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Big News: Our First-Ever Pet Food Giveaway Is Here! 🐾

This Friday, we’re kicking off an exciting opportunity to support animal rescues in a big way! We’re donating over $5,000 worth of dog food to one deserving animal shelter—and that shelter could be your favorite rescue!

Here’s how it works:

• Supporters like YOU enter the giveaway and name the rescue you want to win.
• Every entry increases your chosen shelter's chance of winning.
• When we hold the drawing, the winning entry’s shelter receives the massive donation!

Imagine how many furry friends will have full bellies thanks to your support. You can help make that happen for the rescue closest to your heart.

Keep an eye out for the entry link later this week—and be ready to rally for your favorite rescue! Together, we can make a life-changing impact for animals in need. 🐶❤️

Stay tuned and get ready to be a rescue hero!

Dog of the Day: Apollo!

Meme of the day: It’s really hard to resist!

Human Foods for Dogs: What You Need to Know

As dog owners, it’s natural to want to share some of our meals with our furry companions. However, not all human foods are safe for dogs, and feeding them the wrong foods can lead to health problems ranging from mild discomfort to life-threatening conditions. Below, we explore which human foods are safe for dogs and which ones should be avoided to keep your pet happy and healthy. As always, this is not medical advice, when in doubt, always ask your vet.

Human Foods That Are Safe for Dogs

While dogs primarily need a balanced diet of high-quality dog food, the following human foods can be safe and even beneficial when fed in moderation:

1. Fruits

Safe Options:

• Apples: High in fiber and vitamins A and C. Be sure to remove the seeds and core.
• Blueberries: A great source of antioxidants and low-calorie treats.
• Bananas: Rich in potassium but should be given sparingly due to their sugar content.
• Watermelon: Hydrating and full of vitamins. Remove the seeds and rind.
• Avoid: Grapes and raisins, which are toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure.

2. Vegetables

Safe Options:

• Carrots: Low-calorie treats that are great for dental health.
• Green Beans: A good source of fiber and vitamins. Serve plain.
• Sweet Potatoes: Rich in dietary fiber and beta-carotene. Cooked and unseasoned only.
• Pumpkin: Great for digestion. Serve plain and cooked or canned (unsweetened).
• Avoid: Onions, garlic, and chives, which can damage a dog’s red blood cells and lead to anemia.

3. Proteins

Safe Options:

• Cooked Chicken: A lean source of protein. Avoid seasonings or bones.
• Eggs: Fully cooked eggs are a great source of protein and essential nutrients.
• Salmon: Cooked salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote a healthy coat and skin.
• Peanut Butter: Choose unsalted, unsweetened peanut butter (free of xylitol).
• Avoid: Raw or undercooked meats, which can carry harmful bacteria, and processed meats like bacon, which are high in salt and fat.

4. Grains

Safe Options:

• Rice: Plain, cooked white or brown rice can soothe an upset stomach.
• Oatmeal: Cooked oatmeal is a good source of fiber for dogs with digestive issues.
• Avoid: Foods with gluten if your dog has sensitivities, and baked goods containing harmful ingredients like chocolate or raisins.

Human Foods That Should Be Avoided

Some human foods can be highly toxic or harmful to dogs. Always avoid feeding your dog the following:

1. Chocolate and Caffeine

Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are especially dangerous. Caffeine can also overstimulate a dog’s heart and nervous system.

2. Alcohol and Raw Dough

Alcohol, even in small amounts, can be toxic to dogs and cause vomiting, diarrhea, and central nervous system depression. Raw dough can expand in a dog’s stomach and produce harmful alcohol during fermentation.

3. Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)

Xylitol, found in sugar-free gum, candies, and some peanut butter brands, is extremely toxic to dogs and can cause rapid insulin release, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

4. Grapes and Raisins

Both grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts.

5. Nuts

Macadamia nuts are highly toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, weakness, and tremors. Other nuts, like almonds and walnuts, are hard for dogs to digest and may pose choking hazards.

6. Dairy Products

Many dogs are lactose intolerant, so consuming milk, cheese, or other dairy products can lead to digestive upset, including diarrhea and gas.

General Feeding Guidelines

1. Moderation Is Key: Even safe human foods should only be offered as occasional treats. Overfeeding can lead to weight gain or upset stomachs.
2. Avoid Seasonings: Always serve plain foods without salt, sugar, or spices.
3. Introduce Foods Gradually: When trying a new food, offer a small amount first and monitor your dog for any adverse reactions.
4. Consult Your Vet: Before adding new foods to your dog’s diet, it’s a good idea to consult with your veterinarian, especially if your dog has pre-existing health conditions.

Sharing food with your dog can be a bonding experience, but it’s essential to know what’s safe and what’s not. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your dog enjoys treats that are both delicious and healthy.

For more information, always consult trusted resources such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) or your veterinarian.

References:

• American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Human Foods That Are Safe for Dogs. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org.
• ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. (n.d.). Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants and Foods. Retrieved from https://www.aspca.org.
• PetMD. (n.d.). Safe Human Foods for Dogs. Retrieved from https://www.petmd.com.

Family photo of the day: Oreo!

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Dog of the day: IG apollo_germanshepherd

Meme of the day: IG idogsplanet