WE’RE BACK!
Yup, we’re bringing back the TWO BY FOUR NY ONLINE NEWSLETTER. With all of the craziness of 2020 and 2021, (which we ALL thought was going to be better than 2020), we had put the Newsletter on hold. But people keep registering for it on our website. And clients dropping off their dogs keep asking for it to resume its publication. So, we’re bringing it back. We’re going to do our best to make and keep it monthly. And we’re planning to have it posted on our Website too, so you can go back to review published issues.
So now we’re starting with a DECEMBER 2021 issue, just to end out the year. For 2022, we’ll be touching on a variety of Newsletter topics, (mostly about dogs – with maybe a cat or bird topic thrown in). As we’ve previously done, topics will be on everyday issues and insights and cover: older dog issues, arthritis, separation anxiety, hydration, feeding, dog adoption, puppy care, chewing, treats, dog toys, dog games, and the minimal basic dog commands every dog and dog owner should know for the safety of a dog.
Yup, that’s a lot to cover, but I’m sure we’ll do what we always do…..do more than we say we’ll do….and do it in an entertaining fashion….with personal experience and original illustrations, ( done by a fellow dog lover).
So sit back and enjoy our December 2021 Issue and let’s all look forward to a better 2022, (it’s got to be better year….right?), we ALL deserve it!
FEEDING A DOG.
At the TWO BY FOUR Doggie Day Care and Boarding Facility, (which many of you know I call it “the Farm”, because besides caring for dogs – we have a pig and a couple of goats at the facility – just to add a little more stress in my already busy life), we feed a lot of dogs. Some people bring their own dog food for their dogs, but most eat the variety of dog food selection we have at TWO BY FOUR. Everybody is different and we understand that everyone has different ideas of how & what they want their dogs to eat. So, we’re not going there and we’re NOT going to say WHAT your dog food your dog should be eating. We’re going to suggest WHEN your dog should eat.
As a working woman and dog owner myself, I’m not going to be pretentious and say what time of day you should feed your dog, nor how many times a day you set out food for your dog. Hey, feeding your dog has to fit into your schedule. BUT, what I’m going to say is – Don’t Allow Dogs to Have Access to Food ALL DAY. A 24/7 food buffet ought to be a no-no. And that goes for cats too.
Having an available supply of food for a dog to eat throughout the day contradicts a dog’s/cat’s internal rhythms. A dog’s internal physiological digestive rhythms require a regimented and structured feeding times. No I’m not talking about snacks/treats or a chew bone, I’m talking about food/feeding. When dogs and cats have access to food throughout day – they are very likely to overeat. Overeating leads to gaining weight and obesity. And nothing beats a dog or cat’s boredom than eating. Did YOU gain a few pounds over the COVID quarantine? Were you bored? Eating was just something to help spend the time. Imagine a dog or cat at home…..all alone….with an All Day-Buffet. As it is, statics say that an estimated 56 percent of dogs and 60 percent of cats in the US are “obese”, not just overweight. And clearly – overfeeding – is the cause. If you don’t care if Fido or Fluffy have more than a few extra pounds on them – remember – obesity in dogs and cats – just like people – raise health issues, like: diabetes, heart disease, arthritis & joint issues, and even cancer.
So feed your dog once a day, or twice. Two daily feeding ought to be at least 8 to 10 hours apart. Give your dog or cat just a half hour or 45 minutes to eat, then pick up and remove any food that is left. Dogs usually “wolf down” their food, but some may not. But once you start removing their food, both dogs and cats learn pretty quickly that meal time isn’t All the Time.
As ALWAYS, the comments and insights made in my TWO BY FOUR Newsletter, before you follow any of my suggestions – ASK YOUR VETERINARIAN, because your dog or cat may have health issues like diabetes or kidney disease that may call for a modification of what I have suggested. Talk to your veterinarian about feeding your dog or cat, and keeping them healthy & happy.
HAVE a GREAT HOLIDAY SEASON!
Well that’s it for 2021. We hope you enjoyed the Online NEWSLETTER. We wish you and your friends and family, both biped and quadruped, a happy holiday and wish you a great New Year. See you in 2022.
[Information supplied here is only to keep you aware about the needs of your pet — nothing can replace the examination and care from your veterinarian.]
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