Originally named

Greek-Inspired Chopped Salad with Avocado

We’re approaching the hottest time of the year for Floridians, and that means busting out the no-heat recipes. And while salads can be the obvious and sometimes unexciting summer meal choice, there are many different ways you can build your bowl to leave you satisfied. Nothing says satisfying and refreshing quite like Mediterranean flavors. This Greek-inspired salad features a variety of super fresh ingredients and ultra-savory herbs that make a great lunch or even light dinner. With a homemade dressing and whole ingredients, this is also a great makeahead recipe to have as a main or side dish.

Dressing Ingredients:

• ¼ cup olive oil • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar • 1 teaspoon minced garlic (or garlic powder, if preferred) • 2 teaspoons dried oregano (plus extra to serve) • ¼ teaspoon salt • ¼ teaspoon fresh cracked pepper

Salad Ingredients:

• 1 large English cucumber, sliced • 4 vine ripened tomatoes, cut into wedges • 1 green pepper, deseeded and sliced • ½ red onion, sliced thinly • 7 ounces feta cheese, cubed or crumbled • ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives • 1 large avocado, diced

Image from Café Delites 1. Toss together all of the salad ingredients in a large bowl.

Drizzle with dressing and toss again. Season with extra salt if needed. 2. Sprinkle over extra oregano.

Serve with chicken, fish, lamb or any other protein you prefer.

Animal Anxiety By Dr. Matt Encinosa, DVM

Anxiety is a common complaint amongst pet owners. The most common forms include separation anxiety, firework or thunderstorm anxiety, and travel related anxiety. Owners tend to notice their pet has separation anxiety when they see signs in their house such as damage to furnishings or the interior of the house, accidents, or get noise complaints from neighbors. Firework and thunderstorm anxiety is very common as well. These are usually very seasonal anxieties around rainy seasons and times of celebration. Typically, owners will notice damage to their household after being away, or visibly see their pet shaking, reacting to the loud noises, or trying to hide. If you have brought your pet on vacation, odds are you have experienced travel anxiety. Many will show signs of nausea (vomiting or drooling), have diarrhea, or shake and pant. There are a few ways to approach these issues with your pets such as those listed below. • Conditioning – Sometimes, exposing your pet to similar scenarios can be helpful to allow them to become more familiar with that experience. This is most true with travel. Dogs that go on more frequent car trips tend to do better with travel. • Avoidance – We all would love for our pets to go with us everywhere, but its not always the best choice for their well-being. If you are going to an event where there are loud noises and you have this problem, it may be best to leave them behind. If you live in an area where fireworks are common, you may consider letting your pet stay somewhere they are not. Some pets were not meant to travel. Assess the risks and benefits of bringing your friend along. Is it worth it? • Medications – There are medications that can help with all these circumstances, but each pet should be assessed specifically. There are sedatives that can be given to help alleviate your pets stress and anti-nausea medications that can make them feel more comfortable along the way. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian if you are experiencing any of these issues. Dr. Matt Encinosa – DVM – Boyette Animal Hospital

Boyette Animal Hospital is proud to provide your pets with the highest quality of treatment and care from twelve veterinarians and a devoted staff. To make an appointment, please call (813) 671-3400.