RNER
Anchors Aweigh, Belly Rubs Ahead
pumpkin (but not pumpkin pie filling) or turkey in small amount. Of course, you also need to make sure that any guests you have over for Thanksgiving or any other holiday know these food rules, too.
You know what else happens this time of year? Cold weather! When you take your dogs outside (especially if they’re short-haired and/or have hit the ripe old age of 8), have them wear a sweater or coat. Also, they should avoid coming anywhere near antifreeze. Pets love its taste, but we have no idea how dangerous it can be. Also, wipe and clean our paws when we return inside after exploring the great (and chilly) outdoors.
For one special soldier, the mission is clear: Provide comfort, lift spirits, and stand by his crew, four paws at a time. Raider, a 1-year-old Lab mix from an animal rescue in San Diego, isn’t your typical recruit. He’s about to make waves as the first full-time morale dog on a Navy ship, and he could transform life at sea for hundreds of sailors. With a wagging tail and unwavering loyalty, this pup is ready to serve his country in the most heartwarming way. The nonprofit Shelter to Soldier has been training shelter dogs as service animals for veterans since 2012, with a mission to “save lives, two at a time.” Though the organization partners dogs with individual veterans, it began bringing therapy dogs to Navy ships for special training outings and made a discovery. Crew members felt a special connection with the pups and kept asking, “Can we take this dog on deployment with us?” Raider is the first canine cadet for the job. He was adopted from Labs and More Rescue and has been deep in training since April. This new furry crew member has been working hard on learning to use a “potty patch” on board and special safety gear like booties for his paws and eye protection. Along with getting his sea legs, he’s learning various commands that will help in his role, which is “designed to support the emotional wellness, morale, and mental health of sailors and Marines,” according to the nonprofit. Raider will join a team of five handlers and live full time on the USS Makin Island in his own room. Crew members will get their wish, and any time the base deploys, he’ll be along for the ride. Known for his goofy personality and affinity for belly rubs, he’s already bringing cheer to the base and inspiring others to follow in his pawprints. The nonprofit is busy training morale dogs for other ships. “Everyone is just really excited to have a furry companion to go with them when they’re underway,” Director of Operations and Training Nicky Moore said, adding, “What makes you happier than a dog?” MEET THE NAVY’S FIRST FULL-TIME MORALE DOG
Speaking of November (and after reading this month’s cover article), I want to wrap up this month’s column with a quick reminder that senior pets have so much love to give. Give them the gift of a wellness checkup at Petersen Pet Hospital to ensure they’re in tip-top shape!
–Sam
TURKEY AND SWEET POTATO MASH FOR DOGS
INGREDIENTS
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
DIRECTIONS
1. In a saucepan, boil sweet potatoes for 15–20 minutes until soft.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook ground turkey until fully browned.
3. Add peas and stir.
4. In a large bowl, mash sweet potatoes and mix in turkey mixture.
5. Portion into servings appropriate for your pup and let them feast!
Inspired by MyDogRecipe.com
PetersenPetHospital.com
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator