The Dog Diva Guide

What is a Dog Diva?
A Dog Diva is anyone who embraces the joys of dog parenthood with style, fun, and a little flair! From baking to crafting, to being the one with all the answers (hello, mom traits), anyone can be a Dog Diva, no matter your gender or background. You’re in good Diva company here.

Who is Auntie M?
Hi, I’m Melanie Fox, aka Auntie M! I’m a single dog mom to Ameera (4) and Akeem (12), my one-of-a-kind rescue Chihuahuas. My dogs are my kids, and like any parent, I juggle all the responsibilities (plus the sass… thanks Ameera).

When life didn’t bring me two-legged children, I leaned into being a full-time dog mom, and honestly, it’s the best gig. No backtalk (well, mostly), no curfews, and they’ll never leave me. If only I could deduct them on my taxes…

Why This App Exists
Being a good dog parent is a LOT. The internet is overwhelming, and I learned everything the hard way: feeding, training, health, you name it. So I built this app to share my tried-and-true “Dog Mom wisdom” with you. Think of it as your all-in-one toolkit: education, crafts, activities, and ways to make memories that last.

First-time dog owner? Seasoned dog dad? Rescue warrior? This is your safe space to be as extra as you want (and trust me, I’m extra AF).

Why Trust Me?
I’ve been a Certified Canine Nutritionist for 16+ years, a Certified Herbalist, ran a dog rescue for 9 years, fostered over 500 pups, and parented 10 of my own. Along the way, I’ve seen almost every illness, allergy, and “oopsie” you can imagine.

I’m not a vet (and never pretend to be), but I am that experienced “village auntie” every dog parent needs, the one who’s tried it all: western medicine, Chinese medicine, homeopathy, you name it. My philosophy? Throw the kitchen sink at it, see what works, and share the wins with you.

I’m always learning, always experimenting, and always excited to pass it on.

My Approach
I recommend alternative remedies alongside vet-recommended ones. I’m here to share my views and experiences, but I always encourage you to take what resonates for you and your dog. Everyone’s journey is different!

When I first went holistic with my pups, I had to create my own recipes to get the right balance. Luckily, fostering gave me lots of taste-testers (over 500 dogs!). That’s how I perfected recipes for sensitive stomachs, allergies, picky eaters, seniors, and tiny mouths.

From Rescue to Recipes
To support my rescue, I launched the first-ever dog food truck—the Snackin’ Waggin’, “Where it’s okay to beg!” From there, I opened Homegrown Hounds Dog Deli & Bakery, think a Chuck-E-Cheese for dogs, where they rule the space and humans…well, sit over there.

I believe every pup deserves the spoils of life, even if they’ve got special needs. My recipes are health-first, quick, and realistic. Sure, Instagram doggie fajitas look cute, but ain’t nobody got time for that. Even a self-proclaimed “I don’t cook for myself” human can whip up my recipes.

The Heart of It All
Dogs give us everything, and we sign up to lose them far too soon. I can’t make them live forever (though the oldest lived to 30, just sayin’), but I can help you make every day together full of joy and free of mom guilt.

You’ll know you gave them the best life possible, and they’ll no doubt return the favor.

With the biggest hugs,
Auntie M, Ameera & Akeem

Melanie Fox, aka “Auntie M,” is a Certified Small Animal Naturopath, Herbalist, and Holistic Nutritionist, with 16+ years of experience. She ran a dog rescue, fostered over 500 pups, and continues to work with veterinarians and pet parents on alternative treatments, customized diets, and coaching.