o
There’s ‘Snow’ Place Like Scandinavia
Embrace Winter Like a Pro
Scandinavian countries like Sweden and Denmark have long topped lists of the world’s happiest people. This may seem strange considering these countries can spend half the year in darkness; dusk sets in around 2 p.m. for some Nordic cities in the wintertime. The Scandinavians’ positive outlook on winter likely contributes to their happy demeanors year-round. Instead of looking at the winter months as something to endure, these folks embrace the season and find ways to enjoy it. Here are a couple ways to emulate their attitude.
Beyond working well with the rest of the team, Dr. Eike cites the care she’s able to provide people as well as their pets as a reason why she loves her job.
Try Nordic Skiing
“I really love helping animals. By extension, we’re also able to help people,” she explains. “It’s great to see the relief on someone’s face when they find out their dog is going to be okay or that you can treat whatever is wrong with their cat. Pets really become members of the family, and I’m glad to be able to help the whole family.”
If you’re a seasonal runner but it’s too cold to enjoy your go-to activity this winter, it’s time to diversify. Skiing isn’t the only wintertime option, either. There’s ice skating, ice climbing, and snowshoeing, to name a few. If your knees can’t take downhill skiing or snowboarding anymore, give Nordic skiing a try. It’s less stressful on your body but still a challenging, fun way to enjoy a beautiful day outside.
Dress forWarmth
When Dr. Eike isn’t caring for animals at the hospital, she’s gardening and caring for her own pets at home. She and her husband live on a hobby cattle farm with several cats. Of all their feline companions, Dr. Eike’s favorite is Eddie, who’s described as “very needy.”
There’s no such thing as bad weather, only poor gear. The Fins embrace this mentality wholeheartedly by trekking in subzero temperatures. The key is proper layering. Start with warm base layers that retain heat while allowing air to circulate. Skintight spandex isn’t very effective, so try thermal underwear or wool instead. On top of your base layer, add fleece and then down. If you’ll be somewhere with a lot of moisture, make sure your down is synthetic and waterproof. Your extremities get cold the quickest, so keep them warm with a buff, cozy gloves, hats, and wool socks layered as needed.
If the leftovers are your favorite part of Thanksgiving, then this recipe is for you! Show your dog how thankful you are for them with these post-feast dog treats.
INGREDIENTS:
OneWord: Sauna
•
1/2 cup cooked sweet potatoes, plain and mashed
Just because it’s cold out doesn’t mean you need to be, too. A day on the slopes would not be complete without a sauna. In Finland, Sweden, and other Nordic countries, taking a sauna is considered a daily ritual for its purported health- boosting and mood-boosting benefits. Age and Ageing health journal has found evidence linking sauna use to a lowered risk for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
•
3/4 cup water
•
1 egg
•
2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
•
2 cups whole wheat flour
DIRECTIONS:
1.
Heat oven to 350 F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine sweet potatoes, water, and egg. Add turkey and flour and stir again until dough is thick and sticky. 3. Use a rubber spreader to spread dough evenly on parchment-lined baking sheet, about 1/2-inch thick. Cut dough into small rectangles using a knife or pizza cutter. 4. Bake for 30 minutes, until the dog treats are lightly golden brown. 5. Remove from oven and let treats cool completely. Break treats apart along score lines. 6. Serve fresh or store in refrigerator for up to two weeks.
www.PetersenPetHospital.com
3
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online