As the winter chill sets in and the days grow shorter, it can be tempting to snuggle up indoors and wait for warmer weather to return. However, just because it's cold outside doesn't mean your dog's need for activity and stimulation diminishes. In fact, finding engaging indoor activities for your canine companion is not only essential for their physical health but also for their mental well-being. Let's explore some fun and creative ways to beat the winter blues and keep your dog entertained and fulfilled indoors. 1. Puzzle Toys and Treat Dispensers: Puzzle toys and treat dispensers are excellent tools for keeping...
As we kick off the new year, many of us are looking for ways to refresh our routines and learn something new. Why not extend this mindset to our furry companions? January presents the perfect opportunity to engage in some fun training sessions with your dog. Not only does training provide mental stimulation for your pup, but it also strengthens the bond between you and reinforces good behavior. Let's explore some exciting training ideas to kickstart your dog's new year. 1. Master a New Trick Start the year on a playful note by teaching your dog a new trick. Whether it's rolling...
Dogs and cats can give blood and help a fellow furry companion survive surgery, an illness or serious trauma. Annually millions of animals need blood transfusions, contact your own vet to see if your furkid can help. The best blood donor is a friendly, healthy, clinically normal animal that is not pregnant. Donors should be vaccinated (although not within 10-14 days before donation), free of infections and parasites, especially blood borne disease, weight 50 lb. (23 kg) or more without being overweight. It takes about 30 minutes and does not require anesthesia. Blood is taken from the jugular vein – the large vein that runs along the...
As we bid farewell to the old year and embrace the new, it's the perfect time to reflect on ways we can enhance the lives of our beloved feline companions. New Year's resolutions aren't just for us humans; they can also benefit our whiskered friends. So, if you're a cat owner looking to make positive changes in 2024, here are some purr-fect resolutions to consider: 1. Prioritize Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Just like us, cats need regular health check-ups to ensure they're in optimal condition. Make a commitment to schedule annual vet visits for your feline friend. These check-ups not only help...
As the chill of January settles in, it's essential to ensure that our furry companions remain healthy and content despite the cold weather. Just like humans, dogs can be affected by the winter season, requiring special care and attention to thrive during these months. Let's delve into some tips and tricks for maintaining your dog's winter wellness. 1. Embrace Indoor Activities With shorter daylight hours and potentially harsh weather conditions, outdoor activities may become limited for your pup. However, this doesn't mean they have to sacrifice exercise and mental stimulation. Get creative with indoor activities such as puzzle toys, hide-and-seek games, or...
As the hustle and bustle of the holiday season comes to an end, January ushers in a fresh start and a chance to set new intentions. While you’re penning down your New Year’s resolutions, have you considered setting some for your four-legged friend? January is the perfect month to give your pup a healthy and happy start to the year. Let’s dive into some tips and activities to make January a pawsitively delightful month for your canine companion! 1. Winter Walks with Caution 🌨️ January brings chilly temperatures and perhaps even snow in many parts of the world. While your dog might...
1. Preventative Medicine The American Heartworm Society and many veterinarians recommend year-round preventative medication. Medications can be administered orally or topically, and prevention is far more effective and less costly than treatment if your dog is diagnosed with heartworm. But, remember that preventives are not used to kill the adult worm and some can cause severe problems if given to animals with adult heartworms. You should follow the recommendations of your veterinarian prior to giving the preventive product. 2. Keep Your Home & Yard Mosquito Free It may not be top of mind, but mosquitos can also be a threat in and around your own...
With the summer approaching fast and bring in the heat, the local ice cream shop becomes the your favorite hang out. You might be wondering if it’s okay to buy your dog their own scoop.Ice cream isn’t a healthy snack for dogs. While the occasional small amount of vanilla ice cream probably won’t send your dog to the vet, ice cream shouldn’t be a regular treat for your dog. Most adult dogs can really handle lactose. This inability to deal with dairy can lead to bloating, gas, diarrhea, and vomiting. In most cases, your dog will probably just be a bit gassy.Dogs...
Have an evacuation plan for your pet – Many public shelters do not allow pets inside. Know if your county has one that does and verify if you need a reservation and what documents you need to bring. Have a current list of hotels / motels that will allow pets. Also check with your veterinarian to learn if they will be offering shelter to their clients pets or know of any that are. Develop a buddy system – Plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are...
There are many benefits to bringing a pet to work. They can boost morale, relieve stress, build a sense of community and get people out for regular walking breaks. Here are some tips to help you bring your dog to work for Take your Dog to Work Day on June 25th or any day. Get Permission – Don’t try to sneak a pet into your workplace, as that could put your job and your pet at risk. Consider what is your best for your pet – Make sure your pet enjoys meeting new people, and the other pets that are likely to...
During an emergency, whether it is localized to your family or extends to the wider community, you will want to ensure that your pets are taken care of and you’re prepared. A basic Pet’s Emergency Preparedness kit should include: Food and water for at least five days – don’t forget bowls and a manual can opener if you are packing canned pet food. Your pet needs approximately 1 ounce of water per pound (of pet) per day. For example if your pet is 8 pounds, you’ll need a cup a day. Medications and medical records – consider storing a few days supply of medicine,...
World Pet Memorial Day was created as a special day to memorialize beloved pets that have passed away. It is observed every year on the second Tuesday in June. Pets are only in our lives for a short time, they stay in our memories forever. A wonderful way to celebrate is plant a memorial garden. Reflect on the wonderful moments that you had and help yourself find peace in knowing how much you and your pet brought to one another’s lives. Memorial gardens can be as big or small as you want. You can plant flowers, plants, or trees in your own...
The idea of pet appreciation week is to connect with your pet on a more fun level and show them how much we really love and appreciate them. Why not make some art with them. Make a Paw Print Canvas. What do you need for paw painting: Non-toxic washable paint (get an array of colors) – like these available on Amazon Crayola Washable Kids Paint Sponges cut into 2” pieces Tubs for different colors (use old food containers and lids before recycling them) Paint drop cloth or old sheet Wet wipes or a small tub of water to wash paws between color changes Canvas (small or large size, get creative) Styrofoam (or cardboard) cut smaller...
National Hug your Cat Day is June 4,2021Quite simply, it is a day in which cat owners everywhere are encouraged to hug their cats.It’s an opportunity to give back to all the cats in the world and shower them with love and attention. Warning! Not all cats will embrace this day as much as you ...