LAWN MUNCHIES? Here’s Why Your Dog Treats Grass Like a Snack
Tummy Troubles One of the most common beliefs is that dogs eat grass to make themselves vomit when they’re feeling nauseous. While studies show that vomiting doesn’t always follow grass-eating, some dogs seem to feel better afterward. It’s like their own natural remedy (though not all dogs use it for this purpose). Nutritional Gaps Some vets suggest grass-eating may stem from a lack of fiber or certain nutrients in a dog’s diet. If your dog’s diet is lacking, their body might be nudging them to get a bit of roughage. A quick consult with your vet (or even a change in food) might do the trick. The Uncommon Possibilities Instinctual Behavior Dogs have descended from wild canines that often consumed plant matter from their prey’s stomachs. Some experts believe this behavior could be hardwired into your pet’s DNA as a throwback to those wild meals.
If you’ve ever looked out the window and spotted your dog chowing down on your lawn like it’s a salad bar, you’re not alone. This behavior, known as “pica,” is when animals eat things that aren’t typically considered food. It has puzzled dog owners for generations. But don’t worry! In most cases, it’s completely normal. The Common Culprits Paw-sonal Preference Some dogs enjoy the taste and texture of grass, especially after a fresh rain or in the early morning when it’s dewy. Grass can be cool, crisp, and oddly satisfying for your pup. Boredom or Anxiety Dogs, like people, can engage in strange habits when bored or stressed. Chewing grass could be their version of nail-biting or fidgeting. If your pup isn’t getting enough mental stimulation or exercise, they might start nibbling the lawn out of restlessness.
Parasites or Illness In rare cases, frequent grass-eating could signal a serious issue, such as intestinal parasites or an undiagnosed medical condition. If your dog is obsessed with grass and shows other symptoms, like lethargy, weight loss, or vomiting, it’s time to call the vet. Worth the Worry? Usually, no. Occasional grass-snacking is a normal part of dog life. Just make sure your lawn isn’t treated with harmful chemicals or pesticides. If it becomes excessive or other symptoms accompany it, your vet should take a look. Ultimately, dogs sometimes eat grass simply because they’re dogs … and they can!
STOP, LOOK, AND WONDER
SIDEWALK TELESCOPES ARE BRINGING THE UNIVERSE TO YOU
Imagine walking down a city sidewalk and seeing a telescope pointed toward the sky. There aren’t any ticket lines or admission fees, only a friendly smile and a view of Saturn’s rings or the craters of the moon. That’s what’s happening thanks to a growing global movement bringing astronomy directly to the people, right on the streets! In cities worldwide, astronomy enthusiasts are setting up powerful telescopes in
parks, on sidewalks, and in busy downtown areas. Their mission is simple: to share the wonders of the universe with anyone who happens to walk by. The best part is there’s no experience required. All you need is a little curiosity. The movement is called #popscope (short for pop-up telescope). Founded in Ottawa, Ontario, in 2014, it has expanded to include hundreds of cities in Canada, the U.S., Ireland, and India Volunteers, often amateur astronomers or passionate stargazers, invite strangers to peer into the sky, and many people are left speechless. It’s a great reminder that we all live under the same stunning sky. These spontaneous sidewalk star parties are making science more accessible, especially for communities that don’t have easy access to observatories or science museums. Beyond amazing educational
opportunities, the pop-up telescope events spark something deeply human: connection. As people gather to look up, they share a sense of awe that transcends background, language, and age. It’s hard not to feel united when staring at the vastness of space. This isn’t about high-tech gear or flashy presentations; instead, it’s an opportunity to pause for a moment amidst the noise and hustle and realize the universe is right there, waiting to be admired. Thanks to these sidewalk astronomers, more and more people are getting that chance.
To volunteer for the group, visit their website at PopScope.org.
So, the next time you’re strolling through the city and see a telescope a stranger has set up, don’t walk past it. Stop. Look. Wonder. You just might see Jupiter’s moons or Saturn’s rings, and you’ll definitely walk away with a smile!
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