This week’s editorial is sponsored by Mark and Jo, co owners of ethical pet care brand HOWND and founders & organisers of national #BringYourDogToWorkDay in the UK. The HERO Bowl. Available to order from today until July 28 only from Indiegogo with fantastic Early Bird discounts.
I was listening to the radio this week, and I heard someone say something that really affected me. No, they weren’t talking about animals, or dogs surprisingly. But while relating how they felt, someone said, “they were treated worse than a dog”. And I thought to myself…why is this even a saying? Why do we compare treatment of each other by putting another species down? And did many feel that treating a dog “like a dog”, was ok? I had to really stop and wonder. Why don’t we recognize that dogs and all animals are individuals and deserve to be treated respectfully as such? Why don’t we all treat each other the same way?
For me, when I hear others talk like this, I second guess myself and my way of life. I certainly have been criticized by others for the way I take care of my dogs. To some, they view my routines, concerns and habits as spoiling them, as extravagant. And yet, I have never viewed my life this way. The way I treat them is a necessity, much like feeding a child, or taking care of any family member. The way I treat Brickle and Digby comes from a place of love and from a place in my heart that moves me to want them to be with me as long as possible. Happy and healthy is what I aim for. No, I don’t always do the right things. I am just like anyone else. But I try. And I certainly don’t treat them like dogs. I treat them like individuals.
If we recognize our dogs as individuals, why would we buy them food without thinking about what was in it, who made it, or if it was simply easier for us? This is why I make my dogs’ food. Every day. No, it is not because I have so much time on my hands. It is because I make the time.
If we recognize our dogs as individuals, and take our own health into consideration, why would we neglect physical exercise or adventure? Yes, I fight with depression daily. I don’t want to walk some mornings. But if I don’t take my dogs’ health and happiness into consideration and take them, I am affecting them. Not just me.
Sometimes, treating our dogs in the way we would want to be treated is in the little things. Like the collars or harnesses we use. Are they comfortable? What about their beds? Are they comfortable? Do we keep our dogs clean in a healthy way? Do we watch for their moods and demeanor? Do we keep our dogs’ water bowls clean? Do we truly VIEW them as individuals? Truly ask yourself that question. I have found that once someone realizes this simple fact, it becomes harder to take that pet to a shelter. It becomes harder to give up on that pet. It become impossible to look that pet in the eyes and not give your best.
We can all criticize each other for our own decisions in how we take care of our dogs. But if we do what we know is best, not just what we want to believe for our own sake, don’t let anyone tell you it is wrong. Spoiling a dog is not possible in my opinion. I could never thank them enough for what they give to me, unselfishly every day. And my dogs actually help me to love and care for people as well. They open my heart to forgiveness, unselfish devotion and concern. Being involved in animal rescue has taught me many things. But one is that all animals deserve to be treated respectfully. Just like people. Don’t confuse spoiling with care. Then, if we treat everyone “like a dog”, that will be a very beautiful thing.
Rachael Johnson, Owner and Girl Person of 2 Traveling Dogs and Your Dog’s Diner
Do you keep your dog’s water bowl clean? This is such a simple thing, but one thing that often gets overlooked. And even if we wash it every day, it’s actually not enough to kill the germs, bacteria, mould and fungi. They continue to grow and multiply rapidly even after a thorough wash. Interestingly, we learned that 67% of bowls coming out of the dishwasher still have Salmonella bacteria present on their surfaces.
YOUR DOG’S FOOD & WATER BOWLS ARE THE FOURTH GERMIEST SURFACES IN YOUR HOME
A study has shown they are our dog bowls are the fourth germiest surface in our homes after the kitchen sponge, kitchen sink and our toothbrush holder (According to the NSF – National Sanitation Foundation).
The HERO Bowl is a superior alternative to stainless steel, glass or ceramic products. It is made from recyclable polypropylene and has 24-hour protection from a technology that works constantly to reduce microbes, such as bacteria, mould and fungi, by up to 99.99% on the protected surface. It may also prevent the formation of biofilms. You know, that slimy stuff lurking in your water bowl.
25-YEAR GUARANTEED PERFORMANCE – THE ONLY BOWL YOU WILL EVER NEED
The silver ions technology is present throughout the HERO Bowl, providing protection even if it becomes scratched or is chewed by your dog. Because the antimicrobial protection cannot not wash off or wear away, it will last for the expected lifetime of the bowl. Biocote technology is proven to last 25 years – hard to get a better guarantee than that! The patent-pending HERO Bowl is simply a must-have product for pet owners that care as much about their pets’ hygiene as they do their own.
The HERO Bowl is made from recyclable polypropylene, is ergonomic, non-slip, and is dishwasher safe. Available in two sizes: Small and Large and It will come in a range of matt colours with a gloss logo to suit any home decor.
Check out the germ-busting HERO Bowl and see why all dogs deserve clean water.
This is a sponsored post, but all views reflected are our own.
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