A conversation with Jim — dad to Mango and Abby — on showing up, paying attention, and what intentional aging actually looks like.
For National Dog Dad’s Day, we’re spotlighting Jim and his dogs Mango and Abby — whose daily routines reflect the power of intentional care, shared activity, and the bond that deepens as dogs move through every stage of life.
For nearly two years, Jim has made Leap Years part of Mango and Abby’s daily routine — a proactive approach to supporting their cellular health and long-term vitality.
As a pet parent, how has Leap Years supported Mango and Abby’s healthy aging journey?
Clearly they’re aging biologically with each passing day — but we’ve been consistently giving them Leap Years for about two years now. They remain mentally and physically engaged in our day-to-day routines, with their cells supported through middle age and beyond.
What does being a dog dad mean to you?
Providing for our pack, and including our dogs in daily activities.
Has Mango and Abby getting older changed how you think about your time together?
I don’t really focus on their ages because they’re healthy and active. Instead, I pay more attention to making sure they’re getting the right stimulation and enough exercise each day. As they’ve gotten older, it’s less about “how old they are” and more about being intentional with how we keep them engaged — mentally, physically, and emotionally — so they can keep enjoying all the things we love doing together.
“It’s less about how old they are, and more about being intentional with how we keep them engaged — mentally, physically, and emotionally.”
What are some of the small, everyday moments that feel meaningful?
The dogs jumping on the bed in the morning. Evening TV time on the sofa when we’re just hanging out. After-dinner walks.
Are there routines that have become “your thing” together?
Morning and evening walks. Daily training sessions with our new puppy Frankie. Abby’s “swim-swim” time when the weather’s right. Morning fetch sessions — we call Abby our ball hawk.
If you had to sum it up — how does healthy aging happen, together?
We focus on being intentional about staying active together through daily walks, training, and play — while being mindful about nutrition, healthy feeding habits, and supplements like Leap Years. We make a point to include our dogs in community outings: dog-friendly restaurants, local spaces. It’s about staying connected — not just to each other at home, but to the world around us as a shared experience.
Caring for your dog this Dog Dad’s Day isn’t about one holiday on the calendar — it’s about the small things you do every day. Being intentional in your approach to your dog’s aging journey helps them stay healthier, and more like themselves, for longer.
