Thursday, October 29, 2015
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Tuesday, October 27, 2015
Recent Raw Meals
A sampling of my dogs' meals from the last two weeks. Mostly prey model, with some occasional premade/commercial and dehydrated or freeze dried raw. I feed twice daily, with breakfast being a smaller meal. Each dog typically eats about two pounds per day. I try to feed as much variety as possible. Different proteins, cuts, and organs.
Raw diet for dogs photos after the break.
Raw diet for dogs photos after the break.
Monday, October 26, 2015
Hairy Houdinis and their Great Escapes #NuzzleSmartCollar
Huskies, Malamutes, and Wolfdogs are often referred to as "Hairy Houdinis" because they are proven escape artists. No fence too tall, no gate impenetrable. Many owners, including myself, go to great lengths to prevent escapes, because an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
This post is sponsored by The Nuzzle™ GPS Smart Collar and the BlogPaws Professional Pet Blogger Network. I am being compensated for helping spread the word about The Nuzzle Indiegogo Crowd Funding Campaign, but My Rotten Dogs only shares information we feel is relevant to our readers. Nuzzle is not responsible for the content of this article.
I do all I can to keep my dogs safe. As mentioned above, I have six foot, low gauge fencing, a concrete pad in the outdoor area they can access at all times, and a double gated entry. Despite all this, I made a mistake last summer, and all three escaped. After nearly an hour, much sweat, and many curse words, all three were safely in the house or yard. Faolan ventured the farthest away from the house during that escapade.
I live fairly rural. My house is surrounded by crop fields and woods.
The above photo of Bruce was taken at the intersection nearest my house, about a half mile away.
When they escaped, my big fear was the woods and fields. They could disappear, and I could not see them, or know which way they were heading. Northern breeds also lack a homing instinct, meaning that they typically cannot find their way home, unlike some other breeds.
City and suburban dog owners also have the same fears. Busy streets, homes and buildings can all impede the safe return of an escapee.
- Six foot, low gauge fencing-check.
- Double-gated entryway-check.
- Dig guard-check.
But escapes can, and do, happen.
This post is sponsored by The Nuzzle™ GPS Smart Collar and the BlogPaws Professional Pet Blogger Network. I am being compensated for helping spread the word about The Nuzzle Indiegogo Crowd Funding Campaign, but My Rotten Dogs only shares information we feel is relevant to our readers. Nuzzle is not responsible for the content of this article.
I do all I can to keep my dogs safe. As mentioned above, I have six foot, low gauge fencing, a concrete pad in the outdoor area they can access at all times, and a double gated entry. Despite all this, I made a mistake last summer, and all three escaped. After nearly an hour, much sweat, and many curse words, all three were safely in the house or yard. Faolan ventured the farthest away from the house during that escapade.
I live fairly rural. My house is surrounded by crop fields and woods.
The above photo of Bruce was taken at the intersection nearest my house, about a half mile away.
When they escaped, my big fear was the woods and fields. They could disappear, and I could not see them, or know which way they were heading. Northern breeds also lack a homing instinct, meaning that they typically cannot find their way home, unlike some other breeds.
City and suburban dog owners also have the same fears. Busy streets, homes and buildings can all impede the safe return of an escapee.
Sunday, October 25, 2015
Friday, October 23, 2015
#AvoDermNatural Grain-Free for Happy Kitties
This post is sponsored by Avoderm and the BlogPaws Professional Pet Blogger Network. I am being compensated for helping spread the word about Avoderm Grain-Free but My Rotten Dogs only shares information we feel is relevant to our readers. Avoderm is not responsible for the content of this article.
Last month, we introduced our readers to Avoderm® Natural, containing the avocado superfood. Avocados are a natural "nutrient booster," helping pets to absorb more of the nutrients they need, and contain heart-healthy fats, Omega fatty acids 3 and 6, and antioxidants. There is a revolving menu of various proteins for dogs, and grain-free varieties available for kitties.
My girls, Juice and Noelle, have been enjoying grain-free Avoderm for the past few weeks. They are loving it! I need to make a video of their excitement at meal time. It's quite cute, and not nearly as annoying as my dogs at meal times. A six week trial with Avoderm Natural will demonstrate such results as a healthier, shinier, smoother coat and skin.
If kibble is fed, grain-free is best for cats. Cats are obligate carnivores, and have no need for fillers such as corn, which Avoderm Natural does not contain. The first ingredient is a meat protein!
Last weekend, I took Faolan out and about, and decided to stop in Petsmart to look for Avoderm Natural. While I saw a sign there for Avoderm, I did not see the actual product.
Fortunately, many retailers will order a food they do not carry if a customer asks. I have done this myself at a local Pet Supplies Plus store. There is also an abundance of online retailers who carry Avoderm, Amazon and Chewy are just a couple of online retailers who carry Avoderm Natural pet foods.
Ideally, I prefer to purchase most products at brick and mortar stores, with preference to local stores when available. Avoderm has a handy product locator on their website. Simply type in your zip code, and a list of stores that carry Avoderm appears.
Find Avoderm Natural on Facebook and Twitter.
Have you seen Avoderm on your local store shelves? Or do you prefer online shopping?
Last month, we introduced our readers to Avoderm® Natural, containing the avocado superfood. Avocados are a natural "nutrient booster," helping pets to absorb more of the nutrients they need, and contain heart-healthy fats, Omega fatty acids 3 and 6, and antioxidants. There is a revolving menu of various proteins for dogs, and grain-free varieties available for kitties.
 |
| Juice is not the best model. |
My girls, Juice and Noelle, have been enjoying grain-free Avoderm for the past few weeks. They are loving it! I need to make a video of their excitement at meal time. It's quite cute, and not nearly as annoying as my dogs at meal times. A six week trial with Avoderm Natural will demonstrate such results as a healthier, shinier, smoother coat and skin.
If kibble is fed, grain-free is best for cats. Cats are obligate carnivores, and have no need for fillers such as corn, which Avoderm Natural does not contain. The first ingredient is a meat protein!
Last weekend, I took Faolan out and about, and decided to stop in Petsmart to look for Avoderm Natural. While I saw a sign there for Avoderm, I did not see the actual product.
 |
| It was 51 degrees out. I still opened the window for him. |
Fortunately, many retailers will order a food they do not carry if a customer asks. I have done this myself at a local Pet Supplies Plus store. There is also an abundance of online retailers who carry Avoderm, Amazon and Chewy are just a couple of online retailers who carry Avoderm Natural pet foods.
Ideally, I prefer to purchase most products at brick and mortar stores, with preference to local stores when available. Avoderm has a handy product locator on their website. Simply type in your zip code, and a list of stores that carry Avoderm appears.
Find Avoderm Natural on Facebook and Twitter.
Have you seen Avoderm on your local store shelves? Or do you prefer online shopping?
Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
October 2015 BarkBox
I am a BarkBox subscriber. I am not asked or encouraged to do these reviews. All opinions are my own.
I think this month's theme is Trick-or-Treat. All product opinions are how I feel about a particular item in regards to my dogs. What does not work for them could very well work wonderfully for another's dog.
The Goods
Butcher's Block Beef Knuckle Slice. Approximate retail value $7.95. I don't give my dogs roasted bones, because I feel they are not safe for my dogs. Others may feel differently with their particular dogs, but I am a member of the "no cooked bones" camp, unless the bone completely crumbles easily.
No Grainers Jerky Chews. Approximate retail value $5.97. These semi-soft treats are grain and gluten-free. They are approximately 2" in length, but break into smaller pieces. My dogs are willing to work for treats like this, so they will be put to good use.
Giggle Dynamite toy. Unknown value. A combo of rope and rubber, that makes a strange "giggling" noise when shaken or jostled. My dogs will certainly enjoy the two different textures, and I will enjoy some games of tug with them.
Hyper Pet Doggie Tail. Approximate retail value $12.99. This toy moves on it's own. A clever idea, but not particularly durable, for toy dissectors such as my dogs. I will allow Neeko to interact with it, because I want to see her reaction. I may make a video. I also cannot wait to show it to my cats, to see what they think. This would be ideal for smaller dogs who are gentler on toys than my mutts.
Wheezy Wolfy's Salmon Half Skin. Unknown retail value. A dehydrated salmon skin roll. I know all three of my dogs would love this, but I have to choose the lucky one who will receive it...
This month's BarkBox is OK. The treats will be put to use, and one dog will enjoy the salmon skin roll. I am disappointed by the roasted bone, but that is just me.
To try BarkBox for yourself, and receive a free box added to your plan, click HERE.
I am a BarkBox subscriber. I am not asked or encouraged to do these reviews. All opinions are my own.
Sunday, October 18, 2015
Thursday, October 15, 2015
October 2015 Pet Gift Box Coupon Code and Review
It's always a good day when I see the Pet Gift Box sitting on the porch, and yesterday was such a day.
I am a huge fan of this monthly subscription box for a variety of reasons. It offers folks the chance to try items that they may not have access to, or wouldn't normally purchase. It's like a mini Christmas once a month. It's very affordable. To save more, use coupon code myrottendogs. To read reviews of previous and/or current Pet Gift Boxes, click HERE.
This month's theme is Howloween, and all the items have a fun fall/Halloween feel to them.
I am a huge fan of this monthly subscription box for a variety of reasons. It offers folks the chance to try items that they may not have access to, or wouldn't normally purchase. It's like a mini Christmas once a month. It's very affordable. To save more, use coupon code myrottendogs. To read reviews of previous and/or current Pet Gift Boxes, click HERE.
This month's theme is Howloween, and all the items have a fun fall/Halloween feel to them.
The Goods
Grriggles Playful Pumpkin. Approximate retail value $12.99. Cute, corduroy pumpkin with a squeaker. I am tempted to use this as a decoration rather than a dog toy. It's that cute, and pretty good-sized.
Zanies peek-a-boo's. Approximate retail value $7.99. Another cute, smallish dog toy. This is soft soft rubber, with a squeaker. When squeezed, it squeaks, and the witch's head pops out. Goes perfectly with the theme. This toy is very cute, but not durable enough for my rough dogs. I will enjoy gifting this to someone this month.
Bark Bars Halloween Cookies. Listed retail value $4.99. Large cookies made with pumpkin and cinnamon, amongst other ingredients. One is a pumpkin, the other is a ghost. These are super cute and festive. They do contain yeast, so Bruce (who loves big cookies) will not be able to have one, but Neeko and Faolan will certainly enjoy them.
Halloween Boo-Dana. Listed retail value $5.99. Adorable Halloween bandana. I am taking Faolan to a Halloween party next weekend, and this will be perfect for him to wear.
Exclusively Dog Smoochers. Approximate retail value $5.99. Soft round treats that are wheat, corn, and soy-free! The treats are decent-sized, but easily break into even smaller pieces. I am stingy with treats, particularly when using them as training/bribery treats, so I always appreciate this. Made in the USA, these treats contain pumpkin and yogurt.
The last three month's of the year are my favorite, due to the holidays and the festiveness that goes along with each of them. This month's Pet Gift Box is definitely putting me in the mindset. Cute toys, cookies, and a bandana that I cannot wait to see Faolan sporting!
I was provided with complimentary product. All opinions are my own.
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Tuesday, October 13, 2015
Good Buddy Jerky Strips
I love bribing treating my dogs. Sometimes for a desired behavior/action, but mostly just because.
Their favorite treats are soft with a strong scent, so I am always on the lookout for treats like this, that contain decent ingredients.
Our friends at Chewy sent some Castor & Pollux Good Buddy Jerky Strips to try out.
The last time I chose Bruce to be the initial taste tester on a new (to us) product, it didn't end well. I decided to give it another go, and big boy was more than happy to assist.
These chicken-based treats contain very simple ingredients, are made in the USA, and are grain-free. They easily break into smaller pieces, and have a strong, but not unpleasant scent. Bruce was pulling every behavior in his arsenal out in an attempt to get his first bite. It was pretty cute.
Big boy, along with Neeko and Faolan, love these. I love that they easily break, while not crumbling too much, contain simple ingredients, and that my dogs are willing to work for them.
I was provided with complimentary product. All opinions are my own.
Their favorite treats are soft with a strong scent, so I am always on the lookout for treats like this, that contain decent ingredients.
Our friends at Chewy sent some Castor & Pollux Good Buddy Jerky Strips to try out.
The last time I chose Bruce to be the initial taste tester on a new (to us) product, it didn't end well. I decided to give it another go, and big boy was more than happy to assist.
These chicken-based treats contain very simple ingredients, are made in the USA, and are grain-free. They easily break into smaller pieces, and have a strong, but not unpleasant scent. Bruce was pulling every behavior in his arsenal out in an attempt to get his first bite. It was pretty cute.
Big boy, along with Neeko and Faolan, love these. I love that they easily break, while not crumbling too much, contain simple ingredients, and that my dogs are willing to work for them.
I was provided with complimentary product. All opinions are my own.
Monday, October 12, 2015
Recent Raw Meals
After the break is a sampling of my dogs' raw meals over the last two or so weeks. I feed three large dogs a mostly prey model diet, with some exceptions, as seen in the photos. My dogs eat approximately six pounds daily combined, some days a bit more, some days a bit less.
I try to feed as much variety as possible, while staying within budget.
My dogs eat twice daily. Breakfast is typically a smaller meal, and nearly always boneless.
I try to feed as much variety as possible, while staying within budget.
My dogs eat twice daily. Breakfast is typically a smaller meal, and nearly always boneless.
Sunday, October 11, 2015
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Wordy Wednesday
Because I'm a terrible person, I didn't post here about celebrating Faolan's birthday Monday. I assigned October 5, 2011 as his birthday based on guesstimated age at time of adoption. My sweet "shelter special" is four years old.
Sunday, October 4, 2015
Friday, October 2, 2015
September 2015 Expenses
One day late, due to yesterday being Bruce's birthday.
Keeping track of my dog related expenses is easy for me, as I use a budgeting app to track all my expenses, and pay for nearly everything from my checking account. It keeps accountable.
Some months are quite expensive, while others are relatively cheap. It all balances out in the end, and can give folks an overview of the costs associated with caring for three raw fed dogs in the Midwest.
September 2015 Expenses
Food-$212.12
Health-$16.42
Miscellaneous-$10.00
Total-$238.54
This month was very inexpensive! Expenses are relative, and everyone is different, but this was a very "cheap" month for me. Food made up the bulk of the expenses. I placed an order for green tripe and beef kidney from My Pet Carnivore. I purchased beef heart, complete ground lamb, goat tongue and goat liver from a farming operation/raw food supplier in southern Indiana. I also purchased chicken leg quarters, pork loin, and a bag of I and Love and You dehydrated raw from the grocery store.
Health was the cost of Bruce's prescription, and the miscellaneous costs was three new stainless steel bowls.
I am quite happy, as this is my least expensive month since March of this year. Last month was nearly twice this amount. I am contemplating a year end post, with total expenses for the year.
Keeping track of my dog related expenses is easy for me, as I use a budgeting app to track all my expenses, and pay for nearly everything from my checking account. It keeps accountable.
Some months are quite expensive, while others are relatively cheap. It all balances out in the end, and can give folks an overview of the costs associated with caring for three raw fed dogs in the Midwest.
September 2015 Expenses
Food-$212.12
Health-$16.42
Miscellaneous-$10.00
Total-$238.54
This month was very inexpensive! Expenses are relative, and everyone is different, but this was a very "cheap" month for me. Food made up the bulk of the expenses. I placed an order for green tripe and beef kidney from My Pet Carnivore. I purchased beef heart, complete ground lamb, goat tongue and goat liver from a farming operation/raw food supplier in southern Indiana. I also purchased chicken leg quarters, pork loin, and a bag of I and Love and You dehydrated raw from the grocery store.
Health was the cost of Bruce's prescription, and the miscellaneous costs was three new stainless steel bowls.
I am quite happy, as this is my least expensive month since March of this year. Last month was nearly twice this amount. I am contemplating a year end post, with total expenses for the year.
Thursday, October 1, 2015
Happy Birthday Bruce!
Today is the big boy's 6th birthday! While he is a rescue, I do know today is his actual birthday.
I will refrain from complaining about Bruce in this post, and instead share some photos.
All photos were taken this afternoon. Happy Birthday Bruce!
And finally, his best side...
I will refrain from complaining about Bruce in this post, and instead share some photos.
All photos were taken this afternoon. Happy Birthday Bruce!
And finally, his best side...
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