How I keep my dog healthy and active naturally
Who knew that attending an interval training class the other day would lead to sharing Pax’s wellness routine and eventually my own?
I love going to these classes because it gives me a chance to hang out with fun people while getting my heart rate up, which, as many health experts say, is essential for health and longevity. life.
During one of the classes, my coach Nicole and I started chatting, and I mentioned that I’ve been a vet for 35 years.
“How old are you?” he asked me.
“I will be 60 in January”, I answered with a bit of hesitation because, in my mind, 60 is ancient.😅
“What?! My father is your age, he can’t even move!” answered Nicole.
I think I blushed a little, and continued on to the next cardio segment, but I could see that Nicole was genuinely surprised by my fitness level, and I honestly didn’t expect to be able to do as much anyway. I do at this age.
Yes, I’ve had a few injuries over the years, but, overall, I’ve maintained the same body weight and fitness level I had 20 years ago.
You’re probably wondering why I don’t really talk about what I do to keep myself and Pax fit and healthy. Silly me no, but the reason is I don’t want to give you the impression that I’m “selling to you.”
However, I also know that not sharing means I am not helping you and your dog, which is my main goal.
It’s heartbreaking to see the dogs and people we love and care about fall apart because no one took the time to share with them the basics of how to create lasting health.
So I’m once again pushing myself to overcome my deep-seated reluctance to share Pax’s wellness routine with you as well as myself (soon) in point form.
Pax’s wellness routine
1. Diet
Pax gets mainly raw meat and mixed vegetables. I serve her supplements with vegetables, with Omega-3 and extra olive oil. He likes that.
I also make sure he gets bone at least 2-3 times per week. Some of the bones I choose are harder dental bones (but NOT marrow bones).
Here are some free resources to help you take the guesswork out of creating a healthy, balanced diet for your dog:
🐶 Free Dog Food Recipe Maker
🦴 What are the best bones for dogs: Complete vet-approved guide
🥦 What vegetables are good for your dog?
🍎 What fruits can dogs eat?
2. Supplements and Detox
I give Pax Fab4 supplements:
- SoulFood – certified organic fermented multivitamin and kidney and liver support with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer herbs and superfoods
- GreenMin – natural plant-based mineral and amino acid rich green superfoods
- FeelGood Omega – sustainable, mercury-free Omega-3 squid oil
- GutSense – advanced canine probiotic and digestive support with prebiotics
Once every six months, I take Pax on a month-long liver cleanse with LiverTune because living in today’s world can’t avoid exposure to toxins and heavy metals. Regular body detox is essential to maintaining optimal health for our canine best friend.
3. Exercise routine
Pax gets at least 2 hours of walking per day as part of his wellness routine, but this can be increased to a long day hiking trip if possible. Dogs love it.
Sometimes we walk around the city, with lots of off-leash time in parks and on trails. Pax loves to walk in the water, swim, and fish. He chases critters, when it’s okay, and enjoys just being a dog.
4. Ssocialization
Pax is definitely a social butterfly. He loves to be with other people, especially children, and hugs and cuddles. As many dogs do, he gets very excited about meeting new people, or people he doesn’t see very often.
At one point, I thought he was accepting me, because he was quite warm when he greeted me. But when he refused to leave me or go out without me, even with close friends or family members, the question of whether he loved me was once answered. I am really his person.
Sometimes we go and hang out at a coffee shop when we’re in Czech Republic, my own country Dogs are allowed inside and as you can see from the picture, these places are fun, funky, and great canine social hubs.
5. Vaccination protocol
I’ve been writing on this topic for years, but overvaccinating dogs is still common. Click here to see my recommendations and current dog immunity protocol that hasn’t failed in over 25 years.
6. Tick and flea prevention
I do not recommend any conventional dog flea and tick control because there have been many serious adverse reactions, such as seizures, organ toxicity, and tragic deaths caused by almost all major flea and tick brands.
I only use FleaHex on Pax if I see fleas but that is very rare. It works very well in breaking the flea cycle.
If I’m walking Pax in an area with ticks, I use it TickHex. I apply it before the first hike and check for ticks after we get home. If the tick infestation is heavy, I apply it more often during the day.
7. Injuries and physical therapy
As a crazy boy who wanted to run very fast, Pax pulled his iliopsoas muscle — the one behind and attached above the pelvis to the femur.
Now, I have to be careful not to overextend him at full speed. He liked to chase squirrels, marmots and pikas and had a little trouble keeping himself from getting hurt again.
I’m sharing this so you don’t think I don’t have my own challenges with Pax. Life finds ways to teach us lessons.
My partner is a physical therapist so Pax gets regular IMS (acupuncture treatments), chiro adjustments, massages, and we do a whole bunch of exercises as part of his preventive care.
8. Walking necessities
My rule is not to put a collar on Pax to protect his neck, thyroid gland, and nerves.
The vagus nerve that originates from the cervical spine governs heart, lung, digestive tract, kidney and vascular function. When the collar is injured, many things go wrong. Sadly, the connection between the collar, neck, vagus nerve and organ health is often overlooked in conventional medicine.
It took me a few years to find the right set up for dog walking, but I’m definitely settled with the Gentle Leash, a lightweight, shock absorbing wool leash that feels great, and the Perfect Fit Harness, a comfortable and secure which is a UK made dog harness that we have carried in our shop for many years now.
There’s one more thing you’ll want to check before you leave. We recently refreshed the Healthy Dog Tool, our free educational tool that helps you become a more informed and confident dog parent.
Use the Healthy Dog Tool to
- Choose the right supplements for your dog’s health needs and get a custom weekly plan with dosage instructions.
- Find articles on natural dog health and nutrition based on your interests or concerns you may have about your dog.
What’s next?
- What I do to stay fit and healthy into my 60’s
- Exciting news on my new canine mobility and joint formula — soon!
Have an amazing day and hug your dog for me!