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  • New Puppy

    New Puppy

    Checklist for a New Puppy

    There are few events more exciting as compared to welcoming a new pet into your home. Since a puppy needs lots of attention and care, you have to make sure that you are well prepared before your furry friend arrives. Here is a checklist of all the essential puppy items you should have in place before you get distracted by a happy, licking puppy at home.

    Get dog toys

    When puppies are teething, they feel the need to start chewing on items. Hence, you should ensure that you have a sufficient supply of quality chew toys or else your furniture, shoes or purses will be targeted. Also, since inappropriate chewing can be costly or even dangerous for your puppy, set them up for a successful transition by providing the appropriate dog toys.

    Invest in dog treats

    Everyone deserves a treat every once in a while, and your puppies are no different. Dog treats not only make it easier to train your furry friends, but it also helps to enhance the puppy-human bond through positive reinforcement. However, make sure you don’t overdo it since the treats are supposed to add a bit of flavor and not replace healthy meals.

    Healthy dog food

    Get the right food that is adequate for their current developmental stage. Age-specific dog foods will allow your puppy to grow naturally without consuming too many calories. If you are unsure of what to give your puppy, consult a veterinarian to make sure that the foods you are using are the ideal option for your pet.

    Set up the bedding area

    Puppies need a clean, safe and comfortable sleeping sport. Most owners use crate training for both house training as well as providing the slumber spot. Ensure you use a sizeable crate and a comfortable crate pad to give your dog a nice place to relax.

    Buy cleaning supplies

    Puppies are quite messy, especially before they get used to the new environment. Hence, having a decent cleaning supply is invaluable to any pet owner. Pet safe cleansers are the best option since they also safeguard your dog’s health.

    Plan for dog grooming

    Your puppy will undoubtedly need a clean-up at some stage. You should buy a shampoo that is designed for dogs since their skin is very sensitive and it is vulnerable to the chemicals and stripping cleansers that are used in shampoos created for people. Also, get a brush as brushing keeps your puppy’s coat healthy and shiny.

    Dog collar and leash

    Puppies are not born with an inbuilt understanding of leashes or callers. You must train them early on how to get familiarized with using a collar and leash as part of their socialization skills. Long leashes are ideal for older dogs while puppies should use short leashes to ensure that they are always under your control.

    In conclusion, you should establish a connection with your local veterinarian since your puppy will need ongoing care, including vaccination shots and regular checkups. 

    References: Pet MD, My Dogs Name, Pet MD

  • Tips for Effective Dog Dental Care

    Tips for Effective Dog Dental Care

    As a dog owner, you think carefully about maintaining your pet’s health: providing quality food, keeping fit and routine checkups. However, many people often overlook an equally important part of their dog’s general health, oral hygiene. According to veterinarian reports, more than 85% of dogs above four years old suffer some dental disease, like periodontal disease or gingivitis. Here are a few tips on the best ways to give your dog the best dental care and avoid dental issues.

    Tips for Brushing your Dog’s Teeth

    The recommended frequency of brushing your dog’s teeth is as regularly as possible. For smaller breeds like Chihuahuas and Yorkies that are susceptible to dental diseases, the ideal rate is every day. However, with larger dog breeds, you can aim for at least once per week or after a few days.

    As for the doggie toothbrush, you can use a soft, human toothbrush that is adequately sized to match the dog’s mouth. Also, you can buy a canine toothbrush as it is angled and easily fits over your fingertip. Chose the type you both enjoy using.

    Since it is not likely that your dog knows how to spit, you should get a type of toothpaste that they can swallow safely. That swallowing factor rules out all human kinds of toothpaste as they contain detergents and abrasives that your dog should not ingest. Additionally, dogs will enjoy the seafood or poultry options of their canine toothpaste.

    How to Maintain Proper Dental Care

    Effective dog dental care is not just limited to preserving oral hygiene, but it also includes everything the dog does in between the brushing sessions. Dogs can also gnaw down on dental treats and bones that are designed to keep their teeth polished, strong and healthy. Luckily, most of these chew toys for dogs are appealing, which makes maintaining oral health an enjoyable activity.

    When it comes to choosing the best type of dog food, both wet and dry foods will leave a residue that builds up over time to create tartar. The healthiest food for your dog’s teeth is raw meat as the pets must use their teeth to gnaw and tear at this crucial protein source the way it was intended by nature. Also, schedule regular dental checkups at your local vet.

    Conclusion

    Like regular grooming, dog dental care must be done regularly so that your pet comes to anticipate it each day. However, it will not happen overnight since most dogs typically take time becoming accustomed to people cleaning their teeth. It is best to introduce these dental care practices early in puppies while taking a patient, slow approach with adult dogs.

    References: Cesar’s Way, Rover, Dogster, Animal Planet
    Copyright: Local Value

  • Strange Cat Behaviors: What Do They Mean?

    Strange Cat Behaviors: What Do They Mean?

    There is no denying the fact that cats make great companions, but occasionally they do things that leave you baffled in complete confusion. Those strange cat quirks have been the subject of numerous cat videos shared on social media sites. If you are accustomed to dogs, then you will find cats’ communication, and interaction can be quite intriguing. It is these unique behaviors, like their love for sleep and affectionate head-butting, that makes them invaluable to their owners. Here is an explanation of those curious cat behaviors.

    Too much sleep

    Domestic cats love their napping sessions, and it may even seem like they have been genetically designed to sleep. Cats can sleep for up to 16 hours per day, which is helpful as it helps them to conserve energy. Most of the time, they are in a light sleep where they can wake up quickly since you will notice their ears twitching whenever they hear sounds.

    Staring at You

    There is nothing quite disconcerting as the unblinking eyes of your cat directly staring at you. Don’t worry; your cat is not trying out their mind control skills on you. The stare is usually because the cat wants to get fed or entice you into playing with them.

    Nonstop cries

    Some cats are more vocal, especially oriental and Siamese breeds. The unending cries could be that the cat once you to gain your attention for a snack or it could also signify illness. Trust your instincts and respond accordingly.

    Chewing on plastic

    If your cats like eating various strange items like plastic, wool blankets, and wiring, then it could be that they are suffering from pica. The pica may be due to medical disorders like gastrointestinal issues, or it may also arise from anxiety.

    Kneading

    The kneading behavior in cats traces back to when they were kittens, and they would start pressing on their mother’s tummy for stimulating milk flow. Cats also kneed when they are feeling content and relaxed. Kneading should not be an issue unless your cat has big claws that need to be trimmed down.

    Conclusion

    While some of these strange behaviors that your cat does are endearing or silly, others can become problematic. Although you should always try to address most of these common behavioral problems at home, don’t hesitate to contact your vet if you have further concerns about any odd cat behaviors.

    References: Pet Health Network, Readers Digest, ASPCA Pet Insurance
    Copyright: Local Value

     

  • Protect Your Dog From Fall Dangers

    Protect Your Dog From Fall Dangers

    We are always eagerly anticipating the fall season mainly because of the holidays that come with it. It is a time for Halloween and many other parties where we invite our loved ones to celebrate with us. For dog owners, it is also time to play and have fun with our pets. However certain things during this season can harm dogs and ruin the holidays for us. Here are some of the fall dangers that can affect your dog.

    Common Fall Dangers to Dogs

    Halloween Candy

    Halloween time is one of the most awaited holidays for this season. There is no Halloween without candy. Unfortunately, these candy and candy wrappers can be harmful to your dog. Pets can access candy easily since it is usually all over the place. If your pet consumes candy, it can cause gastrointestinal upset or even chocking. Dogs that have eaten candy show signs of seizures vomiting, diarrhea or appear to be extra hyper.

    Plant Decorations

    We love to decorate our homes during the holiday season. It is crucial to know some decorating plants are harmful to dogs. Plants such as poinsettias result in oral irritation and could also cause gastrointestinal upset. Other plants that could harm pets are Chrysanthemums, holly, and mistletoe. Ensure that plants Decorations are not accessible to your Pets.

    Temperature Changes

    The fall season comes with weather changes. This season can be cold in certain places. Some dogs especially young ones and those with a weak immune system will require warm clothing. This can protect them from getting ill.

    Allergies

    Just like human beings, Dogs also experience seasonal allergies. Some signs of allergies include sneezing itching watery eyes and coughing.

    How to Avoid these Dangers

    Ensure that all edible items and food that are not appropriate for pets are stored away. Keep your trash cans in places that your dog cannot reach. Doing this will protect your dog from illnesses and hazards such as chocking.

    Contact the Veterinary-If you see your dog exhibiting signs of any disease, contact the Vet immediately. Most of these dangers are treated quickly if you reach a veterinary. For every pet owner, it is vital that you have a vet’s contact all the time.

    Prepare your Pet for the season-It is critical that you prepare to avoid certain dangers such as allergies. Buy warm sweaters and jackets before the season in case your dog may require them.

    Conclusion

    Fall seasons should be a time to celebrate, but we cannot do that if our lovely pets are sick. Ensure you take every necessary precaution to prevent your dogs from anything that may cause harm.

    References: Pet Health Network, PetMD, Chewy
    Copyright: Local Value

     

  • Reasons Dogs Lick Their Butts

    Reasons Dogs Lick Their Butts

    Whenever dogs sit down and start licking their butts, it is usually a signal that the bottom area feels painful or itchy. The cause of irritation around the anal region in your dogs can be varied, but all of them require you to schedule a trip to the vet to reduce that discomfort. Read on below and discover the top reasons why dogs lick their butts.

    Anal Gland Problems

    A primary reason for discomfort around a dog’s butt is that their anal glands can be infected or adversely impacted. Besides licking around the affected area, the dog may also drag himself along the floor to seek relief from irritation through scratching. Healthy anal glands typically expel smelly fluids every time the dog defecates. If that doesn’t occur, these glands become impacted and swell up, leading to an abscess or bacterial infection. The vet will typically expel these fluids manually before prescribing treatment for any related infections.

    Internal Parasites

    Various types of internal parasites, including tapeworms, hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms, that live within your dog’s intestines may cause anal irritation and other health issues like nutritional deficiencies, vomiting, diarrhea, and anemia. You may also find the segments of these parasitic worms in around the dog’s anus and even in the stool. Once the fecal sample test is carried out, your veterinarian will prescribe treatment that will eliminate the internal parasites.

    Allergies and External Parasites

    Mites, fleas, and ticks all cause your dog’s rear region to become itchy. Fortunately, there are topical parasite treatments that you can use to get rid of these external parasites. However, if the parasites are not the reason for the itchy butts, you need to consider food allergies and contact allergies. With frequent bathing, hypoallergenic diet, and anti-inflammatory creams or drugs, you can provide relief for allergy-related butt itchiness.

    Skin Infection

    A fungal or bacterial skin infection may occur around the dog’s anal area, particularly when the affected skin was punctured. The anal area is particularly susceptible to diseases due to fecal matter presence every time your dog defecates. Regrettably, through excessively licking the anal region to minimize itching and pain, the skin gets more irritated, thus making the skin infections worse.

    Conclusion

    It is perfectly reasonable for dogs to lick their backside when grooming themselves. However, if you notice that the licking has become persistent or excessive, then it requires a diagnosis by your vet. You may even require getting an Elizabethan dog collar to help minimize further damage to the area your dog is licking to give it enough space and time to heal. In other cases, butt licking can also indicate anxiety issues, where no medical causes are identified.

    Sources: Pet Health Network, The Nest, I Heart Dogs

  • Pet Dental Health

    Pet Dental Health

    Help keep your pet free from dental ailments

    Just like humans, our pets are also prone to the accumulation of bacteria, plaque, tartar, cavities, viruses and bleeding within their gums and teeth. Similarly, pet oral health problems are avoidable if the appropriate and timely dental care for the pet is effectively carried out to eliminate chances of such conditions. Apart from the vet’s dental cleaning option, renowned companies have created the essentials that will ensure you brush your pet’s teeth daily and prevent plaque buildup.

    Steps to your pet’s dental care

    Things you’ll need

    1. Toothbrush

    Usually, a human toothbrush will work well for most pets, with a child-sized brush being the ideal choice to fit and match the pet’s mouth.

    2. Toothpaste

    Human toothpaste is unsafe for pets since it contains toxic ingredients that would end up harming the animal. There are canine toothpaste types that are designed specifically for dogs and cats.

    3. The cleaning process

    Routine conditioning- it’s not appropriate to jump right away into brushing, and the best way is to introduce the pet to the process while young as a daily routine. If already grown, you could get the pet to lie in your lap and ensure it is comfortable enough to allow you to touch the inside of its mouth, lips, and teeth.

    Get a small amount of toothpaste and let the pet lick a bit. Begin brushing gently and slowing without putting much stress, forcing or struggling with the pet. If the cat or dog resists in the first trials, it’s wise to back off and try it when the pet is comfortable.

    If the pet is accommodative to the brushing, pay attention to avoid scrubbing too hard since it can lead to pain and discomfort. Take note also of the back of the teeth since most of the severe dental conditions tend to hide at the end.

    4. Possible alternatives

    While not every pet is accommodative of the brushing process at home, there is always the option of taking the animal to the vet for a professional dental cleanup. However, there are additional tips on how you can slow down these dental problems for your furry friend. There is the option of introducing safe toys which are the pet version of oral health products for people. Feeding the pet a high-quality diet is also ideal, and the vet is an excellent source of information on what to feed and not to feed your pet.

    Sources: DVM 360, Veterinary Practice News, AKC, Humane Society

     

  • Leash Training

    Leash Training

    Leash Training your Dog? Here are Tips on the Right Ways

    Pet owners and especially those with dogs know how curious the animal can get and with such a situation often comes with the animal wandering off when outdoor. Therefore, one of the most important things to do for your beloved pet is to leash-train them when they are at a young age.

    Now, here are the simple tips to help you through the leash training process for your pup. Hopefully, these steps will lead to a better relationship between the pet and you.

    Starting Early

    For the best results in leash training, the idea is to begin the process at an early age while they are a puppy. With a dog’s lifespan being short, the young age offers an easily trainable phase that enables fast learning of instructions. You can start with simple understandable follow commands to get the pup to walk towards you.

    Getting the Collar

    The collar training should start immediately to condition the dog to accept it as part of their routine. If it’s a pup, the option is, to begin with a soft string collar that is comfortable on the neck. At the right age, you can pick a collar with stronger material to have them get used to it.

    Routine Walks

    Once the dog is comfortable with walking with the collar and leash around the indoors, it’s time to take the learning to public places. The outdoors would indicate the efforts of the training process since it unleashes the behavior of the pet. If the first walk with a leash is successful, then it’s recommendable that you begin a regular walk program to help them exercise and remind them of their leash training.

    Don’t be Harsh

    At not one time is it advisable to strike, yell or pull the dog while on a leash as it can lead to an injury to the dog. Additionally, altercations could result in undesirable traits.

    Reward Good Manners

    There are plenty of times the dog might become stubborn on the leash, and the best trick is to get them comfortable by using treats to trick the pet and bring its attention back to you.

    Recap

    To sum it up, these steps remain simple methods to leash train your dog and get the best relationship out of your special friend. Be sure to have patience and get the pet used to the leash to avoid encountering problems while in public.

    Sources: Science Daily, Humane Society, Animal Foundation, AKC

     

     

     

     

  • Caring for your pet

    Caring for your pet

    Caring for your pet: Five Possible Tips to Try Out

    With our contemporary lifestyles, it may become a challenge to show your pet that you care. Although most would feel that they are not up to the problem of caring for the pet, there are simple ideas that go a long way in growing the care of the pet and keeping them healthy. Here are the essential ideas you can conduct as a pet parent

    Exercise and Playtime

    Just like us, pets also get dull from spending too much time indoors and as it stands, taking them out for routine morning or evening walks is a great way to reconnect with the animal and growing their company. If you are going for a morning jog, you can opt to take them along and help them exercise to and reduce excess weight.

    Grooming

    Whether owning a cat or dog, shedding fur is bound to happen and rather than have the negative experience of hairballs, and painful mats, you can always schedule grooming appointments at the pet boutique or purchase the grooming products. Getting the pet shampooed, combed and nails clipped would add an excellent touch to keeping them feeling fresh.

    Feed them Properly

    There is nothing that shows care as feeding your dog or cat in the right way and adequately. It is best to ensure the pet is sufficiently fed and receives the proper nutrients, free from toxic ingredients. For extra effort, you can purchase breed-specific foods that are ideal options for different pets. Overall, the market provides plenty of foods for all pets.

    Regular Check-ups

    Routine visits to the vet are necessarily the best option to indeed show your pet that you do care. Getting checks often would ensure the dog or cat is in excellent condition and not susceptible to health problems.

    Bonding Time

    With busy lifestyles and schedules, dogs and cats are often left second in consideration when it comes to spending time after a long day. Showing care would need you to chalk out a day or time in your day where it is nice to spend some alone time with the pet. That could mean lap time in your daily or weekly schedule.

    The best way to show love to your pets is to provide and offer the best for them regarding care. Still, involving the pet in your daily schedule is the best gift to keep your pet company and showing them you care.

    Sources: Health, One Green Planet, Science Direct, Pawster