Shortleash
Newsletter
Podcast

Issue 153

11 stories

Did you know?

We’re rolling out a fresh way to unbox your Real Dog Box—literally! No tape, no plastic, just an eco-friendly design that’s easier for you and more fun for your pup. With built-in pop holes for sniffing and a tear-notch opening, your dog can get in on the excitement before you even get the box open! 🐶✨

These boxes aren’t just cool—they’re made from recycled materials, plastic-free, and designed for sustainability. Less waste, more tail wags. 🌿♻️

Want the full scoop? See how our tapeless boxes are changing the game! 👉 real.dog/tapeless

Box 122 - Watch the unboxing here!

Available until March 17th ONLY, here’s the current lineup:

🐷 Pork Loin

🐮 Beef Liver

🐟 Smelt

🐔 Chicken Feet

🐗 Boar Ear

🐄 Beef Backstrap

🐖 Pig Feet

🦃 Turkey Meatballs

🐄🦬 Beef Liver/Bison Spleen Kibble Topper

Your Referrals = Real Rewards!

For every friend you refer, they’ll get a free bag of treats with their first box, and you’ll earn 10 RDC—Wellness Members get 20 RDC!

Each RDC is worth $1 and can be used toward your next order, membership, add-ons, or even in our exclusive Secret Shop! 🤑

Every subscriber has a unique referral link, which you can find in your dashboard! Don’t know your link? Text member services at 858-348-5954 or email us at help@real.dog.

Learn more about Real Dog Coin here!

Is Your Dog’s Sleep More Wild Than You Think?

Your pup’s sleeping habits might be more in tune with their wild ancestors than you realize! While dogs adapt their sleep schedules to match human routines, studies show they naturally lean toward crepuscular (dawn and dusk) activity, much like wolves. Research also suggests they also spend more time in REM sleep than humans but less than wolves, hinting at how domestication has shaped their rest. Factors like age, emotions, and daily activity all impact their sleep—so those naps aren’t just cute, they’re essential!

Wild Dogs Spotted in North Carolina—What to Know!

Police in Scotland Neck, NC, are warning residents about a pack of wild dogs that have attempted to attack pets and other animals. Unlike strays, these dogs stay in a pack and may even challenge humans. Authorities advise reporting sightings and only intervening if an attack is happening. While some have asked about adoption, animal control will determine if it’s possible.

Shelter Worker Fired After Mistreating Dog in Viral Video

A temporary worker at San Antonio Animal Care Services (ACS) has been fired after a viral video showed them dragging Hilo, an Alaskan Husky, down a hallway. The worker, who had reportedly shown concerning behavior before, was immediately terminated for using improper handling methods. ACS emphasized its commitment to humane animal care and stated that Hilo is safe and will soon be available for adoption.

FDA Flags Imported Jerky Treats for Antibiotic Concerns.

The FDA has updated its Import Alert on poultry jerky treats from China, holding shipments until manufacturers prove they’re free from unapproved antibiotics like tilmicosin and enrofloxacin. With a history of contamination and pet illnesses linked to these treats since 2007, it’s a reminder to always check labels for country of origin and report any concerns to the FDA . At Real Dog Box, we’re committed to transparency, sourcing from trusted suppliers and producing treats in our FDA-regulated facility.

Dog Seen Running Across I-5 Reunited With Owner.

Henry, the two-year-old Chihuahua seen in a viral video sprinting across San Diego’s I-5, has been safely reunited with his owner, Rachel Blatt. After escaping from a friend’s house, Henry was spotted halting traffic as he ran down the freeway. Thankfully, good Samaritans helped catch him, and he was taken to the San Diego Humane Society. Following confirmation of his ownership, Henry returned home with a new ID tag and warm jackets.

World’s First Lab-Grown Meat Dog Treats Hits UK Stores.

A new development in pet food: Chick Bites, the world’s first dog treats made from lab-grown meat, have been launched in the UK. These treats created by Meatly and The Pack, combine plant-based ingredients with cultivated lab-grown chicken. While lab-grown meat is becoming more mainstream, it's important to stay informed about its presence in pet products. As the UK leads the way in regulatory approval, it may not be long before this trend reaches other markets, so it's something to keep an eye on for pet nutrition.

Trooper’s Road to Recovery Takes Another Unexpected Turn.

Trooper, the bull terrier abandoned during Hurricane Milton, has overcome more than anyone could imagine. After being rescued and adopted, he battled cancer and survived a life-threatening ingestion of trash. Following successful surgeries, Trooper is now cancer-free and thriving with his forever family. His journey continues as they seek justice against his former owner for abuse, proving Trooper’s strength and resilience.

Feed Real Summit 2025 – Hands-On Learning with Dr. Laurie McCauley! 🐶💡

We’re thrilled to introduce Dr. Laurie McCauley as one of our featured interactive workshop hosts at Feed Real Summit 2025!

A leader in veterinary rehabilitation, sports medicine, and holistic care, Dr. McCauley will be guiding attendees through “The Fascial Network: Optimal Movement and Healing with Tuning Forks.” This hands-on session will explore how sound therapy and fascial health support mobility and healing in dogs.

This is just one of three exclusive workshops available at the summit—VIP guests get first pick, and early bird ticket holders will have priority access to VIP upgrades!

📅 October 11-12, 2025 – Don’t miss out!

🎟️ General Admission prices increase soon—lock in your Early Bird ticket today! —👉 Secure your spot NOW!

Dog news, minus the nonsense.

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

Latest: Episode 153
Short Leash - Issue 153