July 31st is a day to celebrate mutts everywhere! Granted, we always celebrate mutts around here, but I figured I’d highlight McKenzie Rae and Khloee since they are both mixed breed dogs. And at the end, I want to hear about your mutts because let’s be honest – I love big mutts and I cannot lie!
National Mutt Day: Decoding Your Dog’s DNA with GHA!

When Matt and I rescued McKenzie Rae in November 2015, we thought she had to be part coyote or deer. I mean, she looks like a baby wild animal (and she acts like one…)! I guessed that she had some Whippet or Italian Greyhound in her genetic makeup. After performing a DNA test, we found out that McKenzie Rae is a Chihuahua, Labrador Retriever and Samoyed mix. Weird, eh? She’s not exactly white and fluffy, but she also has about 2-3 unknown breeds in her. Perhaps she is part coyote and we’ll never know 😉 Technology has come such a long way, and not only are DNA tests on the market but Royal Canin® now offers a Genetic Health Analysis (GHA). GHA is more than a DNA test so let’s dive a little deeper.
Dog Videos: My Adorable Kids!
Lately I’ve been taking a lot of videos of my dogs. McKenzie is feeling much better, so I figured I’d update you with a short clip of how cute she is! Oh, and how cute my other kids are 😉
An Update on McKenzie Rae’s Health
Last night I lost it. I’ve been remaining strong since McKenzie Rae became ill on Saturday but I couldn’t hang on anymore. I just had to cry. As I sat on the floor next to McKenzie as she laid on the couch, I cried as I watched her struggle to open her eyes. It was painful for me to watch but I can’t imagine how painful it was for my baby girl.
McKenzie Rae’s Unexpected Health Decline

When we rescued McKenzie Rae about a month ago, her health was pretty good. In fact, it was amazing considering where she came from. McKenzie was a stray (most likely her entire life) so who knows what she was up against on the street. Well, after a few weeks of mild kennel cough, McKenzie Rae’s health has taken a quick turn for the worse, and I’m in a panic.