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  • How to Workout With Your Dog: 7 Awesome Exercises

    The warm weather that we’ve all been waiting for has finally arrived! It’s time to throw off the sweater and hit the outdoors in your sleeveless shirts. But there’s another little guy (or girl) who’s been waiting to enjoy the beautiful sunshine as well: your loveable pooch!

    Your dog wants to play around in the sun and flowers, too, and there’s nothing they would like better than to enjoy the day with you. With this in mind, you would really benefit from getting in a good workout with your dog. But what sorts of workouts could you really do with your doggo? What is the best way to exercise with your dog?

    No need to fear! This article will give you some good ideas as to what you can do to have a fun dog workout with your pup. Keep reading to find out more!

    1. Standard Curl Workouts With Your Dog!

    Everyone loves a good curl, so why not switch out the ol’ dumbbells with your four-legged friend? This is an easy workout to do, as well. Simply gather your dog around your forearms and go for a nice lift. Don’t forget to do a few sets to make the workout worth it!

    2. Go for a Walk!

    The age-old workout with Man’s Best Friend! Going for a walk is one of the easiest things to do, and you get to see a whole set of sights and sounds. Just strap on the doggie lease and you’re ready to go.

    3. Do Some Doogo Squats!

    Time to get those legs strong and toned! Doing squats with your dog is simple to do. Hold your dog in your forearms and keep them close, then go down for a nice squat Make sure you keep good form!

    4. It’s the Right Time for Hiking!

    Want to upgrade your walking challenge? Try going on a hike! Hikes are a challenging way to get your blood pumping and strengthen your connection with your best friend.

    5. Try Puppy Pushups!

    These are easy to do, as long as your dog is willing to stay on your back. Simply use your doggo as resistance as you do traditional pushups. Doggy licks are almost guaranteed to be your reward.

    6. Planks With the Pooch!

    If you can’t do a pushup, don’t worry; planks are a great option as well, and they work your core even more than a traditional pushup. have Fido act as resistance as well on this move.

    7. Don’t Forget to do Yoga!

    Yoga is not only good for you, but also for your pup. There’s flexibility and mental calmness involved for both you and your pet, and both of you will grow stronger because of this great workout.

    Get Going With Your Pup!

    Now that you know how to workout with your dog, you can have tons of fun with them over the coming sunny months. Make sure that you enjoy spending time with your pooch and get toned and fit with your best furry friend!

  • DIY Fun Cat Projects to Keep Fluffy Entertained

    A cat is a very intelligent, curious, and playful animal, and when she is bored, she will keep herself entertained, frequently with destructive behaviors such as destroying furniture with her claws.  Providing Fluffy with constructive and stimulating activities not only helps to avoid this behavior, but it also keeps her healthy and happy as well.  With a little bit of patience and creativity, providing her with activities and toys can be fun and affordable for both of you, and can promote bonding time for you as well. 

    Empty cardboard boxes and shopping bags left on the floor are instant entertainment, providing kitty with somewhere new to explore, and dark places to hide.  Consider using several boxes and bags to create a tunnel for your cat to explore.  Hide food throughout the tunnel and even throughout the house so that she can “hunt” for her food, which will keep her entertained and can even help to keep her from overeating.

    Cardboard Cat Castles

    A new trend taking over social media has been the cat tank. All you need is some free time, some cardboard, and the limits to what fun things you can build for your kitty are only limited by your own imagination! Since many of us are taking the time to stay home, we’re sure there are a plethora of cardboard boxes around the house. Use these to make tanks, castles, and more for your furry friend. There are endless activities you can do. 

    Toilet paper roll cat toys

    One thing that can be found in every home (at any time) is an empty toilet paper roll or paper towel roll.  Instead of throwing them away, take them, some scissors, and Fluffy’s favorite cat treats or catnip to make easy toys that you and Fluffy can enjoy together for hours of fun!

    You can make simple rings for them to play with or you can go the extra mile and do ring balls, a treat rattle, or use several TP rolls to make a treat puzzle. Go nuts with all of the different ways you can use paper rolls to entice play with your kitties.

    Water Bowl Planter For Cat Grass

    A cat grass water bowl can be an intricately designed and complex system, or it can be as simple as a planter with grass in it placed in a water bowl, but the benefits to your cat’s digestion system and nutrition are immense! It can help aid a cat’s digestion by helping prevent hairballs from building up in their stomachs and increasing nutrients like fiber, niacin, and vitamin b into their systems!

    Cats absolutely love cat grass, so this is a great way for them to not only nibble on the grass but get fresh water as well. Plus, if your furry friend is a messy water drinker they will inevitably water the plants. 

    T-Shirt Toys and Tents

    The next time you’re faced with letting go of your favorite t-shirt, why not turn it into something for Fluffy to enjoy, like tying it into bow ties to complement your tuxedo cat? There’s nothing cuter than a kitty with a bow tie. 

    Do you have a window loving kitty or simply want to turn an old shirt into a new rest spot? Follow these simple steps and create a whole new spot for your kitty to play, rest, and nap in. In just a few simple steps, you have a whole new spot and saved those dollars for some extra treats – for you or kitty.

    With a little bit of free time and imagination, there’s no limit to the fun that you can make for you and Fluffy while finding great ways to repurpose items otherwise destined for the landfill. Whether you are getting your ideas from your friends, the internet, or your creations come entirely from your own imagination, you can give Fluffy plenty of options to keep her entertained all the time.  Regardless of whether you are purchasing or building toys for Kitty, the most important ingredient to keeping her entertained is you!

  • How To Tell If Your Dog Is Getting Too Much Exercise

    Have you wondered if you have tuckered out your dog too much but he’s still wanting to have fun? Well, there are telltale signs that your Fido may be getting too much exercise. We’ll go through things that you should look for in your dog and how to make sure that you both are being safe yet healthy.

    Exercise is Good

    Exercise is good for both you and your dog. When you do exercise together, you continue to strengthen your bond and create fun and lasting memories. It benefits both your physical needs as well as your mental needs, maintains muscle mass, and continues to have long-lasting health benefits. Coaxing your furry friend off the couch, and yourself as well helps cardiovascular health, decreases obesity, and helps maintain a healthy weight. So, get out and start having some fun. 

    So, how do you know that your dog has had a bit too much exercise? Let’s dig into that but we’re not going to bury a bone here. We want to make sure that you are keeping your doggo healthy but protected. 

    Pause for the Paws

    Whether it’s Summer or Winter or any other time of the year, you’ll always want to make sure that you keep track of Buster’s paws when you’re exercising. 

    During the summer months, the pavement can get extremely hot which can burn and blister his paws while you’re out walking. Try thinking about taking your furry friend out for early morning walks or taking a drive to the local dog park. Keeping his paws off of the pavement will definitely keep his paws protected. If you’re in an urban area, pavement covers up to as much as 45% walking areas. On a steamy, hot summer day, asphalt alone can get up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Ouch! Who wants to walk on that?!

    Adversely, the winter months can have the same effect to your pup’s paws. Snow, ice, and salt can also take a toll on your dog’s paws. Getting some booties for their paws is always good, especially when you’re active. 

    Regardless of when you’re exercising with your pup, make sure that her paws are protected and always check them when you get home. 

    Muscle Soreness

    We all get it, especially when we get back out to working out again. Sore muscles and stiffness are also things that your dog can get if they get too much exercise or too much in a short period of time. You will need to make sure that you watch your dog for any signs that they refuse to get up, get down, move, or have a hitch in their steps. These problems can result in too much exercise. To make sure that you and your dog are working well together, take exercise a little bit easier. You go out for your run in the morning and do light play with your dog after you get back. Both of you get some exercise, mental stimulation, but you’re both protecting each other from overdoing it. 

    If you have a dog that has a strong work and play drive, you will have to be extra careful and extra cognizant of their movements. You’ll need to look for stiffness, potential aggression, passiveness, or favoring a leg. These can all be telltale signs of overworking and over-exercising your dog.

    Don’t Forget The Joints

    With everything mentioned above, too much exercise can cause some join damage like sprains and strains. Since about 60% of a dog’s weight is on their front limbs, excessive exercise can lead to a lot of various problems. Depending on the breed of your dog, over-exercising can put your dog’s limbs at risk for injury. Low-to-the-ground dogs like Basset Hounds, Dachshunds, and Pekinese can be easily at risk for joint injuries. 

    Also, the age of your dog can also have an effect on too much exercise. A dog that is younger can withstand longer walks, while puppies and senior dogs need shorter walks. Puppies can go on multiple walks throughout the day while a couple of shorter walks for senior dogs is a good choice. 

    It’s good to know the signs of your dog and what they are going through. Keep exercising, but also make sure that Fido and Maggie are also getting the best and most comfortable exercise. 

  • Fruits & Veggies That Double as Dog Treats

    You’re munching down on a delicious, juicy mixed fruit bowl. Your best friend walks over, staring at you with those adorable, pleading eyes. You hesitate for a moment, unsure of whether or not it’s safe to share your snack with him.

    Well, here’s some good news! Your dog can easily ingest many of the same fruits and vegetables that you and I enjoy. Instead of buying expensive (or questionably cheap) treats from the pet store, try some of these natural, healthy options that you’ve already got stored in the pantry.

    I Like to Eat, Eat, Eat, Apples & Bananas!

    Both of these tasty treats are high in fiber and potassium, essential nutrients for healthy kidneys and digestion. In addition to their crunchy texture, apples are like nature’s floss. Your pup will love the semi-sweet flavor, and they’ll be getting rid of the odor-causing plaque that builds up between their teeth. Add a bit of peanut butter for an extra dose of healthy fats and protein.

    Bananas, on the other hand, happen to be a fantastic choice for senior pets who need some extra vitamins but have a tough time chewing. Mash half a banana up and mix it in with your dog’s regular food, or slice up a firmer one and sprinkle the pieces over their kibble.

    Then, eat the other half!

    Blackberries

    This may come as a surprise, but dogs absolutely love the taste of blackberries! The firm outer skin combined with the satisfying burst of juice is an excellent way to add a little flavor to your pup’s meal while keeping blood sugar levels in check. Our pets are just as susceptible to cancer-causing free radicals as we are, so it’s paramount to provide them with a regular dose of antioxidants to fight off rogue cells. 

    Luckily, blackberries contain both antioxidants and Omega fatty acids, promoting healthy skin and a shiny, soft, supple coat of fur.

    Green Beans & Carrots

    When freshly chopped and mixed with a veggie broth, your dog will go nuts for a surprise helping of green beans and carrots. As we know, carrots are an essential part of optical health. Vision deterioration is a common symptom of aging in canines, so starting prevention methods early might help your pup’s eyesight remain sharp for a longer period of time.

    The carrot’s trusty partner, green beans, fills up the tummy and keeps our four-legged friend at a healthy weight. Obese canines and dogs who carry excess fat are more likely to have hip problems. Green beans are a magnificent source of calcium, iron, protein, vitamin K, and vitamin C.

    Not to mention, they’re packed with folate, a crucial enzyme necessary for optimal brain function.

    These are Snacks, Not Meals!

    Since berries and fruit contain a higher level of naturally occurring sugar than veggies, you should save those for special occasions! If you’re introducing these foods to your pup for the first time, take it slow. Once their body has adjusted, you can gradually increase the serving size based on your pet’s individual needs and requirements.

  • Pet Sitters vs Kennels – Which is Best for Your Pet?

    Entrusting a stranger to look after your beloved pet is a difficult decision for any owner to make. Who’s more qualified, the kennel facility, or the pet sitters you find through apps such as Rover and Wag? How can you be certain that your furbaby ends up in good hands?

    What to Look for In a Kennel

    While the rates for pet hotels tend to be higher than those of a sitter, the best facilities offer services that your neighborhood dog-walker can’t! Most kennels provide professional bathing, grooming, training, along with live surveillance that can be accessed from your phone. You’re able to see who interacts with your pet the most and observe how they’re responding to the stay.

    Don’t depend on online reviews for an honest peek into the facility you’re interested in. Take a tour and see for yourself! Is there rat poop in the drains or along the floorboards? Are the individual runs clean and free of urine or feces? Do the animals have proper bedding? Are senior dogs getting the extra attention necessary? 

    Make sure that the building is up to date with Fire Marshal regulations and ask to see where the extinguishers are located. Some locations keep one or two staff members on-site during the evening, but it’s not uncommon for companies to send all of their employees home after a certain time in the evening.

    This is something to seriously consider if you’re not comfortable with your pet being alone for an extended period away from home.

    Working With a Sitter

    You may have to set up your own surveillance system if you hire an in-home pet sitter, but at least you know exactly who is coming and going. Keeping your furbaby at home also means that they won’t have as much exposure to diseases like kennel cough and distemper. Both are highly contagious, and outbreaks have occurred in boarding facilities.

    Give your sitter a mini-interview. Ask them about their experience with animals. If your pet has any special needs, find out whether or not they’ll be comfortable with the requirements. Unlike boarding facilities, you may have better like with the accuracy of online reviews. Look for someone who has repeat clients, lots of photos, and a good reputation within the community of the app or website.

    Keep in mind that a cheaper rate doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re getting an awesome deal. Like most things in life, you get what you pay for. It’s no different when hiring someone to look after the thing you love most! 

    Ultimately, it’s up to you to make the judgment about what’s right for you and your pet. In terms of safety and comfort, where do you think your dog, cat, or otherwise will feel the least anxious in your absence? When you examine each scenario, which option makes you feel at ease?

    Take a few nights to sleep on it so that you can make an informed, well-thought-out decision.

  • Steps to Introducing Your Pet to a Newborn

    Becoming a best friend and protector to your new bundle of joy is an exciting role that many canines are proud to take on. On the other hand, some dogs aren’t into the whole baby thing at first, and others just aren’t really sure how to respond to the little tyke.

    Help your pup and your family ease into the process of getting to know each other with some pre-baby preparation.

    Establishing New Boundaries

    Before your newborn comes home, your dog needs time to adjust to the new environment. While you may not have taken notice or been bothered by it before, you’re not going to want your pup following you into every room of the house when rocking or feeding. 

    Create off-limits spaces by using simple commands like “kennel up,” “out,” or “go lay down.” Once the requirement of the command has been met, reward your dog with a treat or affection. By offering a positive result for good behavior, your pup will understand that this isn’t a punishment. You’re just establishing a new routine.

    The time for introductions and family inclusion will come, but the last thing you want is to be carrying your newborn across a room…only to trip and fall over a curious canine. 

    Helpful Trick: Buy a babydoll from your local dollar store. If possible, pick one that cries or makes noise and carry it around the home the way you would your newborn and use it as practice. 

    Setting the Mood

    If possible, have a friend, family member, or pet sitter take your dog for a brisk run or walk to wear off excess energy. During this time, bring your newborn inside and allow other children in the home to express their excitement. Once everyone has calmed down a bit, have another adult help with initiating the first greeting between your pup and the new little person in their life.

    Leash your dog as a precaution; it’s not necessary to pull or restrain. They’re going to be curious…

    “This baby smells so different, so good! It’s so tiny! Can I lick it? Can we play together?”

    Allow your dog to sniff the baby’s feet and tell them what your baby’s name is. Doing so will help them recognize that the newborn is a who, not an it. As long as they’re calmly following “sit” and “gentle” commands, your pet should be given permission to observe, sniff, and listen to the soft cooing of their two-legged sibling.

    You know your dog best, if they growl, become tense, or appear to behave in a way that you recognize as aggression, stop the session immediately. Take a break, and revisit. 

    Work As A Team

    Once you feel that your newborn has reached a stage where they can safely go for stroller rides, bring your pup with! Walking together is by far one of the most primal ways for owners to bond with canines. Use this opportunity to help them get used to the presence of the baby and create the natural union of bringing them into The Pack!

  • Retractable Leashes for Dogs: This is What You Need to Know

    While most puppies can learn simple commands as early as 7 weeks, most experts agree that you start formally training your dog around 6 months of age.

    Training your dog includes everything from house training to socializing and walking on a leash. When you start leash training, you’ll have a choice between a retractable or fixed leash.

    Retractable leashes have a bad reputation but incidents with this type of leash are largely the result of improper use. There are pros and cons to this type of leash and specific times when you’d consider using them.

    If you’re trying to find the right leash for your dog, keep reading. We’re going to tell you when to choose a retractable dog leash and why. 

    Pros of Retractable Leashes

    The number one benefit of a retractable leash is that it gives your dog freedom to roam while still giving you a degree of control by having them tethered. But there are a few additional benefits to these dog products, depending on the type of dog you have.

    If your dog tends to tangle their leash, a retractable leash can’t twist into knots. Dogs who tangle their leash tend to be high-energy dogs, and these dogs also benefit from retractable leashes. That’s because they have more freedom to roam, which gives you a better chance of tuckering them out and exhausting their energy.

    If you’re a runner or jogger, you might benefit from a retractable leash if you like to take your dog with you. Using a retractable leash means you don’t have to stop every few feet. Your dog can run alongside you or in front of you and do their business without you having to stop.

    Cons Of Retractable Leashes

    The cons of retractable leashes include the degree of control that you have. Retractable leashes can give your dog 16ft or even 30ft of leeway. If you need to gain control over your dog while they’re that far away, you’re going to have a hard time doing so.

    The other downsides of retractable leashes have to do with how they’re made. For one, a retractable dog leash made from nylon can not only snap but also cause rope burns. And big, bulky handles are easy to lose grip of, which means the leash will go bouncing behind your dog and potentially cause them to panic and run.

    Best Time To Use A Retractable Dog Leash

    With those pros and cons in mind, the best time to use a retractable dog leash is when you’re walking a trained dog on familiar grounds and with lots of space. Without sufficient room, your dog can get tangled in trees and shrubs or into trouble with other dogs and people. And in unfamiliar territory, you don’t know what awaits your dog around the next corner or over a hill on a new trail.

    You might use a retractable leash to train a puppy in an unfenced yard, too. But be careful when using a retractable leash to train. Because there’s always tension on these types of leashes, your dog may learn to pull.

    Get to Know More Pet Products

    Retractable leashes can be great tools in specific circumstances. If you like to jog alongside your pup or if you have a lot of open space that you’re familiar with, for example. But, if you’re training your dog or walking them in unfamiliar territory, you might consider a different type of leash.

    To have a look at your options, as well as pet products for birds to reptiles, check out what we carry.

  • Should My Dog Be Eating Grass?

    Are you finding yourself wondering if you bought a cow instead of a dog? If so, you’re not alone in this dilemma. Many dog owners find themselves scratching their heads and wondering why their beloved pooch is dining on the backyard grass. You may be asking yourself if this is normal behavior and if it’s good for him. So, let’s dig a little deeper into this doggy behavior. 

    It’s more common than you might think, so you don’t really have to be concerned about them eating grass. Pica, the disorder that is characterized by eating non-food things, could indicate a nutritional imbalance or alert you to some boredom that is commonly found in puppies and younger dogs. 

    Most veterinarians consider this activity to be normal and has also been observed in wild dogs as well. In one small-scale study, 79% of 49 dog owners and their dogs with regular access to grass said that their pooches ate grass or some other backyard vegetation. 

    So, why is your dog eating grass? Some people think it’s because their dog isn’t feeling well and others while others dispute that thought by saying that dogs couldn’t possibly be smart enough to eat grass to treat an unsettled tummy. Also, even after grass-eating, most dogs don’t vomit and typically weren’t unwell prior to chowing down on this green delicacy. 

    Another thought is that dogs are trying to improve their digestion, potentially treating stomach worms, or fulfilling some unmet nutritional needs like getting nutritional fiber. If you think that your dog needs more fiber in her diet, try finding a food that is higher in fiber to see if that helps. If it doesn’t, then Bella just might like the taste and texture of grass. 

    Sometimes, dogs eat grass out of pure boredom. If that is the case, then increasing playtime or upping your walking routine would be beneficial. Find some new activities or take your dog to your local Petland and pick out some new sturdy toys that will keep him occupied. 

    Lastly, while grazing on your lawn may not be harmful, you need to make sure that when you’re out you should work on curbing your dog’s appetite for grass. The reason for this is because you don’t know what kind of herbicides or pesticides that may have been used. These can be very toxic to dogs, along with certain types of vegetation.

    So, while you are sure now that you don’t have a cow with paws on your hand, keep watch over your dog to make sure that his diet is the right one and he’s not munching your neighbor’s marigolds. 

  • Why It’s Important to Socialize Your Puppy

    The world is filled with sights, sounds, smells, and myriad other environmental factors that can be overwhelming for puppies. It’s important to socialize your dog early so that she feels comfortable outside of the safety of your home when she meets other people and animals. Without proper socialization, your best buddy could become anxious, depressed, or even aggressive. 

    When should socialization start?

    The ideal socialization age for puppies is between three and twelve weeks old, with seven weeks being the average age to start socialization. During this time, your pup is very impressionable and more accepting of new things. He is more likely to absorb new experiences rather than shy away from them.

    As puppies age, they become more cautious about the world around them. Dogs between 12 and 18 weeks may show signs of fear and aggression when introduced to new experiences. However, owners shouldn’t allow the fear to dictate their dog’s behavior and instead continue trying to safely and gently socialize their puppy.

    Benefits of Early Socialization

    Your puppy is a member of your family, and the goal is for him to feel safe, loved, and calm. By socializing early, you’re helping to ensure that your dog can confidently navigate new experiences, like meeting new people or enjoying family outings. This is especially important for families with young children. Without proper exposure to kids, your dog may become fearful or aggressive with eager and easily excitable children. 

    How do you socialize your puppy?

    Socializing your puppy isn’t easy, but the results are extremely rewarding. To start, expose your buddy to a variety of situations that she’ll encounter regularly like trips to the park, neighborhood walks, visits from friends, or grooming appointments. The more experiences that you can introduce your dog to, the better he will respond as he grows into an adult. Taking time to help your puppy understand the world around her means that you can enjoy more experiences with your best buddy as an adult.

    If you encounter issues or just need a little more help to get started, talk to your veterinarian and they’ll be able to help you create a socialization plan. 

  • Does Your Dog Snore?

    Are cuddles–or worse conference calls!–often interrupted by your best pal’s snores? If so, you’re probably wondering if this is normal and why it’s happening.  

    When nasal passages are blocked, airways become constricted and snoring occurs. Dogs snore for a variety of reasons. Below are some of the most common ones to help you understand what might be happening with your buddy’s breathing and ways to help them breathe clearer.

    Breed-Related Snoring

    Some breeds are more prone to snoring based on their anatomy. Breeds with short noses, like English bulldogs, French bulldogs, pugs, boxers, and Pekingese, often suffer from chronic snoring due to excess tissue in the pharynx. However, airway obstruction can also be caused by elongated soft palates, narrow nasal passages, and shortened tracheas. These common breed-related problems can be diagnosed relatively easily and some can even be treated early in life.

    Weight-Related Snoring

    In addition to myriad other health problems, obesity can also cause issues with breathing. If your dog’s snoring is related to weight, work with your veterinarian to develop a plan to help your pup shed those extra pounds and get back to a healthy weight. This may include decreasing their calorie intake with food and treats designed for weight management. Getting your best pal out for more walks, playdates, and trips to the park are also great ways to increase their activity levels to curb weight gain.

    Allergy-Related Snoring

    Just like us, pets battle allergies, too. Pollen, dust, and dander can aggravate dogs’ nasal passages, causing inflammation and mucus build-up that leads to snoring. Your dog may also be sensitive to chemicals in carpet cleaners, laundry detergents used on their bedding, and other household supplies. If you’ve noticed that your dog is snoring more, consider what new elements have been added to their environment. 

    If you suspect that allergies are causing your dog’s breathing issues, talk to your veterinarian. The issue may be easily treated with antihistamines, like Benadryl, or removing the source of the irritant, if possible. Other allergies may require more aggressive treatment. Your veterinarian will be able to suggest the best course of action to relieve your pooch’s nasal woes.