Pet Digest

Why Quality Matters: Would You Rather Have a Homemade Burger or Fast Food? Let’s talk about quality. We hear it all the time when it comes to pet food—“high quality,” “premium ingredients,” “whole food based”—but what does that actually mean for your dog’s health? To explain it, let me use my favorite analogy (and trust me, once you hear it, you’ll never look at kibble the same way again). 🍔 McDonald's vs. Homemade BBQ: The Analogy That Sums It Up If I took you to McDonald’s, how many burgers do you think you could eat? Two? Maybe three or four if you're really hungry? That ultra-processed fast food goes down easy. It's light, fluffy, full of fillers and flavor enhancers—and honestly, it barely feels like food at all. But how do you feel afterward? Bloated, maybe sluggish, and if you're like many people... you might even have some “tummy troubles.” Now imagine I invite you to my backyard and grill up some burgers made with real, whole foods . Good-quality gro...

Shiny Coats & Happy Guts: Omegas and Coconut Oil for Dogs Shiny Coats & Happy Guts: The Power of Omegas and Coconut Oil for Dogs Part 1 of our Natural Wellness Series for Dogs Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian before starting any new supplements or dietary changes for your pet. Other posts in the Natural Wellness Series: Part 2: Mushrooms & Cordyceps – Immunity & Energy Boosters Part 3: Understanding Dog Anxiety – Signs, Causes & Calming Solutions Part 4: How Local Pet Stores Can Help Avoid Prescription Diets Why Fats Matter in Your Dog’s Diet Fats are not just a source of calories—they’re vital for skin and coat health, joint support, cognitive function, and inflammation regulation. Omega-3 fatty acids and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) from coconut oil are two of the most beneficial fats you can offer your dog. Omega-3s: What Are T...

⚠️ The Sweet That Can Kill: Why Xylitol Is Extremely Dangerous for Dogs 🐶🚫 Xylitol might be safe (and even healthy) for humans—but for dogs, it’s deadly. This common sugar substitute is found in everything from chewing gum to peanut butter, and it takes only a small amount to cause serious harm—or even death—in your pup. If you're a dog parent, this is one ingredient you need to recognize and avoid at all costs. --- 🍬 What Is Xylitol? Xylitol is a sugar alcohol used as a low-calorie sweetener in many sugar-free and "diet" products. It’s commonly found in: Sugar-free gum and mints Baked goods Peanut butter Toothpaste and mouthwash Sugar-free candy Chewable vitamins Some medications While it doesn’t harm humans, dogs’ bodies react to xylitol very differently—and not in a good way. --- ☠️ Why Is Xylitol So Dangerous to Dogs? In dogs, xylitol triggers a massive release of insulin, which causes blood sugar to plummet dangerously—a condition called hypoglycemia. It can happe...

Why More Pet Parents Are Choosing Raw: The Benefits of Raw Feeding for Dogs 🐾 As dog owners, we’re always striving to give our furry friends the best life possible—and that starts with nutrition. Over the last few years, raw feeding has grown from a niche movement to a popular and often veterinarian-recommended way to support a dog’s natural diet. But what exactly is raw feeding, and why are so many pet parents switching to it? Let’s explore the benefits of raw feeding and why it might be worth considering for your pup. --- 🥩 What Is Raw Feeding? Raw feeding involves feeding dogs a diet made up of uncooked, natural ingredients that typically include: Raw meat (muscle meat and organ meat) Raw bones Fresh vegetables and fruits (optional or limited) Supplements like fish oil or kelp (as needed) This approach is designed to mimic the ancestral diet of wild canines like wolves—high in protein and moisture, and free from fillers like corn, wheat, and artificial preservatives. --- 💪 1. Imp...

Healthy & Easy Dog Treats You Can Make at Home 🐶🍪 Simple, Safe, and Tail-Wagging Good! Let’s face it—our dogs are family. So why not treat them like it, especially when it comes to their snacks? While store-bought dog treats are convenient, many are filled with preservatives, artificial flavors, by-products, and low-quality fillers that your dog doesn’t need (and definitely shouldn’t be eating daily). The good news? Making homemade dog treats is easier than you think—and it can be a fun, affordable way to ensure your pup gets the fresh, wholesome ingredients they deserve. Here’s everything you need to know about making safe, simple dog treats at home. --- 🥕 Why Make Dog Treats at Home? Control over ingredients – You know exactly what your dog is eating. Fewer allergens – Great for pups with food sensitivities. More affordable – Especially for multi-dog households. Fun & customizable – Add your dog’s favorite flavors or nutritional boosts. --- 🧑‍🍳 Basic Ingredients That Are...