Sustainable Tails

Hello gang and welcome back to this week’s edition of Sustainable Tails! As we have entered into the final twelfth of the year, we wanted to touch on some seasonal topics. The usual features you have come to know and love are still here, so just kick back and enjoy what we have put together for you!

The Chaos Of Christmas Trees Vs. Cats

Cats are known for their playful and curious nature, and the presence of a Christmas tree can be an irresistible invitation for feline frolicking. Several reasons contribute to cats' fascination with Christmas trees:

• Instinctive Behavior: Cats are natural hunters and climbers. The sight of a tree with dangling ornaments and twinkling lights triggers their instinctive curiosity. They may see the tree as an enticing vertical playground.

• Interactive Sensory Experience: The various textures, scents, and sounds associated with a Christmas tree make it an engaging sensory experience for cats. The rustling of branches, the feel of ornaments, and the scent of pine can captivate their senses.

• Hiding and Pouncing Opportunities: Christmas trees create cozy spaces underneath, providing ideal hiding spots for ambush-style play. Cats might view the area beneath the tree as a perfect place to lie in wait for unsuspecting "prey" (such as ornaments or passing family members).

• Shiny and Dangling Decorations: Cats are drawn to shiny and dangling objects, and Christmas trees are often adorned with ornaments that mimic their prey. The movement of these decorations can trigger a cat's hunting instincts.

• Novelty and Change: Cats are creatures of habit, but they are also intrigued by new additions to their environment. The sudden appearance of a Christmas tree can be a source of excitement and exploration.

To minimize potential hazards and protect both the cat and the tree, consider securing the tree to prevent tipping, using pet-friendly ornaments, and creating a designated area for your cat's play with toys. Redirecting their playful energy with appropriate outlets can help strike a balance between holiday decorations and feline amusement.

Cat Facts Corner

Cats, both domestic and wild, share a surprising genetic connection. The domestic cat, Felis catus, shares approximately 95.6% of its genome with its larger and more majestic relative, the tiger, Panthera tigris. Despite the differences in size and appearance, the genetic resemblance highlights their common ancestry within the Felidae family. This genetic similarity encompasses various features, including shared behaviors, instincts, and physiological traits. Understanding this genetic kinship sheds light on the remarkable adaptability and versatility of the feline family, showcasing how even our cuddly house cats carry a trace of the wild within their DNA.

Pets And Cold Weather Tips

As temperatures drop, it's essential to take proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of our furry companions. Cold weather poses specific challenges for pets, and following these tips can help keep them safe and comfortable during chilly seasons.

• Provide Adequate Shelter: Ensure your pet has a warm, dry, and draft-free shelter. For outdoor pets, consider insulated dog houses with warm bedding, and elevate them slightly off the ground to prevent heat loss.

• Limit Outdoor Exposure: Minimize outdoor time, especially during extreme cold. Shorten walks and outdoor activities, and always keep an eye on your pet's behavior for signs of discomfort.

• Dress Appropriately: For short-haired or smaller breeds, consider using pet-friendly sweaters or jackets to provide extra warmth during walks. However, be mindful of their comfort and remove any wet clothing promptly.

• Check Paws and Belly: Cold surfaces and de-icing agents can be harsh on pets' paws. Wipe their paws and belly after outdoor walks to remove any ice, salt, or chemicals. Consider using pet-safe de-icers on your property.

• Stay Hydrated: Cold weather can be dehydrating. Ensure your pet has access to fresh water at all times. Check water bowls regularly for freezing.

• Watch for Signs of Hypothermia: Shivering, lethargy, and shallow breathing can be signs of hypothermia. If you notice any of these symptoms, get your pet to a warm place immediately and consult your veterinarian.

• Monitor for Antifreeze Exposure: Antifreeze is toxic to pets. Clean up any spills promptly, and consider using pet-safe antifreeze.

By taking these precautions and being attentive to your pet's needs, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for them during cold weather, ensuring their well-being throughout the winter months.

https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/cold-weather-animal-safety#:~:text=Stay%20inside.,generally%20should%20be%20kept%20inside.

Pet Poem Place

Beside Me

By H.J., Age 11, New Zealand

If you were lonely,
there is best friend on your side.
It is a dog that loves you very much.
But if you don’t like dogs,
there is always a good friend on your side.
If you lost a dog and was very sad,
Your dog is always on your side.

Pet Of The Week - Bobi - Oldest Dog Ever

This week we are bringing to you a posthumous Pet of The Week. We’d like to introduce you to Bobi, who passed away earlier this fall on October 21st. A purebread Rafeiro do Alentejo, Bobi lived his life in a rural village in Portugal. This precious boys birthdate was May 11th, 1992, and he had lived a relatively calm and tranquil existence.

In February of 2023, Bobi was named the oldest living dog by the Guinness Book of World Records. He earned his wings after 11,478 days on earth, longer than any other dog in history. His owner, Leonel Costa, credited Bobi’s “exceptionally long life to a combination of factors: good nutrition, constant contact with nature, freedom to discover his environment, consistent veterinary care, and love.” Bobi passed away at the age of 31 years and 165 days, and he will be endeared and remembered forever by those who loved him and knew him.

Fun And Wholesome Winter Pet Snacks

Embrace the winter season with homemade pet snacks that are not only tasty but also cater to your furry friend's nutritional needs. Here are some fun and wholesome winter pet snacks to try:

• Peanut Butter Snowflakes: Mix natural peanut butter with a bit of honey. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Use cookie cutters to create adorable snowflake-shaped treats.

• Sweet Potato Snowballs: Boil or bake sweet potatoes, mash them, and roll the mixture into bite-sized balls. Freeze for a chilly and nutritious snack that your pet can enjoy.

• Frozen Berry Popsicles: Blend pet-safe berries like blueberries or strawberries with water and freeze the mixture in ice cube trays. These fruity popsicles make for a refreshing treat on a winter day.

• Turkey and Veggie Biscuits: Combine cooked, shredded turkey with pureed vegetables like carrots and peas. Mix in whole wheat flour and bake into small, bone-shaped biscuits for a savory winter delight.

• Chicken Broth Ice Cubes: Make a low-sodium chicken or beef broth and freeze it into ice cubes. These flavorful cubes can be a warm, comforting treat for your pet, especially on chilly days.

• Cheesy Snowflakes: Mix shredded low-fat cheese with whole wheat flour and a touch of water. Roll out the dough, use snowflake-shaped cookie cutters, and bake until crispy for a cheesy winter snack.

Always be mindful of your pet's dietary restrictions and consult with your veterinarian before introducing new treats. These homemade delights add a touch of warmth and joy to your pet's winter days.

Animal Funnies

Well, that’s a wrap for this week. 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 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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