Nourishing Your Dog for Long Days

by Carrie Boyko, CEB

© AllThingsDogBlog.com
Chowing Down in the RV

I started thinking about this topic when I was taking a good look at how I manage Oliver's energy level during travel and hiking adventures. He's such a pipsqueak that I have to be sure I don't overfeed, yet I want to be sure he's energized. It's a fine line to walk.

© AllThingsDogBlog.com
Transport for Long Days on the Go

I can hardly believe that it has been nearly 2 years since Oliver’s certification as a Medical Alert dog. We’re still learning, but we have come a very long way in reading one another. Mostly it’s me that’s learning now. The biggest lessons I have had to learn are in how to manage Oliver’s energy level when we’re on the go long days, such as when we’re traveling or heading out of town with lots of walking and outings.  Here’s a few tips I can share that are not just for service dogs, but for any dog that accompanies you on your daily doings:

• Sleep and rest:  Working dogs and pets alike all need to have a chance to recharge. Keeping this in mind, you can allow your Fido to grab a nap in the car, while you eat lunch, or even as you enjoy a picnic in a beautiful pullout along a scenic road. This is a great way to inspire your day and relax your mind while your dog gets a much needed power nap.
• Reinspiring your day:  Oliver and I have recently had an opportunity to practice our Doga and yoga asanas (aka poses) at some gorgeous places on the Blue Ridge Parkway. I think we both found this very relaxing. 
• Energizing your body with nutrition:  Just as hiking requires appropriate nutrition to give your dog the energy to trudge on down the trail, days on the go mean keeping your dog’s blood sugar stable with plenty of water and a regular snack to energize him. Oliver has had a throat injury that means I have to choose treats carefully. They either have to be soft, or I have to soften them with water. For that reason when I’m out and about I need to carry soft treats to help Oliver keep his energy level stabilized. We often choose Castor and Pollux’s Good Buddy treats that are a bit softer--chewy--and small enough for Oliver to swallow whole without incident. 
• Bigger dogs: When Tanner tags along, he likes a bit heartier treat, so Jerky Chip Cookies are his treat of choice-a good bit larger portion suited to his 70 lb. body. Choose your dog’s treats based not only on portion size that is appropriate to the dog, but also to the activity level they are experiencing. If you’ve got a couch potato, skip the treats and offer a healthy, organic meal twice a day, to help him feel that he is eating often enough, while also balancing his blood sugar proactively.



© AllThingsDogBlog.com
Doga Practice
 at Mabry Mill, Virginia

• Food choice: When choosing an organic food, consider your dog’s health status, activity level, age, and other factors to select the right food for him. You’ll find some in depth tips on food choice here.

© Diane Silver
Rocco Rocks!

Now, let’s consider what type of activity your pup engages in. My friend Diane’s dog, Rocco, is extremely active in agility, a sport that requires Rocco to practice regularly and summon spurts of high energy and enthusiasm in order to bring home ribbons. Dogs like Rocco need a diet that offers protein and healthy carbs in sufficient quantities to energize his practice and competitive runs, but also to provide his brain with the nutrition that will keep him mentally alert so that he is following his handler’s guidance as he weaves, jumps and shoots through the tunnel.

Oliver, Tanner and I spent a couple of years in agility training early in the boys’ lives. I can vouch for the extreme nutrition required to help push a pup through a long practice session. We were fortunate to have already converted to an organic diet--ORGANIX--rich in the many nutrients and healthy calories needed for this high-intensity lifestyle. I increased the dogs' food allowance during this phase of their training to assure they were getting adequate calories to carry them through their busy days.

© AllThingsDogBlog.com
Oliver at Work

Now, Oliver has a different job. He is often on the go for whole days at a time, accompanying me on trips and vacations, as well as shopping and social outings. I’ve discovered a few things that help him manage, such as grabbing a nap while I stop for a meal and making sure he can rest at times when I can’t stop. He’s lucky to have come in a compact package, so I’m able to offer him rolling transportation that’s easy for me to use when our days get longer than average. After all, if I expect him to provide the alerts I need, I have to give him a lifestyle that supports his need for nutrition and rest.

The way I see it, even a pet dog needs superior nutrition to meet the needs of his daily life, whether it’s  walking  his owner (#TongueInCheek), exercising the family’s children, or guarding your home. These are all important jobs that our dogs probably take very seriously.

Got questions about an active, organic lifestyle for your dog? I’ll be happy to provide more tips and I can even connect you with a customer care expert at Castor and Pollux. Here’s to your active pup’s important jobs.

Happy tails,

The All Things Dog Blog dogs eat ORGANIX, which is why we're super excited to share their banner ad on our site. Tanner wants you to know that his favorite Jerky Chip Cookie flavor is Chicken, but Castor and Pollux has several flavors available for your discriminating pooch. All opinions you find here are completely our own. 

Power Treating: Long Dog Hikes

 Carrie Boyko, CEB

©AllThingsDogBlog.com
Ready to Head to Linville Falls
Can you see Oliver?

In this photo, we're just getting ready to start the hike to Linville Falls, where you'll find stunning views at several levels of both the falls and the river as it gorges through the turns in the rocks. Breathtaking, and not at all accommodating of photography. There's just no way to capture the whole experience when it is 360 degrees around you. Don't miss this spectacular hike along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and be sure to take your dog. You'll find more tips at the link.

Before you head out, be sure you're properly prepared: water, a power snack for both you and Fido, first aid kit, leash, and comfortable shoes or paw pads, depending on your species.

We visited in mid-September and clearly the rains had been good. There were areas where mud was unavoidable, but Oliver was a trooper and came home with the muddy paws to prove it. But I digress....

We chose ORGANIX Jerky Chip Cookies with 12% protein and organic ingredients to power Oliver's energy level for this demanding hike. Park rangers rate hiking difficulty to aid trail blazers in their choices. The hike to the Falls is rated "Difficult" and I can vouch for that. I had to stop a couple of times and catch my breath when we were heading up steps that were literally made of tree roots and rocks, covered with mud and puddles. Oliver, on the other hand, seemed to power along like the Eveready robot. I guess that ORGANIX cookie he scarfed down before we left did its job!

© AllThingsDogBlog.com
Looking Down on One Side of Linville

After a water break, another healthy snack, and a a photo session at the top levels, we all headed back down, finding that gravity made the descent a bit easier. We all felt better when we powered back up.

Watch for more helpful tips on your hiking adventures with fido, coming soon. Meanwhile, be sure to head on over to PetSmart to grab some Jerky Chip Cookies for your dog's power hikes.

Happy tails,

The All Things Dog Blog dogs eat ORGANIX, which is why we're super excited to share their banner ad on our site. Tanner wants you to know that his favorite Jerky Chip Cookie flavor is Chicken, but Castor and Pollux has several flavors available for your discriminating pooch. All opinions you find here are completely our own. 

When Pet Food Companies Merge

by Carrie Boyko, CEB

If there's one thing that can really get pet parents riled up, it seems to be the merging or blending of two pet food or treat companies. I'm with you. When my pets' food is potentially up for a revised recipe, I want to know all about it. I want to make the choice--stay or run.

Sometimes running is the right thing to do. Some years ago when our Xena was diagnosed with cancer I woke up and read the bag. Her first veterinarian had recommended the food that she had been on for 11 years. I was led down that road blindfolded, and had no idea what I was feeding her. My bad!

Following her diagnosis, I had a long talk with the oncologist about the natural things I could do to extend her life and take stress off her liver, where the cancer had taken up residence in my girl. While her cancer was inoperable her doctors were also telling me they couldn't be sure how long Xena would be with us--a few months maybe. 

Long story short, reducing the stress on her liver wasn't all that hard. I just had to choose organic food to eliminate the synthetic ingredients, preservatives, food coloring and such. This meant that I was going to run, not walk, to a new dog food brand. 

Imagine what a breath of fresh air her new food must have been to her liver. Suddenly it's job was reduced to the point it could actually work at staying afloat. Our Xena stuck around for 3 more cheerful, pain-free years, playing a rough and tumble game of tag with her bigger housemate, Tanner, on the morning before she left us.

And to think I may have considered staying within my comfort zone. Sometimes making a change is stressful, you know? Thinking about this now I reflected on the pet food companies that have merged or purchased other pet food or treat companies. The list is far too long to regurgitate here. Some of these mergers have seemingly gone well, while others have presented challenges to the pet-loving public.

About 2 years ago Castor and Pollux was purchased by Merrick. Merrick had the capital to fuel the growth that Castor and Pollux was eager to bring on. Castor and Pollux had the products to fulfill a growing market for natural and organic pet foods. The synergies of this acquisition brought results that are nothing short of amazing. Castor and Pollux's product line has grown by leaps and bounds, with no end in sight.

The next time your favorite pet food company is involved in an industry sale or merger, the best advice I can give you is to compare labels. And not just once. Watch for ensuing changes as the companies combine facilities and infrastructure.

You may have read that numerous pet food brands are manfactured by the same facilities, producing product for multiple brands. Finding a pet food brand that is self-manufactured can give you a bit more peace of mind. Further, choosing a food that has achieved organic certification and/or the NOP's Safe Quality Food level 3 certification, can only mean better, safer nutrtition for your pet.

And here's one last tip for a good decision. Read up on the company history on the buyer's side. If you like what you read, you're likely to find many of the the same philosophies flowing into both brands as the two come together as one. Press releases are generally searchable online. Research will benefit you and your pet; embrace it!

To your healthy pet,

As my primary advertiser, I am compensated for the ad you see at the top of this post column. I often share educational articles about the pet industry that reflect what I have learned as I represent Castor and Pollux. My own dogs eat ORGANIX by choice and the thoughts I share above are my own.

Your Best Dog Ever!

by Carrie Boyko, CEB

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Many of you know that All Things Dog Blog feeds and recommends ORGANIX organic dog food. What you may not realize is that the maker of Castor and Pollux Pet's ORGANIX is one of several brands made by Merrick Pet Care. Merrick 's desire to continue on their path to making better and better pet food became a reality when they acquired Castor and Pollux in early 2013. The partnership of these two companies has netted the pet loving community a grand slam of choices in both natural and organic pet foods.

Enough history, today I'd like to introduce you to a fun feature that Merrick is enjoying, mostly at the expense of our dogs--the stars who make us laugh. Having launched the Best Dog Ever MovieMaker, you can now upload your 20 second video using a number of fun themes using classic dog show commentary. You can check out some sample videos here, giving you a chance to hear a few of the pre-recorded voiceovers. Get ready to laugh as these videos will have you rolling. 

Pick Your Category

Ready to make your pup's video? Check out the wide array in Step 1: Select a Theme. Tanner and Oliver are all about eating, so we created a video using the first theme: "Best "Dinnertainment Ever". Grab a look at my boys and enjoy the commentary.

After you pick your category, you're on to step 2: Upload a Video. Click "Next" at the far right of the page. Be sure to take note that the size parameters for your video are mentioned here: 25-100 seconds and no more than 1 meg file size.  I was able to shorten up my video using the editor on Youtube. 

Once you're uploaded, the system will allow you to slightly modify your video's length. This is handy to sync your action with the voiceover. After this quick step you'll get to view your video. Love it? Share it!

With a long holiday weekend ahead, you have the perfect opportunity to take some video of your pup and have a little fun with it. Enjoy some bonding time and then share your video that shows off your pup and his fun talents. What a great way to bond!

Here are a few Tweets you may want to try on for size. Add your link or use these @MerrickPetCare samples if you prefer:

• Watch the #BestDogEver attempt the possible, via @MerrickPetCare: http://bit.ly/1pbnoXg
• A tale of tenacity as one determined dog hunts for a place to nap. Check out this #BestDogEver from @MerrickPetCare: http://bit.ly/1pbnoXg
• Make your best friend an instant star. Share a video of your #BestDogEver: http://www.bestdogevervideo.com/

Here's to your #BestDogEver,

As my primary advertiser, I often share news about Castor and Pollux and their affiliated brands.

Winners: Jerky Chip Cookies from ORGANIX

by Carrie Boyko, CEB

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Oliver Celebrates #ASmartCookie!

Jerky lovers in the canine world are all abuzz. Safe jerky really does exist if you know how to look for it. We've selected organic, USA-made jerky for our dogs from the folks at Castor and Pollux, the makers of ORGANIX pet foods. The chips in the Jerky Chip Cookies (aka #ASmartCookie) are made of USA-sourced and made jerky, meaning your dogs are safe from the dangers you're hearing about in the news.

As I continue to work on our daily Yoga practice, the dogs are enjoying joining me at the mat for organic yummies. I'll admit, I excel in bribery. What dog wouldn't want to join me when a bag of ORGANIX Jerky Chip Cookies is sitting within reach? My dogs are not stupid! They quickly figured out that if they spend this time bonding with me and even joining in occasionally, I will reward them for their affection and effort. Both Tanner and Oliver have found that there is a way for them to participate. Check out the photo below to see more. It's a Win-Win!

So, I guess I don't have to tell you that I've been having all kinds of fun staying in shape while bonding with my dogs. If you'd like to join in, you'll find our short, instructional #Doga videos at this link. Don't forget to bring a bag of Jerky Chip Cookies along to assure you'll have a furry companion. :)

Now it's time to name those winners. These 3 lucky pups will have the opportunity to enjoy two full-sized bags of Jerky Chip Cookies, compliments of my sponsor--ORGANIX. I'll send 2 bags to each winner from an assortment, so these pups will get a fun surprise. The winners are Leigh Ann B., Sharon G. and Em M. Congratulations! Watch your email (and spam file) for a message from me requesting your shipping information. 

If you'd like to learn about ORGANIX, Castor and Pollux, Jerky Chip Cookies and yoga with your dog via your favorite social media sites, here are a few to visit:

• On Facebook: Castor and Pollux , All Things Dog Blog, All Things Doga
• On Twitter:  @CastorPolluxPet, @AllThingsDog, @AllThingsDoga
• On Pinterest: All Things Dog Blog
• On Instagram: Castor and Pollux, All Things Dog Blog

As a primary advertiser, ORGANIX provides me with occasional giveaways for you, so if you want to thank anyone, please thank @CastorPolluxPet via Twitter and Facebook. All opinions and information offered here and in my reviews are totally my own, and those gleaned from Tanner and Oliver. #wink