tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16949577599262365692024-03-18T16:33:57.724-04:00My Rotten DogsInfo on pet products, raw feeding, big dogs.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.comBlogger987125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-40912521403468787382018-08-12T16:54:00.001-04:002018-08-12T16:54:09.642-04:00You CAN Ship Frozen Raw Dog Food - #ChewyInfluencerI am a fan of raw feeding, obviously. I support and encourage all forms. Full raw, partial raw, some raw goodies on occasion. Prey Model Raw, BARF, Premade Raw, Dehydrated Raw. I think they are all wonderful.<br />
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There are some who would like to supplement with raw or feed full on raw without having to worry about balancing the diet themselves, but want to feed their dogs actual "meat." This is where frozen premade raw comes in handy. Many smaller pet supply stores and boutiques now have freezers stuffed with various brands of premade frozen raw dog food.<br />
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It can be quite expensive to ship frozen food, and then you have the fears of the food actually arriving frozen.<br />
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I was pleasantly surprised to learn that <a href="http://www.chewy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">chewy.com</a> ships frozen raw dog food, and shipping is ABSOLUTELY FREE on orders over $49!<br />
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We recently received some <a href="https://www.chewy.com/instinct-by-natures-variety-frozen/dp/170898" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instinct Raw</a> (Grass-fed Lamb) from chewy.com, and I have to admit I was a little hesitant about ordering raw dog food to be shipped in the middle of summer.<br />
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Guess what? It arrived completely frozen.<br />
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Chewy packed it in it's own box, with all 6 sides insulated with thick Styrofoam. And they included dry ice.<br />
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The dry ice was still pretty intact upon arrival. I simply removed it with oven gloves and allowed it to dissipate in my driveway.<br />
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<b>About the Instinct Medallions</b></div>
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<li><b>They are complete and balanced. </b>No need to do the math and make sure one is feeding a balanced diet.</li>
<li><b>They come in a variety of proteins. </b>Raw feeders stress the importance of variety, and Instinct allows you to feed different sources of protein - chicken, beef, and lamb.</li>
<li><b>Their size makes portioning easy. </b>Weighing in at approximately 1 ounce each, it is easy to count out how many your particular dog needs, no matter whether they are large or small.</li>
<li><b>Large dogs can eat them frozen or thawed. </b>I feed them to my gang frozen.</li>
<li><b>My dogs LOVE them! </b>Check out this video of Neeko adorably dancing and singing because I have a bowl full of Instinct Lamb medallions waiting for her on the other side of the gate.</li>
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Whether one feeds full, partial, or some raw, Instinct raw is an easily obtainable (Free shipping on orders over $49), balanced way to feed your dog raw.<br />
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<i>My Rotten Dogs are Chewy Influencers. We were provided with complimentary product. All opinions and images are my own. </i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com149tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-51017377008172440882018-07-10T08:57:00.000-04:002018-07-10T08:57:50.849-04:00If My Dog Were a Person, He'd Be In PrisonIt's true.<br />
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If Bruce were a human, the things he does would put him in prison. And Neeko and Faolan would likely be as well.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Bruce's Rap Sheet</u></b></span></div>
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<b>Theft - </b>I can't even begin to list the number of things that he has stolen. From me. From Neeko. From Faolan. Toys. Food. Items of clothing.</div>
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<b>Receiving Stolen Property - </b>he and Faolan have collaborated to steal from me in the past. If sweet Faolan is successful, Bruce is more than happy to take the goods.<br />
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<b>Public Urination - </b>on the regular. He can't walk anywhere without trying to pee on everything. </div>
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<b>Public Indecency - </b>put your lipstick away, buddy.</div>
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<b>Loitering - </b>he likes to hang out and do nothing.</div>
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<b>Noise Violations - </b>sometimes he likes to howl at 3:30 in the morning.</div>
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<b>Inciting a Riot - </b>I swear he encourages bad behavior from Neeko and Faolan. </div>
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<b>Assault and Battery - </b>On me, though the times are explainable. He pleads the fifth regarding the incidents with poultry. </div>
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<b>Vandalism - </b>he likes to attempt to destroy things that don't belong to him.</div>
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<b>Attempted Breaking and Entering - </b>it's a good thing he doesn't have opposable thumbs. Otherwise he'd be in any room or structure he pleases. He does try to turn door knobs with his teeth.</div>
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<b>Obscenity - </b>he's got a big mouth, and sure likes to scream sometimes. </div>
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<b>Voyeurism - </b>he's a creeper. </div>
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<b>Resisting Arrest - </b>if he's in trouble, he wants nothing to do with me.</div>
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<b>Speeding - </b>watch out when he has the zoomies.</div>
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<i>Would your dog be in prison if they were a human? Are they guilty of any of these crimes or others?</i></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com85tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-20720844152476011512018-07-07T21:14:00.000-04:002018-07-07T21:19:54.001-04:00Our Best Canine Joint Regimen, and A Neeko Update (Bad hip xray photos)Last week, Neeko had a follow up with our primary vet, the wonderful Dr. Cindy Baker-O'Dell. Some adjustments were made to her treatment regimen. She had an x-ray of her paw, the bone lesion is unchanged. She had an ultrasound of her spleen, Dr. Baker-O'Dell said her spleen is "beautiful." She will have follow up chest x-rays in September. A couple of medication/supplement changes were made at her appointment last week.<br />
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She is not really limping on her front legs now, so our primary concern is her hips. The emergency vet described them as "horrible." Dr. Baker said she almost wishes she had never seen Neeko's hip x-rays.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neeko's hip x-ray</td></tr>
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This is Neeko's hip x-ray. It demonstrates advanced hip dysplasia with subsequent proliferative arthritis. This is a very bad canine hip xray. Many are impressed she can even walk. (Ignore the fact that the x-ray states "unaltered." Neeko is in fact spayed, was at a young age. Which I beat myself up for.)<br />
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Short story long, my girl has bad hips. But we are doing everything we can to treat them, short of surgery at this point. I am actually interested in surgery and/or stem cell therapy for her hips, but we have to be certain there is no underlying disease process at this point.<br />
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The following is Neeko's current hip/joint regimen, which seems to be working pretty well. Dr. Baker stopped the carprofen, and her appetite almost instantly came back, which is a good thing.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Our Current Joint Regimen</u></b></span></div>
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<b>Adequan - </b>polysulfated glycosaminoglycan. It is derived from bovine (cow) trachea, and is FDA approved to prevent cartilage loss and may restore joint lubrication, relieve inflammation, and renew the building blocks of healthy cartilage. Adequan is available by prescription only from your veterinarian. It is typically injected approximately once per month after a loading period in which injections are given twice weekly for four weeks. Following is a video demonstrating how easy it is to inject adequan into your dog. </div>
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<b>Fish oil - </b>fish oil dosing can be confusing. There is the mg of actual fish oil, and the mg of DHA + EPA, which is the Omega fatty acids we are most concerned with. It is the amount of DHA + EPA that is important. The general rule of thumb for raw fed dogs in 10 mg EPA + DHA per pound for maintenance dosing, and 30 mg EPA + DHA for therapeutic dosing. This is to balance out the Omega 6 to Omega 3 fatty acid ratio, and to provide anti-inflammatory benefits, along with cardiovascular, joint, skin and coat health benefits.<br />
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Neeko is currently on 60 mg per pound of DHA + EPA for her fish oil dosing. This is nearly 6000 mg for her. The most convenient and cost effective way for me to dose her is with <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004BF8LOM?ie=UTF8&tag=myrodo-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B004BF8LOM&th=1" target="_blank">Nature's Bounty</a> concentrated fish oil capsules. Each capsule contains 1400 mg fish oil and 980 mg EPA + DHA. So she receives 6 capsules per day. She takes them easily, because she has figured out that if she punctures them with her teeth, she gets the fish oil taste. So they are treats to her.<br />
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<b>Glucosamine - </b>Neeko is currently on two different joint/glucosamine supplements. I had her on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002LVTTYE?ie=UTF8&tag=myrodo-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B002LVTTYE" target="_blank">GlycoFlex 3 chews</a>, because they are in treat form, contain a high amount of glucosamine, and contain MSM and green-lipped mussel. (I love my dog so damn much I give her products that could kill me. I have an anaphylactic allergy to shellfish.) Dr. Baker suggested the addition of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004OZT9G8?ie=UTF8&tag=myrodo-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B004OZT9G8" target="_blank">Arthroplex</a> because it adds bromelain and boswellia. It also adds Vitamin C, which anecdotal literature suggests helps with joint pain and DLPA (DL-Phenylanine.) She is currently receiving 2 GlycoFlex soft chews and 4 Arthroplex caps per day.<br />
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I am also offering her raw chicken feet and dehydrated venison trachea as treats. Both are natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin, and very raw friendly.<br />
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Last week Dr. Baker also sent us home with a bottle of DLPA (DL-Phenylalanine). It is an amino acid which can help canines with joint pain. We stopped the carprofen, which immediately improved her appetite, so she wanted this as a backup for pain, along with tramadol. Fortunately we haven't needed either one.<br />
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<b>CBD Oil - </b>I have been giving Neeko CBD oil from a few sources for the last several weeks, including Canna Pet, Good CBD, and Pet Releaf, and Bark Avenue, a pet CBD bakery in Denver. I have found that 4-8 mg 2 or 3 times per day seems to do the trick for her. Finding good literature regarding CBD dosing for dogs is difficult. When I mentioned stopping the CBD to our vet, she insisted I continue. There is not much research out there regarding it's benefits or dosing, particularly in canines, but she has seen it with her own eyes. I next plan to try KOI CBD spray, after speaking about it at length with someone today.<br />
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<b>Turmeric - </b>I am giving her some form of turmeric at least daily, preferably 2-3x daily. It has anti-inflammatory properties, along with a host of other benefits. Sometimes I give her a frozen liver-turmeric treat, <a href="http://www.myrottendogs.com/2018/06/an-alternative-to-golden-paste-raw.html" target="_blank">recipe HERE.</a> Other times I offer her <a href="http://www.myrottendogs.com/2018/06/a-recipe-for-golden-paste-that-actually.html" target="_blank">golden paste</a>, which I also eat myself because it tastes good. And at times I give her a frozen bone broth/golden paste treat.
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That is our current joint care regimen. She seems to be improving. The weather was glorious today, temps in the 70's with low humidity. She played outside with the boys for awhile, then she and I took a 25 minute walk this evening, our longest in several weeks. We are going to be continuing this regimen for the time being.<br />
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<i>Do you have any joint care products you would recommend?</i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com105tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-44305722668130172772018-06-24T20:05:00.000-04:002018-06-24T20:05:57.321-04:00Neeko Update - It's NOT CancerYes. You read that correctly.<br />
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3 weeks ago tomorrow, my dog was given a diagnosis of cancer. A week ago yesterday, I learned that she doesn't have cancer. Which is wonderful! But we still don't know what's going on with her. I will try to give a condensed version of where we are right now, and how we got here.<br />
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In the previous update, I shared about our trip to the emergency vet, and plans for further diagnostics. I described how I dropped her off at the vet a week and a half ago, and they did chest xrays, which showed something abnormal, and a fine needle aspiration of her bone.<br />
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On Saturday, 4 days later, I was at Costco at 2:30 in the afternoon when my amazing vet called me. "<b style="color: red;">It's NOT cancer." </b>I started crying in the middle of Costco. This is not what I was expecting to hear. I was overwhelmed, elated, and confused, all at the same time. Her cytology report had come back that day, no cancer, no bacteria.<br />
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We discussed next steps. She was leaving a 21 day supply of antibiotics outside the office for me to pick up that afternoon. The next diagnostic - a urine test for blastomycosis.<br />
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I dropped off her urine specimen, which was "interesting" to try and collect, at the vet's office first thing Monday morning. Then I waited. All week. I was hoping it would come back positive. Because then we would have an explanation. For both the spots in her lungs, and the bone issue. On Friday, an RVT called me to tell me it was negative. I was shocked. And I know it sounds weird, but I was also slightly disappointed.<br />
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What's next? I don't know. I imagine I will speak with the vet office at some point this next week. Because Neeko is not ok. She's depressed, lethargic. Her appetite isn't very good the majority of the time. Tonight, for the first time in 3 weeks, I allowed her off leash. I think she enjoyed it.<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BkbSwsGhYp9/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">For the first time in 3 weeks, I let her off leash. I think she enjoyed it, and spending time with her brothers. I hope we can figure out what’s going on, and get her feeling better. . #myrottendogs #wolfdog #germanshepherd #malamute #rescuedog #dogplay #heartdog</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rebekah_lw/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Rebekah</a> (@rebekah_lw) on <time datetime="2018-06-24T23:51:46+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Jun 24, 2018 at 4:51pm PDT</time></div>
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She is not limping nearly as bad as she was, which is what prompted me to take her to the emergency vet 3 weeks ago. That is very much a positive. I know being separated from the boys is likely impacting her affect, her mood. Both the antibiotic and anti-inflammatory she is on could be upsetting her stomach. She has had diarrhea for the last 2.5 days. This dog, who hasn't had an accident in the house in over 7 years, had an accident yesterday. I'm not even mad about it. Her stools are actually fairly formed today, but she has had 4 BM's, when she typically has 1, or rarely 2, per day.<br />
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She's on an antibiotic, an anti-inflammatory, and I've been giving her CBD consistently for the last 2 weeks. I've had it on hand for several months, but began actually giving it scheduled a couple of weeks ago. I'm also shoving some form of turmeric down her throat a couple of times a day. She is still on her adequan.<br />
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I don't know what do. I don't know what's next. I don't know what is going on, but I am so relieved that it is not cancer.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-90227846258288424512018-06-18T17:25:00.002-04:002018-06-18T17:25:43.451-04:00A Recipe for Golden Paste That Actually Tastes Good (For You and Your Dogs!)I decided to try my hand at golden paste. But I wanted a golden paste that tastes good. I know of the benefits of it, for both humans and canines. I have been giving the dogs (particularly Neeko) turmeric with a fat carrier for a long time. But turmeric is better absorbed with the addition of black pepper. I myself could never stomach turmeric alone, only as an ingredient in various recipes, such as our <a href="http://www.myrottendogs.com/2017/10/easy-bone-broth-recipe-you-can-share.html" target="_blank">Bone Broth. </a><br />
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I did some research, and learned that the amount of black pepper included in a standard recipe recently increased from 2 tbsp to 3 tbsp, so that is one difference in our recipe. They other difference is the one that makes it much more palatable for humans and canines alike is raw honey! Though its a sugar, and contains carbs, honey has a variety of benefits. It is a natural antimicrobial and antifungal. It can help with environmental allergies. It contains phytonutrients and antioxidants.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQqOipLXY0GuRVqEujt7D1C0uquX92SLIqo88a-iSUo0v0FiThEzZv7yWuJBpuF-Kw7T31667iW-dv2FLiCX1nkLqKATLTZyc8F_lKdGTh2P1iUNYB1Y36018k2f037Z4gBxj6RrROauQq/s1600/goldenpaste.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="golden paste that tastes good" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQqOipLXY0GuRVqEujt7D1C0uquX92SLIqo88a-iSUo0v0FiThEzZv7yWuJBpuF-Kw7T31667iW-dv2FLiCX1nkLqKATLTZyc8F_lKdGTh2P1iUNYB1Y36018k2f037Z4gBxj6RrROauQq/s640/goldenpaste.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is easy to make, requires easily obtainable ingredients, and stores in the refrigerator for 2 weeks, if it lasts that long. I eat a bit plain morning and evening. One could add it to smoothies or yogurt. For the dogs, I simply spoon a small amount, about 1-1.5 teaspoons, over their food, morning and night.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Ingredients</u></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<ul>
<li>1/2 cup turmeric powder. Turmeric is more cost effective if purchased in the supplement aisle as opposed to the spice aisle.</li>
<li>1/3 cup organic virgin coconut oil.</li>
<li>1 cup water.</li>
<li>3 tablespoons black peppercorns.</li>
<li>3 tablespoons honey.</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Method</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
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I started by grinding 3 tbsp of black peppercorns in a personal blender/magic bullet. A coffee grinder works well too. You can also use an old fashioned pepper mill, but that is time consuming and will likely leave you with sore hands, wrists, and forearms.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmQcIh2IfPgFohhKSclfIBqni85s0xBf518C2Ehh0HuO7-FImc8V0hV4uNe18o9M59OtdXokiMqskNWoVsfOdLSANjD6lO-sk5IcQ7edJlomIdTF_I5dxYW0r4fZj1H4NhFiJVPgIO0ZH/s1600/DSC_1576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmQcIh2IfPgFohhKSclfIBqni85s0xBf518C2Ehh0HuO7-FImc8V0hV4uNe18o9M59OtdXokiMqskNWoVsfOdLSANjD6lO-sk5IcQ7edJlomIdTF_I5dxYW0r4fZj1H4NhFiJVPgIO0ZH/s400/DSC_1576.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ignore my nails and cuticles.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Mix together the water and turmeric in a small saucepan. Cook over medium to medium-high heat for 7-10 minutes, stirring frequently. A thick paste should form.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix3MgQTrJ6PiPNFFW1eG3zKKu2xHO1itxugsZEDzx1YKooYANzS3UfTIPT_flI-nkUmLuBNXC_7hDj_vYqEAhCPtIaLz3xgnlj5bwXvjS2HQZ0fVku0vr220wOFekoeQq7vsc0zeeXHjiX/s1600/DSC_1580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix3MgQTrJ6PiPNFFW1eG3zKKu2xHO1itxugsZEDzx1YKooYANzS3UfTIPT_flI-nkUmLuBNXC_7hDj_vYqEAhCPtIaLz3xgnlj5bwXvjS2HQZ0fVku0vr220wOFekoeQq7vsc0zeeXHjiX/s400/DSC_1580.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Remove from heat. While still warm, stir in coconut oil, freshly ground pepper, and HONEY. Stir until thoroughly combined.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeXqh-sHhdj-O0x_2qn5pWqaqGSGESULmgoBuCz-N1zkEk7SiiEulv5cdvmH6mGqydtB7UZF3OcRAD66jA6BvGvXUJK-izrq_DlpMqYawCYfbXAAtA2pPmQj_tikHL-Y-yv5IkU7S-Z4Wh/s1600/DSC_1582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="golden paste with honey" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeXqh-sHhdj-O0x_2qn5pWqaqGSGESULmgoBuCz-N1zkEk7SiiEulv5cdvmH6mGqydtB7UZF3OcRAD66jA6BvGvXUJK-izrq_DlpMqYawCYfbXAAtA2pPmQj_tikHL-Y-yv5IkU7S-Z4Wh/s400/DSC_1582.JPG" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Pour into a glass jar, store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, and enjoy! This recipe fits perfectly into a 16 oz Mason jar.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRi46lkCGkMx5hkCS5sZjAZ5sZfuGJy0629g0eCi91NmWzYzMko6nr4FZyzzq4ydwJyH0euB-OmpX0ZrXO9hdB32d8z-Kk37OtD11lG8CyvFBlE6U3vSW6xytaedDB63JYK9u9Q1B5oUPp/s1600/DSC_1583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRi46lkCGkMx5hkCS5sZjAZ5sZfuGJy0629g0eCi91NmWzYzMko6nr4FZyzzq4ydwJyH0euB-OmpX0ZrXO9hdB32d8z-Kk37OtD11lG8CyvFBlE6U3vSW6xytaedDB63JYK9u9Q1B5oUPp/s400/DSC_1583.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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If you're looking for an alternative to golden paste in treat form, read about our <a href="http://www.myrottendogs.com/2018/06/an-alternative-to-golden-paste-raw.html" target="_blank">liver turmeric treats.</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-13183701117074805362018-06-15T18:04:00.000-04:002018-06-15T18:04:40.831-04:00An Alternative to Golden Paste: Raw Turmeric Liver TreatsAre you looking for an alternative to golden paste for your dog? When Neeko became hesitant to eat her golden paste, I brainstormed and came up with a solution that works for us. Her golden paste didn't go to waste, I ate it without hesitating. I'll be sharing *our* recipe for a golden paste that actually tastes good later.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSd4KwgH9bu_zGodbV7d3qb0mGi0bJh97mp8VNRob_uXFiRzP6_j-C1QoZ2W8vLx7bSGq83kyiHz8DEgt-EfwEnMHPRb_RB6qRGedWl0PH4rC-udSle1C2DOUwqXPIIaYD-ODVBtKnFAX/s1600/turmeric.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="turmeric dog treats" border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSd4KwgH9bu_zGodbV7d3qb0mGi0bJh97mp8VNRob_uXFiRzP6_j-C1QoZ2W8vLx7bSGq83kyiHz8DEgt-EfwEnMHPRb_RB6qRGedWl0PH4rC-udSle1C2DOUwqXPIIaYD-ODVBtKnFAX/s640/turmeric.jpg" title="" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I won't go into the details about how good turmeric is for you, that is very well known, and it is easy to find plenty of documented evidence and studies showing it's benefits. I have <a href="http://www.myrottendogs.com/2014/07/turmeric-is-good-for-you-and-good-for.html" target="_blank">written about</a> and have been giving my dogs (particularly the princess) turmeric for a long time now, with various delivery methods. At first I gave it alone, then learned it is better absorbed with a fat. So I would mix it with salmon or coconut oil. I then made a golden paste that actually tastes good (to me, anyways.) Neeko, with her recent struggles, began refusing and eating around the golden paste, so I wanted to come up with an alternative.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Neeko has texture issues, so I decided a frozen treat was in order, as she typically eats stuff frozen that she won't eat thawed - like fish, organs, etc. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b style="color: #f1c232;">I came up with what might be the most disgusting thing I've made to date. </b>Raw liver turmeric treats. I used all the same beneficial ingredients of golden paste, and combined them in a form that my dogs love, with the added bonus of raw liver.</div>
<div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Ingredients</u></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1 lb raw liver. I used lamb liver from My Pet Carnivore, but pork, beef, or other liver would work.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1/2 cup organic turmeric powder. It's more cost effective to buy turmeric powder in the supplement aisle, as opposed to the spice aisle.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1/3 cup organic, virgin coconut oil. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
3 tablespoons peppercorns.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Method</u></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I started by cutting the lamb liver into somewhat uniformly sized chunks, 1-2 inches in either direction. It's a pretty disgusting task, so I highly recommend these <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003U8YJGK?ie=UTF8&tag=myrodo-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B003U8YJGK" target="_blank">poultry shears</a> I recently raved about on Facebook.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="724" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fmyrottendogs%2Fposts%2F1500242140109222&width=500" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="500"></iframe>
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Toss them into a food processor. I'm a huge fan of my (older model) <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LXVZI7F?ie=UTF8&tag=myrodo-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B01LXVZI7F" target="_blank">KitchenAid mini processor.</a> Add in the coconut oil, turmeric, and whole peppercorns. The processor action will grind the peppercorns.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibjJk5FnaSB5euEbTFO7vBTvCFUtizpWtGgL-gMFAnl2IiQwPAjvocRreuT5EOmLYVDJpFxyr2JUHT9TF3SCqJjlGEfkaMNE6d5kzfSHDhaoyiO0aSpViOJB6BeAo6Lsvt7PPlFTJmqgQd/s1600/DSC_1601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibjJk5FnaSB5euEbTFO7vBTvCFUtizpWtGgL-gMFAnl2IiQwPAjvocRreuT5EOmLYVDJpFxyr2JUHT9TF3SCqJjlGEfkaMNE6d5kzfSHDhaoyiO0aSpViOJB6BeAo6Lsvt7PPlFTJmqgQd/s400/DSC_1601.JPG" title="homemade turmeric dog treat" width="400" /></a></div>
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Pulse until well combined and of a smooth consistency. You may have to use a rubber scraper to scrape the sides a time or two. (There's a funny story about me offering the scraper to Bruce to lick. I didn't think that one through. He jerked it away from me and took off with it.) <b>WARNING - </b>turmeric stains. It stained the plastic housing of my processor blade. It still works fine, is just now a lovely yellow shade instead of white.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGWeiHGs2mGG0QX4V2CIoutHEv3ISavdR-VPlbNWzVVAJ0-hNmnRTmL7WYp4liXj5LjN2LqEl7-joZXwQzQFDbd2ElBYAoQQkg8fvSEA2xhJPfNnILDgnPRKaQEi-JabniXYgOyFNyDqT-/s1600/DSC_1602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGWeiHGs2mGG0QX4V2CIoutHEv3ISavdR-VPlbNWzVVAJ0-hNmnRTmL7WYp4liXj5LjN2LqEl7-joZXwQzQFDbd2ElBYAoQQkg8fvSEA2xhJPfNnILDgnPRKaQEi-JabniXYgOyFNyDqT-/s400/DSC_1602.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Divide mixture evenly into a freezer-safe silicone mold/tray. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JSH5BEU?ie=UTF8&tag=myrodo-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B01JSH5BEU" target="_blank">These are the molds</a> I have. It helps to place the mold on a baking sheet BEFORE attempting to add the product.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdS89A41x7XV9snzDdcXIIWrI6nZmdqJa1Ik2OeSnxOXZPOpET3B7v1X114u8ibpAgpMctmScznmaxKuV5msHcL88smslZubIremD-R2D3ys1EMjh6YLN6N-9MsmzqEeQIGl_hHXtsjR3Z/s1600/DSC_1603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdS89A41x7XV9snzDdcXIIWrI6nZmdqJa1Ik2OeSnxOXZPOpET3B7v1X114u8ibpAgpMctmScznmaxKuV5msHcL88smslZubIremD-R2D3ys1EMjh6YLN6N-9MsmzqEeQIGl_hHXtsjR3Z/s400/DSC_1603.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Depending on the size of your molds, the treats may need to split the treats in half or quarters after freezing. My molds gave us 16 treats (with a small amount of leftover slurry) using the ingredients above.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjdINy_Ligej9qI184ksz7LmRlHc4Ckes5wOPxIT9tSn6VAi8osv3ocKEIzFQXShBGuS_i4gcfiCwCJdSLLKrzn96sE7lcrlxSt1EC0dnXEVnATDP45RuBwm9ciBU0f8QivlT7wJoVzMp/s1600/DSC_1608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjdINy_Ligej9qI184ksz7LmRlHc4Ckes5wOPxIT9tSn6VAi8osv3ocKEIzFQXShBGuS_i4gcfiCwCJdSLLKrzn96sE7lcrlxSt1EC0dnXEVnATDP45RuBwm9ciBU0f8QivlT7wJoVzMp/s400/DSC_1608.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They are not necessarily the prettiest treats.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Each of (our) treats contains:<br />
1 oz lamb liver<br />
1 tbsp turmeric<br />
1 tsp coconut oil<br />
almost 1/2 tsp black pepper.<br />
<br />
The dogs all eat them willingly, which makes me happy.<br />
<br />
<i>Do you offer your dogs turmeric?</i><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-14867262611649100442018-06-14T12:43:00.001-04:002018-06-14T12:45:22.641-04:00Neeko's Health UpdateI have been bad about updating the blog, and this is not the post I wanted to write when I did.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtP6sTpOiRhgoC3grJ08uGmUbumgrcA7PupVm97ni6YYopQboKja-uzY-kwO72-ZVxjeQyHxZOF5WpLUQdPmHIRUCF7K99F7v0eCftjrQc8I8XGcI4ChHa-pVR_ZkIcn9WnGUDQGyFQY4G/s1600/GOPR2658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtP6sTpOiRhgoC3grJ08uGmUbumgrcA7PupVm97ni6YYopQboKja-uzY-kwO72-ZVxjeQyHxZOF5WpLUQdPmHIRUCF7K99F7v0eCftjrQc8I8XGcI4ChHa-pVR_ZkIcn9WnGUDQGyFQY4G/s400/GOPR2658.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A dirty nosed, smiling Neeko less than 2 months ago.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
About 2.5-3 weeks ago, Neeko started limping in the front. Her hips have been bad for a long time, but she has adapted and adjusted, and was doing well with them on adequan, turmeric, with some occasional acupuncture and laser treatments. I figured she had played too hard, and would watch it. The Saturday before last, I took her to a groomer for a nail trim and to shave between her paw pads (she has grinch feet, bad.) The following day her limping was worse, and we ended up at the emergency vet.<br />
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They did an exam and a bunch of xrays under sedation. The vet on staff noted her hip dysplasia (which I had long known about) and pointed out a possible bone spur in her shoulder. They gave me digital files of her xrays, sent them out to a veterinary radiologist, and sent us home with some carprofen and instructions to follow up with our primary vet.<br />
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The next day (Monday of last week) the emergency vet called me back with the radiologist's findings. I don't recall much from that conversation, just a few words here and there. <b><span style="color: red;">Cancer. Right front paw. Further diagnostics. Follow up with Dr. Baker. </span></b><br />
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I was driving. I remember exactly where I was. South split of I65/I70 downtown Indianapolis. I burst into tears. I immediately called my vet, left a message. Then I reached out to a friend of mine who recently lost her Pyr to osteosarcoma. She and Neeko were older puppies together, old dog park friends. She was wonderful, amazing, so kind to me. I felt badly for calling her, with her pain so recent and raw. She offered to go to appointments with me, told me what questions to ask, said that she was honoring Stella by being of assistance to me.<br />
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Over the next 24 hours I felt every emotion possible. Sadness. And a great deal of anger.<br />
<b><span style="color: red;">HOW DID *MY* DOG GET CANCER??</span> </b>My raw fed, minimally vaccinated dog? A dog who doesn't get nearly enough flea/tick/heartworm preventative. She's only 8! How did she get cancer?<br />
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I heard back from my vet. They asked me to drop off the drive with her films. I did the following afternoon. They asked if I could wait, because the always amazing Dr. Cindy Baker was going to look at them then. She came and spoke with me, straight forward, but full of compassion and kindness. Talked about next steps, our plan for the time being. Scheduled an appointment for 2 days later for Neeko to have blood drawn.<br />
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I began obsessively researching bone cancer, bone lesions, care, you name it. It's probably not doing me much good, and consuming a great deal of my time and emotional energy.<br />
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She had her bloodwork done, the results were "great."<br />
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Over the last 10 days, she has become mostly depressed and lethargic, and it is breaking my heart. I have her separated from the boys, and wonder if this is possibly contributing to it. I am spending the majority of my time with her, and feel as though I am neglecting them. Two days ago I spent the afternoon on my couch, sobbing. I cried so much and so hard that it exhausted me.<br />
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<b><span style="color: red;">The universe has excellent timing</span>. </b>A month ago, I had decided to take this particular week off work. I was nearing the ceiling for PTO accrual, and needed to use it or lose it. I was excited, planning a day trip, ordered a new dishwasher to be delivered. I also ordered some day old chicks to be hatched and delivered this week. The day trip was cancelled, the dishwasher delivered and installed. The chicks came as well. They are adorable, and have provided me with some needed smiles. But mostly I have spent time with my girl. Loving her. Talking to her. Observing her.<br />
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I dropped her off early yesterday morning at the vet. She was fasting, except water, carprofen, and trazadone. They gave us the VIP treatment. I was allowed to walk her back through the kennels. They gave her the largest, most private kennel. I was told there were a couple of surgeries on the schedule prior to her, and that it would be after 4 before she was ready to be picked up. I was assured they would be with her as she woke up from sedation.<br />
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I received a phone call from the wonderful RVT before 10 am, stating they had done her first, and were finished. That she was not yet ready to go home. They had found a nodule on her chest xray, but sedated and did an aspiration of her bone lesion. I thanked them, told them of my extreme gratitude. She said they would call or text when Neeko was ready to go home.<br />
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A couple of hours later, Dr. Baker called me. She said they did the xrays without sedation, not wanting to sedate her if it wasn't going to be necessary. They were looking for metastases in her lungs. If they were found, they were not going to proceed with the biopsy. They did find a couple of "areas of opacity" which Dr. Baker said are not typical of metastases. They sedated her, and told me they obtained some really good samples which are now at a cytology lab. I picked her up, and she is sporting an adorable bandage on her lower leg.<br />
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And now we wait. We wait for the cytology results. And go from there. Today I feel like she is still feeling the effects of yesterday's sedation. She did eat her breakfast of ground green tripe.<br />
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<b><span style="color: red;">Right now, I am trying to think about the positives.</span> </b>Her blood work was great. She has not lost any weight. The opacities in her lungs are not typical of metastatic disease.<br />
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But I don't know what I don't know, and am focusing on her comfort. 2 weeks ago, I never dreamed I would be in this position.<br />
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<b><span style="color: red;">My family and friends are incredible. </span></b>Kind words, emotional support, actual physical help (a family member drove 40 minutes one way prior to her blood draw appointment to give her some trazadone, because I was working during the ideal administration time frame) and countless offers of help.<br />
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<b><span style="color: red;">She is my princess, my heart dog. </span></b>I will do whatever is best for her.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com285tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-53509298432194682092018-05-20T16:05:00.002-04:002018-05-20T16:11:55.032-04:00Letting Your Bird Spread it's Wings with The Aviator Harness and Leash #ChewyInfluencerUntil recently I did not that harnesses designed to allow pet birds to fly and explore the outdoors existed. <a href="https://www.chewy.com/aviator-bird-harness-leash-black-xx/dp/170197" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Aviator</a> bird harness and leash does just that.<br />
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The Aviator is available in 8 sizes, designed to fit birds as small as parakeets, and up to as large as chickens, macaws, ducks, and geese, and every size bird in between, including parrots.<br />
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Our friends at <a href="http://www.chewy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chewy.com</a> sent us a harness for chickens, sized XXL.<br />
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My birds typically free range most of the time, but recently they have not. I am temporarily housing some pigs for my neighbors, and I am not sure how the pigs would react to a chicken in their pen, so my girls have been confined to their "run" area most of the time. They definitely miss the grass, bugs, and weeds.<br />
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<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BjAhsm2hmUh/" data-instgrm-version="8" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BjAhsm2hmUh/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Bacon and eggs. 🥓 🍳 . #chickensofinstagram #backyardchickens #pigsofinstagram #pigstagram #hobbyfarm</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rebekah_lw/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> Rebekah</a> (@rebekah_lw) on <time datetime="2018-05-20T17:49:29+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">May 20, 2018 at 10:49am PDT</time></div>
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I'm not going to lie, I am getting attached to the 4 pigs staying with us. The dogs are even getting used to them!<br />
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The aviator comes with the harness and leash as a one piece system, with the harness being 10 feet long, and extensions are available.<br />
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It includes a 45 minute instructional DVD, with information on fitting the harness, and safety tips. If sized and fitted appropriately, it is escape-proof.<br />
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After watching the DVD, I decided to try it out first on my adult Rhode Island Red, as she is a champion free ranger.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkC5jZ3Q1aj9GIUVUhhUEIavoqCq0nu2O1yxQxFphBas98r62JyVKuneVHFfUWvWfH0Yu-7ugxvb_Z6I5evfnFAID00-Cz9jrv9c9znaxxGdA1CA2Kup0U0V6aa6I9bQCHI8XI9TImikFb/s1600/DSC_1559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="harness for chicken, harness for parrot, harness for parakeet, harness for duck" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkC5jZ3Q1aj9GIUVUhhUEIavoqCq0nu2O1yxQxFphBas98r62JyVKuneVHFfUWvWfH0Yu-7ugxvb_Z6I5evfnFAID00-Cz9jrv9c9znaxxGdA1CA2Kup0U0V6aa6I9bQCHI8XI9TImikFb/s640/DSC_1559.JPG" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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It took her several minutes to get used to it at first. Have you ever seen a cat in a harness? They sometimes flop over and are completely motionless and helpless. That was her initial reaction. It was honestly quite funny.<br />
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After a few minutes, she decided she was fine with it, and took to scratching, pecking, and eating vegetation and bugs, happier than a pig in ...<br />
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I had to keep up with her! Any sort of tension on the harness caused her to fall over and become helpless, so I ensured we kept a loose leash. My dogs love to pull, my chickens not so much.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Now your chicken can safely cross the road!!</b></span></div>
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(Sorry, I couldn't resist)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitLfmThJ8xD83aPoy_07CW-ozD_hjFDURXRxPhEj-nb9yiXMcE1uFhor_tmdhQ2cq6L_OiY9qK2wsTnWaOrDkTuQI147EM8pbhk9DY5Wf2LoZnZMHtsjkddO28472BO-n0-jF27WwX-k9q/s1600/crossing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="chicken harness, harness for chicken, chicken on a leash" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitLfmThJ8xD83aPoy_07CW-ozD_hjFDURXRxPhEj-nb9yiXMcE1uFhor_tmdhQ2cq6L_OiY9qK2wsTnWaOrDkTuQI147EM8pbhk9DY5Wf2LoZnZMHtsjkddO28472BO-n0-jF27WwX-k9q/s640/crossing.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is actually a brilliant product. I have put it to good use during this time when I am not allowing my birds to free range, and it is a fun way to take a chicken on a walk, although the chicken gets to lead the way.<br />
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It is perfect for those with indoor pet birds who wish to allow their pets to experience the outdoors, and potentially flight, in a safe manner.<br />
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It is very important to watch the included DVD, and make sure the harness is fitted properly prior to use.<br />
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We are having quite a bit of fun with it here at my house, and I am certain my neighbors are laughing at me, but I'm ok with that.<br />
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Leashes and harnesses aren't just for dogs.<br />
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<i>My Rotten Dogs is a Chewy Influencer. All opinions are strictly my own. </i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-20547004192736391722018-04-20T16:54:00.000-04:002018-04-20T16:54:29.937-04:00My Rotten Cats - Weruva Cats in the Kitchen Pouches #ChewyInfluencerI know, you have heard it from me a million times; cats need wet food. I often repeat myself regarding this. And I will continue to do so, because moisture is so important in a cat's diet.<br />
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Our friends at <a href="http://chewy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">chewy.com</a> sent Juice and Noelle a variety pack of <a href="https://www.chewy.com/weruva-cats-in-kitchen-variety-pack/dp/143139" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Weruva Cats in the Kitchen pouches</a> and I was more than happy to accepts. Because, you know, I am a fanatic about giving cats raw or wet food.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQRRLXXZ4s9_dbkSA91FXcCp6PE0m1xom5rIGoqDN_ajJ_7gVYVrRUKjX0-eDr0X9joLAdzbE0QhYDRy5bdBS5y-IWZNGdP4ocwxmrCkvVVYfcE7pLwm1fnyBKMNtz0j-lXm9PJR4Qo0uW/s1600/DSC_0749.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQRRLXXZ4s9_dbkSA91FXcCp6PE0m1xom5rIGoqDN_ajJ_7gVYVrRUKjX0-eDr0X9joLAdzbE0QhYDRy5bdBS5y-IWZNGdP4ocwxmrCkvVVYfcE7pLwm1fnyBKMNtz0j-lXm9PJR4Qo0uW/s640/DSC_0749.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The variety pack contains 12 pouches, 2 each of 6 different flavors, all fish or poultry based, though 1 does contain beef.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj87oZ4yzRi9zxeSRNrn2GQYyILe6XOYPzSbWNUS-EvjS12nwfqYopjF_Wx_X6xC7CatlcVI5lAhsOXF5YUBMo4GiCtNhF0ICvT2KEYzg4jbWjKAFZtsPE5AHo_J_1O1Z1-7BNrgUl_l5Tr/s1600/DSC_0750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj87oZ4yzRi9zxeSRNrn2GQYyILe6XOYPzSbWNUS-EvjS12nwfqYopjF_Wx_X6xC7CatlcVI5lAhsOXF5YUBMo4GiCtNhF0ICvT2KEYzg4jbWjKAFZtsPE5AHo_J_1O1Z1-7BNrgUl_l5Tr/s400/DSC_0750.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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What I like about these pouches:<br />
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<ul>
<li>They have a high moisture content.</li>
<li>They have limited, simple ingredients - water, named meats, (gluten-free) tapioca starch as a thickener, sunflower seed oil as a fat, and vitamins.</li>
<li>My cats love them, and eat them with gusto.</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKIEL4v2GYHRjxx9p-TONTrGqrCVq1Ap-MQ3GyQveJxoAbIZjM6qUhRxyzaXel2GBeo-DLrsyS5owsqMkXoat4b0mXjBcjTG736R64xtaXmoHdAftfEYTYHJlRup79OZuk7TcqAYagupGN/s1600/DSC_0755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKIEL4v2GYHRjxx9p-TONTrGqrCVq1Ap-MQ3GyQveJxoAbIZjM6qUhRxyzaXel2GBeo-DLrsyS5owsqMkXoat4b0mXjBcjTG736R64xtaXmoHdAftfEYTYHJlRup79OZuk7TcqAYagupGN/s400/DSC_0755.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I am comfortable and confident feeding these to my girls. </div>
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One (minor) thing I didn't like is the consistency and packaging of the product made it difficult to get all of the food out of the pouch without cutting it, which isn't very convenient. I feel as though 10% or more of each pouch is wasted, because it is stuck in the pouch. </div>
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Do your cats enjoy wet food? Let us know in the comments!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-16744902676748588342018-04-19T20:16:00.000-04:002018-04-19T20:16:08.409-04:00UpdateHi all! We are still here, still alive. I figure 2.5 months is a long blogging hiatus to take for the time being. I have been active on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/myrottendogs/" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://instagram.com/rebekah_lw" target="_blank">Instagram</a> if you want to follow us there for more updates.<br />
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I figure it's time for an update on how things are around here.<br />
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Spring is here at the farm. Even though it is has snowed at least once a week since the official beginning of Spring last month.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hkkPPuFXaG0IwfLtc-LS1_AZkebgpFbDGRWt85YkEMBNgmC6zbzTjTgttPjTF8Hb9tI33C7etXRHoVc17vYyynY7scyuUo8EqrdPjd2hO0jExZGb3hnMIaz6WGP6raKfiv342JOWCp_V/s1600/DSC_0371.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hkkPPuFXaG0IwfLtc-LS1_AZkebgpFbDGRWt85YkEMBNgmC6zbzTjTgttPjTF8Hb9tI33C7etXRHoVc17vYyynY7scyuUo8EqrdPjd2hO0jExZGb3hnMIaz6WGP6raKfiv342JOWCp_V/s640/DSC_0371.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squinty faces and a drool bubble during a late season snow. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Though none of them really act like it, I feel as if I run a senior pet retirement home. Both Juice and Noelle (my cats) are 12.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMNpuYxubcbaKqc840vYvo86c40gHLVoGHc10QZcBnD5IbgNMOMpORPZZbSv4P1zAet9f-rSSqFyTYwMus_q1ftdJuc8n8bN7qnKQAK4y9Fl1GzV-A7eaJT8pE3DtHcEvc5z7bVTN3E2Pc/s1600/DSC_0820.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMNpuYxubcbaKqc840vYvo86c40gHLVoGHc10QZcBnD5IbgNMOMpORPZZbSv4P1zAet9f-rSSqFyTYwMus_q1ftdJuc8n8bN7qnKQAK4y9Fl1GzV-A7eaJT8pE3DtHcEvc5z7bVTN3E2Pc/s400/DSC_0820.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She really is 12 years old.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Bruce is 8.5, Neeko is 8, and Faolan is the young one at 6.5.<br />
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While Winter has seemed to last a while, there are some signs of Spring around. We have had some nice mild days, in which to enjoy hikes, mud, and the creek.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiky9ZPBXlxOmuHp_xZs4p9qGh3P1hZD_KUkQQ1wEc7UDaruP8aYtmCFW6GTVU_GM_RK7UhKO6M7J71pbISet0fL6XMGuyP16kEjfuPqEqQ2VfZOQipp533eVDYN_iNGXlAIwwq2ujRZqLF/s1600/GOPR2422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiky9ZPBXlxOmuHp_xZs4p9qGh3P1hZD_KUkQQ1wEc7UDaruP8aYtmCFW6GTVU_GM_RK7UhKO6M7J71pbISet0fL6XMGuyP16kEjfuPqEqQ2VfZOQipp533eVDYN_iNGXlAIwwq2ujRZqLF/s640/GOPR2422.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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One sure sign of Spring (at least to a northern breed owner) is the annual blowing of the coat. As usual, Faolan is the first to start here, and so far the only one.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOIfKZgVIVyk75r_GqN8vfqxdK2dByT5GBfom1vxrZ75cST-TZ104oQDXsliAfqtjZsjiVms2gDmk6RyZopD4JUFK4_vegpZBwptxzKGhyphenhyphen6ytmiP7G7SRHkrmmM3SFsAn9ke_jVTZbbppv/s1600/faolan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOIfKZgVIVyk75r_GqN8vfqxdK2dByT5GBfom1vxrZ75cST-TZ104oQDXsliAfqtjZsjiVms2gDmk6RyZopD4JUFK4_vegpZBwptxzKGhyphenhyphen6ytmiP7G7SRHkrmmM3SFsAn9ke_jVTZbbppv/s320/faolan.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Over the course of two long brushing sessions, I completely brushed out his undercoat. I made another dog in the process, and he appears to have lost 10 lbs. I only wish Neeko were that easy.<br />
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The chickens are enjoying the new vegetation, bugs, and longer days.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqnH1iPg_lTnjwXFffG_R4KnepLzJDw0eyI52blSJ3Q8AJR6nppWDg3i5itt9-ZmMU1RlLujB7IrK4REh9ITgpkAj_nQWmTmNONk6X7KtkE3E_5kpVcEMDmGnTeDL0S1SpaM42DB9YaCq8/s1600/knoxchicken.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqnH1iPg_lTnjwXFffG_R4KnepLzJDw0eyI52blSJ3Q8AJR6nppWDg3i5itt9-ZmMU1RlLujB7IrK4REh9ITgpkAj_nQWmTmNONk6X7KtkE3E_5kpVcEMDmGnTeDL0S1SpaM42DB9YaCq8/s400/knoxchicken.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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One thing they are less thrilled about is the addition of 12 new chicks.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVP2bjREoRkbODIDxOhQNzuLXIXmSaJPdTvawsqD9FugAyqpGagpV29NCiJW6Prrg4boGUIvq64m7OO1ecskq-rdm9l8a0a9_Yn0hfttpUKbU8V07rptflEwUYDyHbRr54IhOKWrvD9NVx/s1600/chicks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVP2bjREoRkbODIDxOhQNzuLXIXmSaJPdTvawsqD9FugAyqpGagpV29NCiJW6Prrg4boGUIvq64m7OO1ecskq-rdm9l8a0a9_Yn0hfttpUKbU8V07rptflEwUYDyHbRr54IhOKWrvD9NVx/s400/chicks.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I got these babies about 7 weeks ago, and kept them inside with their Brinsea EcoGlow Warmer for the first 5 weeks here. I moved them outside into a small, enclosed coop setup near the regular coop. They can see the big girls, and the big girls can see them, but no mingling yet. I am hoping this acclimation system will work.<br />
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I am 99% certain one of these babies is a cockerel, so we will see how he turns out.<br />
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So that's what is going on with us. Nothing earth shattering, simple day to day life. But it's fun, and I like it.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-3199452421518717582018-01-30T20:26:00.000-05:002018-01-30T20:26:10.999-05:00My Rotten Cats: Weruva Cats in the Kitchen #ChewyInfluencerHey, we are still alive over here! Follow us on <a href="http://facebook.com/myrottendogs" target="_blank">Facebook</a> to stay more up to date.<br />
<br />
Myself, the dogs, cats, and chickens are all well. <br />
<br />
So our friends at <a href="http://www.chewy.com/" target="_blank">Chewy.com</a> sent the kitties some canned cat food this month. I know, I know, I am always preaching about the importance of wet food in a cat's diet.<br />
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In fact I left this comment in a Facebook group earlier today, when someone was asking whether to cut back on their cat's wet or dry food for weight loss.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtUvU4kMKQOt-bZUapx1F7PKvEavMzBUN72U2VOGNqgTDJNPgobHGkIC59FN1HZD9uUFEVD61ZHNEqNdO-fXtu9KrA07ND8s8LR0yr26qAUgN5yDZsZD5grQ3WPunF6WelfYxBjkTEeVK/s1600/comment.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="630" height="138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtUvU4kMKQOt-bZUapx1F7PKvEavMzBUN72U2VOGNqgTDJNPgobHGkIC59FN1HZD9uUFEVD61ZHNEqNdO-fXtu9KrA07ND8s8LR0yr26qAUgN5yDZsZD5grQ3WPunF6WelfYxBjkTEeVK/s400/comment.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
That's where I stand.<br />
<br />
As I was saying, Chewy sent the girls some <a href="https://www.chewy.com/weruva-cats-in-kitchen-variety-pack/dp/143141" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Weruva Cats in the Kitchen</a> wet food to try out, 12 cans, each weighing 3.2 ounces. The variety pack contains 4 recipes, 3 cans of each.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmD2MVgjX1H2CvXFUR0Ihbj_EW42_yDM4O-ahsnSDEEUQuyA9Yoxb5JNhEVv3t70ELNlq5rdRd6h5r-exovhsJeCpn2Ei8x6QAaU-Uawno7xRPRtmTEX8lzH23pR6ueROU7lFtfgz6oiE1/s1600/DSC_7716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmD2MVgjX1H2CvXFUR0Ihbj_EW42_yDM4O-ahsnSDEEUQuyA9Yoxb5JNhEVv3t70ELNlq5rdRd6h5r-exovhsJeCpn2Ei8x6QAaU-Uawno7xRPRtmTEX8lzH23pR6ueROU7lFtfgz6oiE1/s640/DSC_7716.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>What I like most - </b>all have a named broth and several named meats as the first several ingredients.<br />
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I also love the fact that my cats seem to be crazy about this food!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_q9xF215BQxiyBT4JKfsQMpf5cMpBx05iMRInBzAbnnM7DluMmuaDp9MClxBdu-GKEmIEAyDYR6mYm0PQd328CBMacZDQYi1ksCvCa1F99VCkrr_hs-ZaxKCBTjm5Z6-8qC86ATSKFeRB/s1600/DSC_7720.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_q9xF215BQxiyBT4JKfsQMpf5cMpBx05iMRInBzAbnnM7DluMmuaDp9MClxBdu-GKEmIEAyDYR6mYm0PQd328CBMacZDQYi1ksCvCa1F99VCkrr_hs-ZaxKCBTjm5Z6-8qC86ATSKFeRB/s640/DSC_7720.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unlike my dogs, they an share a plate.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Some of the formulas have a shredded meat in broth appearance, while others are more of a "pate" style. Either way, Juicekitty and Noelle are happy to eat them.<br />
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They are grain and starch-free, and can be a stand alone food.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKhZ8C7AIe6gnpY-Pf7XbKI89u4wmZixy6eKD9zCODBEFoDgL5kGafUNIwWinlhcEPp4TluRvEvq_sPyQdQ7xqP7zJ7i2yuhLL_SyWSvvabHGOLgZ7b3PuT2XDwGavDmIhzpHJWy4fyxAm/s1600/DSC_7726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKhZ8C7AIe6gnpY-Pf7XbKI89u4wmZixy6eKD9zCODBEFoDgL5kGafUNIwWinlhcEPp4TluRvEvq_sPyQdQ7xqP7zJ7i2yuhLL_SyWSvvabHGOLgZ7b3PuT2XDwGavDmIhzpHJWy4fyxAm/s640/DSC_7726.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Licking the bowl clean.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I am quite pleased with this variety pack. As stated, it provides protein and texture variety. It also provides much needed moisture, and the girls love it. It's a quality food, and I am happy to feed it.<br />
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<i>We were provided with complimentary product. All opinions are my own. </i><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-35385735579410986402017-11-28T15:43:00.000-05:002017-11-28T15:43:43.614-05:00Help Spread Some #SeniorPetLove<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Did you know that November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month?<br />
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As much as I don't want to think about or admit to it, I am the owner of two senior dogs (and two senior cats, too!)<br />
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Neeko, my princess, my heart dog, turned 7 earlier this year, officially earning the title of "senior."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZn1TYk7CfdteT54_kuC3-C67z4wPXp4Fs1m0YzcFzdyxdXzHdWaje30Z9SbhyphenhyphenEY1LP-d87ZDvS-hZTiYAQfKK6fkBec5GIDSXipO9D3OsFeZWcuubkZFXH1ZZ8jG_9nyO4OCpuOX6zal/s1600/DSC_7416.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZn1TYk7CfdteT54_kuC3-C67z4wPXp4Fs1m0YzcFzdyxdXzHdWaje30Z9SbhyphenhyphenEY1LP-d87ZDvS-hZTiYAQfKK6fkBec5GIDSXipO9D3OsFeZWcuubkZFXH1ZZ8jG_9nyO4OCpuOX6zal/s640/DSC_7416.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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She hasn't changed much since she was a puppy, but has become a little slower, a little calmer. I love her more with each passing year. She started me on this adventure, and I credit her with my passion for canine nutrition, love of photography, and general interest in all things dog. She is steady, solid, consistent.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-xRAyjOSrDuGX1YwoDxa6RIaWSQH6HYkNy3mheGAjYwIt_jLGKbl9kPw6px4Am8AeCr0T-Uft6L4oC8wmuuXJQ-ltfWKcfE9vFd1f853A60MuGcUVCBWpsqqzXNA9cMCakH-Cb8CETie7/s1600/DSC_7434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-xRAyjOSrDuGX1YwoDxa6RIaWSQH6HYkNy3mheGAjYwIt_jLGKbl9kPw6px4Am8AeCr0T-Uft6L4oC8wmuuXJQ-ltfWKcfE9vFd1f853A60MuGcUVCBWpsqqzXNA9cMCakH-Cb8CETie7/s640/DSC_7434.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Bruce is 8, the oldest, and my "grumpy old man." He too has become slightly calmer with age, and is becoming a distinguished grey-haired gentleman. Unlike Neeko, his body shows no evidence of slowing down with age, nor his personality. He remains as goofy as ever, and continues to live up to his nickname of "the jerk."<br />
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Senior pets have so much to offer us. They have weathered many storms, and mine love nothing more than a good meal and some good scritches.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.stellaandchewys.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Stella & Chewy's</a> has partnered with <a href="http://www.greymuzzle.org/" target="_blank">The Grey Muzzle Organization</a> to help raise awareness for senior pet adoption. The Grey Muzzle Organization improves the lives of at risk senior dogs by providing funding and resources to animal shelters, rescue organizations, sanctuaries and other non-profit groups.<br />
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During the month of November, Stella & Chewy's is donating food to the Grey Muzzle Organization. For every photo posted, they will donate $1 of their food.<br />
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To participate<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Post a photo of your senior pet on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.</li>
<li>Use #SeniorPetLove</li>
<li>Tag the photo to @stellaandchewys.</li>
</ul>
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This takes little or no time, gives you the opportunity to show off your senior pet, and helps senior pets in need!</div>
<div>
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<div>
<i>My Rotten Dogs are Stella & Chewy's ambassadors. This post is sponsored by Stella & Chewy's but we only share information we believe in and feel to be relevant. </i></div>
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<p>This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Stella & Chewy's. The opinions and text are all mine.</p><!-- TapInfluence Comment Widget - Do Not Edit or Remove --><div id="ti-pixel-tracker"></div><script type="text/javascript" src="https://influencers.tapinfluence.com/assets/cogs/core-v4.js"></script> <script>var ts=document.getElementById('ti-pixel-tracker'); var axel = Math.random() + ""; var num = axel * 1000000000000000000; var ti=document.createElement("img"); ti.style.display="none"; ti.src="https://tracking.tapinfluence.com/trk/S0Siq/VRhkl/p.png?p=yWiIM" + String.fromCharCode(38) + "i=SEHbC" + String.fromCharCode(38) + "ord="+ num + String.fromCharCode(38) + "s=" + encodeURIComponent(document.referrer); ts.parentNode.replaceChild(ti,ts); JSON.stringify({"program_id":"7b63f95c-c580-11e7-9c29-22000af436a0","post_id":"91d276ba-d3d5-11e7-b63c-22000af436a0"});</script><!-- End Widget -->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-74230025390817211682017-11-14T19:33:00.000-05:002017-11-14T19:33:02.210-05:00My Rotten Cats: Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Minnows #ChewyInfluencerI often preach about my love for single or limited ingredient treats for my dogs. The same holds true for my cats; the fewer ingredients, the better.<br />
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I couldn't resist the opportunity to let my girls try some cat treats with ONE INGREDIENT from our friends at <a href="http://www.chewy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chewy.com</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3dImZA63QWsGyv57-O6_iN7fsCV6Z2e6l5dSTdBShyWHJaMld3ofMI7Lp_BcCOZ8rtvmrLt0d-TztyBThBUxOxBZvf32HaoPFRPJXeFVqygIYBOU7ZROSdRJvVXa8wj2V5LHj-lF8kyP-/s1600/DSC_7467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3dImZA63QWsGyv57-O6_iN7fsCV6Z2e6l5dSTdBShyWHJaMld3ofMI7Lp_BcCOZ8rtvmrLt0d-TztyBThBUxOxBZvf32HaoPFRPJXeFVqygIYBOU7ZROSdRJvVXa8wj2V5LHj-lF8kyP-/s640/DSC_7467.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.chewy.com/vital-essentials-minnows-freeze-dried/dp/121698" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><br /></a>
<a href="https://www.chewy.com/vital-essentials-minnows-freeze-dried/dp/121698" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Minnnows </a>contain just that - freeze-dried minnows. Nothing else. Little whole prey treats for my girls. VE does a "slow" freeze drying process, over 48 hours, and their treats are shelf stable. No refrigeration required!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQppgDB-fbFNY1FJsw6sUrO4ZSNE5dr-HVBj89D3GcU4JkufHxuMYSbsaKNvozp2tyHIAulJP84rnHSoBCob32PaSvJmwPVIUdXj4k69pPFoa3UppdDinIvDgTE3d-La8o0YpjwFi3oAF/s1600/DSC_7472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQppgDB-fbFNY1FJsw6sUrO4ZSNE5dr-HVBj89D3GcU4JkufHxuMYSbsaKNvozp2tyHIAulJP84rnHSoBCob32PaSvJmwPVIUdXj4k69pPFoa3UppdDinIvDgTE3d-La8o0YpjwFi3oAF/s640/DSC_7472.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rare is the treat that they will take from my hand. These must be amazing!</td></tr>
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<br />They have a very faint fish smell, not overpowering at all. After a couple brief sniffs, the girls were eagerly devouring them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGyaShZFwrPWkKsUd4IQ124VF9H32eTt9DMjqQ0sAdK3GcfPcw8sPuODqmH85vDdUPcXfaoSj0QaK21a2Yxq0FRtzTw74-8daPxAMItVnwHXt1UB_jYWYEV8SC7lckAJZ0CIecWrKVxLr2/s1600/DSC_7470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGyaShZFwrPWkKsUd4IQ124VF9H32eTt9DMjqQ0sAdK3GcfPcw8sPuODqmH85vDdUPcXfaoSj0QaK21a2Yxq0FRtzTw74-8daPxAMItVnwHXt1UB_jYWYEV8SC7lckAJZ0CIecWrKVxLr2/s640/DSC_7470.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I like that they are 100% meat, decent size, and don't crumble at all. They help to satisfy the kitties' carnivorous needs.<br />
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And the dogs love them too!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-29267100500243392362017-11-01T19:16:00.001-04:002017-11-01T19:16:23.880-04:00Wordless Wednesday - Say Cheese<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGnJPlbj7-b2AKjxoCc8fEbkxxaqggOc7UIETirVe5KsOUqIIkn87Elkpr4K_5ECk_eI480skepgwr_my2iLErdzd0ffhNMFxq9hozbOGTxkVLjFz6PW_kh-WcypgR_8QrYiZxc7dzILo1/s1600/DSC_7429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="smiling malamute" border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGnJPlbj7-b2AKjxoCc8fEbkxxaqggOc7UIETirVe5KsOUqIIkn87Elkpr4K_5ECk_eI480skepgwr_my2iLErdzd0ffhNMFxq9hozbOGTxkVLjFz6PW_kh-WcypgR_8QrYiZxc7dzILo1/s640/DSC_7429.JPG" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaXgH6sKWcp4PZC2fNMEl-k1B_7lDedAal_088lZo-Lv9qj6fyp-CzY0hjUWZrNIXusof2tRv7Xtjd-6gfqVMWxStUzIIWTpW8hA7Mcy7J9M4zRmT4Omb5sd3dQqoPo4GAZrza9VjORiWb/s1600/BP_Wordless_wed_Hop_Logo_2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="253" data-original-width="292" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaXgH6sKWcp4PZC2fNMEl-k1B_7lDedAal_088lZo-Lv9qj6fyp-CzY0hjUWZrNIXusof2tRv7Xtjd-6gfqVMWxStUzIIWTpW8hA7Mcy7J9M4zRmT4Omb5sd3dQqoPo4GAZrza9VjORiWb/s200/BP_Wordless_wed_Hop_Logo_2014.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-33036264605254946482017-10-30T10:48:00.000-04:002017-10-30T10:48:49.545-04:00Northern Breed Coat Care Featuring Nourish by Isle of DogsWhile all three of my dogs are "northern breed mixes" they have three different fur types. Caring for the coat of any dog can be a challenge, though it doesn't have to be.<br />
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Coat health starts within, and <a href="https://iodogs.com/pages/nourish" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Isle of Dogs Nourish</a> products are a beneficial addition.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6KN4mJmv3IHDVNcppJvz7QZS1V4IgXD9KL2Yh_j6Pg0Ojn1sJ111uPEz_nRDcpmwE7cmYHLXXev1vSg8Ahh31275DJ5EL_AGVUGYsWuvzWjcYG7YWPVRyQJ-BlAUAmpM29HqYkcCWgrvG/s1600/nourish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6KN4mJmv3IHDVNcppJvz7QZS1V4IgXD9KL2Yh_j6Pg0Ojn1sJ111uPEz_nRDcpmwE7cmYHLXXev1vSg8Ahh31275DJ5EL_AGVUGYsWuvzWjcYG7YWPVRyQJ-BlAUAmpM29HqYkcCWgrvG/s640/nourish.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>This post is sponsored by Isle of Dogs. All thoughts are my own. </i><br />
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<b>Diet. </b>The best thing I do for my dogs' coats is feeding them a raw diet. I personally feel that unnecessary ingredients, fillers, and poor quality ingredients will take their toll on a dog's coat by making it either too dry or too oily, "dirty" feeling, and even increase the rate at which they shed. Proper nutrition can contribute to a healthy coat, be it in the form of a raw diet, a balanced homemade cooked diet, or high quality kibble or canned food.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgzWDH5LlFrEvIvdSc8OUfLAy8bvZfow-Cqv2uj7C2xiEXn4A6IhpPZ1IWn0W0guXCuTtNnPaIrDgO2ljmR2VbmrkA-mKe6xhpB_21Vq8RrpVRUddz9f8tcVMMEJgGjOqznI7ifUgN2xY/s1600/furcollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgzWDH5LlFrEvIvdSc8OUfLAy8bvZfow-Cqv2uj7C2xiEXn4A6IhpPZ1IWn0W0guXCuTtNnPaIrDgO2ljmR2VbmrkA-mKe6xhpB_21Vq8RrpVRUddz9f8tcVMMEJgGjOqznI7ifUgN2xY/s320/furcollage.jpg" width="160" /></a></div>
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Neeko has a very woolly coat, with long guard hairs, and the thickest undercoat I've ever encountered on a dog. Bruce has what I consider a typical northern breed coat, and Faolan's is a combination of northern breed and GSD.<br />
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Coat care is not one size fits all, especially in my house.<br />
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<b>Bathing. </b>I am not a fan of or believer in over bathing dogs. It can strip the natural oils and dry out the skin, contributing to itchiness and fur loss. If a dog feels oily or is stinky without good reason, the problem could be due to diet or genetics. Some fur types are prone to holding odor more than others.<br />
My boys haven't had baths in five years, yet both are soft, and neither stink or feel dirty. Neeko gets 4-5 baths per year, usually all in the spring and fall, due to the changes in her coat during these time periods.<br />
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<b>Brushing. </b>Regular brushing of northern breed dogs is important, not only during periods of seasonal shedding. It helps to spread the natural oils and keep the coat conditioned, and remove debris. It also helps to prevent small tangles from becoming large mats that must be cut out. It can be a way to bond with your dog, and also a way to examine the rest of their body and structure. Don't wait until your northern breed is blowing coat to brush, brush them regularly throughout the year. (Disclaimer - none of my dogs are huge fans of being brushed...)<br />
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<b><u>How Isle of Dogs can help</u></b></div>
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<a href="https://iodogs.com/collections/dental-chews" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration-line: underline;" target="_blank">Nourish Grain Free Functional Dental Chews</a> contain beneficial dental benefits on the outside, and beneficial skin and coat ingredients on the inside.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJN1kq6_1243xUGzHzdRqy1L59ZL570oQPI-e4qLLDh4wdf2zmg3Y0ZivqsfvExuXkZTiaubmVEMtNwiCw-dnDRj5VbxiF8M8DjSKul6g1eUrabGDogRWhdQflVrXtnmn95rX5LxvYMOc-/s1600/chews.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJN1kq6_1243xUGzHzdRqy1L59ZL570oQPI-e4qLLDh4wdf2zmg3Y0ZivqsfvExuXkZTiaubmVEMtNwiCw-dnDRj5VbxiF8M8DjSKul6g1eUrabGDogRWhdQflVrXtnmn95rX5LxvYMOc-/s640/chews.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Bruce LOVES dental chews. However, most contain yeast, which he is highly allergic to. Isle of Dogs Nourish Dental Treats do not! What they do contain is kelp, chicken liver, parsley, and turmeric, amongst other ingredients I am comfortable offering to my dogs. </div>
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<a href="https://iodogs.com/collections/daily-fix/products/the-daily-fix-skin-coat-formula" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Daily Fix Nutritional Probiotic Supplement - Skin + Coat Formula</a> contains fish oil, vitamin E, and biotin for coat health, and probiotics for GI health. My dogs find the taste irresistible, and it is easy to dose in a clean/drip free pump. Omega fatty acids are well-known to benefit a dog's coat, and also overall health. This is a convenient way to offer them. </div>
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As I mentioned above, my dogs are NOT fans of being brushed. They tolerate it at best. We have lengthy brushing sessions in the spring when they are shedding, and shorter brushing sessions throughout the rest of the year. One way I get them to cooperate with and tolerate the brushing sessions is by offering them yummy treats during the brushing sessions. </div>
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<a href="https://iodogs.com/collections/jerky-bites" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Nourish Grain Free Jerky Bites</a> contain no wheat, corn, potatoes or rice. They are 90% beef or lamb, and contain Green-lipped mussels. These small treats contain limited ingredients, are easy to pass out, and my dogs love them. They definitely make the brushing sessions quicker for all of us. </div>
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Feed the highest quality food you can, brush your dogs regularly, bathe them when needed, and supplement as necessary. </div>
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How do you care for your dogs' coats?</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-54913343720357464212017-10-29T12:52:00.000-04:002017-10-29T12:52:09.817-04:00Fear, Control, Trust, and Relaxation: Leaving my Dogs with SomeoneUntil last week, I had not had a vacation in five years. Five years ago I went away with some girlfriends to celebrate one of their birthdays. I boarded the dogs during that time period. It was an awful fiasco. I had taken the dogs to meet the gentleman prior to leaving, and he was sure he would be fine with them. This was a licensed kennel, and a very nice place.<br />
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He had to go out of town, and things got bad, apparently. When I picked my dogs up, they were separated, and all three were wearing bark collars. I was told they were not welcome back, and that Bruce was "unboardable."<br />
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I scrapped the idea of ever leaving town again, though four years ago I attended a <a href="http://www.myrottendogs.com/2013/05/nicole-wilde-seminar.html" target="_blank">Nicole Wilde seminar</a> in a neighboring state with a friend while my ex cared for the dogs.<br />
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Earlier this year, I relinquished a little control, but mostly overcame a little fear, by asking my sister to come over one night and feed the dogs for me. I set everything up so it would be easy for her.<br />
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It went perfectly smooth.<br />
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I knew I could trust her. My dogs love her, they trust her. Mostly I knew she could follow the directions. My dogs resource guard, so I was worried about a fight breaking out over guarding the food, or because they saw my sister as a resource to guard.<br />
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She has since done it for me a couple more times. I probably leave overly-descriptive instructions for her.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGMjJo7sbI18Eqb5F1_omTbTc0Qr5OMxih_PAWBxOlU_uQcULx2Lnsp8YVm0L1td3O7Y_6PxV4XdxSMaRh5Kb-hUUMu6l1Xdqok9U4on-mFsi22csV2Pm-8wPvTdW8cDgSf9DzctJ7B8MX/s1600/instructions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGMjJo7sbI18Eqb5F1_omTbTc0Qr5OMxih_PAWBxOlU_uQcULx2Lnsp8YVm0L1td3O7Y_6PxV4XdxSMaRh5Kb-hUUMu6l1Xdqok9U4on-mFsi22csV2Pm-8wPvTdW8cDgSf9DzctJ7B8MX/s320/instructions.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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A couple of months ago, I decided it was high time I get away, if only for a few days. I booked a cabin in the Smoky Mountains. I asked my sister to stay at my house for four nights. She agreed.<br />
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I prepped and labeled easy to feed breakfasts and dinners. Explained about setting food out to thaw. Made sure Bruce had plenty of medication. Bought her several bottles of wine, and stocked my refrigerator with food. Gave her a check to cover her gas and inconvenience of staying at my house.<br />
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And I left. drove 6 hours away to enjoy beautiful scenery, good food, and time with someone important to me.<br />
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She sent me texts to let me know things were going ok.<br />
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<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="619" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fmyrottendogs%2Fposts%2F1326643694135735&width=500" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="500"></iframe>
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My biggest fear was getting a phone call that there had been a fight, that one had escaped, or that one of them was sick. None of these things occurred.<br />
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I had a wonderful time, it was a much needed break.<br />
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I knew all along I could trust my sister, I just needed to give up the control, and overcome my fears. I hope she knows how appreciative I am of her.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-87898013154311348212017-10-23T18:21:00.000-04:002017-10-23T18:21:18.857-04:00Tricks (f)or Treats! #StellaAndChewys Carnivore CrunchHalloween is approaching, and we are gathering costumes and treats, for humans and canines alike.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsDIzceM3EnecZuOBpdZgd6uV4kPsGdjk17ewbDK0nlaJN3WdTcf1w01C-ySNuo6-vk4C2Yxv7WJqrUECBCo-mPgjA9SHTpsQoXBhSQS0CMOTS7laGnBkwem4vIBiv4mHgARPD68ldDzsg/s1600/stellasquad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsDIzceM3EnecZuOBpdZgd6uV4kPsGdjk17ewbDK0nlaJN3WdTcf1w01C-ySNuo6-vk4C2Yxv7WJqrUECBCo-mPgjA9SHTpsQoXBhSQS0CMOTS7laGnBkwem4vIBiv4mHgARPD68ldDzsg/s640/stellasquad.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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One way to treat your dogs for Halloween (and the rest of the year) is with <a href="https://www.stellaandchewys.com/dog-food/treats" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Stella & Chewy's Carnivore Crunch.</a><br />
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<i>My Rotten Dogs are Stella & Chewy's ambassadors. We are being compensated to help spread the word about Stella & Chewy's, but only share information that is relevant to our readers. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ3pX4TNzSELgc6efQoZ7K_2jRmXH4s3BChT9y8e1izh3JfXXG-qcSOzmFpd8qFF-mgrvILhoTJ3gPRo4RuUyKC8d6b3hY4t4IF4YnnsbqTY7Xzgzakawe9jv6Y3cklek1szeGRfV5LOYG/s1600/stella.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ3pX4TNzSELgc6efQoZ7K_2jRmXH4s3BChT9y8e1izh3JfXXG-qcSOzmFpd8qFF-mgrvILhoTJ3gPRo4RuUyKC8d6b3hY4t4IF4YnnsbqTY7Xzgzakawe9jv6Y3cklek1szeGRfV5LOYG/s400/stella.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
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Keeping trick-or-treaters happy is a priority for me, and I cannot resist a good costume. Candies and chocolates for the humans, and Carnivore Crunch for the canines.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwmqIsUYanCmvwYrJzim2Cp36KJrUV0sksrxZhg6aMgSjHice8M2LZdPSRLp1Tfi_gDiC4Lv2wG8CMBhwBoVkI8t5FT7rvif_plsecfcacQWTTUQDfqKlFQ_RhfsWd730zkMOgo4U1aGFr/s1600/treats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="dog in a witch costume" border="0" data-original-height="1170" data-original-width="1600" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwmqIsUYanCmvwYrJzim2Cp36KJrUV0sksrxZhg6aMgSjHice8M2LZdPSRLp1Tfi_gDiC4Lv2wG8CMBhwBoVkI8t5FT7rvif_plsecfcacQWTTUQDfqKlFQ_RhfsWd730zkMOgo4U1aGFr/s640/treats.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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Carnivore Crunch are small treats (perfect for training) that are 98% meat, organs, and ground bone, and made with cage-free, grass fed and wild caught proteins.<br />
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They are grain and gluten-free, and at less than 3 calories per treat, you can offer them without guilt.<br />
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Their small size makes them ideal for training, and also as a "just because I love you" treat. I also love that hardly crumble at all, which is a bonus for any treat.<br />
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Neeko was more than happy to join the #StellaSquad, don her costume, and go trick-or-treating for some Carnivore Crunch!<br />
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If your dogs do tricks for treats, offer them some Carnivore Crunch!<br />
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This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Stella & Chewy's. The opinions and text are all mine.<br />
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To read about Bruce's Embark DNA results, click <a href="http://www.myrottendogs.com/2017/10/embark-wolfdog-misrepresentation.html" target="_blank">HERE</a></div>
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To read about Faolan's Embark DNA results, click <a href="http://www.myrottendogs.com/2017/07/embark-dna-testing-suspected-wolfdog.html" target="_blank">HERE.</a></div>
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<br />
I have written about how I came about owning Neeko in the past - stumbling upon the "Free to good home" puppy ad in my previous employer's online employee bulletin board, going to look at puppies, and falling in love with a 12 lb ball of fluff.<br />
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She was seriously the cutest baby dog ever.<br />
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I didn't meet her parents. I was so enamored by the adorable-ness of her that I didn't care. And, at that time, I didn't know any better.<br />
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I figured she was a "husky" mix. She grew, and grew some more. I had no idea she would end up as large as she is. Her coat changed. She went from a typical grey northern breed coloring to a blond bombshell. She is very "leggy." I did tons of research, and wondered if she didn't have something different in her. I could see German Shepherd in her personality and trainability based upon what I had read.<br />
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Several years ago, I ran an older version of Wisdom Panel on her, and<a href="http://www.myrottendogs.com/2012/05/wisdom-panel-results.html" target="_blank"> wasn't really impressed with the results.</a><br />
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After being so pleased with the process of Faolan's Embark DNA testing, I decided to test both Neeko and Bruce. I have only nice things to say about the company and the process. (The only thing they have been inaccurate on is weights. They grossly underestimated the weights of both Neeko and Bruce, and both are very lean dogs.)<br />
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I received Neeko's results more quickly than either of the boys, they took a little over 4 weeks to process.<br />
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She mostly German Shepherd, with some northern breed thrown in for good measure, and a smidge of grey wolf somewhere in the woodpile.<br />
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Due to some of her physical traits, I am somewhat shocked that collie or great pyrenees didn't show up in the mix. Her coat is insane.<br />
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I have always called her my beautiful mutt, and have learned that is indeed what she is. The best things in life are free, and she is proof of that.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-57809587775855585572017-10-18T18:34:00.000-04:002017-10-18T18:34:51.055-04:00Easy Bone Broth Recipe You Can Share With Your Dog<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb4cqPX9vsXNzt3wCKEYkXtdMNlz5GipBtp0WZ2ybK6y8g2Fgp7C-dlDtETB2SIjmLu8XYTY1Jzw0XOG9zcf4jzh7KzKBzeuOucNitmy0h034FzjuO5V9i9FmESXK1Fguma9saaguWqw6X/s1600/bonebroth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb4cqPX9vsXNzt3wCKEYkXtdMNlz5GipBtp0WZ2ybK6y8g2Fgp7C-dlDtETB2SIjmLu8XYTY1Jzw0XOG9zcf4jzh7KzKBzeuOucNitmy0h034FzjuO5V9i9FmESXK1Fguma9saaguWqw6X/s640/bonebroth.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am a huge fan of bone broth, both for myself and my dogs. On a cold day, I enjoy a hot cup of bone broth in the afternoon more than a cup of coffee.<br />
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I don't claim it to be a cure-all, but it is nourishing and hydrating. And something about drinking it feels soothing for me.<br />
<br />
It is a source of various nutrients and minerals, along with the well publicized collagen, for both humans and dogs. The collagen and nutrients in bone broth can potentially be beneficial for joints, GI systems, skin and hair/coat.<br />
<br />
Why not make a batch that is beneficial for dogs, but also delicious for humans?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Ingredients</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">Large, cut beef joint bones</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">8-9 cups water</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">4 tbsp turmeric</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1/3 cup raw apple cider vinegar</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Several smashed garlic cloves</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Fresh ground black pepper</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Salt for the humans, added just prior to drinking</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The key to delicious bone broth is roasting the bones.</b></span><br />
<br />
Start with some beef joint bones. I purchased mine from a local butcher. Line a baking sheet with foil, and preheat oven to 450.<br />
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Place bones on sheet, and pop in oven. Roast for 25-45 minutes, depending on size. They are done when they smell delicious, and are nicely browned. Try not to eat the marrow that may be attempting to seep out. (If you haven't tried roasted bone marrow, I highly recommend it.)<br />
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Place roasted bones in a large crockpot, and cover with water. Smash several garlic cloves. It's ok to leave the skin on. (Omit this step if you are not comfortable giving your dogs garlic.) Add garlic, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, and fresh ground black pepper. Some optional, but not necessary additions are other dog-safe herbs, carrots, celery, etc. If it is just for human enjoyment, I like to add a rough chopped whole onion, skin and all.<br />
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Cover crockpot, plug it in (I have forgotten this step!), turn on low, and forget about it for 24 hours or so.<br />
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<b>I find starting a batch of bone broth in the evening the easiest. It cooks for 24 hours, and needs to be refrigerated at least overnight. By starting it in the evening, I never rushed in the morning to move to the next step. </b><br />
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After it has cooked for 24 hours, remove the lid. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, remove all solids, placing them in a colander set over a bowl. Return any liquids that drain into the bowl to the pot. If their are carrots, celery, or the like present, use the spoon to push any liquid from them into the bowl to return to the pot.<br />
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Transfer contents of the crockpot to a large room temperature pan or bowl, cover and place in refrigerator.<br />
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Let refrigerate at least overnight, and remove.<br />
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The fat will solidify at the top, and can be easily scooped off with a spoon. I like to leave a little fat behind, for flavor.<br />
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You should now have a container of broth the consistency of jelly, thanks to all that beneficial gelatin.<br />
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Scoop the beautiful, gelatinous broth into bowls or storage containers, and refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze.<br />
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For my dogs, I feed it cold, as is.<br />
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For myself, I cut it with water, add a little salt, and heat up to make a soothing, nourishing beverage.<br />
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<b>It also makes a great base, when cut with a little water, for any soup or recipe that calls for broth!</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<i>Have you tried bone broth?</i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-50754742401014843382017-10-14T15:28:00.001-04:002017-10-14T15:28:18.849-04:00Black Cat After Dark #ChewyInfluencerMy sleek black kitty Noelle can be both elusive and finicky. It's fitting that she is a black cat. What better food to offer her than <a href="https://www.chewy.com/tiki-cat-after-dark-variety-pack-/dp/139631" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tiki Cat After Dark</a>, from our friends at <a href="http://chewy.com./" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">chewy.com.</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJBA0xczh4keOK3nu0duMbGy8FWbICdneczXG_GRG8I1XRqKRA1UOD91VY6iW_Xb9Syl9ydKw4PpVHq4t7Pv4gX3qe2uf2e_HAzJSK_85yQNKNyNU9SPUkgXpcqPnRmJLTAmUohwWV5EpY/s1600/DSC_7175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJBA0xczh4keOK3nu0duMbGy8FWbICdneczXG_GRG8I1XRqKRA1UOD91VY6iW_Xb9Syl9ydKw4PpVHq4t7Pv4gX3qe2uf2e_HAzJSK_85yQNKNyNU9SPUkgXpcqPnRmJLTAmUohwWV5EpY/s640/DSC_7175.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>We are Chewy Influencers. I was provided with complimentary product, but all opinions are strictly my own.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
I am a huge fan of wet food in a cat's diet for a variety of reasons. It provides much needed moisture, is less processed, and even the pickiest of cats seem to enjoy wet food.<br />
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We were sent the 6 flavor variety pack of Tiki Cat After Dark. From the chewy website "a selection of gourmet recipes that are carefully designed to mimic a natural prey diet." As someone who feeds her dogs a prey model raw diet, and has attempted multiple times to do the same with her cats, this makes me happy.<br />
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It contains 6 different flavors, all chicken based, with broth, meat, and organs as the primary ingredients.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQy8mL06cK_3ftcibKp8emHonX_XL6zqTh1gQzxlNDB1LvLuQbMkwastoXx4qRgkiq5Y28l6l9N4fSi5StzE3Yor5kFmju2_Z3fF5iyJwHbXu8hPXhI5GEPxSMpHxNgrXMfjJdVtiN8Xa/s1600/DSC_7176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQy8mL06cK_3ftcibKp8emHonX_XL6zqTh1gQzxlNDB1LvLuQbMkwastoXx4qRgkiq5Y28l6l9N4fSi5StzE3Yor5kFmju2_Z3fF5iyJwHbXu8hPXhI5GEPxSMpHxNgrXMfjJdVtiN8Xa/s640/DSC_7176.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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It looks good enough for me to eat.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPDgZrKxnxQayMBq0m_QA33FbmAWwslCy9z6_v03hzoFhKyLtM0VODoxC-9XZMebGo4txvIJADyJBx9lHU1b2TZu4ZcUG1VAJjgJU0wjWlFO8-oSnQPDM97UCJNjbd-43MyrgDrc5LKs-S/s1600/DSC_7185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPDgZrKxnxQayMBq0m_QA33FbmAWwslCy9z6_v03hzoFhKyLtM0VODoxC-9XZMebGo4txvIJADyJBx9lHU1b2TZu4ZcUG1VAJjgJU0wjWlFO8-oSnQPDM97UCJNjbd-43MyrgDrc5LKs-S/s640/DSC_7185.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Sleek Noelle (can you believe she is almost 12?!) will sometimes attempt to cover wet foods with her paw if they do not please her. That was not the case with Tiki Cat After Dark.<br />
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I love watching her lap up the broth, and devour the food. Cats tend to not have a strong thirst drive, as they are meant to get moisture and fluids from the food they eat. So I love the broth in this food.<br />
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I love that it is grain-free. Juice kitty seems to have food allergies, and this has not aggravated them in the slightest.<br />
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I am glad to include this in my girls' wet food rotation. It is a wet food made from real ingredients, is grain-free, provides ample moisture, and they love the taste!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-55428264775437140992017-10-13T18:25:00.000-04:002017-10-13T19:09:34.779-04:00Embark DNA Testing and Wolfdog Misrepresentation<i>I spent my own money to purchase all the Embark DNA kits I have used, and my experiences with them are not at all influenced. To save $30 on an Embark DNA Test for your own dog, click <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Ffbuy.me%2FgIPxL&h=ATNexJSlpY4L-xc0AbqR2rk1_DVFOXFe9rSGF2God3EW5KsVOKULWLWg0Cv2qt2h-d08ucPAUi9ucnSkTYGqk_UZx4PEIFejKX_hkvbcAczygr-sxqrmiqOZrsMkgHfiGna8RYQZiZwIdU0sGevGSE9_gH_3EIHiQhAEHHj27fyYTaOGhH3ywmjCekPAJO41TZMYGbSp0mpvwvnV1j-yLrLSc7tH7nnwUGPVD2gDtQlQtyrFNIIil2JYLlJuSxm2Ov5jIlgoTFUJAEJeI4HvmBJMbPXdl0v93g" target="_blank">HERE.</a></i><br />
<br />
To read about Faolan's Embark DNA results, click<a href="http://www.myrottendogs.com/2017/07/embark-dna-testing-suspected-wolfdog.html" target="_blank"> HERE.</a><br />
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Wolfdog misrepresentation has always been a hot topic in the wolfdog community. There used to be groups based solely on this premise. Want to see tempers and opinions fly? Misrepresent the wolf content of your dog or wolfdog, and refuse to listen to any education or criticism about it.<br />
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There are many negative consequences of misrepresenting one's "wolfdog." There can be legal consequences, as they are not legal in all localities. There can be consequences of an intense animal falling into the hands of unprepared owner, among other consequences.<br />
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Courts are using DNA testing of dogs more frequently now. There are several states and localities where it is illegal to have a "wolfdog" be it 90% wolf, or 10% wolf. Improperly labeling an animal that has <b>ZERO </b>wolf content could *potentially* cost that animal it's life if DNA testing is not used.<br />
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Wolfdogs are typically divided into three different content levels - low content, mid content, and high contents.<br />
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<ul>
<li>Low contents typically possess mostly dog traits, but with some visible wolf traits.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Mid contents should be a pretty even match of dog traits and wolf traits.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>High contents should display mostly wolf characteristics, with a few dog traits thrown in for good measure.</li>
</ul>
I think my <a href="http://www.myrottendogs.com/2017/07/embark-dna-testing-suspected-wolfdog.html" target="_blank">Faolan</a> is a decent example of a low content wolfdog.<br />
<br />
I adopted Bruce 6.5 years ago from a local Siberian Husky/northern breed rescue. He was adopted out as a Malamute/Husky mix. <a href="http://www.myrottendogs.com/2014/04/the-truth-about-bruces-lineage-and.html" target="_blank">Though he is a rescue, I was able to track down his breeder, and provided with his lineage. </a><br />
<br />
I was told that Bruce was the product of purebred Alaskan Malamute dam and a "high content" sire. I was told his sire was 84% wolf, and that Bruce was 42% wolf.<br />
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I have always known that Bruce had heavy Malamute influence.<br />
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<br />
I ordered an Embark DNA test. Like Faolan's test, I am again incredibly pleased. I have nothing but nice things to say about the process and the company.<br />
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It was a smooth process, approximately 6 weeks from sending off the test to receiving results.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>The Results</u></b></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Bruce's health results came back all clear. I have received his breed results. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtp60oXYCt_bMV7FDvhHo5QbdJC4mxuRVqQd_E9WSEHulspuijY9C9dNjNXFiN3YGGyj7JdHNuaLFXhO0fP2fHw6vdZqjkaGZ-XXqbr8SZGbDDF-t_6iWhpV-0g_IjMdI0K4jizXVgkUQ6/s1600/bruceresults.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="552" data-original-width="1157" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtp60oXYCt_bMV7FDvhHo5QbdJC4mxuRVqQd_E9WSEHulspuijY9C9dNjNXFiN3YGGyj7JdHNuaLFXhO0fP2fHw6vdZqjkaGZ-XXqbr8SZGbDDF-t_6iWhpV-0g_IjMdI0K4jizXVgkUQ6/s640/bruceresults.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Big shocker, he is a mostly Malamute. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
His wolf content (percentage) came back at 1/3 of what he was represented as. He also has some German Shepherd and Siberian Husky present, which is no surprise as these breeds are very commonly present in wolfdogs. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I never once thought or believed that Bruce was 42% wolf. But actual purchasers of similar animals might truly believe their animals are. This could be problematic, because a wolfdog with that content might present challenges that the owners' are ill-equipped for. Those animals could end up in a shelter, where they are rarely adopted out, or even worse. (I truly hope that none of Bruce's littermates have the issues that he has.)<br />
<br />
Did Bruce's breeder intentionally misrepresent he and his littermates, and their sire? I have no way of knowing. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Some who learn that an animal has less wolf content than what they previously believed might be angry, embarrassed or sad. Some become defensive. For some, the amount of wolf present is the most important thing, and this is unfortunate and only about ego. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So is Bruce actually a wolfdog at all? Some would say yes, Bruce is a low content wolfdog. Some would say no, he is a dog with recent wolf heritage. To me, it is semantics. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
No matter what Bruce is, I love him.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
To view Bruce's actual Embark results, click <a href="http://embk.me/bruce12" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div class="fb-comments" data-href="http://www.myrottendogs.com/2017/10/embark-wolfdog-misrepresentation.html" data-numposts="10">
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-6234600370249658602017-10-11T07:45:00.002-04:002017-10-11T17:47:42.384-04:00Wordless Wednesday - A Face Only a...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglt4wwoqACoUGVR2a-OY5Dd4yUx_HIEuHTwhsGVW8K1MR4vMwrP6C0Bl7iS1O13GRMMsc3sFQWhOMlWQjDRy6zDX5-ACrdVuSQ_rfpJlDYx1yzUrih84r6D4eWg3ORg68wSyR_LLI9n2c3/s1600/DSC_6745+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="silly face, wollfdog, low content wolfdog" border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglt4wwoqACoUGVR2a-OY5Dd4yUx_HIEuHTwhsGVW8K1MR4vMwrP6C0Bl7iS1O13GRMMsc3sFQWhOMlWQjDRy6zDX5-ACrdVuSQ_rfpJlDYx1yzUrih84r6D4eWg3ORg68wSyR_LLI9n2c3/s640/DSC_6745+%25282%2529.JPG" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://blogpaws.com/executive-blog/pet-parenting-health-lifestyle/wordless-wednesday/50-holiday-content-ideas-for-pet-influencers/" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="253" data-original-width="292" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuWR70_SaPZCAQphnKzIMbG8ekEUDcVp5TkxHy2p9zF59Ryo-cEJR8dGW5_QBuvRVZpj-sUrtWUeLH59JaNWgfMfHoQP5HrfT5WOZqR_Yj2Qf8mlDJSyq4stSaWEMZwDxLqBLDjhQDbiUR/s200/BP_Wordless_wed_Hop_Logo_2014.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click <a href="http://blogpaws.com/executive-blog/pet-parenting-health-lifestyle/wordless-wednesday/50-holiday-content-ideas-for-pet-influencers/" target="_blank">HERE</a> to view/join the hop!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-79385564296556215292017-10-05T06:00:00.000-04:002017-10-05T06:00:10.094-04:00Happy Birthday Faolan!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGMMIRM7yoCBWcxXc8FHUL6Mz6h52YxLWmz0BAD7Yfm4yaAG8Svd0WlpgvdUKnVw4JxeEYQq2CtmTcZmSFLdOUT92lpq62-Q7b-equdj_v392WnJGr_5R8vq3ueor3Z16FmJ8XcE1F5I1/s1600/DSC_6807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGMMIRM7yoCBWcxXc8FHUL6Mz6h52YxLWmz0BAD7Yfm4yaAG8Svd0WlpgvdUKnVw4JxeEYQq2CtmTcZmSFLdOUT92lpq62-Q7b-equdj_v392WnJGr_5R8vq3ueor3Z16FmJ8XcE1F5I1/s640/DSC_6807.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I call today Faolan's birthday.<br />
<br />
I don't know when it actually is. I adopted him on July 5, and the shelter guesstimated him at 9 months old. So we celebrate it October 5.<br />
<br />
He is now 6, supposedly officially middle-aged. He hasn't received the memo, though.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKcOS9DJZhv77ezHbqFc7pVqYFQH7u177LgBzcnfG5VGM-JhlVxi9yoeLtMempe1zQn5Lp3KTOrZAIPX7BPtaBxoI6Iw6v-eWJ8l-J7O1XORJ_SC9vteVXrXjiCJV7U3TNTwY5IXSIQ8Y1/s1600/DSC_6753.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKcOS9DJZhv77ezHbqFc7pVqYFQH7u177LgBzcnfG5VGM-JhlVxi9yoeLtMempe1zQn5Lp3KTOrZAIPX7BPtaBxoI6Iw6v-eWJ8l-J7O1XORJ_SC9vteVXrXjiCJV7U3TNTwY5IXSIQ8Y1/s640/DSC_6753.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
He is joyful, energetic, and fun loving. He is as sweet as candy. Sometimes he is a little shit though.<br />
<br />
I'll say it time and time again. This "little" dog has impacted me more than words can describe. I sometimes wish I had known/gotten him as a true puppy. How much more amazing he might be then he already is. He came to me slightly damaged, and maybe I love him even more for it. Because of how far he has come. <b>Because of how far he has brought me.</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnhvbLaan7shh8inX2Tn7NyuCLOevVCYaynLdBaJPvDaHdq68WMXMy6LNUiXGlN7s8RcgN-uTtbddVxXqaY3JqxJ_I8Si84Y-Ckda1IQjsyiLwmhH8wgT_NnvFXMz2U8GuQZJAJ3qA7dxE/s1600/DSC_6746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnhvbLaan7shh8inX2Tn7NyuCLOevVCYaynLdBaJPvDaHdq68WMXMy6LNUiXGlN7s8RcgN-uTtbddVxXqaY3JqxJ_I8Si84Y-Ckda1IQjsyiLwmhH8wgT_NnvFXMz2U8GuQZJAJ3qA7dxE/s640/DSC_6746.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Happy birthday sweet boy. Here's to so many more.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-9645581696057410362017-10-03T20:43:00.000-04:002017-10-03T20:43:42.777-04:00Easy Pumpkin Dog Treats (You can eat them too!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCIyDmpn_xDBdisk6U8xVPk4zzJrg3fwRVxvnyV5PFLFMpOE7yKv4LMrmNeySwEysR75czmD-w2U6bBgVGZBdmlc0uj0reXk51KoJvbQ-LY_Yxe5QZmZ1e5Y-TtoskWG-aWPLXmV28h4oh/s1600/pumpkin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCIyDmpn_xDBdisk6U8xVPk4zzJrg3fwRVxvnyV5PFLFMpOE7yKv4LMrmNeySwEysR75czmD-w2U6bBgVGZBdmlc0uj0reXk51KoJvbQ-LY_Yxe5QZmZ1e5Y-TtoskWG-aWPLXmV28h4oh/s640/pumpkin.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It is finally fall. Fall and winter are my favorite seasons. Mostly due to the cooler weather and snow, but also due to the flavors of the seasons.<br />
<br />
Pumpkin is an iconic fall flavor, showing up in everything - coffee, pie, pasta, etc.<br />
<br />
Pumpkin has a variety of health benefits, for both humans and canines. They are high in fiber, vitamin A, beta carotene, and vitamin C.<br />
<br />
My dogs are hot natured, and love cold treats. I decided to make them some frozen pumpkin goodies.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Ingredients</u></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">2 cups plain, unsweetened yogurt.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 can pumpkin. The can should read puree or packed, and contain 100% pumpkin. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 tsp cinnamon.</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksn053J21pZPJB6cURydelALCwyz35x6t8OCbZvXuMsyH0eWXX9DsiNv5VRkJ_AgFh55UBJrPqLREJJnwhnHl9c98TH5cwsjnrLBDpSbyymdZ0n1dZ57J89PS_zpeVLiW1fa42o5VPzYN/s1600/DSC_6676.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksn053J21pZPJB6cURydelALCwyz35x6t8OCbZvXuMsyH0eWXX9DsiNv5VRkJ_AgFh55UBJrPqLREJJnwhnHl9c98TH5cwsjnrLBDpSbyymdZ0n1dZ57J89PS_zpeVLiW1fa42o5VPzYN/s400/DSC_6676.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Method</u></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Mix all ingredients together. You can use a blender, hand or stand mixer, or spoon. I had no difficulty mixing them together with a spoon.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw5bnQyOLRqoqnpqi5yQMd6vkalIRcRMmp9dBxDLvCpOdwHCdnpssK7hMS60ATsDuSV6ML-btzGtS127VDRNE3cH-Fk0D-G-xART3FPpss6a1zce1V1HCuPhaoiKWGhGeI7M4TkqE2ISKt/s1600/DSC_6679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw5bnQyOLRqoqnpqi5yQMd6vkalIRcRMmp9dBxDLvCpOdwHCdnpssK7hMS60ATsDuSV6ML-btzGtS127VDRNE3cH-Fk0D-G-xART3FPpss6a1zce1V1HCuPhaoiKWGhGeI7M4TkqE2ISKt/s400/DSC_6679.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Place silicone molds on a large baking sheet. I have <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01715UD08?ie=UTF8&tag=myrodo-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B01715UD08" target="_blank">these silicone molds</a>, and LOVE them! Spoon mixture into molds. Try to resist eating the mixture. I wasn't very successful, it is quite delicious!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Place sheet in freezer, and remove when frozen.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Put individual treats into freezer safe bag or container, and offer to your dogs. Or yourself. I am not ashamed to admit that I have eaten almost as many of these as the dogs have.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.myrottendogs.com/2014/10/homemade-pumpkin-dog-treats.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmd2BiN6fnQFyOFgjy0_3iqQhKc4VfJWTgy1zCjgDzfbdCHa5HnGW-uqeEjUvtIrw2-7gECUCU5y6jzvu3zekPaofoA83hy-gv38HlnIM-QEO6ELamm6rQefaJCCMUT4ARI7UX1wB3u4vJ/s400/pumpkin2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If you're interested in a pumpkin treat recipe that is baked, click <a href="http://www.myrottendogs.com/2014/10/homemade-pumpkin-dog-treats.html" target="_blank">HERE.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Please note that large amounts of pumpkin can cause diarrhea and/or constipation in some dogs, due to the fiber content. Like everything else in life, moderation is key.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>What is your favorite fall flavor?</b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694957759926236569.post-51334409701335781142017-10-01T17:35:00.003-04:002017-10-01T17:35:56.874-04:00Happy Birthday Bruce!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Though he is a rescue, I know that today is Bruce's 8th birthday. I adopted him when he was 1.5 years old, so he has celebrated his last 7 birthdays with me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQXIjgLf8ldtjGa32BrBJNnhBwiqxz0KYXk-IvR9vNnpo26DLs1rN3aeemIG9sIS6q4pEPQtPdmtEtm5YOfaJVYTS3eSQn68NtNli8CFDJZQf_NUq-V2rmgAtVh6uKlOYdbC7PD8WTtAKx/s1600/DSC_6692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQXIjgLf8ldtjGa32BrBJNnhBwiqxz0KYXk-IvR9vNnpo26DLs1rN3aeemIG9sIS6q4pEPQtPdmtEtm5YOfaJVYTS3eSQn68NtNli8CFDJZQf_NUq-V2rmgAtVh6uKlOYdbC7PD8WTtAKx/s640/DSC_6692.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
His face and muzzle are definitely getting lighter, and he is taking on the appearance of a distinguished older gentleman.<br />
<br />
It's hard, but I have to remind myself that he is a senior dog. He doesn't act like it. He is strong, fast, agile, and willful. I love watching him run around like a puppy, enticing Faolan to chase him, or getting the zoomies after chest scritches from me.<br />
<br />
Having a fall birthday lends itself to "fall-ish" photos, so I had to get the obligatory photo with the bale of straw and pumpkin.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBOfpZoiGIZl2PuBeHy_1VZN9ReiyzJL_rcDmbDOZw0Fri3no1-FwR1iSjr2M3cmbpnZcEaZJmp7DmfetzgDIXjcPJNqdTVcFGRF8-8rfwCZRD6Wgc-iFnUd0MPor596W2axqkIR8SNcrv/s1600/DSC_6697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBOfpZoiGIZl2PuBeHy_1VZN9ReiyzJL_rcDmbDOZw0Fri3no1-FwR1iSjr2M3cmbpnZcEaZJmp7DmfetzgDIXjcPJNqdTVcFGRF8-8rfwCZRD6Wgc-iFnUd0MPor596W2axqkIR8SNcrv/s400/DSC_6697.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
Bruce lives for food, so what better way to celebrate than with a 2 lb chunk of beef, garnished with greens?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI6axr4JSOObJzqAAhFvI-LpTw3kAjWuITy6BwA9ZfcjVhIyc_NmcFPBov96bsLJ7kDoJg1HkLQziS7dn-iLEv3zDNcLaNeT-gv4xXi67bD2CoVIyX1Us9df13HrP9B0UVfImSxu0AahqA/s1600/DSC_6707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI6axr4JSOObJzqAAhFvI-LpTw3kAjWuITy6BwA9ZfcjVhIyc_NmcFPBov96bsLJ7kDoJg1HkLQziS7dn-iLEv3zDNcLaNeT-gv4xXi67bD2CoVIyX1Us9df13HrP9B0UVfImSxu0AahqA/s400/DSC_6707.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
Not surprisingly, he ignored the greens.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq9crf0uvd8We1Jxtl75o6pRZ3FxMb5x7BuB_7CcqYEICCtuag2WTR_Zz5R2MNSeHJHiHIJaFJmWf35_-Lrr_lWk9qxjjEzz2g0FlZmIljrF7Xuz2PjmwezXMHLKQidhsKWC3Trv89poIu/s1600/DSC_6716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq9crf0uvd8We1Jxtl75o6pRZ3FxMb5x7BuB_7CcqYEICCtuag2WTR_Zz5R2MNSeHJHiHIJaFJmWf35_-Lrr_lWk9qxjjEzz2g0FlZmIljrF7Xuz2PjmwezXMHLKQidhsKWC3Trv89poIu/s640/DSC_6716.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Happy birthday, buddy, and here's to many more.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05565043193884340476noreply@blogger.com5