Sustainable Tails

Welcome back to this edition of Sustainable Tails! We are so happy to welcome you to our first edition of 2024! There are always mixed feelings turning the chapter from one year to the next, but time keeps rollin’ along. At any rate, we are excited to see what 2024 has to offer. We hope you will continue along on this grand adventure as we keep growing the Sustainable Tails community and putting out fun, informative, and creative content for you and your beloved pets! Let’s jump right into it!

Obese Dogs and Shorter Life Spans

The shorter life expectancy of overweight dogs is a well-documented and concerning phenomenon with profound implications for canine health. Obesity in dogs, like in humans, is linked to a range of serious health issues that can significantly reduce their lifespan. Carrying excess weight places added strain on a dog's musculoskeletal system, leading to conditions such as arthritis and joint pain. This not only affects their quality of life but also contributes to a reduced ability to engage in physical activity, exacerbating the cycle of weight gain.

Obesity is closely associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases, including diabetes, respiratory issues, and cardiovascular problems in dogs. These conditions not only compromise a dog's overall well-being but can also lead to a shortened lifespan. Furthermore, overweight dogs are more susceptible to complications during surgery or medical procedures, making it challenging for veterinarians to provide optimal care. The immune system of an obese dog may also be compromised, leading to a higher vulnerability to infections and a slower recovery from illnesses.

Nutritional imbalances associated with overfeeding and poor diet choices can further contribute to health problems in overweight dogs. Responsible pet ownership involves maintaining a proper diet, providing regular exercise, and monitoring weight to ensure a dog's health and longevity. Addressing canine obesity requires a multi-faceted approach, including proper nutrition, portion control, regular exercise, and veterinary guidance. By promoting a healthy lifestyle, pet owners can significantly enhance their dogs' well-being and increase their chances of enjoying a longer, happier life.

https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/obesity-in-dogs#:~:text=It%20was%20always%20accepted%20that,compared%20to%20their%20leaner%20counterparts.

Amazing Cat Fact!

Cats possess around 32 muscles in each ear, allowing for remarkable agility and precision in their auditory functions. These intricate muscles enable cats to rotate, tilt, and move their ears independently, enhancing their ability to locate the source of sounds. The ears' finely tuned movements assist in pinpointing prey, detecting potential threats, and expressing their emotions. This remarkable muscular control contributes to the cat's exceptional auditory awareness, a crucial adaptation for survival in the wild and a fascinating aspect of feline physiology.

New Year’s Resolutions To Make With Your Pet

As we flip the calendar to the New Year, it's an opportune time for pet owners to reflect on their furry companions' well-being and happiness. Crafting New Year's resolutions for both yourself and your pet can strengthen the bond between you and contribute to a healthier, more fulfilling life for your four-legged friend.

• Regular Exercise Routine: Resolve to incorporate more physical activity into your pet's daily routine. Whether it's longer walks, engaging playtime, or exploring new outdoor spaces, increased exercise is beneficial for your pet's physical health and mental stimulation.

• Balanced Nutrition: Commit to providing a well-balanced and appropriate diet for your pet. Consult your veterinarian to ensure that your pet's nutritional needs are met, considering factors such as age, weight, and any specific health requirements.

• Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your pet's health and catch any potential issues early. Vaccinations, dental care, and preventive treatments are essential components of a comprehensive healthcare plan.

• Mental Stimulation: Enrich your pet's life with mental stimulation. Introduce new toys, puzzles, or activities that engage their minds and prevent boredom. Mental stimulation is crucial for preventing behavioral issues and promoting overall well-being.

• Grooming and Hygiene: Prioritize your pet's grooming and hygiene. Whether it's regular brushing, nail trims, or dental care, maintaining good hygiene contributes to their overall health and helps foster a positive relationship with grooming.

• Quality Time Together: Dedicate more quality time to your pet. Whether it's snuggling on the couch, going for an adventure, or simply enjoying a quiet moment together, strengthening the human-animal bond is mutually beneficial.

Setting these New Year's resolutions creates a roadmap for a healthier, happier life for your pet, reinforcing the joy and companionship they bring to your household.

Pet Poem Place

My Dog

By Brittanie, Age 10

My dog is furry I can see,
In my heart I love her very much.
She comforts me in any way
A loyal dog could.
She greets me everyday I come home,
Ball and everything,
She’s quite the clown.
I love my dog to this day,
Who wouldn’t love a dog like her.

Pet Of The Week - Zebby

Zebby resides in the United Kingdom with his owner, 66-year old Genevieve Moss. The unique thing about Zebby is that he acts as the “ears” for Moss. You see, Moss can’t hear anything without her hearing aid. Zebby alerts his owner to sounds throughout their house, brings the mail to her and even brings her slippers to her. If the security light comes on at night, Zebby wakes Moss up by tapping her face.

Moss used to lay awake in bed at night until Zebby came along. She says that Zebby gives her a sense of security and she can rest easily now. “Without him, I’d feel very frightened,” she said. “ I used to be afraid to go to sleep…I used to sort of lay awake. But now I can sleep knowing Zebby is going to be there.”

This is just another example of the incredible bond between people and animals, in this case one woman and her pet cat. For the role that Zebby plays in Moss’s life, he won The National Cat Of The Year award given out by an organization called Cat’s Protection, a charity that rescues and rehomes cats and teaches people about them. We are happy to have Zebby as our Pet of the Week in this edition of Sustainable Tails!

How To Make Your Older Pet’s Life More Comfortable During Winter

As winter sets in, there are simple yet effective ways to enhance the well-being of your older pets, ensuring they stay comfortable and healthy during the colder months.

• Warm and Cozy Bedding: Provide your senior pet with a warm and comfortable bed, preferably away from drafts. Older pets may be more sensitive to temperature changes, and a cozy bed can offer them a comfortable retreat.

• Indoor Exercise: While cold weather may limit outdoor activities, indoor exercise is crucial for maintaining your older pet's mobility. Engage in gentle play sessions or consider indoor games that encourage movement to keep their joints limber.

• Nutrition Adjustments: Older pets may have different nutritional needs. Consult with your veterinarian to ensure their diet supports their aging requirements. Specialized senior pet food may contain ingredients that aid joint health and digestion.

• Joint Supplements: Consider joint supplements to support mobility, especially if your older pet shows signs of arthritis or stiffness. These supplements can provide relief and enhance their overall comfort during winter.

• Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your senior pet's health. Cold weather can exacerbate existing conditions, and early detection of any issues allows for prompt intervention.

• Mind Stimulation: Keep your older pet mentally stimulated with interactive toys and activities. Mental engagement is essential for their cognitive health and helps ward off boredom.

• Potty Breaks: Accommodate your older pet's bathroom needs by providing easy access to a sheltered area. Older pets may be less tolerant of extreme weather conditions, so ensuring a convenient and comfortable spot can make a significant difference.

By incorporating these simple adjustments into your routine, you can ensure that your older pet enjoys a comfortable and fulfilling winter, maintaining their health and happiness throughout the season.

Just For Fun

Well, this wraps up our first edition of 2024! 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 throughout 2024!

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 joining us on this weeks adventure. 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, 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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