THE BARK BLOG

Something is back that we thought we'd seen the last of sixty years ago. The New World screwworm has returned to U.S. soil — and it's a timely reminder that the full roster of bugs coming for your dog is longer, and more serious, than most people think. Heartworm, fleas, ticks, intestinal parasites: the threat is year-round. So is the protection your dog needs.

Someone recently posted in one of my Facebook groups — their two unaltered purebred dogs were having an oops litter. Yay!!! The comment section full of energy, both positive and negative. The post was gone by the time I went back to find it. But the feeling it left me with wasn't. The anti-spay/neuter movement is real, it's loud, and it has talking points that sound responsible. While we debate studies in comment sections, shelters are full.

Studies show that being around dogs can lower stress hormones, boost feel-good chemicals like oxytocin, and even lower blood pressure. Including them in a regular meditation practice could actually be an effective way to improve your health and wellbeing while building a better bond with them.