Formerly UltiMutt Dogventures & Nutrition, LLC.

05/28/2024

🐾 Unraveling the Mystery of Canine Allergies: Part 4: Food Allergies 🐾

The final part of our series is here! 🎉 The final component of this series is here! BUT, I am going to start by saying this is a convoluted topic, and there is no way we could cover it all in one post. This will therefore be a very basic overview.

Now, let's dive into the basics of food allergies in dogs! Many pet owners think their dog's itchy skin or tummy troubles are due to food allergies, but TRUE food allergies are rare. It's often actually a food 'intolerance', which can lead to chronic issues like skin problems, ear infections, and diarrhea.

The Gut-Skin Connection: Your dog's gut microbiota is crucial for digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function. When bad bacteria take over, it can lead to skin issues and other health problems.

Processed pet foods can contain harmful additives like BHA, BHT, and sodium carboxyl-methyl-cellulose (a thickener banned for human consumption). Generally, if you can't pronounce an ingredient, it's best to avoid it!

Elimination Diet: To identify food triggers, try an elimination diet. Remove common problem ingredients and introduce single proteins one at a time, watching for reactions. This helps pinpoint the culprits and allows you to adjust your dog's diet accordingly. Once you find the triggers, focus on rebalancing your dog's gut with probiotics, prebiotics, and a species-appropriate diet.

Bottom Line: If your fuzz kid has constant skin, ear, or tummy troubles, their food might be the culprit 🐶❤️

05/27/2024

As we honor the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much for our freedom, we hope you take this Memorial Day to reflect, remember, and spend quality time with loved ones 💙

05/26/2024

As we near the end of Mental Health Awareness Month, we want to take a moment to remind folks that the mental health of both pets and their people, is incredibly important. In a world that often prioritizes hustle and productivity, it is crucial to remember that our mental health matters. And just like us, dogs can experience stress, anxiety, and depression. Here are some tips to help keep your K9 BFF happy and mentally healthy:

1. Regular Exercise: A fantastic way to reduce stress and anxiety in dogs is to keep their minds engaged and bodies active.
2. Mental Stimulation: Puzzle toys, training sessions, and new experiences can keep your pup's mind sharp and engaged.
3. Social Interaction: Regular (appropriate) interaction with other dogs and people can prevent feelings of loneliness and anxiety.
4. Comfortable Environment: A safe and comfortable space for your pup to retreat to can make a world of difference.
5. Positive Reinforcement: Rewarding good behavior can boost your dog's confidence and happiness.

Taking care of our own mental health is just as important! Here are some simple ways to nurture your mental well-being:

1. Stay Active: Our physical and mental health are deeply connected. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep can positively impact your mental well-being.
2. Practice Mindfulness & Meditation: Focus on your breath, your surroundings, and the present moment.
3. Connect with Others: Spend time with loved ones and engage in meaningful conversations. Sharing experiences and emotions can be incredibly healing.
4. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no and set healthy boundaries. Protect your time and energy to focus on what truly matters to you.
5. Seek Support: If you're feeling overwhelmed, it is okay to ask for help. Whether it's a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional, reaching out can make a significant difference.

Finally, let's also extend compassion to those around us. Mental health struggles are often invisible, and a little kindness can go a long way. Listen without judgment, offer support, and create a safe space for others to share their experiences 💕

05/19/2024

🌟 Partner Spotlight: Earnest Roots Farm 🌟

We’re thrilled to give a shoutout to one of our amazing farm partners, Earnest Roots Farm! 🐓🐄 This hardworking, family-owned farm is based in Ashville, Alabama, and they supply us with some of the high-quality meats we use to create our dehydrated dog treats AND to feed our own pack!

But that's not all—they also offer a variety of wonderful pasture-raised meats for humans. Currently, Earnest Roots Farm has an abundance of meats available, including organ meats and bones, which are perfect for raw feeders looking for nutritious options. We often get questions about where to source quality meats, and we can't recommend them enough. Now is a GREAT time to connect with them if you are looking for ethically raised, 100% Grass-Fed, Antibiotic/Steroid/GMO/Soy-Free meats 👌 The Bonus: Josh and Kiley are incredibly kind, honest, and conscientious folks!

Additionally, they now also offer a variety of dehydrated pet treats! We cannot overstate how much we believe in collaboration over competition and lifting each other up as small businesses. So, if you’re looking for quality dehydrated pet treats, reach out to Earnest Roots Farm as well!

Give them a follow, check out their offerings, and support this wonderful local farm and family. Your pets, and your taste buds will thank you! 🐾🥩

Follow Earnest Roots Farm:
IG:
Website: https://earnestrootsfarm.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/earnestrootsfarm

05/17/2024

❗Disclaimer: We believe in maintaining transparency with our loyal followers. While it's not necessary to share all the details of our current situation, we want to be open with those who have supported us from the beginning, and we do not want any silence around this matter to be misinterpreted.

Friends,

We hope this message finds you and your furry friends well. We wanted to share some important news with you regarding our page.

As you know, due to the very recent trademark issue, we have to make some changes to our business name and logo. While we have updated our page name to "Formerly” (known as), we have decided that we do not want it to remain this way for 60 days – which is Facebook’s rule for name changes. Unfortunately, this means we will be temporarily shutting down our page while we undergo this transition.

This situation has been challenging and emotionally taxing, especially given the circumstances under which it arose. Had it been brought to our attention and presented differently, it would have been much more palatable. However, we believe that altruism and integrity will always prevail over malice, and we are ever grateful to those who have shown support and reached out to us through this.

We have been working diligently to establish a new name and logo that reflects our commitment to quality and your pets' happiness. However, rushing this process under threats of legal action feels disingenuous, and we believe that taking our time will lead to a more genuine and thoughtful outcome. Successful entrepreneurs know when it’s time to temporarily suspend an effort and take a step back to evaluate a strategic plan, ensuring that any resources invested will not outweigh the likelihood of success. So, WE have taken our power back by intentionally deciding that instead of moving apace with a revised brand that we feel an urgency to create, we believe that a better long-term plan involves more deliberate efforts to consolidate what we have learned, revise our intentions, and prepare a re-invigorated attempt at reaching our goals…..whether that means we choose to focus on the fulfillment we already get from our full-time careers and our family, or continuing on with our side business that has given us so much joy. When we started this (side) business, we agreed that its purpose was rooted in intrinsic gains, and if the day ever came that we no longer felt that, then it would be time to re-evaluate. In short, we have chosen to take this time to assess whether that enjoyment is still enough to surmount the accompanying demands of owning a small business in addition to our already-full schedules.

Please know that this is not goodbye, but rather a brief pause. Many of you follow us on Instagram, and that page is currently in operation under a new, temporary name. You know how to find us when you need us 😉

Thank you for being a part of our community and for your unwavering support. We will keep you updated on our decisions and hope that you will be here to re-connect with us when the time comes.

For now, take good care of yourselves, and let's continue to spread kindness and compassion – it's a rare treasure in our world, and its impact cannot be overstated 💕

Much love,
Dr. M

"In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity." – Sun Tzu

05/15/2024

Recently, we had been considering rebranding to better represent our business, given our recent changes. We hoped to take some time with this process to ensure that the brand carries the value invested over time. However, before we could make any moves, we received a legal notice from another business in the state about the similarity between our names and an element of our logos.

For transparency, when we started this venture in early 2023, we chose our name and logo with care. An external designer used a picture that our daughter drew of one of our pups back in 2014, to create a logo. The business name was selected with the help of loved ones, and a search with the appropriate channels in AL and the USPTO revealed no trademarked businesses of the same name.

However, we just learned that there is now a state-specific trademark in place; so to ensure integrity we have decided to proceed with our rebranding sooner than expected. As such, we will temporarily take down our name and logo from all marketing materials, while we undergo this process.

We were also informed that the similarity in business names has caused confusion in the community. We truly hope that we have not unknowingly caused any incertitude to anyone. That was never our intent, and if that was an unintended consequence, we were not made aware of it prior. As curious and virtuous people, we would always be open to dialogue with anyone about anything.

On a final note, we decided to start this small business because of the love we share for animals, particularly our K9 friends, and because we were on the hunt for more natural and nutritious treats for our own pack. Owning a small business is tough. It demands unwavering determination and a resilient spirit to keep pushing forward. Yet, amidst the struggles, there is a profound sense of fulfillment in building something from the ground up and making a positive impact; and regardless of the hurdles that may pop up, we choose to remain focused on our goals and ALWAYS prioritizing our most cherished value – kindness to all.

Thank you for your love and support, and stay tuned for updates on our rebranding journey!

~Dr. M & Daniel

05/03/2024

🐾 K9 Allergies: Part 3: Inhalant, Contact & Bacterial Allergies 🐾

In this series, we are delving into the world of K9 allergies. Last time, we explored insect bites and parasites. Today, let's uncover environmental factors and their impact on allergies and skin infections.

Atopic dermatitis, a common skin condition in dogs affecting 10-15% of the population, results in severe itching due to reactions to environmental allergens, with symptoms typically appearing before three years of age. This lifelong condition compromises the skin's outer layer, allowing allergens to trigger an inflammatory response, leading to widespread scratching, chewing, and licking, especially on the feet, face, armpits, and groin. This behavior can result in saliva staining and skin abrasions, predisposing affected dogs to bacterial infections, often accompanied by chronic ear issues.

Less frequent occurrences in dogs are bacterial and contact allergies. Staphylococcus bacteria are typically harmless residents of a dog's skin. Nonetheless, certain dogs, particularly those with weakened immune systems, may develop an allergy to them. This allergy can manifest as areas of hair loss resembling ringworm. Contact allergies, the least prevalent type, can be triggered by various substances such as flea collars, wood bedding, grass, plants, and occasionally chemicals.

Combat Allergies Naturally:
•Bathe your dog regularly in cool water with specialized shampoos to ease symptoms and minimize allergen absorption.
•Create an allergy-friendly home by using a dehumidifier, cleaning mold-prone areas, and switching to natural cleaning products.
•Keep your pup out of the room while vacuuming to prevent dust from exacerbating allergies.
•Soak your dog's feet in diluted ACV or Epsom salt daily to soothe itchiness.
•Consider natural remedies like CBD and MCT oil for skin health.
•Opt for a wholesome, meat-based diet to boost gut health and strengthen the immune system.

Allergies can dramatically affect your dog's quality of life, but proactive measures can mitigate discomfort 🌿🐶 Scroll our pics for more K9 allergy tips!

04/30/2024

🐾 Unraveling the Mystery of K9 Allergies: Part 2: Fleabite Allergies 🐾

Spring brings outdoor joys but also the nuisance of pests like mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks, which pose health risks to pets. Yet many conventional prevention products contain neurotoxins, like Isoxazolines, that can result in adverse reactions in pets, such as seizures, tremors, and even death. Compounding the issue, adverse effects may not manifest immediately, sometimes appearing weeks or months later.

❗️Pet parents should promptly report adverse reactions to both the FDA and the medication manufacturer. Reporting aids in monitoring and improving product safety❗️

The GOOD news is that your pup can reap the benefits of time spent outdoors while still minimizing the risk of both insect-transmitted diseases and chemical product side effects! Let’s explore some natural alternatives to chemical preventatives:

1. Supporting Immune Health:
•Dietary adjustments, such as a whole foods or a raw diet, discourage parasites.
•Incorporating fresh minced garlic (1/2 clove per 20 lbs per day) provides natural deworming. IF YOUR PET HAS A HISTORY OF HEMOLYTIC ANEMIA, AVOID GARLIC.

2. Natural Pet Detox:
•Bathing with insect-repellent shampoos like Wondercide, Kin+Kind Flea/Tick Shampoo, Project Sudz Organic Flea/Tick Liquid Shampoo, or LUCAA+ Probiotic Pet Shampoo, eliminates pests without harsh chemicals.

3. Environmental Control:
•Utilizing plants and essential oils deters fleas and ticks naturally.
•Diatomaceous Earth offers mechanical pest control without toxicity.
•Beneficial nematodes release bacteria that kill flea larva and end the flea life cycle.

4. Safe Topicals:
•DIY pest spritzes provide a non-toxic option for repelling insects.
•Coconut oil kills and repels fleas due to the ingredient lauric acid. It can be rubbed through the coat and fed to your pup (1 teaspoon per 20 llbs of body weight twice daily in the food).

By embracing natural alternatives and reporting adverse reactions, pet parents can safeguard their furry companions from both pests and the potential harms of conventional preventatives 💕

04/30/2024

Friends,

Just a friendly heads-up that we'll be taking a breather from the hustle and bustle starting this Friday, May 3rd. Orders won't be processed until our return on May 13th, and our online store will be taking a little vacation too.

Regrettably, this means we won't be joining some of you at FastCAT this weekend as planned. We LOVE FastCAT events and we will miss seeing many of you, but we're really looking forward to some much-needed rest, rejuvenation, and hopefully a chance to reconnect with nature.

We do have a few treasures left on our shelves (check out our stories for details). If there's something you've had your eye on, Wednesday is the last day for deliveries this week, so don't hesitate to reach out.

We can't wait to catch up with everyone when we're back! 🥰

04/25/2024

🐾 Unraveling the Mystery of K9 Allergies: Part 1🐾

Understanding and addressing allergies in our furry companions is crucial for their health and well-being. Just like humans, dogs can experience allergic reactions to various substances. In this series, we will delve into the intricate world of canine allergies, starting with an exploration of the different types and their symptoms.

An allergy in dogs is an exaggerated immune system response to a substance. While there are various ways in which dogs can exhibit allergic responses, they generally fall into five main types:

1. Fleabite Allergies: These are common and occur due to a dog's response to flea saliva. Symptoms often include persistent itching, redness, and skin inflammation. A thorough examination by a veterinarian is recommended for accurate diagnosis, as other parasites like Demodex and Sarcoptes mites can also trigger severe itching.
2. Inhalant Allergies (Atopy): Typically seasonal, triggered by environmental factors such as pollen. Indications may involve itchy skin, red eyes, and respiratory issues.
3. Contact Allergies: Arising from direct contact with allergens like specific fabrics or cleaning products. Environmental toxins can also contribute to heightened inflammation, manifesting as skin issues, itchiness, and ear infections.
4. Bacterial Allergies: Resulting from an allergic reaction to bacteria on the skin, commonly causing itching and skin infections.
5. Food Allergies: Provoked by certain food ingredients, leading to digestive problems, itching, skin irritation, ear infections, and excessive paw licking.

The topic of K9 allergies is too vast to cover in one post. In upcoming posts, we will delve deeper into each type of allergy and management strategies. Stay tuned for insights and practical tips to help your furry friend thrive despite allergies!

Do you have a pup that struggles with allergies? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! Together, we can support each other and our fuzz kids on their journey to better health 💕

04/22/2024

🐾 Important Announcement 🐾

Friends,

We hope this message finds you and your furry companions in good health and high spirits. We wanted to take a moment to share some changes happening at UltiMutt Dogventures & Nutrition.

As of April 29th, we will be transitioning away from offering dog field trips. This decision comes as Daniel embarks on a new journey back into the corporate world. It was not an easy decision to make as he has formed some very strong bonds with pups over the past year and a half. However, in life sometimes we have to re-prioritize and seize opportunities when they arise, and this was one of those times.

But fear not! Our commitment to providing your pets with wholesome, delicious treats remains unwavering. We will continue crafting our dehydrated dog treats with the same love and care as always. AND, you can still catch us at select weekend events where we will be showcasing our treats and sharing our love for all things canine.

We want to assure you that despite these changes, our dedication to you and your fuzz kids remains as strong as ever. We have met some of the most amazing human beings (and pups!) throughout this journey, and we hope that these relationships will remain intact, regardless of the change.

We do have a list of other amazing local businesses that provide options for dog walks and outings, for anyone who needs that. If you have any other questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Most importantly, we want to extend our sincere thanks for allowing us to be a part of your K9’s life, and create beautiful memories with them that will be cherished forever. Thank you for being a part of the UltiMutt family! 💕

04/09/2024

Friends,

Meet Iris. A friend of ours found her yesterday hiding in some bushes while walking her pup. The Veterinarian confirmed today that Iris has a broken jaw, and it appears to have been broken intentionally. While words cannot express the rage we feel over this, we are focusing on doing everything in our power to get her the help she desperately needs. Our sweet friend, Laura, has taken this sweet pup under her wing, and Iris is currently at the Emergency Vet. She has a Go Fund Me page to help with the medical bills.

https://gofund.me/3cbd2efc

We know how amazing the Birmingham dog community is and how much we can accomplish together. PLEASE share Iris' story, and donate if you are able 🙏💞

Offering nutritious single-ingredient dehydrated dog treats, in the Birmingham, AL area.

03/29/2024

🌷🐾 Hey Friends! 🐾🌷

As March winds down, we are looking ahead to a busy April! We know that April brings blooming flowers, warmer days, and endless opportunities for outdoor fun with our furry friends. Whether it's exploring new trails, sniffing out hidden treasures, or simply soaking up the sunshine, let's make this month a memorable one!

And of course, what's an adventure without delicious goodies to fuel our escapades? 🍖 Our bark-worthy single-ingredient treats will keep your pup(s) energized and ready for anything the great outdoors has to offer.

So come see us at one of upcoming events! 💖

03/24/2024

Happy 4th birthday to our Captain 🥳 While he may be the smallest in size of our pack, he has a pretty big personality! He battles Murphy to be the first in the car for any outings; loves boxes 📦 shoes 👞 and clothes fresh out of the dryer. He also loves sitting in chairs. We call him the peanut butter falcon because there isn't much he wouldn't do for some PB 🥜 He has looked up to Baxter (our senior) since we brought him home from Las Cruces (by way of El Paso), and the twins are definitely his besties ❤️ He doesn't like loud noises, barking, or chaos. We usually know when someone is approaching the front door because he takes off to his safe spot in the closet before they can even knock 🥺 And he is probably the most "snuggly" of our crew...always looking to be held.

He seems younger than 4, but this is the birthday the shelter gave him, so we kept it 🤷🏼‍♀️ We love our Captain Jack Weber -- happy birthday lil' guy. Here's to many many more 🎂🎁🎈🎉

03/19/2024

🌊 Dive into the wonders of seaweed! Did you know there are over 10,000 varieties of seaweed in our oceans, each packed with unique benefits? From essential iodine to a plethora of vitamins and minerals, seaweed offers a treasure trove of nutrients for our furry friends.

Iodine is crucial for your pet's health, aiding in energy levels, coat health, and even thyroid function. Yet, not all pet foods include this vital nutrient, leaving our K9 companions at risk of health issues. Thankfully, seaweed provides a natural solution, offering a rich source of iodine and so much more.

Beyond basic nutrition, seaweed boasts incredible properties. Clinical trials have shown its potential in fighting cancer, battling viruses and bacteria, and even slowing down the aging process. With antioxidants and unique compounds not found in land-based plants, seaweed offers a holistic approach to pet wellness.

Concerned about contamination or agricultural sustainability? Seaweed production offers a solution, with minimal environmental impact and no need for chemicals or intensive farming practices.

When it comes to incorporating seaweed into your pet's diet, start small and choose varieties low in iodine, if needed. For dry-fed pets, a sprinkle of seaweed can enhance their meals with a wealth of benefits. Raw-fed dogs can also enjoy the advantages of seaweed, but it is wise to monitor iodine levels, especially for pets with thyroid issues.

In summary, seaweed is not just a trendy superfood—it is a natural powerhouse of health benefits for our beloved pets. So why not add a dash of ocean goodness to your pet's bowl today? 🐾

03/06/2024

Spring has officially sprung, and with it comes the dreaded season of ALLERGIES for our furry friends. Many K9 parents share concerns about their dogs struggling with seasonal allergies, leading to itching, scratching, and discomfort. But fret not, there are steps we can take to help alleviate our dog's discomfort.

Managing seasonal allergies involves regular grooming to remove allergens from your pup's fur. My favorite shampoo for our fuzz kids is Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile Soap (unscented). Project Sudz also has wonderful organic shampoos, and Kin & Kind is another great brand with several options. Environmental management, like frequent vacuuming and washing bedding with pet-safe products, also helps reduce indoor allergens.

In some cases, hot spots can arise from excess itching, but natural remedies like cool water rinses and topical applications of cool green tea (the tannins help to dry the wound) or antibacterial agents like Manuka honey and coconut oil can provide relief.

Additional remedies I like to use at home are:

1. Crushed cucumbers or a cold compress can help reduce swelling and relieve pain!
2. Chaga Tea: Boil and let it steep until cool, preferably for at least an hour. Dab onto the hot spot using a clean cotton ball *BONUS TIP: I use any extra chaga tea as broth in their food!
3. Black Tea & Aspirin: Make a strong cup of black tea and dissolve one regular strength aspirin in it. Apply topically to the hot spot 3-4 times daily.
4. Project Sudz Relief Balm or Spray
5. Kin & Kind Hot Spot Relief Stick
6. Remedy Balm by CBD Dog Health.

*Consulting with your Veterinarian is crucial to determine if your dog's symptoms stem from seasonal allergies or another issue*

And remember, every dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Patience and persistence are key as you work to find the right combination of treatments to help your K9 bestie enjoy the great outdoors without the discomfort of seasonal allergies 🐾

02/28/2024

Hey Friends 👋

We are already whizzing through 2024! 🏎

🐾 Here is where you can find us in March 🐾

Don't miss out on the paw-some fun! Stay tuned for updates and mark your calendars 📆

02/15/2024

We hope Kali had the BEST birthday ever!! 🥳🎁🎂❤️

Kali gets a special birthday box with all beef treats because she struggles with allergies ❤️ Thanks to for always having the perfect treats for our clients no matter what the diet needs to be! Single ingredient treats are such a great option! Also, peep the adorable donut toy from 🥳

02/01/2024

🎉🐾 One Year Paw-some Anniversary! 🐾🎉

Friends, can you believe it? We've officially turned ONE, and we're ready to celebrate with all of you! 🥳🐾

From today through Saturday (2/3), every order is extra special because it comes with a FREE bag of treats! 🎁 You can order via text, DM, our Shopify site!
*Free bag of treats will be Treat Dealer's choice, based on availability 😅

As we reflect on the past year, it feels like we blinked and suddenly, here we are – one year into this incredible journey. The first year is said to be the toughest in business, but with your support, we have made it through 💪✨From navigating the maze of business stuff (hello, taxes! 📑) to participating in countless markets, festivals, and doggo-related events, it's been a whirlwind of fun and furry adventures. 🐶🎉 Okay, so the taxes bit has NOT been fun......but the other stuff still applies!

Most importantly, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of YOU! Thank you for every purchase, follow, like, DM, share, and referral. Thank you for trusting us to deliver top-quality treats to your fur babies, and allowing us to take them out on memorable DOGventures 🐕❤️ And thank you for supporting and encouraging us, and giving us feedback along the way.

Our encounters with you and your fuzzy companions have been the highlight of our journey and has fueled our determination to be creative and focused in every aspect of our business. 🚀💼

As we proudly look back on our first year, we're even more excited about the future. While we don't know where this journey will ultiMUTTLY take us, we do know this next year will undoubtedly bring growth, challenges, highs, lows, and we're ready to welcome them with open arms and grateful hearts. 🌱💖

So here's to more dogventures, more treats, and more wonderful moments with each of you! Thank you for being a part of UltiMutt D & N's journey. Let's make the next year even more paw-some! 🐾✨

XO

Your Friends at UltiMutt Dogventures & Nutrition 💕

01/24/2024

🌟 Important Notice: Business Closure from Feb 7th to Feb 15th 🌟

We will be closed from February 7th through February 15th as we will be traveling for work. There will be no Dogventures or treat deliveries during that time. Any orders placed during that time will be processed after we return.

If you're planning to celebrate Valentine's Day with our treats, we encourage you to place your orders soon to ensure timely delivery 🍩💘

Thank you for your continued support!