What Inspired CocoMeal?
Cleopatra was a beautiful and sweet bullmastiff, the "fur baby" to dear friends of mine. It was in December of 2007, when they received that dreaded call from the veterinarian confirming that their "baby"; only 6 years old was diagnosed with aggressive Stage IV Lymphoma. Cleo's family was distraught, but remained hopeful.
They spared no expense when it came to her treatment. Unfortunately, she didn"t make it more than 3 months, but her illness and passing was certainly not in vain. Little did we know this beautiful creature had a powerful (and painful) message for us all. Cleopatra was raised like most animals today. She saw her allopathic (traditional medical) veterinarian regularly for medications and vaccinations and was fed what was deemed to be high quality commercial dog food for the first 5 years of her life. She was showered with love and spoiled like any human child.
Cleopatra was (and still is) an angel and teacher for us all because her sacrifice led her family and mine on a most passionate journey. A journey that educated us on everything holistic, natural and energetic for our animal companions.
Cleopatra's family quickly became immersed into the world of canine cancer.... learning more than they ever dreamed they"d learn. They learned the hard way about all the causes of canine cancer - everything from diet and nutrition to vaccinations to the pesticides and chemicals used in our homes.
Throughout Cleopatra's battle with cancer, she was fed home prepared meals using all natural ingredients and supplements and enjoyed alternative & holistic veterinarian care such as acupuncture, Chinese herbs, homeopathy and energetic therapies. Her human companions strongly believe the steps they took (albeit late) had given her the additional time to continue to educate us and share her love. Cleopatra's family continues to honor her by continually learning, educating, advising and serving others, not to mention adopting a natural and holistic lifestyle for their current two canine family members Caesar and Isis.
CocoMeal will always be grateful to Cleopatra and her family for sharing their experience & knowledge that will benefit not only CocoMeal's Chief Canine Officer - CocoNut, but countless numbers of canine companions.