Vitamins and Minerals That Your Dog Needs

 Keeping your dog healthy long-term means that you need to pay keen attention to what your dog is eating. Not all dog food is the same; some cheaper brands have more filler in the food than healthy ingredients. That is not to say that more expensive dog foods are filled only with great ingredients. 

One of the best ways that you can make sure that your dog is getting all of the right ingredients packed with vitamins and minerals is to make some of the dog food yourself.

Photo by hannah grace on Unsplash

 

But what do dogs really need when it comes to vitamins and minerals?

Dog Nutrient Profile As They Grow

When your dog is a pup, it will need nutrients that are designed to support the rapid rate at which its body and brain are developing. 

Puppy food will usually be softer and easier to digest and still packed with everything they need. You'll need to keep an eye on the gums, too - because as their teeth come through, only eating dry food could be painful. 

After some discussion with your vet, you might decide to add some extra supplements into their diet - and this can help with a glossy coat, bright eyes, and happy digestive tracts. 

There are two different nutrient profiles that you should be aware of when it comes to your dog - one is the growth and reproduction phase of life, and the other is maintenance. 

Puppies, lactating dogs, and pregnant females need a different nutrient count and a much higher vitamin and mineral requirement. Their bodies are working much harder in these stages than at any other time in their life. 

The maintenance stage is when they are out of the puppy stage and not pregnant or lactating (or just a male dog). The aim here is to make sure that the food they eat supports their general needs across the board. 

What Vitamins And Minerals Does My Dog Need?

Just like humans, dogs need to have a set amount of vitamins and minerals every day to keep healthy. Not only that but dogs need, and don’t make omega-3 fatty acids (and some other fatty acids), read up on the benefits on this link. 

Each one plays an essential part, and that is why it is important to check the dog food that you are feeding them - and make additions like supplements where needed. 

Minerals

Did you know that a dog needs chloride? Or what about copper? Minerals aren't something that we often think about - but they are essential. Here is what they need and why. 

Copper

Copper is essential for bones, connective tissues, and forming college, which gives your dog a beautiful coat. Copper aims with the development of red blood cells and pigmentation of the skin and coat. 

Zinc

Zinc aids growth reproduction improves the immune system protein digestion, supports healthy skin, regulates thyroid function, and helps heal wounds too. Poke, lam, liver, brewer's yeast, and eggs have plenty of zinc in them. 

Iron

Iron is essential for transporting oxygen through the body, as well as helping to support the immune system. Iron can be found in legumes, fish, red meat, and eggs. 

Magnesium 

Magnesium is one of the main components of enzymes and bones and has a significant impact on neurotransmission. 

Calcium & Phosphorus

Phosphorus and calcium work together and are essential for teeth and bones. These both help with the following: 

• Contraction muscles

• Blood coagulation

• Hormone secretion 

• Nerve impulse transmission

• Dilation and constriction of blood vessels 

Calcium helps to keep blood flow constant and your dog's heart rate stable too. If your dog doesn't get enough calcium, it will be leached from the bones, so calcium is a must. 

Chloride, Potassium & Sodium 

There are three electrolytes that are considered primary to dogs. Socium, chloride, and potassium. These electrolytes keep the fluid balances correct within your dog. 

Photo by Leohoho on Unsplash

Vitamins 

Alongside all of those minerals, there are plenty of vitamins that your dog needs to stay healthy. Making sure that your dog's diet has enough of all of these things is essential because, without them, deficiencies can cause health problems. 

Here are the more essential vitamins: 

• Vitamin A

• B Vitamins (the B family)

• Vitamin C & D

• Vitamin E

• Vitamin K

• Choline

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a must for immune system function, body cell growth, and healthy eyesight. You can find this vitamin in carrots. 

B Vitamins 

The whole B family plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of your dog's health. B9 is folic acid, B6 is pyridoxine, B12 is riboflavin, and B1 is Thiamine. 

All of these serve different purposes in the body. Some help with metabolism and others help with hormonal regulation. Since the whole B family of vitamins plays a role, it is a good idea to get familiar with them - and see where your dog's source is coming from. 

Vitamin C

Dogs can produce Vitamin C themselves, but the amount they produce isn't enough to support the body's needs. Vitamin C helps with cognitive aging and reduces inflammation in the body. 

Vitamin D

When you get out often with your dog, they will be making plenty of vitamin D already. We associate vitamin D with sunshine - but getting outside regularly is usually a great start. Most often, a vitamin D supplement is the best thing to do for your dog. 

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is the building block of a beautiful coat and bright eyes. It offers support to cell functions and metabolism. Deficiency in vit E can be a contributing factor to reproductive problems and muscle degeneration. 

Vitamin K 

Vitamin K helps with blood clotting and is something that many people associate with a newborn human baby shot. Dogs need it too! One of the reasons that it is essential to make sure your dog is kept away from poisonous substances is because it reduces the body's ability to use vitamin K, and that can cause a dog to bleed out. 

Choline 

A must for dogs because it supports liver and brain function and is used to help to treat epilepsy in dogs. 

So as you can see, there are plenty of things that your dogs need to live a healthy and long life! Make sure that you are offering them a balanced and nutritious diet - and some fun toys: Crafting Reality with Sara: Gifts for Pets! 

Playdoh Meatball Math

Are you looking for a way to make early math engaging for kids? This play doh activity makes for a fun way to master early counting skills in a manner that kids are going to want an extra helping of.

We are a play doh family through and through. Over the years I have created so many hands on lessons for my kids as well as invitations to play that started with a simple can of squishy play doh.  From a prickly cactus craft that my tween was enchanted by, to  DIY food puzzles for toddlers. I have always felt that playdoh was one of the best toys to have on hand because it doubles as a learning tool.

This idea is so much fun! It starts with 2 cans of play doh and a cute little pan. Grab a few dominoes and your little learners are ready to jump into this awesome activity.

Supplies:

Play doh. I used yellow, a little red and a little orange.

A small pan

Dominoes

Directions:

Create a pan of noodles from the yellow playdoh by rolling out into thin strips between your hands and tear them off at various lengths.

Combine a ball of red and orange dough together to make the meatballs. 

Now tear off small sections and roll them into balls.

Place the noodles into the pan.

Leave the meatballs over to the side.

Invite your preschooler to select a domino from the pile and count the dots.

This is how many meatballs this spaghetti needs. Count the meatballs as you add them to the noodles.

Repeat as desired until you have used all of the dominoes or mastered your counting lesson. I know your kids are going to love this take on early math!

Find more epic playdoh activities here.

Favorites include:

Play Doh Pie Counting

Lollipop Counting

Play Doh Pre Writing Activity

Play Doh Snails

Play Dough Ornaments 

Find more fun math ideas like these math games for kids.

Road Trip Through Iceland: Unique Signs and Regulations You Need to Know

 Are you planning a road trip through Iceland? This blog post will provide you with information on how to navigate Iceland's unique road signs and regulations so that you can enjoy a safe and stress-free journey. Whether you're driving in Iceland for the first time or are an experienced traveller, this post will ensure that you stay informed and well-prepared for your upcoming adventure.

Slow Down in Towns and Villages

When driving in towns and villages throughout Iceland, it is important to remember to slow down. The speed limits in these areas are typically lower than elsewhere on the island, with 30km/h being the common limit. This is especially important when you’re driving a car rental in Iceland because many of the roads in these areas are narrow, and winding, and can have hidden blind spots. Be sure to keep an eye out for pedestrians, cyclists, and horses as they may be crossing the roads at any time.

Watch Out for Pedestrians

When driving in Iceland, it's important to be aware of pedestrians and give them the right of way. Pedestrians should always be given priority over vehicles on the road. Pedestrians have the right of way at all times when crossing at intersections or marked crosswalks. If you’re driving and there’s a pedestrian at a crosswalk, stop for them regardless of whether there are traffic lights or not. As a general rule, if you see a pedestrian at a crosswalk, slow down and allow them to pass. 

Don't Drive Off-Road

If you're planning on going off the beaten path while driving in Iceland, it's important to understand that it is illegal to drive off-road in this country. The terrain can be unpredictable and difficult to navigate, especially if you're unfamiliar with the landscape. Driving off-road may also damage the environment and wildlife.  Therefore, it is best to stick to roads and trails designated for vehicle use. And rent a four-wheel drive car when driving a long trip through Iceland, so that it is easier to drive the unpaved roads found throughout the countryside. 

Drive on the Right Side of the Road

When driving in Iceland, it is important to stay on the right side of the road. This is the same for most countries, however, if you are coming from a country that drives on the left side of the road, you must be extra vigilant. Most Icelandic roads are two lanes, so always keep to the right lane unless you are passing someone or making a left-hand turn. It is also important to be aware of any traffic coming from the opposite direction, as well as cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians. 

Use Headlights at All Times

When driving in Iceland, you must use your headlights at all times. All cars rented in Iceland are equipped with daytime running lights, which must be turned on while driving during the day. During the night, headlights must be used. It is also important to be aware of weather conditions, as fog, rain, or snow can make visibility even more difficult. By using your headlights during these times, you increase your safety and the safety of others on the road. 

A Guide to Simple Living: Tips on Downscaling Your Life

 If you're feeling bogged down by the amount of stuff you own, it might be time to consider downsizing your life. Simplifying your possessions can make a huge difference in terms of reducing stress and improving your overall quality of life. This guide will provide tips on how to downsize your life without sacrificing any of the comfort or convenience you currently enjoy. You'll also find advice on how to deal with common challenges that come with simplifying your lifestyle. So if you're ready to declutter your home and simplify your life, read on!

via Pexels

1) Move to a Smaller Home

Moving to a smaller home can be a great way to simplify your life and reduce clutter. It's an opportunity to start fresh and live with just the essentials. Making the move doesn't have to be overwhelming or expensive; there are plenty of ways to downsize without breaking the bank. Start by decluttering your current home, then consider what size home you should look for. Researching different neighborhoods and locations will also help you find a place that fits both your budget and lifestyle.

Think about how much space you need, what types of amenities you require, and which features are must-haves for you. Then, keep yourself organized throughout the process by making lists, taking photos for reference, measuring each room, and creating a timeline for when you want everything done. Ultimately, your household moving to a smaller home can open up new opportunities for living more simply while still providing the comforts of home.

2) Get Rid of Unused Items

One of the best and most effective ways to simplify your life is to get rid of all the items you don't need or use. This can be overwhelming at first, but it's worth the effort. Start by sorting through your belongings and decide what stays and what goes. Be honest with yourself; if something is taking up space but not bringing any value into your life, then it's probably time to let it go. You can donate items that are still in good condition, sell them online or hold a yard sale, or simply throw away anything that isn't worth keeping.

3) Invest in Multi-Purpose Furniture

Investing in multi-purpose furniture is a great way to keep your home organized and free of clutter. Consider purchasing items that can be used in more than one way, such as a bed with storage drawers underneath or a coffee table with shelves. This will not only save you space but also make it easier to stay organized since everything has its place. Investing in multi-purpose furniture can also add character and style to any room, making it look more inviting.

In conclusion, downsizing your life can be a rewarding experience that leaves you feeling refreshed and liberated. It may seem scary at first, but taking the time to declutter and invest in multi-purpose furniture will make your life simpler and more organized in the long run. Follow this guide for a few helpful tips on how to downsize your life without sacrificing comfort or convenience. With these strategies, you'll be well on your way to living a simpler, happier life.

Getting Our Children Crafting and Creating: 4 Things to Remember

 

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Crafting is an amazing hobby for the entire family. Crafts can spruce your home up and can provide hours of fun. The problem in the modern day is that our kids may not necessarily like the idea of getting into crafts, especially when they're a bit older. They may be more interested in watching videos on YouTube or playing their Switch, but it's important to get our children interested in crafting. It is never too late to teach our children about arts and crafts. Let’s show you a few ways to ensure that it's a part of your children’s lives.

Provide the Right Resources

The most important place to begin is finding the type of crafting that your kids would prefer to get on board with. Your children may be more interested in sticking pasta on paper or they may want to fashion little characters with amazing detail using macrame cotton rope to be a tiger's tail or hair for a little Stick figure. 

Whatever your children need, it is important to have an abundance of tools. We have to remember that creativity is something that shouldn't be limited in scope. When we have more tools at our disposal, it means that we can fulfill our vision better. But in order to get your child interested in something means providing a wider palate of tools. Your kids may not know what they're interested in just yet, which is why it's critical to provide as much inspiration as possible.

Make Sure You Can Clean Up

You might think it's a good idea if you can get them interested in arts and crafts but you might be dreading the cleanup! We've all been there! The best thing you can do is to have an area dedicated to arts and crafts. It might not be in the house, but setting up in the garden shed exclusively for messy play will take the stress out of the equation. If you have to do it in the house on a rainy day the best thing you can do is to have paint-proof mats laid everywhere, as well as make sure that your kids are protecting their clothes from glue, paint, and glitter! 

As nice as it is to encourage our children to get into arts and crafts, we could be stressing out about the mess they make which, over time, could stop them from wanting to create. Of course, we don't want a messy house, but it's critical that we get the balance right.

Do It Together

This sounds simple, but lots of parents give their children things to do and then leave them to it. It all depends on how old your child is; if your child is 9 or 10 they've already got a number of years of experience in playing video games and may not necessarily want to get involved in things like messy play. 

With a child of this age, it's important for us to sit down with them and gain an insight into what they would like to create. It could be as simple as giving them a pencil and some paper and asking them to draw how they are feeling. Arts and crafts are certainly things that appeal more to younger kids, but if you have younger children, ensuring that you stay with them and get creative to see what you can come up with as a family is a wonderful way to spend quality time together, but it also allows them the freedom to experiment with designs and colors. 

It can be a great lesson for you as well; sometimes we don't use our imagination as much as we should. The great thing about spending time with your kids creating stuff is that there are no rules! You can do anything you want, and this is something that, as parents, we can benefit from remembering once in a while!

Inspire Them

While creating can be an amazing thing, it benefits us to give our children inspiration. You can choose to go to an art gallery or museum but this could be intimidating for young children. However, spending time as a family can be a wonderful experience to provide a dose of culture. You can always start by getting a copy of The Art Book as a coffee table read. 

When your children start to look at the different painters and sculptors, from medieval to modern times, it can provide a great springboard for your child to do something more the next time they approach the canvas. It's important to remember that we don't fill them with a sense of dread and everything they create is going to be fantastic. We just need to give them that encouragement. 

Creativity is a tool with no rules at the outset, but as your child gets older, they may attempt to create something that they pictured in their head but are not getting it right. The expression “art is never finished, only abandoned,” comes to mind here, but it can be an amazing way to help streamline their talents, especially if your kids are showing interest in crafts or starting to create different pieces of art. 

The best thing about getting into crafts is that nothing is off-limits. You can create collages out of recyclable materials, make sculptures out of clay, sew pieces of cloth together to make an heirloom, and on it goes. The more your kids get inspired the more they will create, and this is an amazing thing to see.

Being artistic is an amazing way to express ourselves and we can use crafting to connect with our children on a different level, but it can also help our children become more in touch with their emotions. One of the biggest problems with using digital tools is that there is not always a hands-on approach that can be better utilized with arts and crafts. If you want your children to be more creative, in tune with their emotions, develop problem-solving skills, and express who they are in healthy ways, it is a great idea to get your children interested in crafting and creating.