Hello my Foodie Friends. Our pets, both past and present, give us unconditional love, make us laugh, and comfort us. Telling stories of those who touch your heart and make you laugh are part of celebrating our pet’s lives. Earlier this month, we lost our 14 year old Chocolate Labrador Retriever, Scarlett O’Hara. The week after her passing, one of our wonderful customers and I talked about the love, memories, and treasure of having a pet and of the emptiness that we try to work through. As we talked, she noted that what is missing is the “dog energy” in our homes. Dog energy is that feeling you get as you are pulling into the driveway and knowing that a dog nose is peeking out the curtains watching as you pull into the garage. It is the wagging tail, and shaking behind that expects to be scratched the moment you walk in the door. It is the excitement that one gives who is just happy to see you. It is tripping over the dog when you are trying to carry in multiple bags of groceries while entering into the door. It is that smiling face and genuine happiness that you are home that can change a stressed mood into a mutual “I love you” moment. It is that moment when belly rubs are in order to say “welcome home.” The ongoing energy can transfer through every room of the house. However, the kitchen is where Paula felt Scarlett’s dog energy the most. Scarlett was always attached to Paula’s leg when she was preparing meals and waiting for something to fall on the floor or for Paula to give into her large brown eyes waiting for a “taste.” During the final months of Scarlett’s life, Paula made most of her food. By nature, dogs of all breeds and sizes are evolving as carnivores - biologically adapted for a diet rich and varied in fresh meats, with smaller amounts of fruits and vegetables. We used the following recipe for Scarlett. It has ingredients that help maintain strong bones and teeth, improved immune system, high energy, efficient digestion, and an increased life expectancy. Use this recipe as a foundation, but rotate different ingredients for a wider spectrum of nutrients. Keep the ratio the same and just switch different vegetables. • 2 cups brown rice • 1 pound ground beef or turkey • 1/2 cup carrots • 1/2 cup broccoli • 1 cup spinach • 1 sweet potato • 4 cups water or (beef/chicken broth) Chop vegetables up in smaller cubes. Put all ingredients into a large pot and cook for 30-45 minutes until vegetables are soft. Serve at room temperature. You can take it one step further and blend everything in a blender or food processor. This is a great idea for senior dogs, who require a softer texture for easy chewing. Note: If you want to give your dog fish oil supplements with his food, make sure you put it in the food right before you are ready to serve. Fish oil supplements contain omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, which are sensitive to heat. One of the cooking vessels we would use to make her food is a 4 Quart Saute’ Pan from All-Clad. All-Clad triple Stainless combines the strength and beauty of stainless steel with the conductivity of aluminum for consistent culinary results Deeper than a traditional fry pan, the sauté pan features a large surface area and tall, straight sides that hold in juices, prevent splattering, and allow for easy turning with a spatula. Ideal for a wide range of foods including chicken breasts and fish fillets, the sauté pan offers the convenience of browning or searing, then deglazing or finishing in liquid; all in one pan. The lid locks in moisture and heat to thoroughly finish meats on the stove top or in the oven. At CTTC located in the Compliments to the Chef Plaza, we have a large selection of All-Clad products and “cool” tools for cooks to assist you with your cooking needs. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Banfield Pet Hospital in Saratoga Springs and specifically to Dr. Ryan and Dr. Stacy for their support and comfort during our multiple visits. For those who have dogs in your lives: relish the “dog energy” that your family member brings to your home everyday. Have fun cooking with them by your side; and even let a few pieces of food fall once in a while to make them happy. Remember; “Life Happens in the Kitchen” with our family, friends, and furry members too. Take care. John and Paula.