Issue #85
Did you know: February is National Pet Dental Health month! Learn more about periodontal disease and how healthy treats and chews can improve your dog’s oral hygiene.
Available until February 20th ONLY, here’s the current lineup:
🐮 Green Tripe
🐷 Pork Kidney
🐟 Salmon
🐔 Chicken Feet
🦆 Duck Wing
🦃 Turkey Neck
Bison Scapula
🐄 Beef Meatballs
Real Dog Box has a new membership program that offers FREE shipping on all boxes, including secret shop orders, early access to secret shop, and free monthly dog nutrition consultations. Text us to learn more or add a membership to your account! 858-348-5954.
Pro tip: Is your dog experiencing allergies or just not loving a certain item? Customize your box with help from our member services team! Text 858.348.5954.
Norwegian court bans breeding of flat-faced dogs. After years of debate, Norway has voted to ban the breeding of British Bulldogs and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Citing their many manmade health concerns the court has decided that none are healthy enough for breeding. This move is praised by many looking to improve the health of these dogs but critics believe it will be difficult to enforce and increase backyard breeding.
“Mission Possible” is way better than a Tom Cruise movie! Small rescue groups have worked tirelessly for 5 months to bring 154 dogs and 131 cats to Vancouver to be reunited with their families! Many fled the country in 2021 as the Taliban moved in and they intended to take their pets with them. Unfortunately, in order to get more humans to safety, the flight for animals was canceled until now. About 35% of these animals have owners waiting for them, some will be held until their humans arrive from Afghanistan, and the rest will be adopted!
Robotic dogs in testing with US Border Patrol. The Department of Homeland Security is currently testing unarmed “dogs” developed by tech company Ghost Robotics, creator of a sniper-equipped robotic dog, along the Mexican border. Supporters claim these robots will lend a “helping hand” to patrol agents in rough terrain while critics worry this is the start of a “civil liberties disaster.”
SB1271 hopes to improve the veterinarian shortage in Arizona. With roughly 3 open positions for every 1 graduate, the US is experiencing a shortage of vets that makes finding medical care difficult for pet parents. The new bill aims to keep vets in the state by offering reimbursement for their tuition or $100,000, whichever is less. To qualify they must work in the state for 4 years, 2 of which must be at a non-profit, municipal shelter, or agricultural setting.
North Carolina kennel shut down due to inhumane conditions. After animal control was notified of loose dogs they discovered 47 adult dogs and 14 puppies in unsanitary living conditions. One dog was found deceased. The formerly reputable “Brentwood Labradors“ changed hands in the last couple of years after the owner passed away. The new owner is currently facing over 130 different charges. The dogs will be up for adoption after their health improves.
AAFCO releases misleading publicity video. This promo implies that the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) regulates labels, ensures quality ingredients, lists exact mineral quantities, and helps “bridge the gap” between customers and manufacturers. They do not actually perform any of these duties. It’s important to remember that AAFCO is a private group and not a government entity or affiliated with the FDA. They set ingredient definitions and nutritional guidelines, but “AAFCO approved” does not necessarily mean a product is healthy, good quality, or a species-appropriate food.
Another great reason to pick up your dog’s poop. Researchers in Belgium are studying the effects of dog waste in nature reserves and getting troubling results. In addition to the possibility of spreading disease, it appears dogs contribute a significant amount of nitrogen and phosphorous to the soil. This fur baby fertilizer can degrade habitats and lead to a loss of biodiversity making it extremely important to pack out the poo!