Children and Pets

Justin and I believe in the importance of having animals in Alex and Ellie's lives. Having Sash our Border Collie has taught all of us the importance of feeding her healthy food, taking her for daily walks, giving her lots of cuddles and pats and learning not to scare her (with Ellie's high pitched screams of delight every time Sash walks by).

In return, Sash showers the kids with 1001 kisses, wags her tail when we get home, barks to scare away strangers and eats all of Ellie's food scraps that fall on the floor (sweeping is over-rated).

Sharon and I met each other through our dogs (Sash met Ginger while out walking) and we have been firm friends ever since.

Having a dog is not cheap. The annual vet checkup and vaccinations are around $200 and when Sash fell ill 4 years ago, we were sent a $2000 bill. Still, she is money well spent and is a gorgeous girl with a wonderful nature.

I read an article several years ago about Vets choosing to sell commercial dog food in their surgeries and then telling pet owners to purchase the food as it was 'best' for their dog's health. The article raised the issue about a Vet's duty to his/her pet patient rather than to making profit out of selling commercial food.

I find commercial dog food not only expensive but it gives Sash the 'trots' and gives her flatulence. So, I started feeding Sash home made dog food several years ago which is inexpensive and she is thriving.

Ingredients:

Chicken Stock - I buy chicken frames and put them in my slow cooker overnight ($1.50 for two frames makes 6 litres of stock)
1 cup of frozen vegies (no onion)
1 cup oats
1 chicken drumstick or a couple of chicken necks/beef bone
1 tablesoon olive oil (gives her coat a lovely gloss and helps with dry skin)


Method:

I pour the chicken stock over the frozen veggies and heat them in the microwave for two minutes. I then add the oats, meat and olive oil. The bones help clean her teeth and she relishes in crunching them up.

Bon Appetit to our furry friends!