Think

It is so easy to zoom around and neglect yourself. Last couple of years have presented some challenges that warped the priorities or lack of them. I realized I was neglecting myself, but at least I was on my list. However my pets took me by surprise and it was only recently that I had enough brain space to analyze and process some information.

Last year after what I call the Christmas crunch, I scrutinized my bills. I made changes as I always do. My dog food, that my dog had since she came home with us had skyrocketed an extra forty dollars. On principle that all things were going up in price, I set out to make changes. I found some food that was twice in size and the original price of the food I had been getting. It lasted forever! Done and done! What I lost sight of, was that I had chosen a high end brand because our previous dog grew up on dog food and every table scrap. She had a great 13 years, grew up with the kids, kids waste food, win, win. I always had a little dig in the back of my mind, that nine hundred pounds of discarded crusts robbed her of some time with us. This dog was going to be different.

Last March our dog got a hot spot, she had been to the groomers and hubby and I went on a holiday. Got cream, carry on. Her best friend, our cat, died in June, hot spot grew again. Maybe it was the grooming? Maybe it was stress. She got a bladder infection, her nose was dry and actually became rough. She was lame, sore shoulder… did she fall? Then she got type one diabetes, I went back to work and more hot spots! She had not been to the groomers, but I did wash the floors, maybe it was the cleaner? Maybe the new kitten? My neighbours dog had made the change to the same dog food, I did. Her dog had skin allergies and then since October developed bladder infection, after bladder infection. After speaking to a co worker about my suspicions on the floor cleaning, hot spots and google consultations and images, it hit me, the dog food. My coworker told me of a Canadian made dog food, good for all breeds. This food no colour, no additives, less carbs, more protein, pricey. Bought a small bag, changes right away. Told my neighbour, I got a big one and she did too. We are a week in and officially have changed pets. Huge oversight, so glad for the changes in my pet. Save money on food and huge vet bills… rather spend money on the food!