keeps joints lubricated, muscles active, and brains engaged.

Remember– Resetting your dog’s health is not about perfection. It is about reducing the daily burdens that slowly wear the body down while increasing the things that support vitality. Better food. Cleaner living. More movement. Small changes add up.

Your dog does not care whether dinner came from an expensive boutique store or a hand-painted ceramic bowl shaped like a wolf. They care about how they feel. More energy. Less pain. Better digestion. More joyful years beside the people they love.

And if your dog happens to stare judgmentally while you chop vegetables for their fresh dinner, just remember: They are not criticizing your cooking skills. They are simply supervising.

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Pets Can’t Tell Us When They’re In Pain

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Effective Natural Pain Relief for Dogs and Cats

Many pet owners turn to conventional medications, but there are plenty of holistic options that can provide effective pain relief without the potential side effects of traditional drugs. Here are some of the most effective natural pain relief methods for dogs and cats.

1. DMSO (Dimethyl Sulfoxide)

DMSO is an organosulfur compound that comes in a colorless liquid form. It penetrates the skin easily and can be used as a single agent for treating conditions like knee swelling and arthritis in pets. To use it, apply DMSO topically to the affected joint twice daily.
For a more holistic approach, you can combine DMSO with topical pain creams such as Arnica gel, Traumeel, or CBD oil. This combination works well when applied twice daily.

2. Essential Oils

Essential oils like Frankincense (Boswellia) and Almond oil can be effective for relieving pain in pets.

• How to use: Dilute with a carrier oil, such as olive, coconut, or almond oil, and apply it topically to the affected area.
  Frankincense has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and is especially beneficial for dogs.

3. Ginger

Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help with joint and muscle pain. It contains phytochemicals that work to stop inflammation. When used in small doses, ginger has very few side effects.

• How to use: Fresh ginger can be steeped in boiling water to make tea, or grated into vegetable juice for your dog.

4. Heat and Cold Therapy

Heat and cold therapy can be incredibly effective for pain relief. Cold therapy helps reduce blood flow during the initial stages of injury, which is crucial for reducing swelling and pain.

• Cold Therapy: When I tore my Achilles tendon, cold therapy was one of the most effective treatments in reducing initial swelling.
  Once the swelling subsides, heat therapy can be used to increase blood flow, which promotes healing by delivering oxygen and nutrients to the affected area.
• Heat Therapy: Heating pads and heated braces are great options for applying heat to the affected area.

5. Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s)

Essential fatty acids, such as flax oil, fish oil, and krill oil, play a significant role in reducing inflammation.

• How to use:
  • Flax oil: 1 teaspoon per 10 lbs of body weight, once or twice daily.
  • Fish oil: 1000 mg per 10 lbs of body weight.
  • Krill oil: 1000 mg per 50 lbs of body weight.

6. Castor Oil

Studies have shown that castor oil, when applied topically, can reduce inflammation and relieve pain. One study demonstrated that treatment with a gel containing ricinoleic acid significantly reduced pain and inflammation when applied to the skin.

7. Arnica 30C

Arnica is a popular homeopathic remedy for acute injuries, muscle pain, stiffness, and swelling caused by injuries. It’s an easy remedy to administer—simply place the capsule under your pet’s lips to let them absorb or swallow it.

• Dosage: 1 capsule per 10 lbs of body weight every 2-4 hours for acute injuries and 1 capsule per day for long-term use.
  I also recommend Traumeel, a homeopathic cream, which I’ve found to be very helpful for managing pain.

8. CBD (Cannabidiol) and Other Cannabinoids

Cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids such as CBC, CBG, and CBN are natural anti-inflammatories that can be very effective for pain relief in pets. These non-psychoactive compounds do not delay healing, making them a great choice for managing pain.

• How to use: A typical dose is 3 mg per 10 lbs of body weight, given once or twice daily.

9. Boswellia (Frankincense)

Boswellia is an herb traditionally used in India to treat arthritis and boost the immune system. It’s also known to treat other conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and heart disease.

• How to use: A therapeutic dose of 10-20 mg per 10 lbs of body weight per day will provide the anti-inflammatory benefits you’re looking for.

10. Curcumin

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is well-known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties and has been extensively studied for its benefits in treating arthritis and natural pain relief.
Research has shown that curcumin can help ease the symptoms of osteoarthritis, making it a safe and effective option for pets with joint pain.

• How to use: Curcumin is a key ingredient in our new and tasty Hemp Infused Joint Chews for Dogs.

(From Dr. Andrew Jones, DVM)

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Do Dogs See Some Colors Better Than Others?

If you’ve ever tossed your dog a bright red toy only to watch him run directly past it like it was invisible, congratulations — you may have just discovered that dogs are not tiny furry humans with better hearing. Their vision works very differently from ours, and understanding that can actually help you buy toys they can see more easily (and maybe stop wasting money on that adorable red plaid chew bone he keeps losing in the grass).

Humans typically have three types of color receptors in our eyes, called cones. This gives us what scientists call trichromatic vision, meaning we can see a huge rainbow of colors. Dogs, however, only have two types of cones. They are dichromatic, which means their color world is much more limited.

So what colors can dogs actually see?

Dogs primarily see shades of:

• Blue

• Yellow

• Gray

• Brown-ish tones

What they don’t see well are:

• Red

• Orange

• Green

To a dog, red and green often appear as muddy brownish or grayish shades. In other words, that festive red-and-green Christmas tennis ball may look less like holiday cheer and more like “sad potato.”

Scientists often compare canine vision to red-green color blindness in humans. A bright green toy sitting in green grass can blend together visually for your dog, making fetch unnecessarily difficult. From your perspective, the toy is screaming, “HERE I AM!” From your dog’s perspective, it has entered witness protection.

This is why blue and yellow toys are generally the best choices for dogs.

A bright blue ball on green grass stands out dramatically to canine eyes. Yellow toys also pop nicely against darker backgrounds. If you’ve ever noticed that many professional agility tools, frisbees, and dog sports equipment are blue or yellow, there’s a reason for that. Dog trainers and manufacturers have figured out that these colors are easier for dogs to distinguish quickly.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

Toy Color	How It Looks to Dogs	Good Choice?
Blue	Bright and distinct	Excellent
Yellow	Clear and visible	Excellent
Red	Brownish/dark	Poor
Green	Blends into grass	Poor
Orange	Dull yellow-brown	Mediocre
Purple	Often appears blue-ish	Usually good

Now, before anyone panics and throws out every red dog toy in the house, dogs don’t rely on vision alone. Their noses are still the undisputed superheroes of the animal kingdom. A dog’s sense of smell is so powerful that your Labrador could probably locate a meatball hidden inside a concrete bunker three counties away.

Dogs also detect motion extremely well. Even if they can’t see a red ball clearly sitting still in the grass, they may track it easily while it’s flying through the air. Once it lands, however, things can get… negotiable.

Another interesting fact is that dogs actually see better than humans in low light. Their eyes contain more rod cells, which are specialized for motion detection and dim lighting. So while your dog may struggle to identify a red toy in daylight, he can probably spot movement in the backyard at dusk long before you can. This explains why dogs sometimes bark furiously into the darkness while you’re standing there seeing absolutely nothing and reconsidering all your life choices.

When shopping for toys, visibility matters more than many people realize. Toys that are easier to see can:

• Make fetch less frustrating

• Help older dogs track objects better

• Increase engagement during play

• Reduce lost toys in grass or bushes

• Make training exercises easier

Texture and contrast also help. A blue toy with white stripes is often even easier for dogs to track than a solid color. Bright yellow floating toys are especially helpful for water-loving dogs because they stand out against darker water surfaces.

Of course, your dog may still ignore the carefully researched blue toy you bought and instead become emotionally attached to a dirty sock, a pinecone, or an empty cardboard box. Science can explain color vision, but it still has no answer for why dogs treasure garbage with such passion.

So if you want your dog to actually see his toys clearly, stick with blue and yellow whenever possible. Your dog may not appreciate the science behind your purchase, but he’ll probably spend less time sniffing around the yard looking confused — and that’s a win for everybody.

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The Benefits of Homemade Dog Food

Homemade dog food offers several advantages over commercial dog food options. Here are the key benefits:

Control Over Ingredients

• Whole Foods: You can choose whole-food ingredients that are safe and healthy for your dog.
• Sourcing: You have control over where the ingredients come from, which can reduce concerns about food recalls and quality.

Nutritional Customization

• Tailored Diets: Homemade meals can be customized to meet your dog’s specific nutritional needs, such as age, weight, and health issues.
• Balanced Nutrition: You can ensure that the diet includes the right balance of proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

Variety and Freshness

• Minimally Processed: Cooking methods can be less invasive than those used in commercial dog food production, preserving the nutritional value of ingredients.
• Diverse Ingredients: You can incorporate a variety of fresh ingredients, making meals more interesting for your dog.

Health Benefits

• Reduced Risk of Allergies: By selecting ingredients, you can avoid allergens that may be present in commercial foods.
• Improved Digestion: Fresh, whole foods can lead to better digestion and overall health for your dog.

Cost-Effectiveness

• Potential Savings: Making dog food at home can sometimes be more economical than purchasing premium commercial dog foods.

The Basic Recipe:

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How To Clip Your Dog’s Black Nails

 

Why Is It A Problem?

Clipping black nails can be challenging because the quick, which is sensitive and contains blood vessels, is not visible. Here’s what you need to know:

• Nail Anatomy: Each nail has an outer hard shell and an inner quick. The quick is sensitive and should be avoided during trimming.
• Color Differences: Black nails make it difficult to see the quick, unlike lighter nails where the quick appears pink.

Proper Tools 

Using the right tools is essential for safe and effective nail trimming. Here are some recommended tools:

Step-by-Step Guide to Clipping Black Nails

Prepare Your Dog: Ensure your dog is calm and comfortable. You can do this by:

• • Handling their paws regularly to build comfort.
  • Letting them sniff the clippers.
  • Offering treats during the process.

Trim Gradually:

• • Trim a small amount of the nail at a time.
  • Look for a chalky white ring that indicates you are nearing the quick. Stop trimming when you see this.

Observe the Nail: After each cut, check the nail for signs of the quick. If you see a dark spot, stop trimming to avoid cutting into the quick.

Stay Prepared: Have styptic powder or cornstarch on hand to stop any bleeding in case of an accident.

Professional Tips

• Frequency: Trim your dog’s nails every 3 to 4 weeks to prevent overgrowth and quick extension.
• Patience: Take your time and don’t rush the process. If your dog is anxious, consider doing one nail at a time.
• Professional Help: If you’re uncomfortable, seek assistance from a veterinarian or professional groomer for guidance.

By following these steps and using the right tools, you can safely clip your dog’s black nails and keep them healthy.

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Dog Dental Warning

Believe it or not, tennis balls pose a risk to your dog’s overall health: dental wear and tear.

That green fuzz might seem soft, but tennis balls are designed to withstand tennis courts and rackets. Board-certified veterinary dental specialists, warn that the fuzz is actually very abrasive, and accumulated dirt and sand increases the abrasive quality of the ball. As your dog chomps on a tennis ball, the fuzz acts like sandpaper, gradually wearing down her teeth in a process called “blunting.” This can eventually lead to dental problems such as exposed tooth pulp and difficulty chewing.

Some experts will tell you that your dog can still safely play with tennis balls as long as they don’t focus on chewing on the ball, but I’m here to tell you that’s NOT TRUE! Millie has played fetch with tennis balls all of her five years, and she never just wanted to just “chew on the ball” outside of her fetch activity. She did however, chew on the ball as she was bring it back for us to throw again.

This caused her to develop pulpitis, or exposed pulp from playing tennis ball fetch! She had to  have a root canal (they couldn’t pull it since the affected tooth is such an important one, actually supplying structural foundation for her lower jaw.) she also has a tooth on top that needed the same treatment, along with a couple of others that had to be pulled. And she was ONLY 5 YEARS OLD at the time! So there’s really NO SAFE WAY to play with tennis balls.

I have purchased the blue, slick Chuck It balls on the advice of my Vet and Millie really likes them now since she was given no alternative, so the switch was not hard. They’re a little more expensive, but last much longer. And look at it this way- how costly are they really, compared to a doggie root canal??

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How To Choose The Right Dog Breed

Why the Right Dog Matters For Elders

For many older adults, a dog provides companionship, emotional support, and even health benefits like reduced stress and increased daily activity. However, high-energy or difficult-to-train breeds can quickly become overwhelming. The ideal companion is one that matches a slower pace, requires moderate exercise, and is easy to care for.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is often considered one of the best companion dogs. These small, gentle dogs thrive on human interaction and love spending time curled up on a lap. They require only moderate exercise and are known for their friendly, adaptable temperament. Our son and his family own one of these beautiful dogs and they are a great fit for any age person or family.

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a calm and affectionate breed that does well in smaller living spaces. They are low-energy and enjoy short walks and indoor relaxation. Regular grooming is needed, but their loving nature makes up for the extra care.

Poodle (Toy or Miniature)

The Poodle—especially the toy and miniature varieties—is highly intelligent and easy to train. They are also considered hypoallergenic, which is helpful for seniors with allergies. Their manageable size and adaptable energy levels make them a versatile choice.

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is cheerful, affectionate, and relatively easygoing. They enjoy companionship and are known for their playful yet gentle demeanor. Like poodles, they have a low-shedding coat but require regular grooming.

French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is ideal for seniors who want a low-maintenance dog. They don’t require much exercise and are content lounging around the house. Their sturdy build and minimal grooming needs are additional advantages.

Maltese

The Maltese is a small, affectionate breed that forms strong bonds with its owner. They are gentle and thrive in quiet environments, making them a great fit for seniors living alone or in apartments.

What to Consider Before Choosing

Even within ideal breeds, it’s important to think about:

• Energy level: Low to moderate energy dogs are usually best.

• Size: Smaller dogs are easier to handle, especially for those with mobility concerns.

• Grooming needs: Some low-shedding breeds require frequent grooming.

• Temperament: Look for calm, friendly, and trainable personalities.

• Health considerations: Older dogs from shelters can sometimes be an excellent match, as they are often already trained and less energetic.

Final Thoughts

The best dog for an elderly person isn’t just about breed—it’s about compatibility. A calm, affectionate dog that fits comfortably into daily routines can bring years of joy, companionship, and comfort!