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!
Including Digital Assets in Your Estate Plan Holidays are a funny thing as we age and our families grow. When my kids were young, we would celebrate most Thanksgivings with my parents, who lived just down the street. The holiday was filled with the usual home-cooked meals, family gatherings, watching the Dallas Cowboys play, and giving thanks. states, one of my daughters is off at college, and while we still live close to my mom, my dad has since passed. All of this, the good, the bad, and the difficult, is part of life as my family grows and changes. Still, change is hard, and it is easy to reminisce and miss what used to be. Giving Thanks as Your Family Grows
If you find yourself in the place of creating new traditions with your family and you have the joy of being near the people you love, I encourage you to cherish this time. There is something beautiful about the new things we create from a place of love. However, if you feel grief for what was, that is no longer, embrace it. Grief is amorphous and ever-present, but it is also a manifestation of love looking for a new place to call home. I hope you are able to find joy this holiday in the old, new, and constant loves that fill your life.
Every year, we would disagree about what time to start dinner and whether or not we would eat in front of the TV while watching the game. Despite these tiffs, the holiday was often brimming with love and the joy of being together again. Though our extended family lived close by, having a special day to gather and share food created many fond memories and traditions. As time passes, the holiday has changed for me and my family. Three of my children have gotten married and live in different
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