By Katy Cable-The Weekly Runt / A 4 min. Read

I remember when I was young my dad, in an effort to get me to give up the Ding-Dongs and Oreos, told me about how “junk food” was made and that all kinds of bugs often got mixed in to these crummy processed snacks. Turns out, those very insects may have been the healthiest thing about my indulgence.

If you’d have told me just a year ago, there may come a day when insects become a major staple in our diets, I would’ve thought you were CRAZY! Now, I’m excited to share my experience and hopefully open your minds to joining the swarm of “insect eating”!

While visiting a popular beach town in Central Coast CA, I remember a street vendor selling crickets and grasshoppers dipped in dark chocolate. He also had tequila lollipops with a worm inside. It all seemed repulsive and I couldn’t believe people actually paid money to eat them. For me, this was just like a challenge that would get me booted off the island on a reality TV show.

At this year’s Vegas Pug Party, I had my eyes opened and my mind changed when I met Laura Colagrande, co-founder of Chippin Snacks. She kindly offered my little Pug Olive one of her apple, cricket, and flaxseed snacks. Olive, in all honesty, has never met a treat she didn’t like, devoured the little biscuit in under 10 seconds and begged for more.

Colagrande told me her story and I was intrigued. While studying design at U of Penn, she agreed to help her roommate, Haley Russell, a grad student at The Wharton School of Business, with a research project. The two examined using crickets as a viable alternative to meat for pet treats/meals and things have been hopping ever since.

🦗 WHY CRICKETS? 🦗

For starters, crickets pack a whole lotta punch! They’re an excellent source of omegas, vitamins and minerals. Additionally, they’re very low in fat compared to other proteins. Best of all, there’s no threat of e Coli, Staph or other pathogens..

HUMANELY SOURCED
That cricket chirp is their mating call. They live to reproduce. The process begins with crickets being cared for in numerous small farms which are all housed in warehouses. After the crickets have reproduced the temperature of their environment is slowly lowered until they reach a hibernation state. They are then frozen and ground into a powder. The cricket is never traumatized or feels any pain unlike nearly all other live animals used for food.

REDUCING YOUR CARBON PAWPrint🐾🐾🐾🐾
Did you know 80 % of water in the USA is used for food production? The natural resources used for the production of meat is staggering. I got “bug-eyes” when I llearned the statistics.

🐂 It takes roughly 2,000 gallons of water to produce 1lb of beef.
🐓 It requires around 560 gallons of water to produce 1lb of poultry.
🦗Now consider, it takes only 1 gallon of water to produce 1lb of edible cricket protein.

According to the Seattle Times, Americans eat more meat than ever before, nearly 223lb per person, per year! In 2018 America surpassed the all-time record eating over 100 billion pounds. The World Atlas names Australia and the USA as the world’s largest consumers of meat. With Americans owning 90 million dogs, pets in the USA consume more meat than 90% of the world’s countries.* That’s a lot of meat!

And that’s not all...
The global demand for meat is leading to environmental destruction. Livestock agriculture requires almost half of the earth’s total land. It’s wasteful AND TOXIC! For example, 55% of water used in the US is for factory farming. Runoff contaminates waterways with nitrogen and phosphates. The greenhouse gasses produced by livestock agriculture make up at least half of all man-made emissions. Methane, an emission, has a global warming potential that is 86 times more than carbon dioxide. The evidence is clear that animal consumption is the leading cause of reduced biodiversity, water pollution, and deforestation which are all causes of global warming.

WHAT YOU CAN DO...
Start with trying some cricket snacks. If you come to one of my events, I typically have samples. You can also find them at many pet stores, or order right here and use “WEEKLY RUNT” for a 10% discount. If you’re really adventurous you can purchase cricket powder and start experimenting. Try making your own meals and snacks. (Watch for my favs in an upcoming blog & show!😜)


​A FINE GATEWAY BUG
You may find crickets are your “gateway bug” into a whole new way of eating for YOU AND YOUR PET! Mark my words, insect protein is going to explode like ants at a picnic! A complete, viable protein that’s easy to farm, inexpensive and packs a lot of punch for a lot less water! Very soon all of us will be saying, “There’s a bug in my food!” And, “Please pass the crickets!”

BUGS, PUGS & KISSES, 😘🐾❤️
-Katy

CHIP IN & SAVE WATER

*https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/top-meat-consuming-countries-in-the-world.html

​
🐾Katy Cable is a former actress appearing in “Back To The Future” and starring in the TV series: “Safe At Home” & “ Fired Up!” In addition to her dog health & lifestyle blog/vlog: The Weekly Runt, (https://www.weeklyrunt.com/) she’s a contributing writer to numerous publications including Thrive Global, & The Huffington Post. Cable lives at the beach with her husband, Rick and her rescue Pug, Olive.🐾

By Katy Cable-TWR
A 2 min. Read

To Bee Or Not To Bee! For years I've been hearing how our planet and our very survival is at great risk due to billions and billions of bees dying off at an alarming rate. As scary a thought as that is, I can’t understand it since I personally have seen no shortage of bees. As a matter of fact, quite the contrary. They seem to be buzzing around everywhere I look.

I'm deathly allergic to bees and just the sight of one puts me in a sheer panic! I'm often that crazy lady running around ballistically screaming and making a huge scene at the first sign of anything buzzing around me. And usually it’s just someone’s cellphone. Between my frantic behavior and my Chanel No. 5 cologne, I’m a total
“bee magnet” and they come after me like starving linebackers hitting the all-you-can-eat buffet! I've been stung on many occasions and because I'm allergic, my reaction gets worse with each subsequent attack! It’s so bad that I've been warned a sting on my face or neck could be deadly and I now carry an Epipen®️ to be safe. But what about our dogs?

Brachy (flat-nosed) dogs have a difficult time breathing as it is and a sting or any type of swelling to the face can be life-threatening. Now that the temperatures have warmed up, the flowers are in full bloom and we're spending more time outside, here are some important safety tips to both prevent and treat a bee-sting.

As the saying goes, "An ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure!" The first defense against bee stings is to try and avoid them in the first place. Don't leave your dog outside alone if your yard has plants that attract bees. Better yet, replace plants with varieties that don’t attract them. Roses are great options and mint is also a favorite.

Walk earlier in the AM or later in the PM when temps are cooler and bees aren't out in droves. If possible avoid going near certain flowers, herbs, shrubs and grasses that attract bees. Also stay clear of brushy bushes and trails.

Double check where your dog is going potty and lead them to safe places. Ditto for curious sniffing. Pet stores now carry lightweight clothing, caps, sunglasses and booties that might be a good option for outdoor hiking or even walks in bee prone areas. If you’re out hiking or in a place where you’re not able to race to a vet, I recommend carrying a bee emergency kit with you. I also advise keeping your dog covered up in lightweight clothing and booties.

🐝🐝TAKING THE STING OUT OF BEE STINGS🐝🐝

1. If an isolated bee pops out of nowhere and stings your dog, check and see if the stinger and venom sac are still attached. If so:
SLIDE A CREDIT CARD ALONG THE SITE TO GENTLY REMOVE THE STINGER WITHOUT pushing more venom into your dog's bloodstream.

2. IF YOUR DOG IS STUNG ON THE FACE AND/OR YOU SEE THE SIGHT IS SWELLING UP, ADMINISTER BENEDRYL & PREDNISONE IMMEDIATELY!

3. FOR PAIN RELIEF: MAKE A PASTE IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND BY MIXING BAKING SODA WITH A SPLASH OF WATER. DAB IT ON SITE. You can re-apply this paste every 2-3 hours as necessary. CBD can also be applied topically and orally!

4. APPLY ICE AND GET TO A VET IMMEDIATELY TO AVOID FURTHER COMPLICATIONS.

BEE STING KIT:
🐝Prednisone Pill (5mg pill for 10-25lb dogs)
🐝Benedryl Pill (1/2 25mg pill for 15-25lb dogs)
🐝small pill pockets for administering pills
🐝Baking Soda (put a few tbs in a plastic bag
🐝small doggie bandana
🐝small ice pack
🐝small bottle of water
🐝credit card or hotel key-for removing stinger
🐝1 small baby aspirin (for pain)
🐝CBD Oil

​Nothing can spoil a good time in the great outdoors like a nasty bee sting, so these tips will allow you to "BEE" 🐝 SAFE! Pugs & Kisses! -Katy

By Katy Cable-A 3 min. Read

😎Here in So. Cal it seems we get more clouds, drizzle and chill in June than we do in February. Still, now that the summer is in high gear and our calendars are filling with fun outdoor activities, I felt it was important to share tips on how to help your dog keep their cool during hot weather.

I live a short walk from one of the most popular beaches for DOGS in Southern California. Every weekend there are loads of events and meet-ups going on. Unfortunately there are also many incidents that could have been easily prevented. It’s so important for everyone to be aware of safety tips and signs of overheating.

Pugs and other brachycephalic breeds (dogs with flat faces and short noses, such as Bulldogs, Boxers, Pugs, Pekinese, and Shih-tzus), older pets, dogs that are ill or have a chronic health condition, and dogs not used to warm weather are extremely susceptible to overheating so be mindful of the following signs:
Heavy panting or rapid breathing
Elevated body temperature
Excessive thirst
Bright or dark red tongue and gums
Excessive drooling
Glazed eyes
Increased pulse and heartbeat
Vomiting
bloody diarrhea

If you dog is exhibiting any of the above symptoms you need to to start cooling them down immediately and keep close watch on their behavior.

Take your pet to the nearest emergency veterinary clinic IMMEDIATELY if you notice any of the following SIGNS OF LIFE-THREATENING OVERHEATING:
Staggering, stumbling
Weakness and collapse
Seizures
Unconsciousness

Now that you’re aware of the warning signs here’s how to keep your pup from getting overheated in the first place.

⛱ BEACH SAFETY 101 ⛱
Before you head out for the beach, I recommend bringing an umbrella, tent or Easy-Up so you have a shady spot for your dog to retreat from the sun. You’ll also want to bring 2 large towels or blankets. It's good idea to have one for your dog to lay on as well as one you can soak and use to cool your dog off if they get overheated.

If the sand sand is burning your tootsies, you can bet it will burn your doggie's paws. Make sure you put them in booties or socks if they are too large a dog to carry across the hot sand.

​Fresh drinking water and a bowl are MUSTS! Always have fresh water to keep your doggie hydrated and also so they are not tempted to drink seawater or from pools of standing water which may be filthy. Also communal water bowls can provide a lot more than hydration in the form of parasites and nasty doggy germs. Have your own bowl of water handy.

Many people don't realize dogs are susceptible to sunburn and skin cancer. The most sensitive dogs are:
shaved
short-coated
light colored
and if course hairless dogs.

For those breeds, I recommend staying OUT of the sun on extremely hot days and during peak hours (10AM-2PM). The best protection is to dress your dog in a T-shirt, sun-shirt with UV protection or a cooling vest which shields from harmful rays and keeps dogs from overheating.

I also advise getting a sunscreen for your dog. Please note, make sure the sunscreen is a formula safe for dogs. Human sunscreens can contain ingredients (such as zinc) which are toxic if ingested. Be sure to cover your dog's nose, ears, belly, and inside hind legs.

Along with sun safety, you'll need to be equally prepared to keep your sweetie safe in the water. Surf Gidget the Pug, makes it look easy but Pugs, and several other breeds are not strong swimmers (actually they're genetically designed to sink like stones!) I would recommend a life vest if you're out at the beach, in a boat or on open water. Even with a life vest you must supervise your dog in the water. An unexpected wave, rip current, rapids or even stepping on a dead bee, sharp coral or jellyfish can be major hazards.

It goes without saying if your dog may be sick, is lethargic, has the runs, or is in heat, do not visit the beach, dog park or any other public dog area.

Hold off on visiting a dog beach or park until your dog is trusted to obey commands. If you are dog sitting, have a new shelter or rescue dog, this may pose too much risk until you are more familiar with your pet. Many people love letting their dogs run around off-leash (I'm one of them) but if your dog isn't consistent with following your commands I recommend for everyone's safety, you keep them on a leash until they’re better trained. It can extremely dangerous if your dog is racing down the beach and not aware of a potential dangerous situation.

And finally, just a few “Golden Rules” for the dog beach. Remember beaches depend on all of us to keep them safe and clean. Bring waste disposal bags, -and maybe a few extras for those who may not be as conscientious. Be the bigger person who picks up and takes care of keeping the beach safe and clean. So many people don’t.
It goes without saying if your dog may be sick, is lethargic, has the runs, or is in heat, do not visit the beach, dog park or any other public dog area.

Be attentive to your dog. This is not the time or place to relax with a good book or your nose in your IG feed. Be on the lookout. A fun run down the beach chasing a ball can quickly turn to an aggressive dog fight. If you notice play getting a bit rough and you’re concerned, call your dog and distract them with some one-one-one play.

If everyone adheres to some basic safety precautions we can cut down on a lot of injuries. Let's keep dog friendly beaches a fun place to make memories. Pugs & kisses 😘 See you at the beach.⛱ -Katy Cable & Olive

If you’re in the SoCal area I hope you’ll join some of the fun beach meet-ups and events. Click here for more info: https://www.weeklyrunt.com/events.html

By, Katy Cable -TWR
A 4 min. Read

It’s been a real “shake and bake” holiday! As if 4th of July fireworks sounding more like “bombs bursting in air” weren’t scary enough, here in SoCal we also had two of the largest earthquakes to hit in over 20 years. I figured this was a perfect time to remind everyone: NOW IS THE TIME TO PREPARE!

If you’re a pet parent, that also means preparing for them too! Unlike most other natural disasters, earthquakes are sneaky and, as we just saw, don’t come with any warning. Total devastation can happen in a split second.

Waiting until the last minute to have an emergency plan and supplies in place is not only foolish but may be deadly. So, BEFORE a crisis, while it's fresh on everyone's minds, I hope each and every one of you will take a few minutes and: Make a disaster plan for you AND your pets!

⚠️BEFORE THE BIG ONE HITS⚠️
Here are some important tips to keep pets safe in natural disasters and emergencies:

1. HAVE ALL YOUR PETS MICRO-CHIPPED and make sure they’re wearing ID collars when home alone. You'll increase your chances of being reunited with pets who get lost by having them micro-chipped; But remember, the “Good Samaritan” who finds your pet likely won't be able to scan for a chip, but they will be able to read a basic tag!
*Put your cellphone number on your pet's tag. It may also be a good idea to include the phone number of a friend or relative outside your immediate area in the event you have to evacuate.

2. PREPARE AN EMERGENCY KIT FOR YOUR PETS: Include essentials such as:
🐾2 weeks of clean drinking water & non-perishable high quality dry pet food. Store in water-tight containers.
🐾Water purification tablets
🐾First aid kit
🐾Any medication your pet takes plus first-aid meds: (antacid/sm can pumpkin/Benadryl/baby aspirin) CBD oil (For Stress Relief)
🐾Crate labeled with photo of pet and ER contact #
🐾comfort toys/in crate
🐾booties or baby socks
🐾T-Shirt/warm coat/sweater/blanket/pillow
🐾reflective harness/leash
🐾Life preserver
​🐾Puppy pads/poop bags

3. KEEP EMERGENCY KIT SUPPLIES IN YOUR CAR AS WELL AS YOUR HOME. If you live in LA, there’s a good chance you may be in your car or out and about.

4. Make sure there's a sign on your door for emergency personnel that you own pets and where they typically hide in the house if scared.

5. Anchor televisions, bookcases and armoires securely to walls. Be mindful of heavy or delicate objects that may fall onto a pet or small child during shaking. Organize accordingly.

6. Entrust a neighbor with a key who can get your pets in the event of an emergency and you’re away. Be sure the person is comfortable with your pets and your pets are familiar with them. Show them where your pets are likely to be (especially if they hide when they're nervous) and where your disaster supplies are kept. I like to keep a backpack in a small travel crate.

⚠️If you have a pet-sitter: Make a plan well in advance. Also discuss a specific meeting spot to retrieve your pets should there be an emergency evacuation.

7. LOCATE A SAFE AREA IN YOUR HOME. If your family and pets must wait out a storm or an earthquake hits, identify a safe area where you can all congregate. Look for strong tables to duck under so you’ll be protected from falling objects and debris.

I highly recommend playing it SAFE! If there is a threat EVACUATE EARLY!! Don't wait for a mandatory evacuation order. Some people who have waited had to be evacuated by emergency officials and their pets were often left behind. The smell of smoke, rapidly rising water, or the sound of high winds or thunder may make your pet more fearful and difficult to locate or load into a crate or carrier. Evacuating before conditions become severe will keep everyone safer and make the process much less stressful.

IF YOU MUST EVACUATE, TAKE YOUR PET: This goes without saying. If it isn't safe for you, it isn't safe for your pets. You have no way of knowing how long you'll be kept out of the area, and you may not be able—or allowed—to go back and retrieve your pets. Pets left behind in a disaster can easily be injured, lost or killed. If you cannot get your pet, do not leave them chained, tied up or locked in a crate. At least give them the opportunity to escape.

Prior to the earth shaking, storm hitting or fire breaking out: check with hotels and motels outside your immediate area to find out if they accept pets. Ask about any restrictions on number, size and species. Inquire if a "no-pet" policy would be waived due to an emergency. Keep a list of animal-friendly places handy, and call ahead for a reservation as soon as you think you might have to leave your home.

For help identifying pet-friendly lodgings, check out these websites:

• Bringfido.com
• dogfriendly.com
• petswelcome.com
• tripswithpets.com

Contact your veterinarian's office. Ask for referrals or services in outside areas. Make a list of boarding facilities and veterinary offices that might be able to shelter animals in disaster emergencies (make sure to include their 24-hour telephone numbers.)

Check with your local animal shelter. Some shelters may be able to provide foster care or shelter for pets in an emergency. But keep in mind that shelters have limited resources and are likely to be stretched during a local emergency.

⚠️AFTER A DISASTER⚠️
Your home may be a very different place and it may be hard for your pets to adjust. The entire landscape of your neighborhood may have completely changed. Do these things to keep you and your pets safe:
​
⚠️Keep pets indoors. Put dogs on leashes and cats in carriers to protect them. Make sure they’re wearing fluorescent ID collars should they go missing at night. DON’T ALLOW PETS TO ROAM LOOSE. They could easily get lost or be injured by broken glass live wires and other hazards

⚠️Close off and eliminate any nooks and crannies where frightened pets may try to hide and/or escape. Tape up doggie doors, fireplaces, and windows. Familiar sights and smells may be gone and pets may be extremely fearful and/or disoriented. The last thing you need is to be looking for a lost pet.

⚠️Shut off gas. Stay clear of live wires.

⚠️Move/secure or clean up any dangerous items such as sharp tools, toxic products or glass objects.

⚠️Keep emergency supplies (see just above) in air-tight containers. Store in pet carriers and keep handy in the garage or under a bed for easy access. Also have supplies in your car.

⚠️Check your property for wildlife that may have been displaced and is seeking refuge. They could pose a threat to you and/or your pets.

⚠️Be patient with your pet. Prepare for some behavior problems after the event. Try and get them back into their normal routine as quickly as possible. Consult with your veterinarian if problems persist or you notice any major trauma health issues.

​I hope if the earth starts moving under your feet or or disaster strikes, these tips will protect both you and your beloved pets! Now go enjoy the rest of your happy summer! -Katy 💕

​🐾Katy Cable is a former actress appearing in “Back To The Future” and starring in the TV series: “Safe At Home” & “ Fired Up!” In addition to her dog health & lifestyle blog/vlog: The Weekly Runt, (https://www.weeklyrunt.com/) she’s a contributing writer to numerous publications including Thrive Global, & The Huffington Post. Cable lives at the beach with her husband, Rick and her rescue Pug, Olive.🐾

By Katy Cable - The Weekly Runt
A 3 min.read

l interrupt my regularly scheduled weekly blog to bring you this special update on the latest "GRAIN-FREE" PET FOOD SCARE.

This weekend I attended an anniversary event at a popular pet store. As I left my house, I was bombarded with a flood of texts, calls and concerns about the latest news story:
“FDA investigates possible link between popular pet foods and heart disease...”

When I arrived at the event nearly every pet parent I met was feeding one of the brands mentioned and most were extremely concerned about the safety of their pet's food.

SO, before I address this, I invite you to COME, SIT, and READ...First off, I AM NOT WORRIED ONE BIT ABOUT THIS NEWS STORY! In my blogs about "grain-free" diets, (most diets actually) the FIRST THING I advise pet parents to do is "read the labels" Often, "grain-free" foods are higher in sugar/carbs and contain more corn, soy, rice and vegetable proteins than foods that contain grain. Therefore, a "grain-free" pet food can often be a LESS HEALTHY option. It's simply a marketing/packaging spin!

I believe "grain-free" is still the way to go. Dogs and cats don't need GRAINS! They thrive on animal, fish and game protein. They do however, need a variety of trace minerals and vitamins found in veggies. Meat is expensive, and labor intensive, so, pet foods often keep prices low by adding corn, rice and potatoes as MAIN INGREDIENTS. Better options are low-glycemic carbs which don't convert to sugar as quickly such as peas, lentils and sweet potatoes, but they're still NOT A SUBSTITUTE for animal protein.

I attended this event on behalf of NULO pet foods, for which I am a proud brand ambassador. Nulo was not listed in the findings and one of the reasons must be because NULO uses the highest amount of protein from animal sources, not carbs! The first 3-4 ingredients are meat proteins followed by "low-gylcemic" carbs to round out the nutritional platform.

The founder of the company, Michael Landa, is an All-American medal swimmer who knows a thing or two about nutrition and performance. He also created NULO to provide a wonderful food for his own Lab, Max. Labrador and Golden Retrievers are listed as the top breeds affected by this particular heart condition: DCM. Nulo has long been aware of the common health issues affecting our pets and formulated a food to hopefully combat these problems.

If you're feeding a brand listed in the reports, I still wouldn't worry. Here's why:

Whenever there's a study (or scare) or I'm researching something, the first thing I do is figure out, "WHO'S PAYING TO CONDUCT THIS RESEARCH STUDY" 9-out-of-10 times it can be traced back to someone with special interests with big pharma or a major corporation. Face it, lots of alternative sites, products and research have been shot down and attacked for posting holistic options for cancer, diabetes, and an array of other health issues simply because there's NO MONEY TO BE MADE and these healthy options are putting a dent in the profits of drugs, vets, and giant commercial pet food brands. The people at the very tippy-top of the food chain aren't concerned with your pet's health but PROFITS! -Plain and simple. For more information on how the pet food industry works check out my blog: PET FOOLED

First off, this research is weak at best. Let's start with the report:
"FDA INVESTIGATING POTENTIAL LINK BETWEEN DIET AND HEART DISEASE IN DOGS. The FDA is looking into a potential correlation between grain-free diets and a type of heart disease in dogs known as dilated cardiomyopathy...or DCM."

DCM is a disease of the dog's heart muscle that results in weakened contractions and poor pumping ability. It can lead to enlarged heart and congestive heart failure. Even death.

The article goes on to list the breeds most commonly affected as well as the type of foods (kibble, wet, moist, raw, unknown) and the brands fed.

The first thing that struck me was all the brands listed were relatively popular, high-end, quality brands. I find it strange there wasn't one mention of some of the worst, cheapest, grocery store brands listed. Brands which list: corn, soy, rice, and potatoes as the FIRST TWO INGREDIENTS.

Another point: The FDA researchers observed that most of these DCM cases were associated with dogs eating DRY, GRAIN-FREE, foods. Doesn't that make sense when typically, far more dog owners feed dry food and most options available today are marketed as "grain-free."

The report lists the top brands named in this DCM study but it doesn't include any information or statistics of what other pet foods were used. I highly doubt dogs eating the 2 top foods named (Acana & Zignature) were fairing more poorly than dogs on IAMS, or Kibbles-n-Bits. In fact, the Acana feeder is probably more educated on pet food, willing to spend more money on their pet's food and visits their vet more frequently for routine care. They may also be more prone to own the breeds of dogs more prevalent to get DCM. SOOOOOOOOO MANY QUESTIONS, SO LITTLE INFO.

My biggest takeaway of this scare was this portion:
"It's important to note that the reports include dogs that have eaten grain-free and grain-containing foods and also include vegetarian or vegan formulations. They also include all forms of diets. Kibble, canned, raw and home-cooked."
"Therefore, we do not think these cases can be explained simply by whether or not they contain grains or by brand or manufacturer." (THAT'S IN BOLD RED TYPE!)

So, there it is! The whole study and story is BOGUS HYPE! It's designed to put the fear of God into pet parents and sell news. I wouldn't be surprised if a big brand pet food company, feeling the pinch of some of these competitors taking market share, is behind the whole scare. They may be planning to bring a new prescription DCM formula pet food to market!

The article goes on to state:
"To put this issue into proper context, the American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that they are 77 million pet dogs in the United States.
As of April 30, 2019, the FDA has received reports about 560 dogs diagnosed with DCM suspected to be linked to diet. (THIS TOO OUTLINED IN RED BOLD TYPE) Tens of millions of dogs have been eating dog food without developing DCM."

There's more to the article: DOG FOOD ADVISORY REPORT (That's the link for those of you who wish to research or read this more carefully.) My conclusion is the same as it's been since I started blogging and discussing "grain-free" diets way back in 2015 -before they were even A THING!

For nearly 18 years I've been working with sick, sensitive, shelter and rescue dogs (and PUGS!😜) I have witnessed healing and health due to simple holistic options and better diets that I had to SEE FOR MYSELF TO BELIEVE!

I now make it my business to do the research and investigation on matters concerning our pets health. I want to share my findings with you. I introduced miracles happening in dogs with deadly cancers due to ketogenic diets. I showed how CBD can reduce or eliminate seizures and anxiety and many other breakthroughs long before most people even knew what they were.

I'm honored to be a brand ambassador for many companies and products BECAUSE I CHOOSE to represent them and I personally use (AND LOVE!) their products. I have turned down many lucrative endorsements simply because I can't honesty stand behind what I wouldn't use myself or recommend to my loved ones.

Thank you for reading and being such a loving pet parent. Together we can make a difference and be part of a new movement advocating for our pets!

I hope you'll visit my site and sign up to receive my FREE weekly blog. Pass it on to your pet parent friends! You’ll find nearly 100 blogs on a variety of popular topics.

I welcome your comments or dialog and if I can be of any help, I hope you'll reach out! -Pugs and kisses!🐾❤️😘 -Katy


​🐾Katy Cable is a former actress appearing in “Back To The Future” and starring in the TV series: “Safe At Home” & “ Fired Up!” In addition to her dog health & lifestyle blog/vlog: The Weekly Runt, (https://www.weeklyrunt.com/) she’s a contributing writer to numerous publications including Thrive Global, & The Huffington Post. Cable lives at the beach with her husband, Rick and her rescue Pug, Olive.🐾

By Katy Cable-Thrive Global
A 4 minute read

It’s that time of year again! Time for celebrations, outdoor living, beach day's, BBQ's and of course...What May be the WORST DAY OF THE YEAR for many dogs...The 4th of July!

When it comes to the 4th of July, I’m right there with most dogs and like the holiday as much as I like a parking ticket. Huge crowds of drunk, disorderly people invade my little beach community and it becomes a loud, crazy, “RED, WHITE & BOOZE” war zone.

Good news! Here are my SURE-FIRE, “tried & true” “red white & blue” tips for surviving the 4th! Hopefully these suggestions will allow your pup to enjoy a stress-free “Safe & Sane” holiday.

Did you know more pets go missing or end up in shelters during the 4th of July holiday than at any other time during the year. This is a crucial time to check your dog's ID tag and micro-chipping (your vet can scan and confirm your contact info. is up-to-date and it's working.) If your dog's collar is loose or getting worn or the contact info is hard to read, -get a new one! That way, God-forbid your dog goes missing your chances of being reunited are much more likely.

Let's start with your dog. If they have exhibited "off-the-charts" anxiety that would be more than even Cesar Millan could conquer, -PLAN AHEAD! I recommend if you can't stay with your dog, you consider making a reservation to board your dog overnight in a sound-proof facility. I know PetSmart has a great program with fun ice-cream socials and play-times. After a full day of fun, the dogs can rest peacefully in sound-proof kennels. The price is reasonable BUT they book quickly for this holiday (many are booked a year in advance!) so call NOW!!!

If boarding isn't going to work, look into hiring a pet-sitter to stay with your anxious dog. Preferably somewhere that has minimal firework activity.

Whether you’re staying with your dog, boarding them, or getting a pet-sitter, I recommend a few tips: Begin looking in stores or on-line for items that help with anxiety. The very best defense I have found for firework anxiety is CBD products by Treatibles®️ These treats, oils, and capsules have been a game-changer for fearful dogs. Since not all products are as potent or sourced as rigorously, I recommend and use Treatibles®️ You can purchase them at most independent pet stores or online. (Use code: WEEKLY RUNT at checkout for a 10% discount) It works MIRACLES on a variety of issues including firework anxiety and has ZERO side-effects.

Next, grab an arsenal of NEW toys/treats. I like to buy all-natural (free-range/grass-fed with no hormones, antibiotics or steroids) buffalo ears or, if I can supervise, bully-sticks. I give these out when the firework festivities are beginning. Often the dog is so focused on their stress-relieving chew, they forget about the fireworks. Buffalo ears dissolve and are suitable for even the tiniest of pups. Also they don't run the risk of being a choking hazard.

Another good idea is fill a Kong with some canned and dry turkey dog food (I use Nulo which is grain-free, human-grade quality and contains a powerhouse probiotic, GanedenBC30.) I mix the two together then pop it in the freezer if it's a hot day. The tryptophan in the turkey acts as a natural sleep inducer and will help relax your anxious dog.

Other great options are rope and chew toys made of hemp and/or calming herbs. Most pet stores have a great selection of “calming toys” to chose from.

When fireworks begin, distract your pet from the noise by engaging them with interactive play. Many people baby and pamper their frightened pet. This only encourages fearful behavior. Instead, snap them out of this state by grabbing a toy and playing chase or tossing a toy and telling them to go fetch. Try to keep their attention on interactive play.

Set up a "calming zone" in a quiet place with your dog's bed, a covered crate, a diffuser containing lavender oil and pheromone (a hormone found to reduce stress and anxiety.) Compression THUNDER®️ shirts can also be a help for some dogs but others get more anxious getting in and out of the restrictive garb. Add a few new toys. Don't let your dog have access to this area until the evening gets going. Toys will be new and exciting and a good distraction from fireworks. Try and drowned out firework noise with the TV or music but if it’s still too loud, maybe move this spot to the bathroom and run a warm bubble-bath.

If you must leave your dog, and can't hire anyone to pet-sit, put your pet in their calming area and put on classical music which has shown to reduce stress in dogs. There are several great stress-relieving music sources for canines if you search online. Try and stay with your pet until they are relaxed and calm.

Make sure pets are left in a secure place and can't escape. Before leaving: always double and triple check all windows, doors, and gates. (When in a state of panic dogs can scale 16ft walls and achieve other miraculous feats.) If possible use a camera to check on your dog while you are away. It's not an ideal time to leave them alone and depending on the stress level, I would only do this as a last resort for a very short amount of time.

Lastly, start the day with lots of exercise. It will no-doubt be crowded but try and get out early before the heat and craziness kick into high gear. If weather is a deterrent, sign up for a course at a local indoor facility like Zoom Room and have some fun together. Even an older dog can go for a nice, long, albeit SLOW, walk. Or, for less mobile dogs, a long stroll in a wagon will get them out in the fresh air. This will get their adrenaline going, get their heart rate up, and best of all, tire them out. Hopefully they will sleep like a baby later on.

Ironically, my little Olive, who's frightened of her own shadow, has no problem with fireworks. I'M the one who will be under the bed eating CBD treats, wearing my noise-cancelling headphones chilling out. Have a fun holiday! 🇺🇸Pugs and kisses! -Katy. 🐾

By, Katy Cable, TWR
A 3 min. Read
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In a suburban So Cal neighborhood where the lawns are perfectly manicured, and the streets are crowded with kids on skateboards and bikes, an unsuspecting little Maltipoo puppy named Pumba, fell prey to a coyote. This is not a rural area. The closest park is miles away. This home is not over-run with bushes and shrubs but features a tiny garden, large patio and a gi-normous swimming pool. Little Pumba was not roaming around lost in the woods but sitting in the kitchen getting ready to enjoy his evening meal.

No sooner had the dish been set down when Pumba, in the blink of an eye, was snatched and dragged out the small doggie door by a coyote. As as tragic as this story is, I chalked it up to an extremely rare occurrence. Then lo-and-behold, just that night on my social media news feed, I saw three other neighbors had found remains of dogs and cats on their lawns. -One lady went so far as to post graphic photos which will haunt me for months! Another post was a gentleman who issued a warning after having his small dog snatched by a coyote while he was out walking. The real kicker was when my best friend Alex, who lives over an hour away, lost her beloved cat, Juliette to a coyote.

Coyotes are no longer just found in rural, remote, wooded areas. They have now begun populating busy urban cities and beach communities. From late March, through the summer, AKA "COYOTE SEASON" coyotes are out in full force gathering food for their new pups. During this time, they are even more aggressive and resourceful and typically look for smaller, unsuspecting pets to prey on. As quickly as the flowers bloom and the weather gets warmer, so do the reports of coyote sightings. And even worse, heartbreaking stories of pets falling victim to them.

Don't be fooled, coyotes who dwell in more populated areas tend to be less fearful of people. Most will not hesitate to approach very closely and attack. In the amount of time it takes you to glance at a new text message, they can sneak up behind you, snatch up a small, unsuspecting pet and race off. Coyotes can scale 16ft solid wood walls, and slide through small doggie doors faster than you can say "Dinner Time!"

In the dark or from far away, it is easy to mistake a coyote for a malnourished Husky-mix or German Shepard. Warn children THESE ARE NOT STRAY DOGS. They are WILD ANIMALS! I nearly made this mistake myself when I saw a coyote running through a popular neighborhood park. The closest thing to a wild animal in my beach community is a hungry squirrel so naturally I assumed someone's dog had gotten out. As I drove around trying to catch "the lost dog" and got within a few feet, I knew exactly why it wasn't wearing a collar. -IT WAS A COYOTE! It wasn't scared. It didn't run off. It stood not 4 feet away waiting for my next move. I'm glad I didn't have the remains of a Subway Sandwich in my hand or I may not be here to write this blog.
​
Here's a few important tips to keep you and your pets safe.


🐾BE PREPARED 🐾

Avoid walking your pet from dusk-until-dawn. If you must, use extreme caution and follow the tips below.

1. Pay close attention to both your dog and your surroundings. This isn't the time to chat on your phone or send text messages.

2. Use a short leash and keep dog at your side.

3. Bring a large stick. Invest in a deterrent spray, shreak alarm or loud whistle. A can filled with coins can work too.

3. Walk in crowded, well-lit areas if possible. Especially during peak coyote times.

4. Stay clear, and keep your dog away from bushes, brush areas and other places that may serve as coyote dens.

5. If coyotes have have been spotted in your area, DO NOT GO OUT during peak feeding hours.

6. Seal off doggie doors.

7. Do not leave food outside.

8. Cut back shrubs, bushes or other areas that could serve as hiding spots for coyotes.


🐾IF A COYOTE APPROACHES🐾

1. BE AS BIG AND LOUD AS POSSIBLE. Wave your arms and throw rocks while backing up slowly.

2. Keep your pet away from the coyote. Do not let them approach.

3. DO NOT RUN!

4. DO NOT TURN YOUR BACK!

5. If you do sight a coyote CALL ANIMAL CONTROL. Also post the details (location/time) on social media sites for your area. Advise neighbors with pets/children. If coyotes have hit the beach, they can be anywhere. BE ON THE 👀 LOOKOUT and be SAFE!

💔💔This blog dedicated to Pumba, Juliette and all the other beloved pets who were killed by coyotes. 💔💔

By Katy Cable-TWR
A 3 min. Read
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If you're like me your heart melts over the Pugs (and/or Frenchies, Bostons, Bullies, Shihtzus, etc.) You dote on their darling wrinkles while spending a king's ransom on Botox to remove your own. Their bulging eyes, curly "cinnamon bun" tails and soft folded ears that feel like rose petals make your day! I bet you can't imagine life without these special creatures.

We "smooshy-faced" dog lovers are not alone. Look no further than your TV and you're bound to see a Pug or two promoting products. They are adored by some of the biggest celebrities. Jessica Alba, Robin Williams, Hugh Laurie, Gerard Butler, Paris Hilton, George Clooney, Andy Warhol, and Valentino, are Pug lovers. While Lady Gaga, Madonna, Hugh Jackman, Reese Witherspoon, Micheal Phelps and the Beckham's own Frenchies. They have replaced the Scottie dog and Poodle gracing everything from T-shirts to gift wrap to decor. Doug the Pug is currently one of our most celebrated pug-lebrities.

In Great Britain, the French Bulldog replaced the Labrador Retriever as the most popular dog breed. With Pugs and English Bulldogs not far behind.
However this popularity does come at a price and in the case of Pugs, English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Shih Tzus and other Brachycephalic** dogs, it can be an extremely high one. -Enough to leave you with both an “achy-brachy” heart AND pocketbook.

When it comes to pugs and other brachy (smooshy-faced) dogs, it's buyer beware. What many are surprised to learn is these breeds come with a laundry list of common conditions that can be astronomically expensive. And, due to their exploding popularity, irresponsible breeders hoping to cash-in, are perpetuating the problem. We currently have an epidemic of suffering, compromised pets and heartbroken owners facing financial ruin.

In fact, veterinarians in Britain are going so far as to run huge public campaigns urging people to stop getting this breed due to their plethora of costly, serious health issues.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) president, Sean Wensley sends a strong warning that flat-faced (brachycephalic) dogs typically come with numerous debilitating health problems, and "breeding them just encourages more pain and suffering."

Due to their altered facial construction, flat-faced breeds have what is called brachycephalic respiratory syndrome to varying degrees. These pets often have very small, tightly scrolled nostrils that are so narrow it can be hard to move air in and out. We would liken it to us as humans having to spend our entire life breathing through a drinking straw.

Brachycephalic respiratory issues are often progressive conditions, so breathing problems tend to worsen over time leaving many older dogs in complete respiratory distress. Because of all their respiratory issues, they are at severe risk when needing anesthesia and many are banned from airplane travel. They also overheat quickly and easily develop serious heatstroke.

They also have an elongated soft palate, which is a flap of skin at the back of the throat that causes the characteristic snorting and other respiratory sounds often heard in "brachy" breeds. Another common problem for these breeds is collapsed trachea, which also causes breathing issues.

The Pug also has a "highly desirable" double-curl tail, which is actually a genetic defect that can result in paralysis. Other breed-specific issues include: high blood pressure, heart problems, low blood oxygen levels, dental issues and skin fold dermatitis.

If you own a Pug, Frenchie or Bulldog and have ventured into social media you have no doubt experienced the backlash of haters. Calling your precious fur baby everything from ugly to wanting to kill you for owning a dog they feel is suffering.

So is the beloved Pug soon to be extinct? Thankfully the answer is an overwhelming NO! With their enormous popularity and appeal, the darling Pug is in no danger of going away anytime soon. However, we do need to raise awareness and stress more responsible breeding.​

For an example of how this crisis is transpiring, one needs only look at pugs over the years. Since the early 1900's pugs seem to have gotten shorter legs, larger heads, smaller nostrils, double curled tails and more exaggerated barrel chests. Carolinе Kisko, thе Kеnnеl Club sеcrеtary, said thе problеms with brachycеphalic dogs are bеing pеrpеtuatеd by disrеputablе puppy farms.
“Brееds such as thе Frеnch Bulldog and Pug havе sееn a suddеn incrеasе in popularity in rеcеnt yеars, lеading to a hugе dеmand for thеm. This has providеd a rеady markеt for unscrupulous brееdеrs to еffеctivеly churn out puppiеs for profit, outsidе of any rеgulation or umbrеlla of influеncе, with no rеgard for thеir hеalth and wеlfarе." She adds,
“It’s likеly that thеy’rе dеlibеratеly brееding еxaggеratеd dogs in thе hopе that thеy’ll appеar ‘cutе’ to puppy buyеrs. Rеsponsiblе brееdеrs will brееd with hеalth as thе top priority, and thе Kеnnеl Club brееd standards makе it clеar that еxaggеrations in any brееd should bе avoidеd.”
​
Sadly, what I see all too often are well-intentioned pet owners who can no longer afford the astronomical costs associated with these dogs and they’re relinquished to shelters and rescues in their senior years. Unfortunately, it’s not only happening here in the USA!

According to a headline in the UK's Telegraph, "While the purchase of flat-faced dogs in the U.K. is trending upward, dog parents are also reportedly abandoning their brachys in alarming numbers." The reason? Owners can't cope with the health problems associated with these breeds.

At the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home in South London, the number of older Pugs, Frenchies and Shih Tzus entering the shelter almost tripled in just five years. And the rescues I work with here in So. Cal are also over-run with sick, older Pugs who have expensive conditions to treat.

Here’s what you can do to help:
1. First and foremost, educate yourself on the breed of any dog you’re considering. It will give you indicators on energy levels, temperament, lifespan and possible health issues.

2. Always consider rescuing or adopting a pet from a shelter. Many times shelters have pure-bred dogs and certainly rescues can be an amazing resource and support.

3. Only use responsible breeders. Responsible breeders thoroughly interview perspective owners and take the utmost care and selection in breeding.

4. Whatever you do: DO NOT SUPPORT backyard breeders, pups being given away, sold or “re-homed” on Craig's list and other sites. Stay clear of that neighbor who has a cousin that is breeding his cute pup.

5. If you are the parent of a brachycephalic dog, it's important to understand that breathing difficulties can prevent your furry companion from enjoying the very simplest things dogs naturally love to do, like eating, sleeping, play and exercise.

6. It's important to know the difference between normal and abnormal breathing sounds, and to make an appointment with your vet if you notice any unusual breathing or other signs of respiratory distress.

7. It is extremely important to keep a “brachy” dog fit and trim. Overweight and obese pugs have much more serious respiratory difficulties ANYWAY but keeping them at an ideal weight is imperative.

8. Keep your dog out of hot, humid environments is also crucial in order to prevent overheating.

9. Stress exacerbates virtually every health problem, especially breathing difficulties, therefore keeping your brachy's life as stress-free as possible is a must. It will do wonders for their health and quality of life.

I’ve said many times that I poured more money into my dogs than a vacation home or luxury car and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. However, I do want people to be well informed before they’re blind-sighted by these irresistible, yet sensitive/expensive little creatures. Heck, it’s one of the main reasons I do this blog. Thanks for reading, and please pass this on to any new “smoosh-faced” pet parents that may benefit from the info. Pugs & 😘 Kisses! -Katy

**Brachycephalic dogs: "Brachy" is a Greek word meaning short, and "cephalic" means head. Brachys are short-headed, short-muzzled breeds. Other examples of brachy dogs include the Boston Terrier, Boxer, Shih Tzu and Pekingese.

By Katy Cable-TWR
A 2 minute read

I am REALLY ANGRY! There is a serious crisis going on with one of the most popular brands of pet food and it just keeps growing. Even worse, it’s happening with prescription formulas being fed to the most compromised pets.

Since January, Hill’s Science Diet has had NUMEROUS recalls on nearly 44 varieties of their pet foods due to possible toxic levels of vitamin D. Instead of correcting the serious issue, the recalls just keep coming.

Several days a week I work as a brand ambassador at pet stores. Not a day goes by when I don't run into many worried, frustrated pet parents trying to help their ailing dogs and cats. What drives me BONKERS is watching them shell out an average of $50-90 on bags of prescription kibble in an effort to treat many common conditions. Typically this comes at the recommendation of their trusted vet!

Perhaps it strikes a chord because I WAS one of those pet parents. My pug Raisin was suffering from chronic bladder infections and his homemade organic diet was switched to RX urinary formula food. First he didn’t want to eat the dry kibble, but eventually he caved. Well, the food worked wonderfully in stopping urinary problems, but it quickly brought on a host of other equally troublesome issues.

When I started volunteering with shelters and rescue groups, I had my eyes opened. I witnessed complete transformations and miraculous healing in sick, compromised dogs all due to a simple change in diet. I watched what happened when pets eating meals loaded with grains, corn, soy, rice and potatoes and poor-quality proteins were switched to new diets of high-quality animal and fish protein, low glycemic carbs and probiotics. It blew my mind! I learned a pet's nutrition is one of the most crucial defenses in their health and most RX foods are nothing more than over-priced bags of junk.

When I purchased my first bag of RX food, the first thing I did was look at the ingredients listed on the label. When all I saw was brewers rice, wheat, corn gluten-meal, chicken by-product meal, and a host of other things I couldn't pronounce, I was puzzled. I asked the vet, "What are the medicines or active ingredients in this to treat my dog's condition?" All I could see were sugary, starchy carbs. and poor quality proteins. There appeared to be no difference between this high-priced kibble and nearly every other food on the market.The vet explained that although there is no medicine in the food, it is specially formulated to treat certain conditions. So in my case, it was designed to prevent urinary crystals from forming.

My next question was, "If there is no medicine in this food, why do I need a prescription to purchase it?" My vet said, "The reason it requires a prescription from a vet is because these formulas do not provide the right nutritional balance for an otherwise healthy pet. If a pet parent were to buy and feed this food to a healthy dog it could be dangerous. We want to monitor pets living these conditions and eating these specially formulated foods."

I still cringed at spending so much money on this poor quality RX food and wished there was an option that had the formulation my dog needed but was comprised of higher quality ingredients. With all the starchy carbs, it seemed I would be fixing one problem only to create others. And in my case (and so many others) that's exactly what happened. Although Raisin never suffered further urinary problems, instead he was on constant antibiotics for ear infections, yeast infections, tumors and other complications.

Fortunately, now there are several excellent choices that are both less expensive and healthier! If your vet recommends a "big brand" prescription food for obesity, weight-control, allergies or tummy issues, I would discuss considering a premium “wet/moist” pet food without all the starchy carbs and stick to a single “gentle” protein source like turkey, lamb, cod or chicken. I’ve had nothing but success using Nulo. I endorse it because it’s consistently worked. Frankly, it’s been the answer to my prayers. However, there are many excellent premium foods that would be better and safer options for these common conditions.

If your pet suffers from a chronic condition that could be life threatening, such as pancreatitis, diabetes, liver shunt, kidney stones or renal problems, I would consider trying a special diet from Just Food For Dogs. You may be familiar with them if you're from So Cal. JFFD is a unique place that makes fresh, human-grade food formulated for dogs. It's basically a stand alone store with a working kitchen in plain view.

What began as a single location on Pacific Coast Hwy in the beautiful California town of Newport Beach, has now grown to include numerous nationwide locations. Pet parents can stop in and purchase a variety of fresh pet foods, supplements and treats. The best part is JFFD offers an RX line for a variety of conditions. These specially formulated diets are roughly the same price as many other popular commercial brands, however JFFD uses only fresh, premium, human-grade ingredients.

With a team of 8 vets specializing in nutrition on staff, custom food formulations can also be created for specific issues such as cancers, or extreme allergies. These diets may or may not contain actual medications and are created based entirely on your dog's blood panels. If you're interested in giving this option a try for your dog but you're not from this area, all products, including RX foods and custom formulations can be ordered online or by phone and shipped to your door.

​Another pet food company offering high quality RX diet options using premium ingredients is: Darwin’s Intelligent Design™ Veterinary Formulas. (https://www.darwinspet.com/product/prescription-meals-for-dogs/) These foods actually do contain beneficial nutraceuticals for specific medical conditions. This company comes highly recommended by many vets who have specialized backgrounds in nutrition.

The other option for those pet parents requiring special diets for their dogs is to consult with an integrated holistic vet. These vets specialize in the role nutrition plays in healing/preventing various medical conditions. In addition to western medicine, other natural alternatives are incorporated into treatment plans. To find an integrated holistic veterinarian in your area visit: https://www.ahvma.org/find-a-holistic-veterinarian/

I want to set the record straight and put a stop to the misconception that these big commercial RX foods are the best and only way to go. I saw with my own eyes you don't need to spend a lot of money on RX foods and in many cases they do more harm than good. Many health conditions can be cured or greatly reduced with better nutrition. The best part is, it doesn't have to break the bank.

​Here's wishing you a long happy HEALTHY life for your beloved pet.
Pugs & Kisses!
🐾😘Katy Cable & Olive