I started a new video series called the Pet Parent Roadmap - a Live series that comes out each week discussing a new Hot Topic in the pet parent world.
WEEK ONE: I started my first week talking all about Flea & Tick Prevention.
I already have a blog post all about that plus a Mini Course to dig even deeper into the topic and learn the ins and outs of doing pest control effectively & naturally.
Each accompanying blog post is all about what I talked about in the LIVE video with additional resources and insights.
WEEK TWO: I chose to debunk 10 pet myths that I commonly hear from other pet parents.
This was a really fun one and I can't wait for you to check it out below :)
Now let's get ready to debunk some common pet myths!
MYTH #1: Dogs & Cats eat grass primarily to settle their stomachs.
Oftentimes when we see our pet eating thick blades of grass in the Springtime it is because, to them, it smells like protein. They are carnivores and they LOVE protein, so this makes sense.
Not to mention that many pet foods (I'm talking about kibble and lower quality canned foods) contain highly processed proteins - both animal and plant - which is not readily available to be digested and used properly in their body. So what does that mean? Their body is CRAVING what it needs....PROTEIN.
Dogs and cats will often eat a bunch of the grass and then proceed to vomit. This is because they are not capable of fully digesting plant protein and therefore the body forces it out.
On the other hand, dogs do self-medicate just like their wild ancestors.
Have you ever noticed your dog picking and choosing which weed, plant, or specific grass to eat? It could be that she is self-medicating because her body is telling her she needs something and is instinctually looking for that missing piece.
Quick Little Story Time:
I know a lovely Bernese Mountain Dog who did just this. I used to be her dog walker and on every walk without fail she would walk past this certain plant and grab a mouthful of its' leaves. She never did this to any other plant/grass/weed on our walks just this specific one.
I became curious and looked it up - the plant was an echinacea plant which is used for boosting the immune system. To me that was no coincidence and solidified the idea that our pets haven't lost that instinctual skill....pretty amazing, right?
MYTH #2: There is more harmful bacteria found in raw food diets than there is in kibble.
MYTH #3: It is safe for Dogs & Cats to eat cooked bones.
MYTH #4: Dry pet food (kibble) helps reduce tartar buildup on teeth.
MYTH #5: Cats don't like water.
MYTH #6: A dry, hot nose indicates a sick dog.
MYTH #7: Dogs & Cats have adapted to a eating a cooked processed diet.
MYTH #8: Cats can & should drink milk.
MYTH #9: Garlic is toxic to dogs.
MYTH #10: Your pet needs to have vaccinations each year to ensure they are fully protected.
Tune into next weeks' LIVE and read through the blog post all about Titer Testing to learn more!
Follow us @TheBalancedCompanion on Facebook & Instagram to stay in the loop!
I hope you learned something new today and are able to incorporate your new found knowledge into your pet parenting!
If you have other myths you'd like debunked - comment or email me at alyssamauzerkola@gmail.com and I'll add it to the list!
Until next time ....
DISCLAIMER:
The information offered by The Balanced Companion is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace regular veterinary care. I strongly encourage you to seek the professional advice of a holistic veterinarian that supports your efforts to incorporate species appropriate nutrition and holistic lifestyle choices into your pet’s life. To locate a holistic integrative vet, please visit www.ahvma.org or ask me for a referral.
This blog post contains affiliate links for purchases of products on Amazon that I may receive commission for. Thank you for your support.
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