TASTY PASTURES
Why Many Dogs Eat Grass If you have a dog, there’s a good chance you’ve noticed them munching on the lawn at least once or twice. Studies show that up to 80% of dogs snack on grass. There are far worse things dogs can (and do) eat, but many pet owners still wonder about the reason behind the habit and whether it’s safe. Experts have many theories on the behavior but little hard evidence. Many people believe their dogs eat grass due to an upset stomach, but most dogs don’t display any other behaviors associated with being unwell while snacking on the lawn. Some experts believe the habit is evolutionary, tracing back to canines’ herbivore ancestors. Meanwhile, others suggest that dogs might eat grass for the same reason they eat your slippers — because they’re bored. But could the tendency to eat grass have anything to do with your dog’s diet? It’s a popular theory. Many experts have proposed that dogs eat grass when they need additional fiber. Your dog could also be craving other
minerals or vitamins and seeking out alternative sources for them. And it’s worth noting that grass has high water content, so dogs might snack on grass when they’re feeling dehydrated. Then again, the correct answer is sometimes the simplest one. Many experts suggest that dogs eat grass just like humans eat ice cream. They think it tastes good!
So, we can't say with certainty why your dog is eating grass. But the bigger question remains — is it unhealthy? In theory, no. But the reality is a bit more complicated. While grass itself is unlikely to harm your dog, the herbicides and pesticides that may be present on any given lawn are toxic. Your dog can also pick up a parasite from residual feces left by another animal. And grass might be fine, but other common plants they could find while grazing can be poisonous. So, keep a close eye on their snacking. Furthermore, it’s worth using your dog’s grass-eating habit as an opportunity to reflect on their lifestyle and environment. Is your dog getting enough attention, exercise, and stimulation? Do they have enough fiber and other nutrients in their diet? And is their regular water intake sufficient? While eating grass may not be a problem in itself, it can be the wake-up call you need to make your dog healthier and happier.
GCraat i nT -r eFar tese Inspired by SaltInMyCoffee.com
Clien th ts e SWpr o e r a d ding
Patty Naft Chad Mitchell Dick Beardi Christine Clymer Anjani Devi Marshal Polzin
Keep your kitty happy with these tasty protein-packed tuna treats!
INGREDIENTS
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3 tbsp sea meal mineral powder
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2 cans tuna, undrained 1/2 cup cooked pumpkin
1/2 cup coconut flour
3 egg yolks
DIRECTIONS
1. Heat oven to 350 F. 2. In a bowl or food processor, blend all ingredients until they comprise a fine-grained mash. 3. On a parchment-lined baking sheet, place 1/4 heaping teaspoons of mixture, evenly spaced. Press each treat with a finger to make a small disc. 4. Bake for 12 minutes, until treats are golden brown. 5. With a wide spatula, flip treats, and return to oven for another 3–5 minutes, until the second side browns. 6. Cool thoroughly and store in an air-tight container. Treats should last up to 2 weeks in storage or longer if they are frozen.
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