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  • Best Cat Breeds for People With Allergies

    Spoiler Alert! There’s no easy way to say this, but there’s no such thing as a hypoallergenic cat. Feline saliva and skin glands contain a naturally occurring enzyme called Fel D1. Fortunately, there are quite a few breeds out there that produce less of this protein and are considered allergy-friendly.

    The Siberian Cat

    These frisky, independent kitties have multi-colored coats that are less prone to tangling than other long-haired breeds. Although there is a bit of seasonal shedding with the Siberian, they don’t create as much dandruff. Less shedding means less skin flaking on your furniture and clothes!

    The owner of a Siberian Cat should be fine if their allergies are on the lighter side. Those with more severe issues may want to consider a short-hair or naked breed.

    The Balinese

    If you don’t fall in love with their cream-colored coat and brown booties, you’ll definitely fall into a trance when staring into the big blue eyes of a Balinese. These talkative kitties love to greet their family members with a sweet “meow!” 

    They do have longer fur similarly to the Siberian, but the Balinese lack an undercoat. So, owners can expect to see very little Fel D1 exposure with these cats. Balinese felines are especially sweet, playful, and make great companions for children. If your child wants a furbaby of their own but lives with an allergy, this may just be the right breed for your family.

    The Sphynx

    For those who get the worst of the coughing, sneezing, and overall irritation that comes with having a cat allergy, meet the Sphynx. These interesting felines are completely hairless! Donning only their soft, wrinkly skin, this gentle breed gets a little chilly from time to time.

    They love to cuddle and don’t mind wearing a light, non-abrasive sweater for warmth and protection. These cats are a bit of a double-edged sword; no fur means no shedding, but it also entails far more grooming. The Sphynx produces quite a bit of oil due to being hairless, which means they’ll also need to be bathed every couple of weeks, at least.

    While there are some very short-haired Sphynx varieties, they’ll need the same kind of care as their naked counterparts.

    Devon Rex

    Imagine a Sphynx with a fuzzy, curly, thin coat of fur. That’s the Devon Rex breed in a nutshell! Their skin, and their fur are both incredibly delicate, and it’s not necessary to brush them out. Rather than regular bathing, the Devon Rex benefits from being wiped down with a damp cloth or unscented wipe every so often.

    These cats have a rather strange personality, owners have described them as being accepting of petting and attention. However, they want to be treated like royalty, and they let you know it! Your kitty may appear to be standoffish at times, but when you want a cuddle buddy at night, the Devon is happy to curl up…right next to your neck and face. The good news is that they’re one of the top choices available for people with really terrible cat allergies.

  • 12 Fun Things To Do With Your Dog This Summer

    Summertime and the living is easy… or it should be, anyway. When the sun turns up the heat, finding things to do that are fun and safe is sometimes a challenge. Here are 12 activities we recommend that will make this the best summer ever for you and your fur buddy.

    1. Go take a hike! Seriously. Take your dog with you and hike shady trails. Finding places that are dog-friendly to hike is no problem since the world is at our fingertips online. But to make things even easier, here are some awesome National Parks that allow dogs on the hiking trails. Check out the websites for particulars about hours, rules, and restrictions.
      Yosemite National Park
      Grand Canyon National Park
      Mammoth Cave National Park
      Great Sand Dunes National Park
      Petrified Forest National Park
      North Cascades National Park
      Shenandoah National Park

    Cuyahoga Valley National Park

    Acadia National Park

    1. Camp out in the wilds. Take Fido on your annual camping retreat or just overnight. Dogs love it when we enter their world, and camping with your pup is sheer heaven to him. Here are the simple rules:

      Never leave him alone. Your fur buddy should not be left behind when you leave camp, even for a short while. Keep Fido on his leash in camp. Most parks and camping areas have a six-foot rule, which means the leash can’t be any longer than that.

      Pack it out. Human waste and dog waste alike should be removed in plastic bags.

      Snuggle down together. Most places require your dog to be with you in your tent or your car when sleeping.

      Provisions for your pet. You can let your dog carry his own backpack, but be sure you pack it with a bowl, water, and kibble for him to eat.

    2. Backyard BBQ and splash party. A fenced yard allows you to barbecue your dinner outside in the cooling evening, and your pup will have fun splashing in his doggy-pool or trying to catch the sprinklers while it’s still hot, too.

    3. Make frozen treats together! Even the kids can get in on this one, and believe it or not, our list of frozen treats are kid-friendly, too.

    4. Shoot your dog. Okay, we mean with a camera, of course! Here are some helpful tips to get those Instagram-worthy photos of life with Fido. The number one tip from professional photographers is “take lots of photos.” Turn off the flash. Get down on his level, and get playful.

    5. Water sports. Taking your dog to the beach or a lake can be the most fun you’ll have all summer. Three things to remember: Give him water to drink. Lots of it. Give him someplace to get out of the sun (an umbrella, a tree). His feet get hot, too. Let him rest on a towel where his feet can cool off when he’s not splashing in the water.

    6. Teach that old dog a new trick. In just minutes a day, you can teach a new trick to Fido. Keep the sessions short and stop before he’s bored.

    7. Have a picnic. Many parks have facilities for picnics. If allowed, your pup will enjoy spending time with his two favorite things: you and food.

    8. Tour area dog parks. Look for parks with shade and grass to play in.

    9. Check out Starbucks® secret menu and treat him to a Puppuccino
      .
    10. Join PupScouts and find friends and activities to earn badges together. Scouting was never this fun!

    11. Take him out to the ballgame! Here are some dog sports that use balls. Flyball, catch ball, diving for balls, and of course, chasing one as many times as you throw it (but play in the early morning or late evening so he doesn’t get overheated).

  • May Is Pet Allergy & Asthma Awareness Month

    Allergies are common in pets, especially when Spring pops up and so does all of the pollen. Many of us humans are affected by the pollen that flies around and we get the indefinite sniffles, coughs, sneezes, and puffy eyes. Not only can allergies be miserable for humans, but they can be miserable for our furry friends. 

    Asthma can also affect both cats and dogs during this time. Here are some signs and symptoms that you should look for in your pets to make sure that everyone is enjoying the warmer weather and the outdoors.

    Allergies are common in pets

    Ah, the pretty grass and the bright new leaves! Everything is so fresh and new but what else is new is all of that tree and grass pollen. Depending on where you live will also depend on high those pollen rates are going to be. While humans are affected by seasonal allergies, so are cats and dogs, and knowing what affects them can certainly help you keep them from chewing their fur off. 

    Does your dog seem to be chewing and licking their paws more often right now? Are her paws getting red and inflamed? If so, then you probably have a case of allergies with your fur baby. 

    The same can manifest in cats. They can have skin and ear infections, also chew on their paws, and have wheezing, coughing, and sneezing. Keep a close on these symptoms in both cats and dogs since their symptoms generally will devolve a lot faster than in a human. 

    Pet Allergy Symptoms

    • Chewing of their paws
    • Ear infections
    • Coughing & sneezing
    • Wheezing, especially if they have asthma
    • Rash
    • Skin irritation and inflammation

    How do I prevent allergies in my pet?

    Bathing, pet food, and even mild medications can help keep your pet a lot more comfortable during the Springtime allergens. Also, talking with your vet will help you figure out what the best course of action will be for both of you. Here are some of our suggestions (yes, even if you have a cat, some of these can be used, but contact your vet before giving either your dog or cat any kind of human medication).

    1. Bathing: regular bathing is always going to help your pet’s skin be moisturized when using the right shampoo. If your pet is more susceptible to allergens, using the right medicated shampoo will help alleviate symptoms. While Dawn seems like a great shampoo, during high allergy season, make sure that you’re bathing your dog and cat with the right shampoo and save the Dawn for your now pollen-covered car. 

    Also, something else that you can do to help your dog after you have gone out on a walk is to make sure that you wipe down his coat with a soft cloth and clean his paws before coming back into the house This help keep the pollen outside and keep your pet comfy inside

    1. Pet food: Cats are especially affected by low-moisture food, and allergies can only increase their skin irritation. The same can go for dogs, too. Make sure that you’re feeding your dog and cat the right food that can help them retain the right body weight as well as the right amount of retained water. Also, some foods can contain allergens and contaminants that can also exacerbate allergies when going outdoors. Make sure you consult your vet if your Fido or Fluffy has seasonal allergies. 
    1. Antihistamines: Use these sparingly and, again, consult your veterinarian. Antihistamines can help alleviate symptoms in your pets if they are showing a lot of signs of an allergy – paw chewing, scratching ears, skin irritation, etc. PetMD has some great advice on how to administer medications to your pet that is showing allergic reactions. 

    Pets can have asthma, too

    While not usual, pets can also have asthma. It’s an allergic reaction to environmental stimulants, so you’ll need to pay special attention to your cat or dog if they also have allergies. Beyond just pollen, perfumes and dust in your house can also affect your pets. Here are some symptoms that you should look for. 

    Asthma symptoms in pets

    • Wheezing or trouble breathing
    • Coughing & sneezing
    • Weakness or fatigue
    • Pale or blue gums (see your vet immediately if this happens)

    Preventing asthma in your pets

    • Don’t smoke around your pets, especially in enclosed areas
    • Refrain from aerosol sprays like hairspray
    • Don’t use perfumes
    • Try to use natural cleaners as much as possible
    • Make sure your floor cleaning products are pet friendly
    • Bathing your pet regularly
    • Clean the little box regularly

    Still not sure? Make sure that you make an appointment with your vet to go over all of the symptoms that you see to find out what’s ailing your cat or dog. Keeping up with their pet food, regular shots, and regular wellness exams will keep you, your pet, and your veterinarian up-to-date on what’s going on with your pet’s health. Also, now might be the time to consider some pet insurance, too, so you’re always protected against any emergency problems that might arise in the future.

  • Why Socializing Your New Puppy Is Important

    Man’s Best Friend:  Why Socializing Your New Puppy is So Important, and When and How to Get Started       

    From the first moment that man and dog befriended one another until today, that relationship has long moved beyond that of man and pet—our dogs are now undeniably beloved members of the family.  Worldwide there are at least 900 million canis lupis familiaris (dogs) and at least 80 million of them live in America alone.  Approximately 48% of all American families include at least one canine member today.

    Socialization of Your Puppy

    Behavioral issues such as fear, avoidance, and even aggression are issues that can be easily avoided through a process called “puppy socialization”. Not only is socialization one of the most important things that a human will do for his furry friend, but it can also easily be one of the most enjoyable, rewarding things as well, frequently with the added benefit of strengthening the bond between a human and the newest member of the family!  

    One of the most critical steps in any puppy’s development, socialization is key to ensuring that your new best friend will not only be happy, but friendly, confident, and well-adjusted throughout their lifetimes by introducing them to life in a human’s world.  Proper socialization means introducing the puppy to different types of people, environments, scents, sights, smells, sounds, other animals, and even other dogs!  This kind of socialization will ensure a happy, well-adjusted companion that acclimates quickly and easily to new situations.  At its most basic, socialization simply means that you are introducing your new best friend in a positive, safe way to all of the sights and sounds that are likely to be a part of their world. 

    When To Start Socializing Your Puppy

    Between around three and twelve weeks of age, puppies are more curious and accepting of new things, and should not yet show signs of aggression or fear.  Before twelve weeks, puppies are still at an impressionable stage and are more likely to absorb their new experiences instead of hiding from them or reacting aggressively.  By eight weeks, it is important to introduce as many people as possible in order to prevent fear or shyness later in life.  Puppies do not begin to become wary and cautious of who and what is in their world until around twelve to eighteen weeks, at which time they may begin to show signs of aggression.  

    While timing is an important factor in the socialization process, it is also to remember some other key factors.  Patience is a very important part of the process, and it is always the dog who will set the pace.  Socialization is a process, and it will take time, patience, and repetition.  Exposure to something new is not the same thing as socialization to something new, and mistaking the two will lead to a poorly socialized dog who is likely to develop behavioral issues later in life.  

    Notice Your Puppy’s Body Language

    Your dog should walk away from any new experience feeling positive about it, and wanting to do it again.  It’s also important to remember that it is only your dog who can make the determination if an experience is positive or not, and a great indicator of this is to keep an eye on their body language.  Loose, wiggly body language is a good indicator that your puppy is having a positive experience.  

    If you do not see body language that indicates that your dog is having a positive experience, now is the time to move on until another day or time. Make sure that you continue to work on positive reinforcement, even when you have to move away from a particular experience. This will ensure that your puppy continues to trust you as you go through the socialization process.

    Finally, remember never to force an interaction.  Again, body language is key.  If your dog does not want to experience or interact with something at a given moment, that’s okay. Move on and try again another time.  Forcing interactions will only cause fear and anxiety in whatever you are attempting to socialize your dog to at the moment.

    Continue To Keep It Fun

    Socialization can look and seem like an overwhelming, daunting process, but it shouldn’t be, for you or your puppy.  It should be an easy, fun process that allows the two of you time to bond just as much as it allows your puppy to get to know the world around him!  

    If you have never socialized a puppy before, there are numerous checklists online that break the process down into small, simple steps in order to help cut down on the anxiety for both of you.

    If you’re feeling anxious about socializing your puppy, you can always seek out a professional trainer at your local pet store or even your local doggy daycare. They can help both you and your puppy traverse those obstacles so you both are feeling comfortable. Make it a fun and enjoyable experience for both of you, and at the end of the process you’ll not only have a well adjusted and happy pet, but you will also have established a strong bond between the two of you!

    Good luck and have fun!

  • Fun Facts You Didn’t Know About Cats

    We’re all aware that our feline counterparts are highly intelligent, and highly strange beings. Cats have shown us that they’re smarter than dogs, and they’ve got their own agenda. Somehow, they’re still full of mystery. 

    Here are some things you didn’t know about your cat!

    Chirping As A Hunting Technique

    Felines are able to vocalize over 100 sounds, several of those sounds appear in the form of a chirp. While it is not entirely clear why our cats imitate the noises of rodents and birds, the current belief is that chirping is both a way to initiate play, but more often than not it is an expression of frustration.

    When our cat’s prey drive is activated and they’re unable to act on their desire to hunt, they become visually fixated on the animal that they see and imitate the sound that they hear. 

    Once in a blue moon, a lucky owner may get a kitty who likes to chirp as a means of saying hello!

    Cats Sweat Through Their Paws

    There is a common myth that dogs sweat through their paws, but this theory actually rings true for cats! In addition to regulating their body temperature through panting, moisture is secreted through the glands in their feet. When feeling anxious or distressed, your kitty may leave small, wet footprints across the floor that quickly evaporate.

    Owners notice this most often during vet visits. Once their cat realizes they’re on their way to an appointment, perspiration rapidly appears on examination tables and inside of plastic kennels. However, it’s completely natural and nothing to be concerned about! 

    On the other hand, a feline that hasn’t had exercise and hasn’t been in the heat but continues to pant, may not be feeling well.

    Each Little Snoot is Unique

    The design of a cat’s nose is just like the fingerprint on a human, each has its own distinctive imprint. Have you ever noticed that dogs tend to greet nose-to-butt? Cats are more likely to sniff each other’s noses upon meeting, and this is how they learn to explore their surroundings as kittens.

    Felines secrete hormones from the pores within their nasal cavity, forehead, and cheeks. If your sweet ball of fur has lovingly pressed or bumped their face against yours, they may be trying to share that special scent with you! 

    Another purpose for snoot bumping has to do with claiming territory. Your kitty may be communicating to other felines in the area by saying “Hey! This is MY human!” through the chemicals in their pheromones. 

    In fact, your cat may do this with everything in your home. So, if you’re the proud owner of a lioness, you’ll definitely want to get her spayed! This way, she won’t have a heat cycle or attract any unwanted suitors to your doorstep. 
    Male cats can pick up the scent of a female over a mile away. If you don’t plan on having her spayed, keep your kitty and her pheromones indoors…unless you’re hoping to raise a little pride of your own!

  • 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.