Hey,

Happy Wednesday!

I wrote last week how your age is one number that never goes down. I also said that the person in my head is much younger than the one on my birth certificate. 

However, sometimes little things remind me of my current number.

This might be my joints in the morning, the grey hairs on my chin or my taste in music. But it’s often the use of words.

My whole career has been about words and I notice when they change. This is no bad thing — English evolves and is, on the whole, enriched by the process.

One word that has gained new or expanded meanings over the years is ‘hack’. You hack at wood, you use the word to insult journalists (yes, I take offense), and you can use it in several different ways when it comes to horses.

You can also hack a computer — a process of getting around obstacles to reach your goal.

It's a version of the word that has grown to include 'life hacks' — easy ways to make your life better. These were simply known as ‘tips’ when I was young, but whatever you call them, there’s one very simple hack or tip that can keep your dog healthier.

I'll sum it up in four words: clean your dog’s bowl.

Now, before you take offense, I’m sure you do clean your dog’s bowl, but not every dog parent is doing it enough or doing it right. 

Indeed, a study by the National Sanitation Foundation found that pet bowls were one of the top five dirtiest places in the home.

I’m talking about food and water bowls, by the way. 

I speak as someone who's guilty of being sloppy. I’ve set my dog’s breakfast down, gone back to my desk, and forgotten to pick the bowl up for hours.

I’m worse with his water. I too often get so engrossed in my day that this small inanimate object in the corner of the kitchen (the bowl, not the dog) skips my mind.

So, whether you’re like me (or are perfect and want to feel good about yourself), I’d like you to read this article. It’s one of the most popular on the site.

How to Clean Your Dog’s Bowl 

You can also buy bowls and feeders from Chewy via this link. (As per our disclaimer, we may receive a referral fee if you click through to online retailers from our emails or site, but this keeps access to all our content free to the public.)

That’s all for today. Have a wonderful week.

Until next time,

Andrew

Editor
The Dog Food Advisor
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