Transforming the Lives of Three Rescue Dogs 

Sophie Grove, a dedicated Agility Trainer, has been a steadfast advocate of raw feeding to provide optimal nutritional support for her three rescue dogs – Woody, Lulu, and Fae for many years now. In her commitment to ensuring their well-being and vitality amid their active lifestyles, Sophie goes beyond just providing a high-quality ProDog raw diet. Recognising their individual additional needs and high endurance stressors, she supplements their diet with a combination of ProDog’s Flexx and Revive.

Drawing on her background in re-homing and rehabilitating ex-racehorses, Sophie Grove understood the crucial role of a well-balanced diet for any animal. 

After building a bond and gaining Woody’s trust, it wasn’t long before they discovered agility. 

Next came Lulu, a Border Collie who Sophie rescued from a sanctuary in Ireland. As an underweight dog, who was lacking in nutrition, it was clear that there was work to be done to increase Lulu’s weight. Again, a balanced raw diet, and within a few weeks, Lulu was a different dog. 

More recently, Fae, Border Collie, joined the pack and was also introduced to raw food and agility! In her quest to provide the best for her dogs, Sophie looked at what else she could do to support the dogs:

“Certainly, when engaged in agility competitions, different elements come into play. Lulu has faced injuries, Woody, now retired, recently lost his sight in one eye and my dogs have all required additional support to maintain optimal condition during their training, and rest seasons. 

The guys at ProDog Raw have taken the time to explain the benefits and advantages of their nutritional supplement range. They recommend supplements that provide the best support for the dogs, aiding them not only during their seasonal training but also in the off-season. As the years have passed, their needs have changed, and I have always sought the advice of the team to ensure that I’m continually providing the best for my dogs”.

For the past few years, Sophie has consistently incorporated a combination of Flexx and Revive into their diet, effectively contributing to their overall well-being through making simple dietary additions.

We take a look at how these supplements have helped Sophie in her quest to keep her three dogs in optimum condition:

Revive

Revive is expertly formulated to provide optimal recovery for active or undernourished dogs. Designed with active dogs at the forefront, it becomes especially beneficial during training or competition days when they need more than just their regular diet. 

Revive ensures they receive all the essential nutrients crucial for a faster recovery and an additional energy boost, especially if training on consecutive days. Among its myriad benefits, Revive supports the body’s innate recovery mechanisms and replenishes energy levels post-exercise.

This formula comprises of natural ingredients, which are high in antioxidants, amino acids and energy boosters, thus providing restorative nutrients that also aid in detoxifying their body. This makes Revive an ideal choice after a rigorous agility session. All three dogs have experienced the positive effects of Revive throughout their agility careers, attesting to its power and effectiveness.

Flexx

Flexx is ProDog’s joint and mobility support supplement. The anti-inflammatory properties of its science-backed ingredients such as Turmeric, MsM, and chondroitin,  not only help with health conditions such as arthritis but also help to maintain joint, muscle, and bone health. This is especially important with active dogs that are prone to injuries, due to extra strain and demands on their physique, whilst participating in endurance sporting or working activities.

ProDog’s Canine Nutritionist Alison Frost explains:

“Flexx is a great powdered supplement that includes not only the standard joint supporting ingredients but with additional antioxidant and detox support, helps to further decrease levels of inflammation. This tasty topper can easily be sprinkled onto any dog’s diet, whilst gaining benefits of natural joint and mobility support.”

Sophie adds:

“Flexx proves particularly beneficial for Woody, who has entered his senior years at 13. Although Woody no longer participates in competitions, the natural ingredients in Flexx ensure he receives comprehensive support for his ageing joints.”

In addition to incorporating Flexx into their routine, Sophie takes her dogs to the hydrotherapy pool twice a month. This, coupled with specific exercises, contributes to maintaining strong muscles, and a healthy balance of both body and mind for her canine companions.

Discover ProDog’s range of vet-approved nutritional supplements for dogs

Woody’s journey has been remarkable. In 2018, he achieved victory in the agility relay at Crufts alongside his teammates. However, adversity struck in 2023 when Woody lost sight in one eye due to primary glaucoma. Despite this setback, he remained resilient, though his remaining eye is vigilantly monitored. This year brought another challenge as Woody was diagnosed with grade 4 heart issues.

Undeterred by his health woes, Woody has gracefully transitioned into retirement from competitive activities. Displaying remarkable strength, he now relishes his days with his collie companions, Lulu and Fae. Though he may amble at his own leisurely pace, Sophie, ever watchful, ensures his well-being while the other collies energetically race about, covering additional miles in the process.

Woody’s maintenance routine includes Flexx, contributing to his well-being and proving that even in his senior years, he can lead a fulfilling life.

Alison describes the powerful support that Flexx can offer to older dogs:

A few years ago, Lulu experienced cruciate ligament damage, believed by Sophie to be secondary to a paw injury. At that time, there were uncertainties about her ability to return to agility, let alone compete. Throughout her recovery journey, Lulu’s meals included a healthy diet of ProDog Raw food and dog nutrition supplements, with Sophie firmly convinced that this played a crucial role in supporting her rehabilitation.

Enduring a two-year rehabilitation process, Lulu has successfully returned to the agility ring, competing at grade 4, primarily focusing on jumping runs – jumps, tunnels, weave poles. With an impressive record of 22 wins at this level, she has qualified to run in The Bath and West Show’s Pawsability Competition 2024. Lulu, fit as a flea and displaying swimming prowess, is poised for another season of competition.

Currently holding a specific job, Lulu is thriving, thanks to Sophie’s remarkable ability to provide her with a nurturing environment to flourish. Sophie’s patience, kindness, and empathetic approach, considering each individual’s feelings and needs, have enabled Lulu to become the best version of herself.

Originating from Ireland, Fae arrived as a completely feral dog who required a different approach as Sophie explains:

“Initially indifferent to me and preferring the company of Woody and Lulu, it was important for me to establish a connection through one-on-one sessions, gradually building Fae’s confidence and resilience. Early agility training presented its challenges, but through persistent efforts, I began to gain Fae’s interest.”

Possessing a strong-willed nature, Fae occasionally amuses judges by deviating from Sophie’s directions, choosing her circuitous path. As Sophie humorously notes, Fae seems to compete to set a record for how many times she can be disqualified in one run, handling it all with nonchalant ease.

Currently competing at grade 6, Fae is merely five runs away from reaching grade 7 and is now eligible to vie for a place at Crufts 2024, showcasing remarkable progress from her initial feral beginnings.

Again, Fae is supported during competition season with ProDog Revive and maintained with Flexx, during off-peak season where they will still enjoy long hikes with Sophie. 

Through the strategic supplementation of their diets, Sophie ensures that her trio of diverse dogs consistently receives all the necessary nutrients. This holds true whether they are engaged in peak agility training and competition or resting during the off-season. For Woody, grappling with ageing joints, Flexx supplementation supports his mobility. Meanwhile, for Lulu and Fae, Revive ensures they get everything essential to maintain peak condition and overall well-being.

If you’re interested in discovering the advantages of Flexx or Revive, or need advice on the best nutritional support for your dog , the ProDog team is ready to assist. From answering questions, to suggesting the optimal food topper supplements, they can guide you through a multitude of all-natural ingredients to find the best choice for your fur friend. Contact us today for personalised assistance.

Additionally, read our guides to learn more about The Benefits of Raw Dog Food and guidance in How To Switch To Raw Dog Food.