Shortleash
Newsletter
Podcast

Issue #147

11 stories

Did you know?

Cyber Monday is just around the corner, and we’ve got an exclusive Secret Shop deal you don’t want to miss!

Spend $100 and get 4 free items—a perfect way to treat your pup! Mark your calendar and keep an eye out for the text alert to snag your favorites before they’re gone.

Hot items sell fast, especially with Wellness Members enjoying 1-hour early access!

Box 119 - Watch the unboxing here!

Available until December 23rd ONLY, here’s the current lineup:

🐷 Pork Loin

🐮 Beef Liver

🐟 Smelt

🐔 Chicken Feet

🐗 Boar Ear

🦬 Bison Trachea

🐄 Bull Pizzle

🦃 Turkey Meatballs

🐮🐑 Beef Liver/Lamb Spleen Kibble Topper

Exciting News! We've revamped our referral program, bringing you even more exciting perks when you refer a friend.

Introducing Real Dog Coin and FREE treats!

For every new referral, your friend will receive a free bag of treats with their first box, and you'll earn 10 RDC. If you’re a wellness member, you will receive 20 RDC!

Each RDC is valued at $1, and you can easily convert these coins into dollars! 🤑These coins can be applied towards your next order, membership, add-on purchases, or even in our exclusive Secret Shop !

Every subscriber has a unique referral link and our referral program is open to everyone! Don’t know what your link is? Text member services 858-348-5954 or email us at help@real.dog

Learn more about Real Dog Coin here!

The Secret Science Behind Your Dog’s Stare.

Your dog’s loving gaze isn’t just heartwarming—it’s brain bonding! Research shows that when dogs and humans lock eyes, their brain activity syncs, strengthening their connection. This synchronization deepens with familiarity, highlighting the special way dogs interact with and respond to us. Your pup’s stare is a sign of love and an incredible example of how deeply they’re attuned to their humans.

AI Revolutionizing Heart Health for Dogs.

Cambridge researchers have developed an AI algorithm to detect heart murmurs in dogs, a vital indicator of heart disease common in breeds like King Charles Spaniels. Initially designed for humans, the algorithm was adapted using recordings from 800 dogs to identify murmurs with over 90% accuracy close to cardiologist evaluations. This innovation could help vets diagnose heart issues earlier and more effectively, ensuring better care for dogs of all breeds.

New York Fights Puppy Mills with Pet Store Ban.

Starting December 15, New York pet stores will no longer sell dogs, cats, or rabbits to combat puppy mills and unsafe breeding practices. Animals from such operations often face severe health issues, leaving families with heartbreak and high Vet bills. While the ban prohibits sales, stores can collaborate with registered rescues to promote adoptions. Violators face penalties of up to $1,000 per offense, marking a significant step to protect animal welfare in the state.

Officer Faces Charges After Shooting Multiple Dogs.

Seven dogs tragically lost their lives when a Tennessee sheriff’s deputy, sent to check on their wellbeing, opened fire. The officer, Connor Brackin, shot the dogs for unknown reasons, leading to criminal charges. The local community is left devastated by the loss of these innocent animals. Brackin has since resigned, but the investigation continues, raising serious concerns about animal welfare and police responsibility.

Campus Policies Force Service-Dog Training Group to Dissolve.

The Service-Dog Training and Education Program (STEP) at UNCW has shut down due to denied campus access for service dogs in training. Despite North Carolina laws granting these dogs similar rights as fully trained service animals, UNCW classified them as "pets" under university policies, barring them from buildings. STEP faced challenges from the outset, with restrictions escalating over time. Meanwhile, UNCW’s assistance dog program remains unrestricted. STEP's closure highlights inconsistencies in support for service-dog initiatives.

Overcrowded LA Shelters Put Dogs at Risk.

Los Angeles shelters are experiencing a 72% rise in dog euthanasia rates this year due to severe overcrowding, funding cuts, and staff shortages. Despite efforts by Mayor Karen Bass to improve conditions, shelters struggle to meet animals' basic needs, exacerbating behavioral issues and adoption challenges. The city’s Animal Services, receiving significantly less funding than other departments, aims to address these issues through partnerships and reforms. Many dogs remain at risk due to systemic resource constraints.

How Companies Are Embracing Pet-Friendly Policies.

Employers are implementing "pawternity leave" policies, offering time off for new pet owners to handle puppy potty training, vet visits, or settling in with their dogs. This emerging benefit, especially in cities like New York, sparks debate. Despite differing opinions, the policy is gaining traction, with some companies even offering pet bereavement leave. As more pets are treated as family, these benefits help employees balance work and pet care.

FRS25 Save the Date!

Mark your calendars! The 2025 Feed Real Summit is happening in sunny San Diego on October 11th & 12th.

Details are coming soon, but early birds will snag priority access to VIP tickets—don’t miss this incredible event!

Stay tuned for updates and get ready to join the fresh feeding movement! Get your early bird tickets here.

Dog news, minus the nonsense.

Shortleash is very boring for non-dog people, or people without dogs.

Latest: Episode #147