Courtney Budzyn shares how proper diet, fun activities, and daily care keep internet-famous Tucker Budzyn healthy, happy, and thriving as a family companion.
What are some of the top ingredients that you look for when selecting food options to keep Tucker healthy and happy?
Meat. If the first ingredient on a pet’s food label isn’t meat, it’s more than likely not a good option for them. I personally look for high-quality animal protein and just a small amount of added vegetables for extra nutrients. Tucker does really well on a raw diet, as it’s packed to the brim with beneficial nutrients, but I also love gently cooked meals that focus on species-appropriate ingredients. Unfortunately, foods that are high in carbs like corn, wheat, rice, and potatoes can contribute to weight gain and inflammation in dogs, so I avoid these entirely.
What role do physical activity and exercise play in keeping Tucker healthy?
Even though Tucker loves a good couch potato session, staying active is what keeps him young. His favorite activities are swimming and jogging alongside my husband while he rollerblades. It lets him move at his own pace and really get his energy out. We also love heading to the nearby forest for off-leash hikes, where he can sniff, explore, and on occasion, take a mud puddle bath. A body in motion stays in motion…even if it’s covered in mud.
Does Tucker have any enrichment activities to keep him mentally stimulated?
Absolutely! Tucker’s sniffaris in the forest are by far his favorite form of mental stimulation. All that sniffing wears a dog out fast. But on days we can’t make it out there, we bring the fun indoors with lick mats filled with frozen goodies like yogurt, pumpkin, and a few beef liver treats smashed in. We also love playing hide and seek with treats around the house. It gets his nose and brain working overtime, and he has the best time finding each one. I highly recommend having a drool towel handy for that one.
How has your life changed since getting Tucker?
I’d probably need a thousand-page book to fully answer that question. I truly believe anyone who’s found their heart dog would say the same thing. Tucker has changed not only my world on the outside, but my world on the inside. Without words, he has taught me how to be myself unapologetically and has given me the courage to do so. He has held my hand through chronic illness for the past 6 years, giving me the strength I needed to continue to fight for my own health. I honestly owe this dog my life, because he truly has saved mine.
What is the most important thing to keep in mind as a parent of a famous pet personality?
I think it’s important to remember that fame means absolutely nothing to our pets. Tucker doesn’t care about followers, view counts, or brand deals. All he cares about is playing, eating snacks, and getting all the smooches he can from mom and dad. At the end of the day, my true job is to make sure that he gets to just be a dog, above everything else.
