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Greetings Mage, seeker of knowledge—I've been expecting you.

Curio Curated

🥩 🥦 Elevate Kibble by Topping with Gently Cooked Fresh Meat & Veggies
Food
Cooked
Meat
Curio Curated
🥩 🥦 Elevate Kibble by Topping with Gently Cooked Fresh Meat & Veggies
Fresh Human-Grade Dog Food, Gently Cooked.

If you’re seeking a food that honors both your pet and the planet, this small-batch, gently cooked food is a nourishing choice. A culinary spell, prepared with love and purpose, it’s as wholesome as it is magical—leaving your dog’s bowl empty and their spirit fulfilled.

Tip: Replace 25% of your dogs kibble with Smallbatch as a topper for those who are budget conscious. A little bit of extra fresh food to supplement kibble is a side of veggies to go with your daily cereal.

1. The Magic of Small-Batch Sourcing

Hailing from the heart of San Francisco, Pristine Smallbatch sources every ingredient with care, honoring the origins of each vegetable and cut of meat. Their ingredients come directly from small, ethical farms, allowing your dog to enjoy food that’s fresh, responsibly raised, and free from fillers or unwanted by-products. It’s food that respects both the land and the life that provides it.

2. A Gentle Elixir for Health: Inspired by Nature’s Design

Crafted to echo the “prey model” that caters to our dogs’ natural dietary needs, this food is low in unnecessary carbohydrates, making it a prime choice for dogs with sensitive tummies. No fillers or harsh additives interrupt the integrity of the food, creating a balanced meal that’s perfect for dogs who need a more gentle approach to digestion.

3. Nourishment, Sous Vide-Style

Pristine Smallbatch employs the delicate art of sous vide cooking, where ingredients are sealed and submerged in a precisely controlled water bath. This gentle process keeps proteins digestible, making it ideal for dogs who have sensitivities to heavily processed foods. By locking in nutrients without sacrificing texture or taste, sous vide cooking ensures each meal is as nourishing as it is flavorful.

4. Enrich Your Dog’s Diet, One Slider at a Time

If you're just starting on the journey toward fresher feeding, Pristine Smallbatch works wonderfully as a kibble topper, allowing you to replace up to 25% of your dog’s kibble with real, gently cooked food. This gradual approach gives you the benefits of quality nutrition without committing to a full diet change, making it easier on the budget while enhancing every meal. Each slider is packed with optimal nutrition, offering an excellent alternative to conventional food without the downsides of over-processed ingredients.

5. A Thoughtful Approach to Digestion and Absorption

Each bite is crafted for ease of digestion, with nutrients that are readily absorbed, giving your dog the best of nature in a bowl. For dogs with sensitive systems, Pristine Smallbatch can be a splendid option that feeds both body and spirit, offering true nourishment in every bite.



LPT Budget Friendly Options:
Replace 10-25% of your kibble with some meat from your grocery store. Lightly steam or cook. (Some butchers may offer cuts they will throw away for free.)

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Food
Cooked
Meat
🥩 🥦 Elevate Kibble by Topping with Gently Cooked Fresh Meat & Veggies
Fresh Human-Grade Dog Food, Gently Cooked.
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This delicate elixir is indeed crafted with care, inspired by the noble prey model, catering well to our canine companions who have sensitive tummies and are sensitive to higher amount of carbohydrates in other dog food.

Pristine Smallbatch employs a gentle sous vide cooking method, submerging the ingredients in a water bath where time and temperature are meticulously controlled. This process not only ensures pasteurization but also enhances the digestibility of the proteins. For dogs with sensitive systems, this might just be a splendid option to consider.

Each slider packs optimal nutrition, perfect for delivering quality meals without the harshness of overly processed foods. It's a thoughtful approach to feeding, allowing digestive ease and better nutrient absorption.

News

Study Busts the Myth That Purebred Dogs Have More Health Problems
Dog Aging Project
Aging
Genetics
Your Regular Longevity Briefing
Study Busts the Myth That Purebred Dogs Have More Health Problems
AKC

Do purebred dogs suffer more health problems and diseases than mixed-breed dogs? Findings published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science suggest the answer is no. In a study involving 27,541 companion dogs, data showed that mixed-breed dogs are just as likely to experience common health conditions as their purebred counterparts. A smaller gene pool doesn’t make a purebred dog more likely to have common dog diseases when compared to a mixed-breed dog.

Keep Reading
Dog Aging Project
Aging
Genetics
Study Busts the Myth That Purebred Dogs Have More Health Problems
AKC
Quick Summary

The Dog Aging Project’s latest research casts aside old assumptions, revealing that purebred dogs don’t suffer more health woes than their mixed-breed kin. With insights from over 27,000 canine companions, this study shows that breed alone doesn’t seal a dog’s fate for common ailments — rather, it’s individual genetics, diet, and lifestyle that hold the power over their health. Though certain breeds may carry higher risks for specific conditions, routine vet care and owner vigilance matter more for warding off illness. The findings are a spellbinding reminder that a dog’s well-being is shaped by both nature and nurture, transcending any simple breeding magic.

News

Do coyotes have puppy dog eyes? New study reveals wild canines share dog's famous expression
Canids
Coyotes
Your Regular Longevity Briefing
Do coyotes have puppy dog eyes? New study reveals wild canines share dog's famous expression
Baylor University

New research from Baylor University reveals that coyotes, like domestic dogs, have the ability to produce the famous "puppy dog eyes" expression. The study -- "Coyotes can do 'puppy dog eyes' too: Comparing interspecific variation in Canis facial expression muscles," published in the Royal Society Open Science -- challenges the hypothesis that this facial feature evolved exclusively in dogs as a result of domestication.

Keep Reading
Canids
Coyotes
Do coyotes have puppy dog eyes? New study reveals wild canines share dog's famous expression
Baylor University
Quick Summary

Curio Summary—In a twist befitting ancient lore, researchers at Baylor University have uncovered that coyotes, much like domestic dogs, wield the enchanting "puppy dog eyes" — a skill once thought to be a spell cast by domestication alone. This mystic brow-raising power, fueled by the levator anguli oculi medialis muscle, resides not just in dogs but is rooted in their shared lineage, passing coyotes the same power and leaving wolves less gifted. Such findings unveil that "puppy dog eyes" may be a primal trait among the Canis clan, an ancestral charm likely lost to wolves over time. With further study, scientists may find that these expressions are ancient incantations for survival, speaking across species long before humans walked among them.

Research

Longevity, aging and rapamycin
Longevity
Senior Dogs
Springer Link
Longevity, aging and rapamycin
Published online 2014 Jul 12

Abstract

Abstract—The federal drug administration (FDA)-approved compound rapamycin was the first pharmacological agent shown to extend maximal lifespan in both genders in a mammalian species. A major question then is whether the drug slows mammalian aging or if it has isolated effects on longevity by suppressing cancers, the main cause of death in many mouse strains. Here, we review what is currently known about the effects that pharmacological or genetic mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibition have on mammalian aging and longevity. Currently available evidence seems to best fit a model, wherein rapamycin extends lifespan by suppressing cancers. In addition the drug has symptomatic effects on some aging traits, such as age-related cognitive impairments.(needs excerpt)

Keep Reading
Longevity
Senior Dogs
Longevity, aging and rapamycin
Springer Link
Quick Summary

Curio Takeaway—This study explored rapamycin, a potion known to hinder cellular aging, as a possible spell to lengthen dogs' lifespans. By slowing the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, this brew potentially defers aging ailments, boosting longevity and vitality in pups. Though more testing is needed to see if this can be safely prescribed, researchers are intrigued by rapamycin’s potential to add healthy years to a canine’s life.

Fun Facts

The AKC recognizes about 201 dog breeds, but there are probably considerably more than 360 breeds recognized worldwide today.

Barcane Tips

🫐 We've Got the Blues
DIY
Food
Shareable
Barcane Tips & Tricks
🫐 We've Got the Blues
Easy Affordable Food to Share with Your Familiar

Gather 'round, loyal companion, as we delve into the wondrous world of blueberries—a delightful gem for your canine's diet! These tiny fruits are not merely a tasty treat but a treasure trove of health benefits, deserving a spot in your dog’s culinary adventures.

Nutritional Powerhouse
Blueberries, often hailed as a superfood, are bursting with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which help fight free radicals in the body. This magic can assist in preventing cancer and other ailments that may plague our furry friends as they age.

Immune Support
Rich in vitamin C, blueberries act as a shield, boosting your dog’s immune system. Strong defenses mean fewer visits to the apawthecary for ailments and a happier, healthier companion by your side.

Digestive Health
These delightful orbs also contain fiber, which is beneficial for digestion. A diet rich in fiber supports a healthy gut, helping to keep those pesky digestive troubles at bay.

Weight Management
For those pooches prone to the expanding waistline, blueberries can be a fantastic low-calorie snack, perfect for keeping your furry friend's weight in check while providing a burst of flavor.

Adding Blueberries to the Diet
Incorporating blueberries into your dog’s meals is as easy as a flick of a wand! Simply rinse a handful and toss them into their food, or enjoy them as a refreshing snack—great for warm days or post-walk rewards. Remember, moderation is key.

By sprinkling these magical berries into your dog's diet, you not only enhance their meals but also conjure up a host of health benefits that aid in their longevity and joy. Here’s to your clever choices in the pursuit of your canine's well-being!

Directions:

  1. Rinse a handful of fresh blueberries thoroughly. You may soak it in salted water as well to remove any traces of pesticide. For best results, try organic blueberries if possible.
  2. Toss them into your dog's food or use them as a tasty treat.
  3. For teacup-sized dogs, consider mashing them slightly to make them easier to eat.

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Photography by Joanna Kosinska | Unsplash

Keep Reading
DIY
Food
Shareable
🫐 We've Got the Blues
Easy Affordable Food to Share with Your Familiar
Quick View

How about the magical addition of blueberries? These little orbs of wonder are bursting with health benefits!

Benefits:

  • High in antioxidants, fighting free radicals and aiding in cancer prevention.
  • Rich in vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system.
  • Contains fiber, beneficial for healthy digestion and maintaining weight.

Podcast

🎙️ What dogs are teaching us about aging, with Daniel Promislow (Ep. 133)
Longevity
Senior Dogs
Aging
Podcast: Big Brains
🎙️ What dogs are teaching us about aging, with Daniel Promislow (Ep. 133)

Show Notes—Every dog owner has faced the hard realization that their dog won’t live as long as they do, but we’ve all probably wondered: Why do some dogs live longer than others? It turns out that several factors are at play, according to the largest research study of dogs, known as The Dog Aging Project.

Prof. Daniel Promislow of the University of Washington is co-director of the project, which was originally funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). It examines how biology, lifestyle and environment can increase both the health and lifespan of more than 50,000 dogs. We spoke with Promislow about whether we can help our dogs live longer—and what their research could actually teach humans about aging.


Barcane Tips

Cruciferous Veggies
DIY
Budget-friendly
Cancer
Barcane Tips & Tricks
Cruciferous Veggies
Budget Friendly Ways to Stave Off Cancer

Cruciferous veggies are like magical potions for our canine companions. They are packed with powerful nutrients that can help strengthen their defenses against illness and support overall health. These enchanting greens contain antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins which work together to keep your furry friends vibrant and lively.

Examples of cruciferous veggies include:

  • Broccoli
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Cauliflower
  • Kale

Easy Prep
First, thoroughly wash with water and vinegar to remove any traces of pesticides and other chemicals. Serve in any of the following ways:

  • Pureê
  • Lightly steam, or
  • Lightly bowl

  • Small dogs: 1-2 tablespoons
  • Medium dogs: 2-4 tablespoons
  • Large dogs: 1/2 to 1 cup

Freeze any remaining portions or store in the fridge for up to 7-10 days. For easier serving, freeze them into ice cube trays!

Be wary of farts, but the benefits far outweigh the Spell of Foggy Posteriors.

Keep Reading
DIY
Budget-friendly
Cancer
Cruciferous Veggies
Budget Friendly Ways to Stave Off Cancer
Quick View

Varieties like broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and Brussels sprouts are treasure chests of nutrition, rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They wield the power to support a strong immune system and may even aid in combatting the dreaded cancer.

These veggies can also promote digestive health and help maintain a healthy weight due to their low calorie count yet high fiber content. Just remember to cook or steam them lightly to enhance digestibility, dear seeker of wisdom!

Tested & Reviewed

🐕‍🦺 Harnessing the Magic (Award Winning Nordic Gear)
Dog Gear
Harnesses
Dog Basics
Curio Tested & Reviewed
🐕‍🦺 Harnessing the Magic (Award Winning Nordic Gear)
A Review of the Line Harness V5 by Nonstop Dogwear

The Line Harness V5 is more than just a harness; it’s a trusted companion for both everyday rituals and wilderness expeditions. If you seek comfort, control, and quality, this harness is a magical addition to any adventure with your four-legged familiar.

1. A Spellbinding Fit: The Y-Shape and Canine Comfort

The Line Harness V5 features an ergonomic Y-shaped design that respects your dog’s natural anatomy. This thoughtful structure allows complete shoulder freedom, keeping their gait natural and preventing strain. For high-energy dogs, this Y-harness is an ideal choice, maintaining comfort without restricting movement during spirited romps or relaxed walks.

If you are shopping for a new dog-walking gear, Curio strongly suggests you consider a Y-harness shape (if it does not obstruct any abnormal growth like tumors/cysts or injuries) to prevent tracheal issues.

2. Cushioned Protection: Padding that Feels Like Armor

Encased in durable, yet soft padding, the harness protects against friction and feels like armor for your pup, even on extended adventures. The padding molds to their body, minimizing rubbing and discomfort so they can roam freely, day or night. Designed for dogs who are always on the move, this feature is a game-changer in keeping your dog secure and comfortable.

3. Mastering Control: The Magic of Three Attachment Points

With three strategic leash attachment points, the harness offers flexible handling options for all terrains and situations. The front clip works wonders for curbing pulling, transforming even the most spirited dogs into calm companions on busy streets. The rear attachments provide the freedom needed for bounding through nature without discomfort—ideal for dogs that crave both structure and exploration.

4. Safety Sigils: Reflective Accents for Moonlit Adventures

Reflective detailing lines the harness like mystical sigils, giving you peace of mind on nighttime walks. These accents enhance visibility and ensure your dog is safe even in low-light conditions, so you both can wander under the stars with confidence.

Mage note:
Be sure to measure your familiar properly.

Where to buy Support small businesses:

  1. Dogmania.se / Ships Worldwide from Sweden:
  2. Alaska Dog Center / Ships from the US
Keep Reading
Dog Gear
Harnesses
Dog Basics
🐕‍🦺 Harnessing the Magic (Award Winning Nordic Gear)
A Review of the Line Harness V5 by Nonstop Dogwear
Quick View

The Line Harness V5 from Nonstop Dogwear is the dream harness designed for the dog owner who does not compromise form nor function. Its enchanted design wraps around your dog like a protective ward, allowing them to run free under the open sky with no restrictions, yet always under your command. With three different leash attachment points, you can channel the energy of your walks—whether for casual strolls, gentle training, or wild adventures. Its reflective threads shimmer like enchanted runes in the twilight, ensuring your companion is always safe, even in the witching hour.

Research

DNA methylation in canine brains is related to domestication and dog-breed formation
DNA
Longevity
Brain Health
National Library of Medicine
DNA methylation in canine brains is related to domestication and dog-breed formation
Published online 2020 Oct 29

Abstract:
Epigenetic factors such as DNA methylation act as mediators in the interaction between genome and environment. Variation in the epigenome can both affect phenotype and be inherited, and epigenetics has been suggested to be an important factor in the evolutionary process. During domestication, dogs have evolved an unprecedented between-breed variation in morphology and behavior in an evolutionary short period. In the present study, we explore DNA methylation differences in brain, the most relevant tissue with respect to behavior, between wolf and dog breeds. We optimized a combined method of genotype-by-sequencing (GBS) and methylated DNA immunoprecipitation (MeDIP) for its application in canines. Genomic DNA from the frontal cortex of 38 dogs of 8 breeds and three wolves was used. GBS and GBS-MeDIP libraries were prepared and sequenced on Illuma HiSeq2500 platform. The reduced sample represented 1.18 ± 0.4% of the total dog genome (2,4 billion BP), while the GBS-MeDIP covered 11,250,788 ± 4,042,106 unique base pairs. We find substantial DNA methylation differences between wolf and dog and between the dog breeds. The methylation profiles of the different groups imply that epigenetic factors may have been important in the speciation from dog to wolf, but also in the divergence of different dog breeds. Specifically, we highlight methylation differences in genes related to behavior and morphology. We hypothesize that these differences are involved in the phenotypic variation found among dogs, whereas future studies will have to find the specific mechanisms. Our results not only add an intriguing new dimension to dog breeding but are also useful to further understanding of epigenetic involvement.

Keep Reading
DNA
Longevity
Brain Health
DNA methylation in canine brains is related to domestication and dog-breed formation
National Library of Medicine
Quick Summary

Curio Takeaway—This study examines the role of DNA methylation in understanding the differences between domesticated dogs and their ancestor, the grey wolf, as well as among various dog breeds. Researchers found distinct methylation profiles that suggest significant epigenetic influences during dog domestication and breed formation. The study utilized genotype-by-sequencing and methylated DNA immunoprecipitation methods to analyze these patterns, highlighting differences in genes associated with behavior and morphology. The findings indicate that DNA methylation might have essential implications for gene expression and phenotypic variations in dogs, suggesting ongoing epigenetic processes in evolution and domestication. Limitations of the study include sample representativeness and potential age-related variations in methylation patterns, warranting further investigation into the causal effects of these epigenetic differences

Curio
    Curio is best viewed on desktop.