Crafted, How it’s Cooked #InspiredByCrafted

June 15, 2015 by 9 Comments

This post is sponsored by Hill’s. I am being compensated for helping spread the word about Hill’s® Ideal Balance® CRAFTED, but Have Sippy Will Travel only shares information we feel is relevant to our readers. Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. is not responsible for the content of this article.

Sasha, taking a nap.

Sasha, taking a nap.

In the world of dog food some dogs love it, and some dogs well… don’t. Some dogs are picky eaters and will only eat what they feel like. What is a responsible pet owner to do? You love your pet but cannot see making a meal for the dog when sometimes a bowl of cereal is all you as a human eat for dinner. When growing up, I had a friend whose mother would make the dog a stew everyday.  Everyday.  She didn’t always make my friend lunch, he usually bought- but the dog got home made, LOL.

Hill’s ® Ideal Balance® CRAFTED is great for picky eaters, and is actually made for dogs. Crafted is hand made by actual people and using actual human food to make the best tasting, best quality dog food around. The dog food is so good, opening the bag even smells a bit more like human food then other dog foods. Our current foster Sasha (who is still seeking a forever home!) is a picky eater and wouldn’t touch most dog foods, but after a few sniffs of Crafted, she ate. Finally. Crafted dog food is oven roasted, carefully cut out to be the perfect size and shape, then baked to 400 degrees until crunchy and perfect. The wet food is made from a stew of meat, vegetables and gravy. After it is canned it is then slow cooked at 250 degree to lock in the flavor and vitamins.

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Hill’s Ideal Balance is:

Made in small batches
Oven Roasted
100% Balanced Nutrition. Guaranteed. Or your money back.
No corn, wheat or soy
No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
No poultry by-product meal
Made in USA

One of you can win a $300 Gift Card to Petco.  Please feel free to enter to win below. Good luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Filed Under: animals, review

Canine Flu Spreading in New Jersey

June 12, 2015 by Leave a Comment
image via guardianlv.com

image via guardianlv.com

The Canine Influenza has been spreading throughout the continental United States, including New Jersey, so the American Veterinary Medical Association(AVMA) has some information and tips to help dog owners better understand the virus. “What we need to keep in mind is that humans can physically transmit the virus – which can stay on our clothes for up to 24 hours- so it is important to be careful about interacting with any unknown dogs,” says AVMA spokesperson Dr. Aspros “With proper education, we can do our best to minimize the spread.”

What is canine influenza?

Canine influenza (CI), or dog flu, is a highly contagious infection caused by an influenza A subtype H3N8 virus first discovered in 2004.

What are common symptoms of the infection in dogs?

In the mild form, the most common sign is a cough that persists for 2-3 weeks. However, some dogs can develop signs of severe pneumonia, such as a high-grade fever (104°F-106°F) and faster breathing. Other signs in infected dogs include nasal and/or ocular discharge, sneezing, fatigue, and refusing food.

Is every dog at risk of infection?

All dogs, regardless of breed or age, are susceptible to infection.

How does it spread?

Canine influenza is spread from dog to dog through the air, contaminated objects (kennel surfaces, food and water bowls, collars and leashes), and people interacting with infected and uninfected dogs. On surfaces, the virus is alive and can infect dogs for up to 48 hours, on clothing for 24 hours, and on hands for 12 hours.

Can veterinarians test for canine influenza?

The most reliable and sensitive method for confirmation is serologic testing. Antibodies to canine influenza virus can appear in blood as early as 7 days after symptoms begin, and the virus may be identified in nasal or pharyngeal swabs during the first 4 days of illness.

Any treatment options?

In May 2009, the USDA approved the first influenza vaccine for dogs. Trials have shown that it can significantly reduce the duration of illness, including the incidence and severity of damage to the lungs. Dog owners should consult with their vet to determine whether the vaccine is appropriate for their dog.

Can canine influenza infect people?

There is no evidence that the virus can be transmitted from dogs to humans.

For more information about canine influenza virus, visit https://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/Reference/Pages/Canine-Influenza-Backgrounder.aspx

Filed Under: animals Tagged With: ,

Have You Met Sasha?

May 29, 2015 by 1 Comment

Have you met Sasha?  Our latest foster dog is looking for her forever home- if you think that could be you, email me for more info and I will send you the rescue agency’s adoption application.

sasha1

Sasha is 6 years old, likes long walks on the beach (or anywhere, really), and is quite the lady on her leash. She never pulls, and walks at whatever pace you are- this pup aims to please.  Clearly a beauty, she will bat her gold eyes and dazzle you with a smile that she flashes at anyone- she’s a flirt.

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Sasha is great in the car, loves belly rubs, and wants to be someone’s baby.  Just like any girly-girl, she likes to have her fur brushed.  She doesn’t love going up and down stairs (she’s a bit overweight), but will gladly play fetch in the backyard with you.  (By “fetch” I mean run wildly after that stick you threw and chew it to bits, or hold the ball in her mouth and show it to you.)

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This is the perfect dog for empty nesters. She loves to ride in the car, never makes a peep and lounges like she owns it.  Completely housebroken, Sasha knows her name, how to sit, and stay. Sasha has lots of energy, and is really strong- but she listens very well and is learning more commands.  She will beg for snacks if you have them- or stalk you- which some would find beneath them, but Sasha doesn’t care (as long as it ends with treats). 

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Filed Under: animals Tagged With:

Canine Flu is Spreading — now in 13 States

May 28, 2015 by 2 Comments

Canine Flu is now in Alabama, California, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Wisconsin and Texas

What You Can Do to Keep Your Pet Safe and Healthy

Flu season may be winding down for humans, but there have been thousands of reported cases of canine influenza in the last several months. To help dog owners better understand the virus, here are some key facts from the American Veterinary Medical Association:

What is canine influenza?

Canine influenza (CI), or dog flu, is a highly contagious infection caused by an influenza A subtype H3N8 virus first discovered in 2004.

What are common symptoms of the infection in dogs?

In the mild form, the most common sign is a cough that persists for 2-3 weeks. However, some dogs can develop signs of severe pneumonia, such as a high-grade fever (104°F-106°F) and faster breathing. Other signs in infected dogs include nasal and/or ocular discharge, sneezing, fatigue, and refusing food.

Is every dog at risk of infection?

All dogs, regardless of breed or age, are susceptible to infection.

How does it spread?

Canine influenza is spread from dog to dog through the air, contaminated objects (kennel surfaces, food and water bowls, collars and leashes), and people ineracting with infected and uninfected dogs. On surfaces, the virus is alive and can infect dogs for up to 48 hours, on clothing for 24 hours, and on hands for 12 hours.

Can veterinarians test for canine influenza?

The most reliable and sensitive method for confirmation is serologic testing. Antibodies to canine influenza virus can appear in blood as early as 7 days after symptoms begin, and the virus may be identified in nasal or pharyngeal swabs during the first 4 days of illness.

Any treatment options?

In May 2009, the USDA approved the first influenza vaccine for dogs. Trials have shown that it can significantly reduce the duration of illness, including the incidence and severity of damage to the lungs. Dog owners should consult with their vet to determine whether the vaccine is appropriate for their dog.

Can canine influenza infect people?

There is no evidence that the virus can be transmitted from dogs to humans.

What can dog owners do to help protect their pet?

Some pet owners are steering away from dog parks and other areas where other infected dogs might gather.

For more information about canine influenza virus, visit https://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/Reference/Pages/Canine-Influenza-Backgrounder.aspx

Filed Under: animals, health Tagged With: ,

The Shelter Pet Project #shelterpetlove

May 26, 2015 by 2 Comments

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Each year approximately 3-4 million pets are adopted from shelter and rescue groups, but 2.4 million healthy and treatable pets still need our help to find a home. The Shelter Pet Project, in a collaborative effort between The Humane Society of the United States, Maddie’s Fund®, and the Ad Council, want to help these pets find homes.  The goal of The Shelter Pet Project is to make shelters and rescue groups the first place people turn when looking to get a new pet.

And why shouldn’t it be?  These pets are not “used” or “throw away” pets- they are companions that need a new home, usually due to no fault of their own.

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Have you met Cooper?  Our newest addition, here since December.  He’s awesome.  He thinks he’s people- but he’s a whole lot better, in my opinion, since he can’t talk back and he doesn’t care if I put on weight.  After our dog Chaac died of cancer almost 2 years ago (also a rescue from a local shelter), we never thought we would find another dog to fill the hole Chaac left in our hearts.  We did quite a few fosters, but it was Cooper who stole the show- we just adore him.

chaac for getmehome

Chaac the Wonder Dog- who we miss dearly.

 

Speaking of fosters- have you met Sasha?  Our latest foster dog is looking for her forever home- if you think that could be you, email me for more info!

20150519_145847

Sasha is 6 years old, likes long walks on the beach (or anywhere, really), and is quite the lady on her leash. She never pulls, and walks at whatever pace you are- this pup aims to please.  Clearly a beauty, she will bat her gold eyes and dazzle you with a smile that she flashes to anyone- she’s a flirt.

Sasha is great in the car, loves belly rubs, and wants to be someone’s baby.  Just like any girly-girl, she likes to have her fur brushed.  She doesn’t love going up and down stairs (she’s a bit overweight), but will gladly play fetch in the backyard with you.  (By “fetch” I mean run wildly after that stick you threw and chew it to bits, or hold the ball in her mouth and show it to you.)

This is the perfect dog for empty nesters. She is fantastic in the car, never makes a peep and sits like she owns it.  Completely housebroken, Sasha knows her name, how to sit, and stay. Sasha has lots of energy, and is really strong- but she listens very well and is learning more commands.  She will beg for snacks if you have them- or stalk you- which some would find beneath them, but Sasha doesn’t care (as long as it ends with treats). She will also take them ever-so- gently from your hands. 
In celebration of “National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day” on April 30 and to support “Adopt a Cat Month” in June, Lance Bass (a radio host and entertainer who first rose to fame as  a member of NSYNC) has joined The Shelter Pet Project to share the love and joy that adopted pets bring to his life. Bass, his husband Michael Turchin, and their rescue dogs Lily, Foster, and Dingo star in a “Meet My Shelter Pet” series video from The Shelter Pet Project. A second video, narrated by Bass, highlights the importance of shelter pet adoption and provides viewers with more information on how to adopt.

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The Shelter Pet Project showcases the unique bonds between shelter pets and their adoptive owners, and reminds people that there are thousands of amazing shelter pets ready to meet them. These videos and other ads help break down misconceptions surrounding shelter pets and spread the word that pets in shelters are wonderful and loveable.

Millions of people are looking to acquire a pet within the next year. If you are one of them, look first to shelter and rescue pets- the most loyal love you will ever find.

Visit TheShelterPetProject.org to learn more about pet adoption.  You can also visit their social media channels for more information (and just raw cuteness).

https://www.facebook.com/ShelterPetProject

https://twitter.com/shelterpets
http://www.pinterest.com/shelterpets
http://instagram.com/shelterpetproject

Filed Under: animals, parenting Tagged With:

Hill’s Ideal Balance Crafted’s Carefully Selected Creation Process #InspiredbyCrafted

May 11, 2015 by 7 Comments

This post is sponsored by Hill’s. I am being compensated for helping spread the
word about Hill’s® Ideal Balance™ Crafted™, but Have Sippy Will Travel only shares information we feel is relevant to our readers. Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. is not responsible for the content of this article.

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The new Hill’s Ideal Balance Crafted pet food is made in an interesting new/old school way.  It is made by hand, in small batches by people who care.  By using human grade ingredients which are used in regular “people food” like trout, salmon, tuna, roasted beef, and slow cooked chicken, you and your pet will have some great meals ahead of you.  For a moment, Iask you to step into a dog’s paws.  You live in this awesome house where it doesn’t rain and when no one is looking, you can sleep on the couch.  (Like mine is doing in the above photo- he’s ON ME- thinking I don’t know it, lol).  The only issue is the food, well… the food is good, but there is other food that smells a whole lot better then what you have to eat.  Imagine a slow cooker day where you set it and forget it as the smell of dinner permeates the entire house, changing and becoming more complex but is never for you.  This is the torture of being a dog sometimes.
[Read more…]

Filed Under: animals, review Tagged With: ,

Crafted Line of Cat and Dog Food #InspiredByCrafted

April 21, 2015 by 6 Comments

This post is sponsored by Hill’s. I am being compensated for helping spread the
word about Hill’s® Ideal Balance™ Crafted™, but Have Sippy Will Travel only shares information we feel is relevant to our readers. Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. is not responsible for the content of this article.

The more you look at pet food labels the more you realize dog food is just as much a science as it is an art form.  With the proper ingredients, vitamins and nutrients(science), some delicious sounding food is made for our four legged friends(art).  With this in mind, we are looking at Hill’s new Crafted pet food line for dogs and cats.

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Crafted is made in small batches, so attention to detail is evident.  Ingredients are all natural and flavorful.  Some of these ingredients include quinoa, buckwheat, chickpeas, natural trout, and mixed vegetables.  Everything is slow cooked to perfection, locking in the flavors and vitamins.
[Read more…]

Filed Under: animals, review Tagged With: ,

What You Can Do to Keep Your Pet Safe and Healthy

April 10, 2015 by Leave a Comment

scooby2

Flu season may be winding down for humans, but there have been over 1,000 reported cases of canine influenza in Chicago in the last few weeks. To help dog owners better understand the virus, here are some key facts from the American Veterinary Medical Association:

What is canine influenza?

Canine influenza (CI), or dog flu, is a highly contagious infection caused by an influenza A subtype H3N8 virus first discovered in 2004.

What are common symptoms of the infection in dogs?

In the mild form, the most common sign is a cough that persists for 2-3 weeks. However, some dogs can develop signs of severe pneumonia, such as a high-grade fever (104°F-106°F) and faster breathing. Other signs in infected dogs include nasal and/or ocular discharge, sneezing, fatigue, and refusing food.

Is every dog at risk of infection?

All dogs, regardless of breed or age, are susceptible to infection.
[Read more…]

Filed Under: animals Tagged With: ,