Shortleash
Newsletter
Podcast

Issue 156

11 stories

Did you know?

Our 3rd Annual Wags & Wine Event is coming up on Friday April 19th from 11am-2pm PST at the Real Dog Kitchen. We’re celebrating with an egg hunt, BBQ, giveaways, local vendors, and (of course) plenty of treats for your pup. Come tour where the magic happens and meet the team behind the box!

The event is FREE to attend, but space is limited – 👉 RSVP here.

Come out, have a blast, and support your local San Diego dog company! 🐕🎉

Box 123 - Watch the unboxing here!

Available until April 14th ONLY, here’s the current lineup:

🐷 Pork Heart

🐮 Beef Spleen

🐚 Green-Lipped Mussels

🦆 Duck Feet

🐷 Pig Skin

🐄 Cow Ear

🦬 Bison Scapula

🐄 Beef Meatballs

🐖 Pork Liver/Pork Kidney 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!

Dog Reunited After Tragic Crash

After a fatal crash on I-80 near Grantsville, Utah, took the life of Ruben Sepulveda, his two beloved dogs went missing from the scene. In a bittersweet update, Zeus the chihuahua was safely found and reunited with family, while Lily the German shepherd was sadly found near nearby train tracks. Volunteers and professional trackers helped in the search, with experts urging the public not to interfere to avoid scaring lost pets. The story is a reminder of the deep bonds we share with our dogs—and the lengths we’ll go to bring them home.

Ancient Roman Dog Found in Belgium

Archaeologists in Belgium recently unearthed the remains of a well-preserved dog from ancient Roman times. This discovery reveals how dogs were used in Roman rituals, particularly in sacrifices to "purify" land and buildings. The dog, buried under a stone foundation, had most of its teeth intact, a rare find for ancient animal remains. Experts believe this dog was sacrificed before the construction of a significant building, which was likely used for military or religious purposes. This find highlights the important role dogs played in ancient cultures, both as protectors and participants in rituals.

FDA Restricts Avian Flu Testing on Pet Food.

The FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) has recently restricted veterinary labs from performing crucial Avian Flu virus isolation testing on pet food, sparking concerns about pet safety. The restriction limits pet food manufacturers’ ability to ensure their products are safe, even though labs have the capability to perform the tests. The FDA has also failed to respond to questions about this decision, leaving many to wonder why this crucial testing is being blocked. Meanwhile, recent pet food recalls linked to Avian Flu have raised further alarm about the safety of USDA-inspected poultry in pet foods.

Massachusetts Police Use Drone to Find Missing Service Dog.

Jenni, a 120-pound Great Dane and service dog to Craig Burton, slipped out of her vest and bolted from a veterinary office in Amesbury, Massachusetts. Craig, who battles ataxia, relies on Jenni for balance support. After Jenni ran into an apple orchard, a community search ensued, but it was Officer Neil Moody’s drone with infrared technology that led the way. The drone helped pinpoint Jenni’s location in the woods and swamp, and thanks to the Service Dog Project, she was safely reunited with Craig—bringing much-needed relief and tears of joy after a long night of worry.

Study Finds 99% of U.S. Dogs Show Behavioral Issues.

A study from Texas A&M reveals that over 99% of dogs in the U.S. display at least one behavior problem, with fear, anxiety, and aggression being the most common. The study, based on data from the Dog Aging Project, found that most dogs' issues are minor but could escalate if overlooked. Professor Bonnie Beaver, who led the study, emphasizes that early intervention is key. Many behavior problems are overlooked by both owners and veterinarians, but understanding your dog's body language and seeking help when needed can prevent bigger issues.

Truck Drivers Give 14-Year-Old Shelter Pup a Final Adventure.

Honey, a 14-year-old yellow lab, was brought into a shelter after losing her owner and facing mobility issues. With her time running short, a social media post from S.O.A.R. nonprofit asked truck drivers to give Honey one last ride, something she loved throughout her life. The response was overwhelming, with many drivers offering to help. Over the weekend, Honey got to enjoy several rides, watching the road from the passenger seat and even indulging in her favorite treat—Wendy's chicken nuggets. This heartwarming gesture gave her a joyful final experience and connected her with her late owner’s family before her passing.

Lost Dog Reunited with Owner After 11 Years

Snuggles, a light brown pup who ran off 11 years ago while his owner, Melanie Epperson, helped her grandson move, was finally reunited with his family. After many years of wondering what happened to him, Melanie received an unbelievable call from the City of Buffalo Animal Shelter—Snuggles had been found! Thanks to his microchip, the shelter was able to provide this long-awaited reunion. Epperson, overwhelmed with joy, looks forward to the time she has left with Snuggles, emphasizing the importance of microchips in reuniting lost pets.

Exciting News for Feed Real Members! 🌱🐾

We’ve just made your Feed Real Membership even more valuable! Now, with the Feed Real Membership, you get extended access to all our courses after 1 year—so you can keep learning at your own pace!

For just $9/month or $84/year, you’ll get:

-Continued access to your purchased course after one year (whether it's the Dog Food Basics or Professional Canine Nutrition Certification Course).

-Access to thousands of premium research articles to deepen your knowledge.

-For CPCN students, you’ll also have ongoing access to the community chat after 1 year– connecting with fellow professionals to exchange insights and grow together.

Ready to level up your knowledge? Join the Feed Real Movement today!

Dog news, minus the nonsense.

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

Latest: Episode 156