Y’S CORNER BARKING AT THE RIGHT MOMENT RT FOR THRIVING KITTIES
The Dog That Saved a Veteran From a Stroke When Hank Ford ended his service with the U.S. Army and Marines, he felt completely alone. The veteran had post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and struggled to trust people. But dogs were a different story.
(Psst … don’t tell other cats I’m saying this, but it’s a lot easier to sneak medication into canned food they actually like.)
Now, if you notice your cat is suddenly drinking a lot of water or (eek) urinating outside of their litter box, that could be a sign that something’s wrong with their health. The same is true if we’re getting a little too fat or suddenly losing a ton of weight. Also, keep in mind that different foods help cats stay healthy during different stages of life. Generally speaking, kittens should be on kitten food until around 10 months of age before they’re switched over to adult formulas. Cats’ energy requirements change as they age, so younger ones will require higher-calorie diets than those who are older.
When he received his service dog, a yellow Labrador named Tommy, he gained a steadfast companion who made each day a little less scary.
“Used to be, I walk into a place, and I’m looking for exits,” Ford said in an interview. “I’m watching everybody. I’m just not trusting anything that’s going on, and with him, all that seems to have gone away.” Though his four-legged friend had brought so much relief and calm to his life, he never expected Tommy would actually save his life. The pup prevented a massive stroke that could have had dire consequences. Early one morning, Tommy broke all of his usual routines, barking at Hank at an odd time while the veteran snoozed. He was persistent, using his voice like never before and pawing at Hank’s chest until he arose. Clearly, Tommy sensed something was wrong, and as soon as Hank stood up, he felt it too. His heart was pounding so hard he could feel it, and when he checked his blood pressure, he was shocked at the number. Hank wasted no time driving himself to the hospital, and it was only then that he realized how crucial his dog’s fast thinking really was. The doctor informed him he was experiencing an A-fib or irregular heartbeat. Left untreated, it could lead to life-altering or deadly strokes.
One more thing about canned food. In the February 2026 newsletter, I mentioned that I had been diagnosed with kidney disease. Well, I’ve gotta tell you, eating more canned food has helped me feel so much better! And, oh gosh, it’s so good! As soon as I hear the bowl come out of the cupboard, I’m there ! I have a feeling your feline friends will love it, too.
Turkey and Macaroni Dog Food
INGREDIENTS
• 5 lbs ground turkey • 2 1/2 oz turkey liver •
“They told me, had he not woken me up, I could have had a major stroke in bed, or not woken up at all,” he said. “He saved my life.”
5 oz carrots, finely chopped 5 oz zucchini, finely chopped
• •
5 oz broccoli, finely chopped • 2 1/2 oz cranberries, fresh or frozen • 2 1/2 lbs whole wheat macaroni • 5 tsp JustFoodForDogs Omega Plus Fish Oil • 2 1/2 tbsp JustFoodForDogs Turkey & Whole Wheat Macaroni DIY Nutrient Blend
Hank received treatment, and in the months since the incident, he’s been feeling more like himself.
The veteran was incredibly thankful to Dog, Inc., the nonprofit that trained and provided Tommy to assist with his day-to-day mental health needs. Though the Lab was well-trained to handle his owner’s PTSD, Dog, Inc. said his life-saving action went above and beyond. Tommy’s feat proves just how close the bond between a service dog and their human really is.
DIRECTIONS
1. In a nonstick skillet, brown ground turkey and turkey liver over medium heat, stirring frequently. 2. Add the vegetables and cranberries while the turkey is still pink, and sauté until the turkey is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender, then set aside. 3. Cook macaroni according to package directions and add a quart of ice once cooked. Drain and let cool. 4. In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients with JustFoodForDogs products. 5. Portion into individual serving sizes and store in the fridge or freezer.
Inspired by Epicuricloud.com
PetersenPetHospital.com
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