Sustainable Tails

Hi folks! We have arrived at the final week of the year, and oh what a fun journey it has been! There were undoubtedly some ups and downs and a few (maybe even a lot for some of you?) grand adventures thrown in with your furry friends. We are excited to see what this next year will bring, and to see where our own journey with Sustainable Tails will wind up taking us. So, let’s dive in!

Why Are Dogs With Squishy Faces So Cute?

Dogs with squishy faces, such as brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers, may exhibit certain behaviors that can influence their likelihood of making eye contact with people. However, it's important to note that individual temperament, training, and socialization play significant roles in a dog's behavior, regardless of their facial structure.

Squishy-faced dogs often have large, expressive eyes that can make them more noticeable when making eye contact. Additionally, some brachycephalic breeds are known for being affectionate and seeking human interaction, which may contribute to their tendency to make eye contact.

On the other hand, brachycephalic dogs can face certain health issues related to their facial structure, such as respiratory difficulties. Some may be more sensitive to eye contact due to discomfort or anxiety caused by these health issues.

In any case, it's crucial to approach individual dogs with consideration for their comfort and body language. Some dogs may enjoy and seek eye contact, while others may find it intimidating or threatening. Understanding and respecting a dog's cues can contribute to positive interactions and strengthen the bond between dogs and their human companions.

Pet Health And Wellness

In recent years, the trend of "pet health and wellness" has emerged as a significant and growing concern for pet parents worldwide. This shift reflects an increased awareness of the integral role pets play in family dynamics and the desire to provide them with the best possible care.

Pet health and wellness encompass a holistic approach to the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of animals. This trend is underscored by the recognition that preventive care is as crucial for pets as it is for humans. Pet parents are increasingly proactive in seeking veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive measures to ensure their furry companions lead long, healthy lives.

Nutrition plays a central role in this trend, with pet parents showing a heightened interest in high-quality, balanced diets that cater to their pets' specific needs. Specialized diets, organic ingredients, and nutrition tailored to address specific health concerns are gaining popularity.

The emphasis on mental and emotional well-being is evident in the surge of interactive toys, mental stimulation activities, and the recognition of the importance of regular exercise and socialization for pets. Pet parents are investing time and resources to ensure their pets receive not only physical but also mental enrichment.

The availability of advanced veterinary care, including specialized treatments and therapies, contributes to the trend, as pet parents seek comprehensive solutions for their pets' health challenges.

Ultimately, the "pet health and wellness" trend signifies a transformative shift in the way pets are cared for, elevating their status from mere companions to cherished family members deserving of the best possible health and happiness. As this trend continues to evolve, it fosters a deeper understanding of the unique needs of individual pets and strengthens the human-animal bond.

Pet Poem Place

Dogs

By Britta, Age 11, Ohio USA

DOG, what does it mean?
Someone to love,
someone to clean.
A happy soul who wants to play.
A little puppy to make your day.
Food and water, love and care.
Some fun and adventure
for you to share.
A stray, alone,
is a dog in need of a home.
Your dog, my dog,
aren’t they the same?
Even though mine is bigger
and harder to train?

I think a dog is like
any person you’ll meet.
They can can be nice,
evil, cute, poor,
but most are sweet!
Beagle

Pet Of The Week - Ariel The 6-Legged Spaniel

Greenacres Rescue Pembrokeshire, a UK based animal rescue, took in an abandoned puppy that was found in the parking lot of a home improvement and garden store chain. This particular puppy is unique: she has six legs! Ariel is the the name they gave her after The Little Mermaid character because her extra legs look like a tail. After running tests and examining Ariel, it has been found that all of her internal organs are as they should be. Apart from having an extra hip joint and 2 extra legs, she is perfectly normal.

At the time of her initial tests and examinations, the extra appendages do not hinder her mobility. There will come a time in the future when Ariel will need to undergo surgery to remove the extra legs and resolve the issue of her extra hip joint, but, as for now, she is happy and adapting well to her foster home. Greenacres Rescue and their veterinary team are assessing Ariel and putting a game plan together to properly care for her unique situation and give her a more “normal” life in the future. Until then, embrace your uniqueness, Ariel, and keep enjoying being the sweet pup that you are.

Owning A Cat Is Beneficial To Our Health

Scientific research suggests that owning a cat can have positive effects on human health, both physically and mentally. Numerous studies have explored the potential benefits of the human-animal bond, with cats playing a significant role in this dynamic.

Physically, the presence of a cat has been associated with lower blood pressure and reduced risk of heart attack and stroke. The calming effect of a cat's purring has been linked to stress reduction and the release of endorphins, contributing to an overall sense of well-being. The responsibility of caring for a cat, including routine tasks like feeding and grooming, can also promote physical activity and routine in an owner's life.

Mentally, interacting with a cat has been shown to alleviate feelings of loneliness and depression. The act of petting a cat triggers the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone," promoting a sense of connection and bonding. Owning a cat can provide companionship, reducing feelings of social isolation and contributing to improved mental health.

While these findings are promising, it's essential to note that individual responses to pet ownership vary. Factors such as personality, lifestyle, and the nature of the human-animal relationship all play a role in determining the impact of owning a cat on an individual's health. While scientific evidence highlights the potential benefits, it's crucial for prospective pet owners to consider their own circumstances and preferences when deciding to bring a cat into their lives.

Did You Hear About The Spotless Giraffe?

And that is a wrap for this year!! Please be sure to share this growing community of pet lovers from around the world with your friends and family. We send you an unobtrusive email once a week right to your mailbox. That’s all there is to it! We welcome any and all input from all of our subscribers. Send us topics you’d love to know more about, or just drop a line to say hello. There are exciting things coming as Sustainable Tails grows in popularity!

Sustainable Tails is dedicated to helping you create a harmonious and eco-friendly life for you and your pets. By embracing zero-waste and pet-friendly grooming products and sustainably exploring the outdoors together, you're not only enhancing the well-being of your furry companions but also contributing to a healthier planet.

Thank you for coming along with us throughout the year. Continue to spread the word on what we are doing here, and always know your comments and participation in our community are welcomed with open paws. We’ll see you right here next week as we kick start the New Year, so continue making sustainable choices and cherishing each and every day with your beloved pets!

Joshua McCarty

Founder, Sustainable Tails

P.S. Have a topic you’d like us to cover in our next newsletter? Share your ideas and questions with us. We’d love to hear from you!

P.P.S. Take a peek over at our partner website for an ever growing list of sustainable and eco-friendly pet supplies and accessories, as well as many other pet friendly products!

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