Thursday, January 18, 2024

How To Pamper Your Dog Like A Spoiled Cat

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Cats get quite a bit of pampering, but the same isn’t always true for dogs. We tend to treat them – how should we put it? – more robustly. 

But do we have to go down this route? 

Well, not necessarily. It turns out that we can treat them from time to time and they’ll still love us. (Unlike cats, the risk of them turning into spoiled brats is minimal). So what’s to lose? 

The purpose of this article is to run through some of the ways you can pamper and take care of your dog like a cat. You’ll discover all sorts of ideas that transform how you treat them. Here’s what you need to know: 

Provide Gourmet Treats

You don’t just have to give your dog bits of old pasta you couldn’t quite finish the night before. Treating your pooch’s taste buds from time to time can get them coming back for more. 

Granted, gourmet treats for dogs are a little different than those for humans, but they contain the same basic ingredients, like fatty meats, vegetables, and some fruits. Dogs can also eat special baked goods, as long as they don’t contain too many grains and have sufficient fiber. Making treats for dogs is significantly more straightforward than for cats who have rigid diets. (Dogs are much more omnivorous and don’t need to subsist on meat alone). 

Give Them Personalized Toys

You can also pamper dogs like they are cats by giving them personalized toys. Adjusting their play spaces keeps them mentally engaged and happy, even when not exercising. 

People spend a fortune on providing cats with scratching posts and cognitive aids. Dogs, for the most part, have to put up with sticks their owners find in the park. 

Break with this tradition and find out what makes your dogs happy. Experiment with different toys to see which they enjoy the most. 

Groom and Brush Them Regularly

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You can also pamper your dog like a cat by grooming and brushing them regularly. Removing the various mats and tangles in their fur can make them feel more comfortable and reduce the risk of parasites, like ticks and fleas. 

If your dog is a little older, introduce grooming slowly. Don’t force them into an hour-long session immediately. It could make them feel uncomfortable. 

Also, ensure you use a gentle massage brush. Don’t use a human hair brush as it is unhygienic and can cause unpleasant tugging that hurts them. 

If your dog is used to grooming, you can also give them a warm bath with pet shampoo and conditioner. While it can be scary for animals who aren’t used to it, afterward they feel light, fluffy, and refreshed. Most pooches will simply go to sleep. 

Add Massage To Your Dog’s Routine

You can also try adding massage to your dog’s routine. Gently rubbing their paws can calm them down and provide them with the physical contact they require to remain mentally healthy.

Some vendors sell pet-safe massage oils. These help your fingers move over their fur more easily, letting you get at the muscle below. 

Remember, most healthy dogs are significantly leaner than people. Therefore, you should be able to feel the muscles and bones more easily. However, it can take some time to figure out where the muscle tissue is, as it is also quite hard. 

Try to avoid massaging the bones as this can cause your dog discomfort. Feel around the neck, back, and legs for their muscle pads and press into them to reduce tension and stress. 

The best time to massage your dog is after exercise. Timing it right will often cause them to fall asleep, rest and relax. 

Provide Them With A Cat Flap

You can also pamper your dog like a cat by providing them with a flap, or a sliding glass with a dog door. These are much bigger than conventional cat flaps but give dogs the same freedom to go outside when they want and explore the garden. 

Of course, you’ll need to make sure your dog is safe in the backyard. But giving them this extra freedom means they will exercise themselves throughout the day and let off steam when you aren’t there. 

Give Them A Spa Area

You can also modify your home for extra pampering by giving your dog a spa-like area. Adding various scents like lavender and chamomile can calm them down and make them more likely to follow your instructions. 

Some cat owners give their feline friends spa areas in the hope that they will love them. That’s not necessary for dogs, but it can be a nice addition to your home. Plus, you can spend time there, too, whenever you want to unwind after work. 

Other additions include playing calming music (proven to help dogs relax) and adding lots of comfortable seating and dog beds. Just keep candles out of jumping range for safety reasons. (Dogs aren’t that great with fire). 

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Engage Their Sense Of Smell

As you probably know, dogs interpret the world through their sense of smell. Therefore, you can also pamper them by getting them involved in activities that use this sense. Dogs love sniffing trails and finding their way to delicious treats at the end of their adventures. 

These smell enrichment exercises can seem counterintuitive to us, but dogs love them. Just hide food around the garden or at dog level in the house and set them loose. Pups will quickly find and consume it. 

You can also add puzzles to engage your dog’s intellect. Solving problems to get food keeps them sharp and protects them against the ravages of age-related diseases. Smart dogs will often surprise you with the inventive methods they use. 

Give Them One-On-One Cuddles

You can also pamper your dog like a cat by giving them cuddles. Like people, dogs need others to be close to them, be they other dogs or humans. 

Giving dogs a one-on-one cuddle can actually have bigger effects than for cats. While our feline friends enjoy a bit of contact here and there, dogs enjoy it all the time. Touching them creates personal bonding and increases trust, which can be great if your animal isn’t used to being around people or you just collected them from the shelter. 

Give Them Personalized Toys

Alongside personalized fun and games, you can also give dogs toys that stretch their cognitive and social skills. Toys that dispense treats are a great option and can keep them entertained for hours while you watch a film or settle down for the evening. 

Many manufacturers make these toys, which is extremely helpful if you’re one of those people who has a hectic lifestyle. However, you can also make them yourself using instructions online, giving your dog a challenge. Toys stuffed with treats can be a great way to get into your dog’s good books (if you weren’t there already!)

Play Tug-Of-War

Granted, cats don’t enjoy tug-of-war games, but dogs love them and will fight you all day long if given half a chance. You can also play chase games with your dog around the yard if it is safe to do so. 

Just make sure you don’t harm their teeth. Pulling too hard on a rope can cause you to accidentally pull them out, necessitating a sudden trip to the dentist. 

Sit With Them In The Shade

If it’s a sunny day, you can also pamper your dog by sitting with them in the shade. Dogs love lounging around outdoors, especially when other people are there. 

If your dog likes being outside in all seasons, then adding a few heat lamps to your patio area can help. These blast out energy, helping to keep them warm during the winter months, and giving them more opportunities to be outside if the park is closed off due to heavy snow. 

Celebrate Their Birthday

Cats love it when you celebrate their birthday (though they don’t act like it!) But dogs enjoy it, too. Throwing them a birthday bash can be a wonderful way to build a connection and provide them with an excuse to run wild. 

Bringing other dogs to the event can make it much more fun, as can baking a cake. You can also arrange for your furry friend to play various games and enjoy themselves in the home. Don’t forget to base the whole experience around what they can sense through their noses. 

Conclusion

When it comes to pampering your dog, you have plenty of options. However, you’ll want to experiment and find an approach that works best for your pup’s needs and preferences. Remember, dogs can be quite different from each other, especially as they get older, so you’ll want to choose activities for them carefully.

Don’t try to pamper them in exactly the same way as a cat. While feline friends enjoy sitting on high perches and lording it over everyone around them, dogs much prefer to snuggle up in dog beds, or even on the sofa close to you. 





Thursday, November 9, 2023

The 5 Essentials for Choosing the Right Pet Food

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Our pets are our best friends and when we look after them properly, by giving them the things they need, we will reap the rewards. One of the most crucial aspects of their health is, of course, the food they consume, but the problem is that the market is flooded with pet food options which can make the decision overwhelming. Let's show you some of the essential factors to consider when choosing the right pet foods that align with their nutrition and well-being.

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Considering Supplements

Some pets have specific health concerns that require additional supplementation. While many pet supplement manufacturing companies are on the market, you've got to drill down and look at the specific conditions that may or may not require something extra. If your dog is prone to concerns like hip dysplasia, a supplement that contains chondroitin and glucosamine may be an essential route. But we need to consult with our vet to determine not just the supplements, but also the appropriate dosage.

Being Aware of Allergens

Pets can have food allergies and/or sensitivities just like us. If your pet is exhibiting any signs of allergies such as digestive problems, itching, or lethargy, you may want to determine if there is an allergen to products like wheat, soy, or certain proteins. Incorporating a diet with limited ingredients or pursuing an elimination diet may be a tactical response here.

Consulting the Ingredients List  

A very simple but effective approach. We should always look for high-quality protein sources and avoid foods that come with preservatives, artificial additives, or excessive fillers. Some pet foods can bypass regulations by listing generic terms such as "meat by-products" and choosing foods that have specific meat sources can make all of the difference.

Understanding Your Pet's Unique Needs

Different breeds, sizes, and ages can result in various nutritional requirements. For example, a puppy will require specific formulations to facilitate growth in comparison to a senior dog that may not require calorie-dense food. Likewise, understanding all of the essential nutrients for your pet's health will be invaluable. Much like us, protein is crucial for muscle development, fats provide an abundance of energy and a variety of vitamins and minerals will contribute to efficient bodily functions.

Adjusting Intake Accordingly

Depending on your pet's energy levels, they may need a higher calorie content and likewise, more sedentary pets should not be overfed, which can result in obesity and other health-related issues. It's important that we monitor our pet's weight and adjust portions accordingly, while also giving them nutrient-dense and minimally processed food. If you are making changes to your pet's diet you should do so gradually, as this will minimize digestive upset. Mixing a small amount of the new food with their current food gradually over the course of a week can help minimize digestive problems and help your pet acclimatize to the new diet.

Choosing the right pet food, as well as having an understanding of your pet's unique needs and nutrients, will ensure you can make informed decisions that will contribute to your pet's health and well-being.



Thursday, September 28, 2023

8 Tips To Care For Your Senior Dog

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Aging is inevitable, and beloved dogs aren’t spared. Gray fur, slower moves, and plenty of daytime naps are common in aging dogs. As they enter their golden years, things like food, exercise, and more will need a tweak. But here’s the thing: dogs are pros at masking health issues. So, you must pay extra attention, adapting their routines to match those aging bodies and immune systems. Regular check-ups, preventative care, and a lifestyle shift can work wonders, ensuring your furry friend is comfortable. Here are eight tips for keeping your senior dog happy, healthy, and tail-wagging for years. 

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Know when your furry friend becomes a senior

So, when does your loyal companion officially join the senior club? Well, that varies from pup to pup, but it’s usually between 7 and 10 years old. And remember, size matters! Bigger dogs tend to hit their senior phase earlier than the little guys. Scientists have been scratching their heads about this one. They’ve noticed that big dogs like the 150-pound Great Dane tend to clock out after just 7 years, while those tiny 9-pound toy poodles can keep wagging their tails for up to 14 years. The exact reason behind this size and lifespan remains a puzzle for the experts. Your best bet is to chat with your vet to pinpoint when your dog might need extra TLC. 

Keep your dog moving

Your dog can benefit from a little workout. It helps them stay in shape and keeps those pesky extra pounds at bay. Chat with your vet to create a tailored exercise plan that suits your dog’s health and any limitations they might have. Start off slowly and steady, especially if your dog’s a senior. Those puppy days of endless zoomies may be behind them, but some gentle walks and light jogs can still do wonders. Remember, they might not have the same pep in their step as they used to, so take it easy. And if you’re not around to play, try out some cool laser toys to keep them entertained from a distance. 

Stay on top of grooming 

Giving your furry buddy good grooming isn't just about keeping them stylish. It’s quality bonding time, too. Plus, it’s a chance to keep tabs on any unusual lumps or bumps. Remember, as your dog ages, issues like stiff joints can challenge self-grooming. Those trips to the professional groomer can be stressful for your senior pal. Loud noises, rowdy pups, and standing too long can increase anxiety. But here’s the silver lining: you know your dog best. So, you can give them a loving, stress-free grooming session at home. It’s a win-win situation: a fresh pup and peace of mind. 

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Give your senior pup a supplement boost

As your dogs age, their digestion and nutrient absorption can hit a few speed bumps, often due to dental problems and other age-related issues. That’s where supplements can step in to lend a paw. But before you start tossing pills, having a heart-to-heart with your vet is crucial. When it comes to supplements, there are some, like Vitamin B complex, Vitamin E, and Probiotics, that could make a difference for your senior dog. Just remember that the supplement world is like the Wild West; it’s not closely regulated by the FDA. So, be extra cautious when purchasing supplements for your dog. Meanwhile, this multivitamin for dogs offers a long-term immune system boost and antioxidant support. 

Toys and enrichment tasks

Senior dogs can face cognitive challenges that are a bit like Alzheimer’s in humans. But don't worry. You can help keep their gray matter in top shape with physical and mental exercises. There are several awesome ideas to keep your senior dog’s brain engaged. For instance, you can take your furry friend for short strolls outdoors and introduce a fun puzzle feeder or a snuffle mat for meals and treats. You can also get creative with games like hiding treats or toys for them to find around the house. Don't forget to keep those training sessions going with plenty of positive reinforcement. And, for some furry socializing, arrange playdates with other senior or mellow canine companions. 

Give your pup a bright smile 

The dental health of your four-legged becomes a challenge as they age. It’s not unusual to spot a few gaps in their pearly whites, especially if they haven’t had the best dental care in their younger days. Dental hygiene should be part of your pet care routine from puppyhood, but it’s never too late to start. Give their teeth a daily brush, or if they’re not keen on it, try dental treats. Schedule a yearly vet visit for professional teeth cleaning to keep those chompers in shape. 

Prevention is the best policy 

It’s vital to be proactive in maintaining your dog’s well-being. With a weakened immune system, routine care becomes even more critical. Stay on top of preventative measures like parasite control, dental hygiene, vaccinations, and dietary management. To ensure your aging companion’s comfort, provide a cozy environment with easy access to food, comfortable bedding, and fresh water whenever they require it. 

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Make more time for your aging pup

Watching your furry friend grow older can be bittersweet. The years may bring changes, but they also bring cherished memories. The best thing you can do for your senior dog is to live in the moment and savor every day you have together. As your pup ages, they may become more attached and anxious when you’re not around. Spending quality time with them can make all the difference. Consider using a pet camera to check in and chat with them during your busy day, providing comfort and reassurance. 

Every dog ages differently, but it’s a journey we’ll all take with our furry companions. Aging is a natural part of life, and as a responsible dog owner, you must be prepared for this inevitable stage. As your beloved dog enters their senior years, you might notice changes like reduced energy, mobility challenges, or even issues with their senses. While this may seem daunting, remember these changes occur gradually, giving you and your pup time to adjust and make the most of your time together. 



Wednesday, September 20, 2023

5 Effective Tips For Keeping Your Pets Safe And Happy

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As a pet owner, your main priority is ensuring your pets live the best life. This is why you constantly ask yourself if you are always doing the right things. Just like humans, pets also require attention and care to prevent a negative impact on their physical and mental health. The last thing you want is to see your dog sick or injured or experiencing a mental health disorder such as depression or anxiety. One effective way of improving your pet's quality of life is by ensuring its safety. Your pets are exposed to all kinds of dangers, whether at home or outside. Therefore, the right measures must be taken to ensure your pets are safe. Furthermore, a safe pet is a happy one! On that note, here are a few tips you should consider to ensure your pet is safe and happy. 

Be mindful of the weather

When you think of the safety of your pets, it's safe to say that the weather is the least of your concerns. However, this should not be the case. The weather can play a significant role in the health and safety of your furry friend. For instance, during extremely hot temperatures, your pets can succumb to issues such as dehydration and heatstroke. According to PETA, heat-related deaths of dogs and cats have doubled over the last year. Therefore, being mindful of keeping your dog safe during such hot temperatures is vital. For instance, protect their paws from hot surfaces to prevent them from experiencing burns. You should also never leave your pets in a hot car, especially during the summer, and be sure to provide cooling treats and toys. It is also advisable to keep them hydrated and limit their outdoor activity in such temperatures. During the colder seasons, you should also ensure that your pets receive adequate warmth and watch for signs of hypothermia. 

Discourage fights as often as possible

If you own several pets or live where your pets socialize with others, you may not be new to the fights that occur. Just like humans, your pets may not get along with others well or may be irritable from time to time. When this happens, this can lead to fights. However, such fights jeopardize the safety of your pets. Your pet may suffer injuries such as bruises and scratches from such fights, which could cause even more health complications if left untreated or unnoticed. But how can you identify normal play from an actual fight? First, you must carefully observe what normal play is like for your pet. Animals have unique personalities, so by observing your pet's personality, you can determine if they are not in a fight. However, if this is quite challenging or seems like rough play, you can separate the animals as soon as possible to prevent a fight or other issues. 

Always have a first aid kit nearby

From running around to being too curious, your pet is never too far from danger. This can lead to several injuries and other emergencies requiring immediate attention. This is why you must keep an emergency first aid kit nearby. Your first aid kit must include tools and medications that a pet-friendly and effective. Most importantly, you must know how to use these tools and medication. It would be unhelpful to try figuring out the components in your first aid box only in an emergency. Additionally, the fear and panic you experience during such a time can make it difficult to think straight. Therefore, knowing what to do beforehand goes a long way to ensuring your pet's safety and improving their chances of recovery. 

You should also know common health issues your pets may encounter and have medications that help to treat these issues. This makes you prepared for any medical emergency that may arise. However, you should contact your vet immediately to ensure your pet receives professional medical services. 

Avoid leaving your pets alone 

Despite socializing with other animals, your pets don’t do well with being left alone for several reasons. For one, they may begin to feel depressed and anxious. The lack or limit in social interactions and loving contact with their human can trigger this response— because, like you, they don’t like being left alone. Moreover, unsupervised pets tend to be more exposed to dangers. Therefore, it is vital to always keep in touch with your pets. Fortunately, several technological solutions, such as PetCam and Buddy, make monitoring your pets and even interacting with them when you are away easy. You can also have a reliable friend or family member watch your pet when you are away. Not only does this supervision make your pet feel less lonely, but it also offers supervision— further ensuring their safety. 

But what happens when you are in an emergency and can’t get to your pet? How do you ensure they are safe and being supervised? In that case, having various precautionary measures is vital. For example, an emergency contact would be a great idea as they would know what to do. However, you can keep a pet emergency keychain from Our Pet Card. This card lets first responders know that you have a pet at home that needs to be attended to when you are in an emergency.  

Check leashes and collars

Collars and leashes are important when owning a pet, specifically a cat or dog. Besides being legally required in some States, collars usually have vital information such as the animal’s name and address, making them easily identifiable— especially when they go missing. Leashes help you control your pet outdoors, preventing them from wandering off. However, if the proper care is not taken, leashes and collars can compromise your pet’s safety. If the collar is too loose, your pet can easily break away from it, causing them to wander off and be difficult to find. However, you risk breaking your pet’s neck or causing significant injury if the collar is too tight. Additionally, low-quality leashes and collars can compromise your pet’s safety by not being safe itself! Investing in high-quality leashes and collars is always a good idea. 



Saturday, August 12, 2023

How To Welcome An Excitable New Pooch Into Your Home

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There’s nothing quite like bringing a wonderful new dog into your life. There’s a reason they’re known as man’s best friend. Dogs can be loyal to a fault, are a real bundle of joy, rarely have dour moods, and if trained well, can be a fantastic companion for life.

Having dogs in your household can also be very valuable for children, who learn now to fear them even when they’re excitable, and will no doubt develop healthy and happy memories with them that they carry for life.

Welcoming an excitable new puppy or pooch into your household, then, is important to do correctly. Know that there will be a few awkward moments and mistakes no matter what you do - a dog might not know where to conduct their business and have a few accidents on the floor, but that’s all part of their development as you potty train them and care for them over time.

Before long, your beloved pooch will become a staple part of your family home. With that in mind, consider these few steps for achieving exactly that:

Set The Routine Quickly

Dogs are creatures of routine - they know when to wake when they’ll be fed when it’s time to relax, and when you go to work - anyone would think they were keeping a personal schedule book under their fur. That’s why it’s good to set the routine quickly to get them acclimated to the life of your household. Give them a consistent bedtime, and make sure they know when and where they’ll be fed. Let them out at the same times during the day so they can hold their bladder for potty training. This helps them feel more accustomed to your home, as quickly as possible.

Slowly Introduce Them To Pets

If you have other pets in your household, they’ll know about it before you tell them. This is because even if you divide them in other rooms, dogs can smell the presence of other animals. That said, it’s good for them to get used to the home environment before a million cats, dogs, gerbils, rabbits, parrots or whoever else you may have at home comes to greet them. Let them pick up the scent. Keep them in separate rooms. When the time comes, gently introduce them together under supervision. This will help them sniff each other out and get used their life shared in the new house.

Sell Your Unique Attributes

All families are a little mad, so it’s healthy to showcase what kind of family you are straight away. That might involve singing your doggy theme song for the family, showing them that they’re not allowed to sleep on the sofa during the day but they can jump on your lap while you watch television at night. You may even buy dog pajamas to show that yes, they deserve to dress sharply too. It’s nice for a dog to feel utterly welcomed at every level, and they pick up on more than you think.

With this advice, you’re sure to welcome an excitable new pooch into your home.