Shortleash
Newsletter
Podcast

Issue #150

11 stories

Did you know?

We’re offering a FREE month of our Wellness Membership this month! 🌟

✨ Here’s what’s included:

A free monthly nutrition consultation with a certified canine nutritionist.

Early access and notification to the Secret Shop

5% cash back (RDC) on Secret Shop purchases (excluding tax, shipping, RDC purchases, digital products)

Double referral points (20 RDC = $20 for free treats)

Waived shipping fees in Secret Shop if items are removed from your cart resulting in purchase of less than 3 items.

Access to the Feed Real Movement resources ($9/month value).

This membership is perfect for enhancing your dog's health journey without committing to a monthly box. Don’t miss this chance to try it out!

📞 Have a box subscription with us? You're included! Text Member Services at 858-348-5954, or email us at help@real.dog

Box 120 - Watch the unboxing here!

Available until January 20th ONLY, here’s the current lineup:

🦬 Bison Lung

🐷 Pork Liver

🐟 Capelin

🐏Lamb Ear

🦆 Duck Head

🐄 Cow Ear

🦬 Bison Scapula

🐮 Beef Meatballs

🐖 Pork Liver/Pork Kidney 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!

Daring Rescue Saves Dog and Owner from Icy Lake

A walk near Lake Waban turned dangerous when an 8-year-old Cockapoo, Tommy, fell through thin ice, prompting his owner, Ed Berger, to attempt a rescue. Despite his quick actions and cold-water training, Ed also ended up in the freezing lake. Firefighters used a drone to locate the pair and successfully rescued them both. Tommy, treated for hypothermia, is now safe, thanks to quick action by first responders and veterinarians.

New Research Proves Dogs Understand Words.

A new study from UC San Diego confirms that dogs using soundboard buttons understand specific words and respond appropriately. The research, involving 59 dogs, showed that dogs reacted to words like “play” and “outside” regardless of who pressed the button . The findings debunk the idea that dogs rely solely on owner cues. This is the first empirical study on button-trained pets, highlighting dogs’ ability to process language. Future research will explore how dogs actively use buttons to communicate.

Dog Attack in Florida Leads to Tragic Loss

An 8-year-old boy, Michael Millett, was fatally attacked by two loose dogs while riding bikes with friends in Volusia County, Florida. The dogs, a pit bull and a mixed breed, mauled the boy as he tried to pet them, causing fatal injuries. Despite efforts from his mother and first responders, Michael succumbed to his wounds. The dogs have been captured, and their owner, who has a criminal history, is under investigation and expected to face charges.

Pasadena Humane Society Rescues 123 Pets Amid Eaton Fire.

The Pasadena Humane Society has been a lifeline for pets separated during the Eaton Fire, recovering 123 animals, including 63 dogs, 35 cats, and various other pets. Many animals required medical care for burns, dehydration, and smoke inhalation, and are being cared for at the animal ICU. The shelter is holding animals for 21 days, reuniting them with their families as they recover. A pet pantry is also available for affected owners. The rescue hotline is open for lost and found pets.

Rhode Island Vet Faces Lawsuit.

A Rhode Island dog owner is suing her vet after her beloved dog died from complications following a routine surgery. A surgical tool was mistakenly left inside the dog, the oversight caused severe complications, ultimately leading to the dog tragically passing away. This heartbreaking case underscores the importance of advocating for our pets, from choosing experienced veterinarians to closely monitoring their recovery. Always trust your instincts if something seems off after surgery—early intervention can make all the difference.

Bird Flu in Raw Pet Food.

Los Angeles County issued a warning about bird flu in Northwest Naturals' raw pet food following a cat's death, but it's important to note that further evidence indicates the cat was likely exposed outside. Despite this, the food was tested using a highly sensitive PCR test, and no widespread risks have been found for pets consuming the product. Currently, there’s no evidence of the virus entering the dog food supply, and raw feeding remains safe. If you're still concerned, consider gently cooking raw food to 165°F to be extra cautious, but for the most part, sourcing quality, trusted raw food remains key.

Recent Kibble Voluntary Product Recall.

Open Farm has announced a voluntary recall of specific batches of its Freeze-Dried Raw recipes, including Red Meat Fiesta, Lamb, Surf & Turf, and Grass-Fed Beef, due to potential plastic contamination. While no injuries or illnesses have been reported, customers are advised to check the lot numbers and return any affected products for a full refund. This recall underscores the importance of transparency and staying informed about potential risks in pet food.

Find Raw Feeding Resources Near You 🥩

Starting your raw feeding journey? We’ve got you covered with our Raw Dog Food Directory—a one-stop map to help you locate co-ops, grocery stores, local farms, and ethnic markets offering the ingredients you need to build your dog’s perfect bowl.

Already shopping from a co-op? Let us know if it’s not listed, and we’ll share it with other raw feeders!

✨ Want hands-on guidance? Our DIY workshops are perfect for beginners. Learn how to prep 7 days of meals, create a shopping list, and master raw feeding with confidence. Spots fill fast—sign up here!

Explore the Raw Dog Food Directory here!

Dog news, minus the nonsense.

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

Latest: Episode #150