Sustainable Tails

Thanks for joining us for this weeks’ edition of Sustainable Tails. As we travel on this adventure together, we are taking a peek into a variety of topics related to the pet world. This week we are chatting about eco-friendly pet grooming tips, pet safety on Halloween, Nemo the Vietnam War Sentry Dog, quite a special Pet Of The Week, and another poem by children about their beloved pets. Kick back and enjoy the next few minutes and enjoy what we have in store for you this week!

Eco-Friendly Pet Grooming Tips

Eco-friendly pet grooming is a practice that not only benefits your furry companions but also contributes to the well-being of our planet. It involves using sustainable and environmentally-conscious methods, products, and tools to keep your pets clean, healthy, and happy.

The importance of eco-friendly pet grooming lies in its significant impact on both the environment and your pet's overall well-being. Here are some key aspects to consider:

• Non-Toxic Products: Traditional grooming products often contain harmful chemicals that can be absorbed by your pets' skin or released into the environment. Eco-friendly grooming products use natural ingredients, reducing the risk of allergic reactions and adverse health effects in pets.

• Reduced Waste: Eco-friendly grooming focuses on minimal packaging and less waste. It encourages the use of recyclable or biodegradable packaging materials and promotes refillable containers, reducing plastic waste.

• Energy Efficiency: Some eco-friendly groomers invest in energy-efficient tools and practices to reduce their carbon footprint, promoting sustainability in the industry.

• Sustainable Materials: Brushes, combs, and grooming accessories made from sustainable materials like bamboo or recycled plastics are eco-conscious choices that reduce the demand for virgin resources.

• Water Conservation: Eco-friendly grooming often incorporates water-saving techniques, such as low-flow bathing systems, to minimize water usage.

By embracing eco-friendly pet grooming, you're not only taking steps to ensure the health and comfort of your pets, but you're also contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable environment. It's a win-win situation, where your pets look and feel their best while you reduce your ecological footprint and make responsible choices for the planet.

Pet Poem Place

Cookie’s Poem

By Haley, Age 9, California USA

She is so sweet,
She is so kind,
She learns her manners,
She learns to mind.
I care for her,
In many ways,
Feed, Walk, Play, Teach,
Fills my days!
Our “Cookie” makes
our life so fun,
She takes a lot of work
But gives cuddles when it’s done!

Pet Safety On Halloween

Halloween is a fun and festive time, but it can also pose potential dangers to our beloved pets. To ensure their safety during this holiday, it's important to be mindful of a few key precautions:

• Candy Caution: Keep Halloween candies, especially chocolate, away from pets. Chocolate is toxic to dogs and can lead to serious health issues. In general, sugar and artificial sweeteners can also be harmful to pets. Ensure all candy is stored securely and out of reach.

• Costume Comfort: While dressing up pets can be adorable, make sure the costume is safe and comfortable for them. Ensure it doesn't restrict their movement, breathing, or visibility. Keep an eye on any small, detachable parts that your pet might chew or swallow.

• Decorations and Wires: Decorations, including lit candles and wires, can pose fire hazards and injury risks. Curious pets might knock over candles or chew on cords. Opt for flameless candles and secure any wires and decorations to prevent accidents.

• Door Dashers: On Halloween, with frequent doorbell ringing and open doors for trick-or-treaters, there's a higher chance of pets escaping. Keep your pets secure in a separate room or crate to avoid them running out the door in fear.

• Identification: Ensure your pet has proper identification, such as a collar with an ID tag and a microchip with up-to-date contact information. In the event your pet does get lost, this will increase the chances of a safe return.

• Noisy Environment: The loud noises of fireworks or firecrackers can be frightening to pets. Create a calm and quiet space where they can retreat to escape the noise and stress.

By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that Halloween remains a safe and enjoyable time for both your family and your furry friends.

Nemo - Sentry Dog Of The Vietnam War

Nemo, a war dog who served as a sentry dog during the Vietnam War, remains a poignant symbol of loyalty, bravery, and the unbreakable bond between humans and canines in times of conflict. A German Shepherd, Nemo was partnered with Airman Second Class Bob Thorneburg and stationed at the Tan Son Nhut Air Base in Saigon.

On December 4, 1966, Nemo and Thorneburg were on patrol when they encountered Viet Cong guerillas. Despite being wounded early in the encounter, Nemo courageously continued to protect his handler. He sustained serious injuries, taking a bullet in the face and another in his eye. Despite his wounds, Nemo valiantly attacked the enemy, allowing Thorneburg time to call for reinforcements. Nemo then laid over top of Thorneburg, continuing to protect him until their reinforcements came to aid. Nemo's heroic actions and unwavering dedication saved Thorneburg's life.

Nemo was rushed for medical care, and although the injuries were severe, he survived. Despite losing an eye and having shrapnel throughout his body, Nemo recovered and was able to live out the rest of his life stateside with Thorneburg, who also recovered from the encounter.

Nemo's valorous actions led to him being recognized and awarded the Purple Heart, the medal normally reserved for wounded military personnel. He became a symbol of loyalty, bravery, and the invaluable role that dogs play in military service. Nemo's story is a testament to the incredible courage and unwavering loyalty that dogs exhibit, solidifying their place as not just companions, but true heroes.

Pet Of The Week - Dory

We have a very special Pet Of The Week this week. We want to thank our subscriber Diane for submitting this photo of her late husband Dennis and Dennis’ special girl Dory, of Kelso, Washington. Dory was Diane’s co-driver in the semi she drove and that is where Diane met Dennis, at the company terminal where they drove professionally. As soon as Dory met Dennis, she only wanted to be with Dennis. Wedding bells were in the future for Dennis and Diane, and they gave Dory a matching ring for her collar after they were married. They became known as the D-Team to the office staff, alongside Dory. Sadly, Dory and Dennis have passed away and are now inseparable together in heaven. We extend a heartfelt thank you, Diane, for your very special story and photo.

Animal Video Corner

Well, that wraps up this edition! 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 directly 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 joining us on this weeks adventure. Continue to spread the word on what we are doing here, and know your comments and participation in our community are always welcomed. 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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