Baby Hope and I hope you have a fantastic Memorial Day that is full of festive company and yummy BBQ food (veggie for me and non-veggie for Baby) to kick the summer season off right! We have put together some great tips for your next BBQ extravaganza! Gathering your family, friends, and canine pals for a summer cookouts can be one of the best ways to celebrate the summer, but it is good to know some of the “Dos and Don’ts” to have a safe BBQ experience without any mishaps. Here are our top ten tips featuring her favorite summer BBQ Dos & Don’ts that we just had to share with you!

BBQ Dos

1. Hamburgers and Hot Dogs: Giving in to those begging puppy dog eyes with grilled meat treats is fine — just as long as it’s in small amounts. Be careful not to upset your pup’s sensitive tummy with overfeeding or too many scraps! And absolutely no baked beans with those dogs (referring to hot dogs) — for so many reasons — I don’t know where to begin.

BBQ Don’ts

2. Onions/Garlic: Definitely hold off on this veggie and herb (your pup might shed a tear over the entire concept)! Onions and garlic would not just give Lucky bad breath, but on burgers, hot dogs, or kabobs, are toxic to both dogs and cats and can cause Heinz (not talking the ketchup condiment here) body anemia.

3. Tomatoes: A big – No! This veggie contains Atropine that causes dilated pupils, tremors and an irregular heartbeat. The highest concentration of atropine is found in the leaves and stems of tomato plants.

4. Chocolate: This might be truly my one scrumptious weakness but this treat is <em>not</em> a dog’s best friend. Chocolate contains Theobromine, a stimulant found in the cocoa bean that is harmful to your dog and causes unpleasant, and dangerous, side effects.

5. Salt: Hold off on the salt and spice! Giving your dog too many salty snacks (i.e.: potato chips or pickles) can lead to some dogs drinking too much water. Overdrinking can lead a to a dangerous, and sometimes fatal, condition called bloat in which the dog’s stomach gets too full and can twist or rupture. So hold off on the snacks and keep an eye on how much your mutt drinks throughout the day.

6. Macadamia Nuts: You’d be nutty to slip your dog a nut or two! Aloha, Macadamia nuts have been known to cause muscular weakness, tremors, bladder stones, and severe illness in dogs. In fact, most nuts are a no-go for dogs so best to keep all types away from your pup.

7. Grapes: Healthy for you, highly dangerous for your pup! This innocent snack, believe it or not, can lead to kidney failure in your pet!

8. Sweeteners/Sugar: Don’t give into your dog’s sweet tooth, because sugar can release insulin and lead to liver failure!

9. BBQ Chicken: Avoid giving your dog bones of any kind, because if eaten they can splinter and harm a pet’s internal organs! When you just can’t help but give in, simply pull the meat off the bone and only give a small amount at a time!

10. Keep the alcohol away from your dog! Though a Bloodhound Mary or a Dachsund Daiquiri might sound nice, alcohol and dogs do not mix! This seems like an obvious summer “BBQ Don’t”, but I have caught Baby Hope  trying to sneak a sip poolside! Keep your drinks above paws’ reach, no need to see exactly how much trouble your stumbling pup might find. Not to mention the severe health risks associated with alcohol consumption in animals.

Ensuring your pup avoids foods such as the above-mentioned will help ensure a fun, safe, and satiating summer for the both of you! We’re not trying to say that there are no safe ways for your pup to welcome the summer with a little indulgence. For a variety of safe and delicious (for your pup anyway) summertime treats. Trust me, your dog will thank you! For more information about your pet’s health and safety, please visit animalfair.com.

For the Best that Pet Lifestyle and Animal Welfare has to offer follow Wendy  Diamond on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and right here at AnimalFair.com!

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Memorial Day Weekend is a time when friends, family, and pets gather for BBQs, strolls on the beach, walks through parks, and street fairs. This weekend take the time to stop, and take a moment to honor all the uniquely giving souls that served our country, died for freedom, and gave their lives so we can continue living ours without fear.
The fallen include servicemen, women and yes, military dogs. Memorial Day Weekend isn’t just about an extra day off work, and relaxing weekend. It’s also about sincerely honoring and respecting those that loved and truly cared about our nation enough to sacrifice life for us.

I grew up in small town Chagrin Falls, Ohio. Every Memorial Day Weekend the community held and still holds the Blossom Day Parade and Festival honoring all that served this great country. I remember standing on North Main Street watching the parade go by and feeling an incredible sense of patriotism and pride in my home town community and country. I recall many dogs with their pet parents and families barking at the parade, too!

I will always carry the sense of patriotism and gratitude I felt growing up for our servicemen, women, and military dogs that served our great country and died. Please take a moment this weekend to honor them, and their families.

God Bless our brave servicemen, women and dogs….

Wendy Diamond

Thought I would share a video of the Chagrin Falls Blossom Time Parade!

For the Best that Pet Lifestyle has to offer follow Wendy Diamond on Facebook, Twitter, and right here at AnimalFair.com!

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Every dog has its day, but daily exercise is the best way for all dogs to stay healthy and happy. When your dog greets you with its tail wagging, this doesn’t necessarily mean your four-legged companion is simply happy to see you — rather it really wants to go outside for a long walk! Dogs are hunters, walkers and travelers by nature, and your dog instinctively wants to be outside smelling nature and the environment, not just the backyard.

If your dog experiences a lack of exercise, it can lead to instability. Some common symptoms that your dog isn’t getting enough walks are hypertension activities like excessive chewing, barking, howling and compulsive behavioral patterns. Remember, just letting your dog run around the backyard is not all the exercise they need!

There are certain steps to remember when walking your dog. First, be sure your pet is beside you or behind you, but never in front of you. Your dog should never walk you! If you play Follow the Leader and let your dog rule, allowing it to go first, this only signals to the dog that it’s in charge.

Encourage your dog to walk beside you by reinforcing the positive walking experience with intervals of their favorite treats. Positive reinforcement creates a reward system for when your dog is walking properly. Try calmly speaking a special name/command when giving the treats instead of barking the usual commands, like “No” or “Heel.”

Since 25 to 40 percent of dogs are overweight, it’s important to consult your veterinarian on the healthiest food options to keep your pup energized and ready to walk. A healthy diet is just as important as exercise, but when it comes to dog nutrition, size does matter! Parents of pint-sized pooches will be happy to learn that veterinarian recommended Hills Science Diet has taken this into consideration, launching its Small & Toy Breed dog food that’s specifically formulated to keep small dogs’ immune systems strong and energy levels up, two steps toward a healthier and happier life!

When using a leash, make sure you give your dog just enough leeway, but not too much. The key to striking this balance is using a looser leash as a walking guide. If you pull on the leash too tight or often, your dog will counter-pull, creating a polarizing game of tug of war instead of an enjoyable walk through the park. When choosing a collar and leash, do your homework to find out which brand best suits your dog’s needs. There are many shapes and sizes displayed throughout the pet market, so ask a trainer, as different breeds have varied temperaments and energy levels. A referred and perfect fitting leash and collar brand is the best way to go instead of winging it.

Dog walking is great exercise for people as well as pups, with benefits for your mind, body and soul. You get quality time with your pet, fresh air in your lungs and a happy glow from being a good pet parent. Take advantage of these dog walking perks and slip on a pair of Sketchers Shape Ups. With a unique design that recreates the sensation walking on soft sand, they help tone your muscles, burn calories and get a good workout alongside your furry friend.

Like people, all dog breeds are unique and some require more walks than others to maintain a healthy lifestyle. For instance, active breeds from the sporting, herding, hound and terrier groups, and any mutt mixtures of these breeds, require longer daily walks. Also take the age of your dog into consideration — you certainly will find that a one-year-old puppy will be more active than an older 18-year-old dog. When in doubt, always research or consult your veterinarian before beginning a new walking routine with your dog. The following are examples of specific breeds’ walking papers:

Bulldog
The Bulldog is a high level canine full of energy that needs frequent, moderate and regular walks, preferably in an open air environment. A good walking routine would be 15 minutes in the morning and 15 minutes in the afternoon. If your schedule doesn’t permit two walks a day, then one 20-30 minute walk is optional. Take into consideration that Bulldogs have shorter nostrils and windpipes that can lead to breathing problems and heatstroke. Be careful not to overexert your Bulldog, as this can quickly lead to health problems.

Labrador Retriever 

Labrador Retrievers have the spirit of a puppy, but the body of a full-grown canine until the age of three. They mature quickly physically, but not mentally! This breed is very excitable with tons of fun energy. Labs definitely require at least two 20-30 minute daily walks. A heavy duty leash, collar and possibly a harness is necessary as Labs have very strong upper bodies, especially the neck and shoulder area. Your rambunctious Lab will mellow with age, so enjoy the younger years as this memorable time passes by quickly.

Maltese

The Maltese is a slow starter when it comes to taking regular walks, and physically needs to build up to a walking schedule and routine. Dog guardians if the Maltese should wait until after your pup is older than eight months old to begin daily walks, preferably twice a day for 15-20 minutes. You must let those little white furry legs fully develop. If you’re considering entering your purebred Maltese in dog shows, daily walks definitely improve their muscle tone and enhances your dog’s chances of becoming the svelte winner.

Portuguese Water Dog 
Your Portuguese Water Dog is one medium-sized excitable canine that thrives with daily exercise. Portuguese Water Dogs appear full-grown after a few months, but their actual muscle development doesn’t catch up to their frame until around 18 months old. This breed requires walking less than a mile at a time and should be walked (your lifestyle schedule permitting) three or four times a day. Portuguese Water Dogs can be a bit unruly and love to playfully roughhouse, so a leash and training treats are a must have!

Mutts
Before you can figure out your mutt’s best walking routine, you have to try and figure out the breed combination of your mutt! This can be a tricky endeavor and asking your vet or trainer to help decipher this canine code might help you avoid hours of frustrating research time. Let’s say your mutt is a German Shepherd/Border Collie combo. You’re in luck, as both require lots of daily exercise, at least two 20-30 minute walks. The catch here is that a German Shepherd is easier to discipline than the more curious and social Border Collie. Walking a mutt will certainly keep you on your toes….

Tips
1. Depending on your pet lifestyle, walking your dog two to three times daily might not be a realistic endeavor with a busy soccer mom or CEO schedule. It’s up to you to ensure your pet gets the proper amount of walks daily. Enlist your significant other, friend, family member or dog walker to find a mutually agreeable dog walking schedule for your pampered pup.

2. Your dog’s walking requirements will change as your canine friend ages. Older dogs need regular exercise to maintain body weight, cardiovascular strength and oxygen flow to the brain, lungs, liver, kidney and heart. Moderate exercise also helps delay the degeneration of joints that are affected with osteoarthritis.

3. Climate is an important factor to take into account when walking certain different breeds of dogs. Every dog has a unique constitution, and some breeds excel in warmer climates while others melt. For example, those cute Pugs with the funny mugs flourish in cooler temperatures, but will easily tire when taking long walks in hot and humid environments.

4. When walking your dog, be prepared. Your dog will inevitably want to get territorial, so a pooper scooper, plastic bag or newspaper is a must-have with you at all times to clean up after your dog. Besides, you don’t want one of those stinking fines for not picking up after your dog!

5. Walking your dog can be one of the smartest ways to support your own health — especially when guided by AI. Advances in AI-driven health platforms, such as Superpower, can analyze over 100 biomarkers to help you understand how your body responds to movement, recovery, and daily activity. For many dog parents, this data shows that increasing consistent, moderate walks improves cardiovascular health, reduces inflammation, supports joint mobility, and lowers stress. With AI translating complex health data into simple guidance, your daily walk with your dog becomes more than routine exercise — it becomes a personalized, preventative wellness habit that benefits both you and your four-legged companion.

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Today is May 23rd, and it’s World Turtle Day! Today we celebrate the annual event created and increase awareness of turtle species around the world. We can celebrate that a wide range of programs across the country are dedicated to turtle conversation, prioritizing research and making sure federal activities don’t jeopardize species. Good news is, there are a number of way that you can help endangered and threatened turtles. You can help turtles with acts as simple as not leaving trash on the beach or keeping an eye out for them is you see any astray.

Dogs love turtles, when a dog sees a turtle he is automatically his new best friend. Veda, a 2-year-old giant Newfoundland, found a stranded loggerhead turtle while taking a walk with her owners. When she saw the turtle she just had the instinct to save her, she wanted to help her new friend.

Turtles are the cutest things, they even think they can be dogs. Bubba the adorable tortoise, like to run around for a ball just like your pet dog would do. See link below…

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4345928/The-tortoise-thinks-s-puppy.html#v-1508661569396127615

We love our pets, they are our family. Pets are our loves, and they have loves of their own. Happy turtle day!

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Tired of walking the same route every day? Your footsteps are on automatic and your dog is tired of smelling the same pitches of grass. So let’s shake it up, let the dog walk you! Wherever she goes, you go. Think of your dog as a four-legged, furry, walking GPS that isn’t letting you know where the final destination will be. Have fun! #rufflife

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Unfortunately, there are numerous cases of car accidents that occur because a pet parent is trying to calm down their pet, or the pet falls out the window. These situations can sometimes end up fatal but could’ve been prevented easily. Take a look at these pet travel safety tips to make sure you always enjoy the ride, and safely arrive home after the long-weekend!

1) Heads out the window is a no-no! Although it’s said that dogs love to stick their heads out the window (which they probably do) it’s advised to prevent it. Dogs can easily get hit with debris flying around outside. It’s always safer to have them look at the scenery through clear glass!

2) Always carry water. Especially if you are going long distance. Traveling with your pet can upset their stomach; fresh water will help the nausea and aid in preventing your pet from throwing up.

3) Don’t leave them alone. Never leave your pet alone in the car! Even if it’s for a few minutes always take the intuitive to bring your pet with you. Especially in hot and cold months, temperature will become harmful for the pet if it’s trapped inside the car. Also be aware – there are such things as pet thieves and they may see an opportunity!

4) Pit Stops are key. Always provide pitstops and breaks for your pet to use the bathroom. It’s never a good idea to hold it – whether you’re a pet or a pet parent!

5) The best approach is to either confine your pet to a cage if possible or have another adult in the car hold onto your pet while you drive. Your furry friend is at risk even if you think you have them under control on your lap. At a short stop they could go flying into the steering wheel or dashboard, keep in mind they weigh less than half of you!

Many states have regulated traffic and car laws to ensure that you arrive safely and in one piece. Don’t forget that the same applies to your pet! With these very easy to remember tips you will make it to that wondrous feast without a hitch.

Don’t forget to adopt a puppy HERE!

For the Best that Pet Lifestyle and Animal Welfare has to offer follow Wendy Diamond on Facebook, Twitter, and right here at AnimalFair.com!

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Sisters Sue Grandi (age 85) and Nancy Johnson (age 76) learned to sow from their mom by age 8.  So while raising families and life took them on different career paths, their love for it never stopped. 

But in 2020, when they both lost their spouses and two siblings and Sue lost a daughter and grandson, they decided to channel their grief into sewing and donating human and pet blankets everywhere possible from VA Hospitals, Nursing Homes, Churches, Homeless and more. 

In 2021, Sue’s daughter Merry realized the value of a handmade blanket, combined with their one of a kind fabrics (for example “Cats on the Beach”), were the perfect start to turning their passion into purposeful profit!  Now one year later, and over 1000 sold, they ‘lead the pack’ with their matching human/pet blankets (yes that’s right – one large for the parent and one matching small for their child).  In addition, they offer hundreds of adorable dog and cat themed blankets, all reversible, with warm flannel sweet patterns that make the perfect gift for any pet owner, vet, dog or cat who loves their blanket (and what human or animal doesn’t love a warm blanket). 

The best part of the story is that two women who lost SO much took all their love and poured it into starting something exciting and new. Moral: It’s NEVER too late!  Free shipping and they love meeting new customers. Check them out at www.SistersSewingKindness.com.

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Belize may be a small country but it holds the largest cave system of Central America and the second largest barrier reef in the world. With over 500 species of birds, 400 species of subtropical fish, and 900 Mayan historic sites, the country embraces a rich culture with biodiversity unlike any other around the globe.

In 2009, the Belize Barrier Reef was named a United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, or UNESCO, World Heritage Site in Danger. The 900 sites entitled in danger are highly significant to humanity for its cultural and natural characteristics. The World Heritage Committee supplies resources and plans treatment programs for sites in danger of devastation or complete demolition. The sites around the world vary in geography and sizes ranging from monuments to lakes. The Belize Barrier Reef is among one of them because of problems associated with natural environment events, human activity, and pollution. These occurrences destroy natural habitats of many species including the parrotfish and surgeonfish, and stunt the growth of endangered populations.

The Nassau Grouper was once a flourishing fish species found in the western Atlantic tropics and along the shorelines of central and northern South America. It was considered a prized food source and was one of the most valuable exports of Belize. According to ReefCheck, out of 162 reefs that were studied by underwater census, 7 housed many Nassau Groupers, 12 housed one and 142 housed zero. Commercial fishing has dramatically decreased the population by approximately 60% over the past three generations, making it a candidate of the U.S Endangered Species List.  To control the dwindling numbers of the Nassau Groupers, Belize must enforce stricter rules and regulations to minimize or ban fishing in the western North Atlantic and Caribbean waters. Banning the sale and exportation of the fish will control the need for the groupers and the amount of fishing will decrease.

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species has conducted a research on the parrotfish and surgeonfish and has found that 86% of the species are at high risk of extinction regionally. The existences of the fishes are significant for the reefs since they feed and maintain the amount of growing algae. An uncontrolled growth of algae is capable of engulfing coral reefs destroying the homes of juvenile fish and the reef itself. The weed-eating parrotfish and surgeonfish are species that are heavily fished like the Nassau Grouper. Countries where the fish roam, such as Belize, have made restrictions to protect the population and limit commercial fishing but further action and research is required.

Marine Biologist Doug Rader of the Environment Defense Fund states “Coral Reefs and coral reef fishes all over the Caribbean are disappearing very rapidly. More than half are gone now. In some places the fish populations on the reef are just a bare vestige of what used to be there.” The once widespread numbers of beautiful fish that populated the Belize Barrier Reef have come to minimum and conservations such the Wildlife Conservation Society have made relentless efforts to protect and save endangered species. You can take part in the progression towards saving fish species such as the parrotfish and Nassau Grouper by visiting Wildlife Conservation Society at http://www.wcs.org to make a donation.

You can also become a member of the WCS Wildlife Protectors to make monthly contributions or become a conservation patron by donating a specific range amount. There are four levels of patrons: protector, sustainer, guardian, and advocate. Each level of patron receives special benefits and access to the WCS facilities along with personal tours of the zoos and aquariums.

For the Best that Pet Lifestyle and Animal Welfare has to offer follow Wendy Diamond on Facebook, Twitter, and right here at AnimalFair.com!

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The United States has a long history of welcoming back its war heroes, including the 4-legged soldiers in the K-9 corps. War dog units have served valiantly with handlers in every branch of the service since World War I. These military dogs saved many lives as they worked as scouts, sentries, trackers and on dangerous mines and tunnels with their handlers.

But as the unpopular Vietnam War was winding down in 1975 with American defeat, things changed. Of the approximately 4,000 dogs that served in Vietnam, most never returned home at all. Although it’s been estimated that 10,000 Vietnam War casualties were avoided because of the courageous efforts of these dogs and handlers, they never received medals and discharge papers like the dogs of previous wars.

Unlike those dogs that returned home and were retrained to live the rest of their lives in peace, the Vietnam dogs of war were reclassified as equipment. When the war ended, some of these dogs were turned over to the South Vietnamese army who eventually abandoned them. Others suffered an even worse fate. Many were euthanized because those in charge said they had tropical canine diseases that could infect the U.S. dog population. But many Vietnam Veterans say that most of the diseases were treatable.

In 1972, Steve Conner, “Doc,” of upstate New York, was a veterinarian technician in the 34th Infantry Platoon in Vietnam. He assisted the veterinarian with everything from routine care to surgery if a dog was wounded in battle.
“Many of these supposed untreatable diseases could have been cured with antibiotics,” said Conner. “As the handlers went home, the dogs were put down.”
Fortunately for Conner, those who made these decisions said he was too close to the dogs and their handlers and two temporary veterinarian technicians were assigned the grim duty.
For the past ten years, some Vietnam Veterans have been working to rectify what they see as a terrible injustice. The Vietnam Dog Handler Association, established in 1993 by six handlers and with nearly 2,000 members now, is actively working to establish a permanent memorial for these forgotten heroes in Washington, D.C.
John R. Harvey, Chairman of the National War Dog Memorial Fund, says that with enough public awareness, funding, and action this tribute will becomea reality.

“Every handler who returned from combat from any war, remembers their K-9 companions daily and appreciates the fact they returned home safely because of them,” said Mr. Harvey. “For the Vietnam Veteran dog handler, it has been particularly painful, given the ultimate fate of these dogs that provided so much love, loyalty and service.”

Most of the Vietnam Dogs of War were German shepherds, bred and trained specifically for war duty. But some were family dogs first. Betty Rowe of Michigan still remembers her dog Krim.  “She was a very good dog and it was hard to give her up,” said Rowe. “But when my husband died, I went to work full time. I donated Krim to the army and our family dog turned out to be a hero.” Krim served as a sentry dog alongside handler Michael Lister in the 34th IPSD from November ’66 to November ’67. Lister’s platoon sent a letter of thanks to Rowe after Krim alerted them to an enemy ambush and was shot in the nose and wounded. When Lister’s service ended, he left Krim behind in Vietnam to work with another handler.
“I’ve never been sure what happened to Krim, but I think she was euthanized,” said Lister.

Lister said the proposed dog memorial will not only bring closure and healing to him and other handlers, but will honor those who selflessly donated family dogs to the war effort.
Bruce Marshall and Amos served in the 212th Sentry Dog Company in Phan Rang Vietnam from 1966-68. As a young soldier, he recalls having a dog by his side as being a big comfort when so far from home. “I still remember how Amos and I communicated on a basic level,” said Marshall of Michigan. “Other handlers say the same thing. Our dogs knew they had a job and were serious about it. They shared our emotional highs and lows during the war. These dogs were just like us, except they were dogs.”

Jim Hart and Flop were partners from 1970-1971 at the 12th SPS K-9 PhuCat Air Base in South Vietnam. Flop served for seven years in Vietnam with Hart and four other handlers.
“I still have nightmares and it’s tough for me,” said Hart of Washington State. “All of us Vietnam Vets went through so much, but we’re still dealing with even more because of what happened to our dogs.”  On Memorial Day 2000, Hart wrote a letter and placed it with Flop’s photo at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.
“Flop, I didn’t want to leave you behind, but I had no other choice. I don’t understand how anyone could just put you down. This was the reward you got for your faithfulness. You were more than just a dog. For me, you were a great soldier and my best friend.”
Back in 1969, Jim Fenwick from upstate New York was a dog handler with the 212th Military Police Co. just north of Saigon. During his tour of duty, he trained four German shepherds, including Prince and Luger.

“When we went on our nightly patrols in the middle of nowhere, it was blacker than black,” recalled Fenwick. “But with Prince at my side, somehow I felt safe enough to sleep even in a rice paddy because these dogs would die for you.”

Fenwick said that during the Vietnam War the Army considered the dogs so valuable that he almost faced negligence charges when Prince got spooked and ran off. The dogs were so effective that according to some war-dog histories, the Vietcong offered a $20,000 bounty for a dog’s capture, twice as much as for a captured GI.

Carl Adams of Illinois was a sentry dog handler from 1967-1968 with the 35th SPS K9 at Phan Rang Air base in South Vietnam. Adams is the current secretary of the Vietnam Dog Handlers Association and has also written a book, Remember the Alamo about his experiences with Andy.
“Although there were different types of military working dogs, they all shared three things in common,” said Adams. “These dogs were always on the front lines and walked in harms way; they were teamed up with GIs who trusted their lives to them. They weren’t pets, but dogs and their handlers became an extension of each other; almost totally
dependent on each other for survival.”

William H. Moore of Missouri served with Colonel, a sentry dog, in the 212th MP Company at Pleiku and Soc Trang, Vietnam.
“Colonel had a nice temperament and liked to play,” recalled Moore. “But when working, he even alerted us to a four foot snake one dark night, refusing to budge or come off alert.”
And at the end of the day, Moore said that Colonel was also a good companion and someone to talk to.
“He shed continuously and looked forward to being brushed after walking guard duty together,” said Moore.

David L. Keeton of Missouri and King aka “Moo” because of the serial number on his dog tags, (M000) served in the 981st Military Police. King was also a family pet before he worked on many dangerous war missions including the Tet Offensive in 1968, the biggest battle of the Vietnam War.
“One thing that really impressed me about King was the pleasure he derived from doing what I asked of him,” said Keeton in a memoir he wrote about his experiences. “His big brown eyes would shine and it seemed like he was smiling when I complimented him on the great job he did. As time went on, King became my friend.”
John R. Harvey and the other members of the VDHA are hoping that the National War Dog Memorial will be realized in their lifetime. Besides money and education, the group is also seeking support in Congress.

“We need two congressional resolutions, the first of which has already been sponsored in the house by Robin Hayes,” said Harvey. “Leaving this educational legacy for our children and grandchildren is important to our country. When our memorial is dedicated, it will do more than honor our dogs. It will be an expression of our nation’s humanity and promote healing.”

For more information, go to:
National War Dog Memorial Fund: www.wardogsmemorial.org
Vietnam Dog Handlers Association: www.vdhaonline.org

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If you are considering giving your pet CBD, it may be the best decision you will take for your pet. As you know, CBD has been very effective among humans as it offers a number of potential health benefits physically and mentally. They use it for pain relief, treat cancer symptoms, reduce anxiety, combat insomnia, and so on. Since scientists have noticed that all mammals can receive the benefits from CBD, you can take advantage of this opportunity and give your pet CBD to improve the quality of life of your pet. In this article, you will learn about the benefits and risks of CBD and how it can help cure your pet.

What is CBD?

CBD or cannabidiol is one of the 100 and more compounds present in the marijuana and hemp plant. This compound is naturally found in the plant which does not contain any psychoactive properties. Unlike THC or tetrahydrocannabinol which is also found in the plant but does contain psychoactive effects which create the feeling of being high. Studies have shown that CBD offers many benefits ranging from disorders to treating symptoms. In the past few years, CBD has become the buzz of the wellness industry as it has been quite effective. Want to know about this versatile plant, find the answer on Leaf Nation.

Is CBD Safe For Dogs?

As pet parents, you always want the best for your pet, and you may wonder if CBD is safe. Even though CBD hasn’t been given a flag by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), you will still find plenty of anecdotal evidence from other pet owners. You will mostly find these details on online forums or you may come across different articles or even social channels regarding the benefits of CBD for pets. Through these forums or channels, you will learn the different benefits and risks that your pet might receive in consuming CBD. 

5 CBD Health Benenfits For Your Pet 

• CBD Can Help Reduce Anxiety

Just like humans, pets too experience stress and anxiety for different reasons. They are usually triggered by loud noises, phobias, traveling in a vehicle, or whenever you leave the house. These indicate that your pet may be stressed or suffering from separation anxiety. Adding CBD to your dog’s diet, will encourage relaxation and induce calmness, as  this CBD pet care remedy indicates. If your pets are ever in unease, it can reduce stress and relieve anxiety, be it a phobia or noise, they will be much safer. Are you looking for science-backed tips on staying in optimal health – check https://cfah.org/ for more information.

• CBD Can Treat Seizures and Epilepsy

CBD is known for its anti-epileptic properties that help in treating seizures, spasms, nervous tics, and epilepsy. Even though commonly used for humans, it is quite effective for animals as well. While prescribed medicines can often lead to adverse side effects for your pets such as liver damage, lethargy, dizziness, and so on. CBD may not cure this disease but it can drastically reduce the duration and the occurrence of seizures, which is a huge benefit for pet parents.

• CBD Relieves Pain and Inflammation

One of the main reasons why CBD has been gaining popularity in the market today is its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. CBD can help alleviate different types of pains and inflammation in both animals as well as humans. It has also proved to be effective in treating chronic pains such as arthritis, joint pains, never-related pains, and so on. Your pet too can take advantage of this opportunity and help in relieving pain and inflammation.

• CBD Can Help with Appetite and Nausea

When CBD enters your body it attaches itself to the endocannabinoids system, (ECS) in your body. The receptors are responsible for regulating different functions of the body including moderating your appetite. Now nausea and vomiting are two very common symptoms in animals which are usually side effects of some treatment or disease. CBD can boost their appetite and reduce vomiting which will result in an improved gut for your pet.

• CBD Might Help Fight Cancer

Cancer treatments can be a very challenging experience for your dog as the treatment is associated with a number of side effects.  CBD can offer therapeutic benefits which can soothe their symptoms of the treatment. CBD also has an anti-tumor effect that helps in stopping cancerous cells from growing in your pet’s body. Here’s everything you need to know about using CBD to treat cancer for animals.

Because of the many positive health effects, your pets can receive, manufacturers have been producing a variety of CBD products for pets. Ensure that the products you choose are of high quality so that you can safely administer CBD products to your pets.

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