Are you wondering what foods might be helpful for dogs with inflammatory conditions like cancer or allergies? We are sharing what was in our rescue dog Legend's breakfast bowl this morning. 14 year old Legend has epilepsy, atypical Cushings, food allergies and now liver cancer. He is 78 pounds and still going on two walks a day. Here is what is in Legend’s bowl: baked salmon, raw rabbit patty, dandelion greens, artichoke hearts, Amazing Omegas, okra, asparagus, carrots and broccoli. We change the vegetables every day and include green beans, shredded cabbage, peas and squash (butternut, zucchinni and yellow squash). Every pet's needs are different and if your dog has to be on a special diet such as a low fat diet or one for a health condition like kidney disease, than this would not be a good fit. It's best to always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet's diet.
If your dog has any joint issues, allergies, skin problems or cancer, adding omega 3s in the form of fish and fish oil is helpful. Veggies like artichoke (chopped frozen from Trader Joe’s), dandelion greens and carrots support liver health. The raw frozen food is the gold standard in providing fresh nutrients for pets. Notice the diet is low in carbohydrates—very important for any cat or dog with cancer, digestive issues and especially inflammation. Finally, feeding your pet these types of foods doesn’t have to be an all or nothing decision. Vegetables, fish and raw food are definitely expensive so even if you mix in what you can a few times a week or on the weekends when you have more time, that’s a big win. Anything you can do to add more fresh nutrients to your pets diets is great!
For more helpful pet nutrition diet tips, please visit our pet health articles library.
Contrary to the age-old notion that cats and dogs are natural adversaries, many heartwarming stories and countless households stand as testaments to the beautiful friendships that can blossom between these two different species. With patience, understanding, and a gradual introduction, cats and dogs can often develop deep bonds characterized by companionship and playfulness. Shared living spaces often witness moments of mutual grooming, playful chasing, and even cuddling between feline and canine friends. These unique relationships challenge stereotypes and showcase the individual personalities of our pets, emphasizing that with the right approach and a bit of time, cats and dogs can indeed become the best of buddies, enriching our lives with their charming camaraderie.
Traditionally, huskies are quite prey-driven and will chase birds, squirrels and cats. Legend loves to go to the Harbor to watch the squirrels with endless fascination. In his younger days, he would have probably been much more playful with Meow. But, now here he is Paw to Paw with his kitty pal! Precious memories of two very special pets.
14-year-old Legend is “doing the ramp” his way. We have tried all kinds of ramps over the years. Most are either too narrow, too flimsy or the surface is slippery and the dogs won’t use it. What has made this one a winner is that it has a grass covering. Ramps save senior dogs from injuries and can protect their limbs, even if they could still jump in.
Ramps can be invaluable aids for senior dogs, providing a gentle and supportive means for them to get in and out of cars safely. As dogs age, they may experience joint issues, arthritis, or reduced mobility, making it challenging for them to navigate elevated surfaces like car seats. A ramp offers a gradual incline, minimizing the strain on their joints and muscles. It allows senior dogs to walk up or down at their own pace, reducing the risk of falls or injuries. Ramps come in various designs, including foldable and portable options, making them convenient for use during travel. By incorporating a ramp into a senior dog's routine, pet owners can promote independence, reduce stress, and enhance the overall well-being of their furry companions, ensuring that every car journey remains comfortable and accessible throughout their golden years.
In spite of all we went through, we have no regrets. While it was terribly disappointing to get the news, at least we know where we stand (waiting for biopsy results) and now have the information we need to make the very best decisions for Legend going forward. We are very grateful to Legend’s dedicated holistic veterinarian Dr. David Gordon Arch Beach Veterinary Clinic who has been guiding us through this challenging journey. However scary it was to go through the tests and surgery, we still have time left to see what else we can do. Without those tests, we would just be hoping he was doing ok at 14 years of age.
We wanted to share our story because we hope it might give you courage to move forward with any lab tests that you might be considering for your senior pet. While no one likes to get bad news, when it comes to lab tests, we all must find the courage to BE BRAVE so we can do the best for our pets.
Consider setting up activities to let your cats use their "hunting" instincts. Cats are natural climbers and they love to climb and perch. Their instinct is to get to the highest vantage point. A cat tree can provide fun and enrichment, especially in a multi-cat household. Consider adding a new cat tree for Happy Cat Month!