23. ~ Dog ~

The most loyal animal on earth! There are thirty-five to forty species of dogs. Their breeds number about eight hundred or more. There are purebreds and mixed dogs, which are often referred to as mutts or as mongrels. Dogs developed from their ancestor the wolf. Small to medium dogs have a longer natural life span than the larger breeds. A dog's tongue is its cooling system, and they sweat by way of their footpads and their nose. While panting a dog's tongue can swell two or three times its normal thickness to release their body heat. Onions, grapes, and chocolate are very bad for a dog. Lighter coloured dogs can become sunburned. Keep your dog in the shade or inside on hot summer days, especially between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. even if it is overcast outside. Dogs can sense mood and health situations in humans. Dogs, like humans can be either right or left-handed/pawed. Dogs can predict changes in the weather. Dogs come in many different sizes, shapes, behaviours and colours. The dog's greatest sense is its sense of smell. Recently dog studies have proven they can even distinguish the difference between lung and breast cancer patients, simply by sniffing their breath. Dogs are truly amazing animals!

Medicine:

Dog medicine teaches to be extremely loyal to those we are closest to. Dogs teach us to not allow others to break our spirits. Dog medicine reminds us to serve as steadfast guardians of others. Dog medicine teaches us to constantly protect those dearest to us. Dogs teach us to sense danger, disease and to be aware of our environment. Dog medicine reminds us to know which foods can cause our bodies to become sick. They teach us how bad and unhealthy processed foods are. Dogs remind us to protect our skin from over exposure to the sun. And last but not least, dog medicine demonstrates the true meaning of being a real hero! (D.J. we love you!)