Winter can be a challenging time for pets, but with the right preparations, it can also be a season of cozy warmth and enjoyment. These cold-weather essentials will help you ensure your pets stay comfortable, happy, and healthy during the winter months. By providing them with the care and attention they need, you can create a winter wonderland that's enjoyable for both you and your beloved furry companions.
Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude, and our pets are undoubtedly a source of joy and companionship. By following these Thanksgiving pet tips, you can ensure that the holiday remains a festive and safe time for both you and your furry friends. Whether you're enjoying a special treat together or creating a cozy retreat, including your pets in the Thanksgiving celebration can make the day even more memorable.
]]>Halloween can be an enjoyable time for both you and your pets, as long as you take the necessary precautions to keep them safe. By following these Halloween pet safety tips, you can ensure that your furry companions have a spook-tacular and hazard-free holiday. Remember, a little extra care and attention go a long way in keeping your pets happy and healthy during this festive season.
]]>The Head and Neck Area
Ticks are drawn to warm, hidden areas, and your pet's head and neck are prime spots for them to attach. Comb through your pet's fur, paying close attention to the ears, around the eyes, and under the collar. Use your fingers to gently part the fur and inspect these areas for any signs of ticks.
Around the Ears and Inside the Ears
Ticks are skilled at finding cozy hiding spots, and the ears provide just that. Gently examine the outer surface and inside of your pet's ears, using your fingers to feel for any small bumps or irregularities. Ticks may be nestled close to the skin, so be thorough in your inspection.
Under the Collar and Neck Region
Ticks often gravitate to areas where they can easily attach and feed, and the collar and neck region are prime targets. Slide your fingers beneath your pet's collar and feel around the neck area, ensuring you check both the front and back sides for any ticks.
Between the Toes and Paw Pads
Ticks are experts at finding hidden crevices, and your pet's paw pads provide such an environment. Examine between the toes and paw pads carefully, as ticks can easily attach in these areas. Gently spread the toes apart to get a clear view.
Under the Tail and Around the Genital Area
Ticks can also be found in less visible areas, such as under the tail and around the genital region. These areas provide a moist and hidden environment that ticks are drawn to. Lift your pet's tail and inspect thoroughly, taking note of any unusual bumps or lumps.
Underbelly and Groin
The underbelly and groin areas are warm and often sheltered, making them attractive to ticks. Gently lift your pet's legs and examine these areas closely. Part the fur and visually inspect, using your fingers to feel for any ticks that might be hidden.
Regular tick checks are a crucial part of responsible pet ownership, especially during warm months when ticks are most active. By knowing where to look for ticks on your pets and conducting thorough inspections, you can detect and remove these parasites promptly, reducing the risk of disease transmission and keeping your furry companions safe and healthy. If you find a tick, use proper tick removal techniques or consult your veterinarian for assistance. Remember, prevention is key, so consider using tick prevention products recommended by your vet to further safeguard your pets from these potential threats.
]]>With the summer heat posing potential dangers to our furry companions, it's our responsibility as pet owners to prioritize their safety and comfort. By following these essential tips, you can ensure your pets stay hydrated, cool, and protected throughout the scorching summer months. Remember, being vigilant, providing adequate shade and hydration, and adjusting activities will go a long way in safeguarding your pet's well-being. Stay cool and enjoy the summer with your beloved furry friends!
]]>First, at the beginning of the summer take your pet for a check-up at the local veterinarian. Make sure your pet gets tested thoroughly for issues such as heartworm or other parasites that harm the health of your pet. Also if you haven’t done so already, consult with your vet and start a safe flea and tick control program. Summer brings more bugs and you don’t want these to bother your pet or your home. Second, when exercising your pet, do it early in the morning or late at night. Since the days are much cooler during these times, your pet will be much more comfortable running around and will have a more enjoyable outdoor experience. Given that the heat can be a bit intense, allow your pet a break from any vigorous exercise. You don’t want to exhaust your pet and cause its body to overheat. With all this exercise comes the need for a lot of hydration. Pets can get dehydrated quickly when it’s hot outdoors because they can’t sweat. Dogs cool by panting, so if you witness your pet panting heavily or drooling, find some shade and give them plenty of fresh, and clean water. A pet that is not properly hydrated will become lethargic, and its eyes will turn bloodshot. To keep this from happening, always pack plenty of water and avoid being outside when it’s extremely hot. Also if your dog starts to get too hot, it will dig to avoid heat. So make a conscious effort to keep your pet cool by spraying its paws and stomach with cold water or giving it its own fan. Dog booties are another summer tip for your pet that you should take advantage of. I first came across these not too long ago and yes they are real. It may sound dumb, but as you and your pet are out taking on the world one park or trail at a time, imagine how much of it comes back into your home when your finished. This is especially for those individuals that sleep with their pets. Ask yourself; do you really want to know where those paws have been? In addition to cleanliness, doggie boots also offer protection from the heat when the days are extremely hot. Keep a clean house and protect your dogs’ feet by using doggie boots. Finally use the hot weather to go for a swim as often as possible. Chances are, your pet loves the water just as much as you do and it can take the place of a long sweaty walk.
Try to always remember that if you feel it’s hot, then your pet feels the same way if not worse. Follow these helpful tips for your pet and both of you will have a great summer.
]]>Many popular pets are just as vulnerable to sunburn as their owners. Cats and dogs are especially prone to sunburn, particularly breeds with very short or fine coats, as well as hairless breeds like the American hairless terrier and hairless Chinese crested dogs or sphynx and donskoy cat breeds. Breeds that have heavy seasonal shedding or white fur are also more susceptible to sunburn, as are any small, furry pets such as chinchillas, ferrets, rabbits, gerbils, and hamsters.
On any pet, parts of the body with thinner, finer hair or natural bare patches can easily sunburn. This includes the tip of the tail, the ears, and near the nose. The groin and belly can also be sunburned, especially if the pet likes to lay on its back or if sunlight is reflected from bright surfaces, such as concrete. Animals that may have injuries or temporary bald patches, like post-surgery stitches or specific grooming patterns, are also apt to get sunburned.
Just like with humans, a pet’s sunburned skin will turn pink or reddish. The skin may look dry, cracked, or even blistered if the sunburn is severe. The skin could feel hot or the animal may develop a slight fever. Over time, hair loss could occur on skin that is frequently burned. Sunburned pets may also be more sensitive to petting and more likely to shy away from contact on their injured skin.
While a mild sunburn may only be uncomfortable for a few days, more severe burns that cause blistering could lead to worse injuries, particularly if the blisters rupture and get infected. Over time, animals that have been sunburned may also develop different types of skin cancer.
There are a number of easy ways pet owners can protect their animals from uncomfortable and dangerous sunburns. Even if a pet has never shown signs of sunburn, it is important to offer suitable sun protection at all times.
If you do suspect your pet has been sunburned, apply cool compresses to the affected skin and seek veterinary care immediately for an evaluation. Medical treatment may be necessary for severe burns, including wound care and topical medication to reduce pain and prevent skin infections.
In addition to sunburn, be aware of other summer risks your pet may face. Dehydration and heatstroke are common in summer, particularly for active, energetic pets, and delicate feet could be burned from hot pavement and other surfaces. Ticks, fleas, and other disease-carrying pests thrive in the summer, so check your pet often for these unwanted interlopers. Even summer activities that seem fun and innocuous – such as backyard barbecues – can be a risk to pets, because many of the foods are unhealthy or toxic. Being aware of sunburn and other threats to pets can help you ensure all your animal family members are safe and comfortable throughout the season.
]]>By following these springtime pet care tips, you can help ensure your furry friend enjoys the season to the fullest. Whether you're going on adventures together or simply relaxing in the sun, taking care of your pet's health and well-being is essential for a happy, healthy relationship.
]]>Ticks are eight-legged parasites that bite through the skin and feed on the blood of their host. As a tick feeds, its body will swell dramatically, and one tick may stay on a host 5-14 days until it is fully engorged. Once finished feeding, the tick will naturally drop off.
Several species of ticks are common in North America, including deer ticks, dog ticks, and lone star ticks. These insects are most common in warmer climates, though they are seasonally active during the warmest months in nearly every region.
While the blood loss from a feeding tick won’t be noticed by most pets, these parasites can carry a range of dangerous diseases including lyme disease, anaplasmosis, kidney disease, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Any outdoor pets – dogs, cats, rabbits, etc. – are susceptible to tick bites, and could develop symptoms such as skin irritation and rashes, itching, joint pain, lameness, fever, lethargy, vomiting, and anemia. If left untreated, the diseases ticks carry can easily be fatal to pets.
It is important for pet owners to realize that the diseases ticks carry can also infect humans. Any contact with the tick, its mouthparts, or infected blood can transmit these diseases. Therefore, it is imperative to remove ticks properly and safely to protect not only your pet, but yourself as well.
Removing ticks is not difficult but it does take care to be sure they are removed safely and completely, without causing further contamination or contagion. To remove a tick, you will need:
As soon as you find a tick, it should be removed. Do not wait for the tick to become larger in order to see or grasp it more easily, as ticks can transmit diseases to your pet in as little as 3-4 hours after biting. Instead, you should remove ticks immediately. To do so:
If you find a tick on your pet but aren’t comfortable with removing it yourself, take your pet to the veterinarian for assistance. Your vet or a vet technician can remove the tick, showing you how to do so safely and easily so you are prepared for any future ticks.
Because ticks can be dangerous to both pets and humans, it is wise to take steps to minimize the risk of ticks attaching themselves to your pet. There are easy ways to you can keep ticks away, including…
Always be sure to check your pet for ticks after the animal has been outside. Check around their eyes and ears, between toes, around the tail, under the collar, and in areas of thinner fur between the hind legs and under the front legs, as these are areas where ticks are most likely to attach. Once you know how to remove a tick from your pet safely and easily, you can be prepared to eliminate any of these pests you may find.
]]>Know the Signs
The first step to proper pet dental care is recognizing problems so any issues can be addressed immediately. Watch your pet for these signs that indicate their teeth or gums are in trouble…
If any of these signs are noticed, it is best to take your pet to the veterinarian for a dental checkup.
Good Dental Care
The best way to avoid dental problems is to establish a healthy mouth regimen for your cat or dog.
With proper care, cats and dogs can enjoy healthy teeth for life, and pet owners can easily minimize the risk of tooth and gum problems that can lead to greater health issues and discomfort for their pet.
]]>Animals have many natural adaptations to cold weather. Our furry friends may grow a thicker winter coat, while many animals will gain weight in autumn to store an insulating layer of fat just under their skin. Some animals slow their metabolism by sleeping more in winter or could completely hibernate, while others will burrow into cozy nooks when the temperatures drop. Some animals even completely migrate to avoid cold weather. All of these adaptations help wild animals survive even through the chilliest months.
Our pets, however, do not live their natural, wild lives. Many of the animals we keep as pets, for example, would never naturally be found in our home climates or habitats, and their natural adaptations may not be adequate to protect them from severe winters. Fortunately, we can easily help our pets stay safe through the winter, no matter how cold it may be or how much snow and ice may accumulate.
There are many steps pet owners can take to keep their animal friends healthy, safe, and comfortable in cold weather. Different steps will apply to different types of animals and some animals are more cold-hardy than others, but understanding how to help animals stay safe in cold weather is the first step to protecting pets.
Cold weather can be dangerous for all types of pets, but there are many steps you can take to keep your animal companions safe and comfortable no matter how low the temperature drops.
]]>Top 10 Holiday Dangers to Pets – And How to Keep Safe
Many holiday things we enjoy – special foods and feasts, enchanting decorations, twinkling lights, gifts, visits from family and friends – can actually be dangerous to pets. Fortunately, avoiding these dangers is easy once we understand the potential risks.
The holidays are a great time, but also a dangerous time for pets. By being aware of the top pet dangers during the holiday season, however, owners can take all the necessary steps to keep their pets safe, comfortable and happy during every holiday celebration.
]]>Socialization Is Essential
Many dogs react poorly to visitors because they aren't used to being around strangers. Proper socialization and training from an early age – either from puppyhood or as soon as a dog is adopted – will help dogs learn how to behave around guests both in the home and outside. Arranging group training sessions, taking walks through busy areas, visiting dog parks, arranging puppy play dates and occasional doggie day care can all help dogs become more socialized and accepting of others. The more accustomed a dog is to strangers, the more they will be accepting of house guests.
Helping Dogs Cope With Visitors
There are several ways to help dogs adjust to a visitor's presence without bad behavior. Effective options include…
While not every technique will be effective with every dog, using several tactics to help them get used to guests will help the dog develop better manners for every stranger they interact with.
Helping Visitors Cope With Dogs
There are times when a guest's behavior can cause a dog even greater anxiety or may send mixed signals to the animal. To keep everyone at ease…
It can be embarrassing and uncomfortable when a dog is rude or aggressive toward a visitor, but with consistent training, proper socialization and good techniques for coping with guests, every dog can have suitable company manners for greeting and interacting with visitors.
]]>Despite the fun, treats, and excitement associated with the holiday, there are surprising threats and hazards toward pets at Halloween. The most dangerous Halloween pet dangers include…
Despite all the possible threats Halloween can pose to pets, there are easy ways to keep every animal comfortable and at ease while spooky fun goes on all around them.
Halloween can be a fun holiday for all family members, even the four-legged, furry, or feathered ones, if you take steps to keep your pets safe from the different dangers the holiday can present. With care, there’s no reason for you or your pet to fear even the spookiest celebrations at Halloween.
]]>A dog’s appetite and eating habits will change throughout its life. Dogs eat differently based on their age, activity level, and overall health, and those changes are natural and no cause for concern. A hyperactive puppy, for example, will eat more to support its high energy level and ongoing growth, while a senior dog that doesn’t get frequent exercise will eat much less. Dogs eat more during pregnancy or while nursing, while mature dogs on a regular routine will generally have a more stable appetite.
When a dog’s appetite changes abruptly or dramatically, however, it can be cause for concern.
There are many reasons why a dog could stop eating, and a loss of appetite might be a symptom of different conditions. When your dog refuses to eat, consider…
When your dog’s appetite changes, there are several ways to encourage better eating habits and more consistent mealtimes. Before making changes, however, consult with your veterinarian about possible health problems that may be the cause of the appetite loss, to be sure those conditions are properly diagnosed and treated if necessary. If there are no health problems affecting your dog’s appetite…
Missing a meal or two is nothing to be concerned about, but if your dog does not return to its regular appetite, contact your veterinarian for assistance and recommendations. With care and attention to your dog’s nutritional needs, its appetite will return and mealtimes will become less stressful for you both.
]]>Take it easy
Keep the exercise limited on hot days. If possible, try to keep it to early morning and evening hours on the hottest days. Also, keep in mind that asphalt can be very hot on your pet’s paws, so try to keep to the grass when the sun is bearing down.
If you think your pet may be suffering from heatstroke, immediately move your pet to a shady area or indoors, preferably with air conditioning. Next, apply cold packs to his/her head, neck and chest. An alternative would be to run cool water over your pet (but not cold water). Also, allow your pet to drink water in small amounts or chew ice cubes if possible. Follow with a call to the veterinarian as soon as possible.
]]>A wide variety of insects can sting, including bees, wasps, hornets, fire ants, yellow jackets, mosquitos, spiders, and more. Other insects, such as fleas and ticks, may bite but not necessarily sting, though the reactions can be the same. Many insects, whether they bite or sting, are not typically aggressive, but bite or sting only as a defensive mechanism if they feel threatened.
The sharp or burning pain or itching is the most common symptom associated with an insect sting, but it is not the only possible reaction. Other symptoms that can indicate your pet has been stung include:
More severe reactions are possible with multiple insect stings, or if an animal has allergies or other sensitivities to the venom insects produce. Because many of these symptoms can also indicate other conditions, however, if a pet exhibits a severe reaction, it is best to consult a veterinarian to be sure there are no other causes and that the pet receives the best treatment to relieve any discomfort.
Insect stings are relatively easy to treat, and treatment can help minimize potential complications. If your pet is stung…
The best way to keep a pet from suffering due to insect stings is to prevent such stings from occurring. Supervise your pet closely whenever it is outdoors, and check the yard and garden regularly for stinging insect nests, including anthills or other infestations. Prune flowers and shrubbery to make them less hospitable to stinging insects, and consider treating the house and landscape with the proper pesticides or insecticides to discourage stinging insects (but keep pets away from chemical treatments as long as necessary!). Installing short, decorative fences around flowerbeds can also keep a pet from investigating bees at work, and will minimize the risk of accidental stings if a pet gets too close.
An insect sting can be uncomfortable for any pet, but knowing how to properly treat these painful incidents can keep pets at ease.
]]>Rule number one for pet pool safety is to never leave your pet unattended around a pool. This has the potential to be a very dangerous situation. If you are aware that your dog is not a great swimmer, then invest in a life jacket to improve buoyancy. This will keep your dog more visible if it is small and can provide an extra bit of safety. You should never just assume that all dogs can swim. Some dogs need to be trained to swim while some are naturals and for others it’s nearly impossible. Recognize which category your dog falls under early on and be sure to take the proper precautions to guarantee its health and safety and to avoid the potential of drowning. Also, if your dog is older or has an injury like arthritis, it would be beneficial to make sure it has a vest. Dogs must be introduced to water properly before they can begin to have fun. Pets are easily irritated by chlorine. Like humans their eyes and skin can get potentially aggravated if proper steps are not taken. Make sure you wash your dog off with fresh water to avoid skin irritation and damage to your home when the dog re-enters the house. Even though it may be tempting, refrain from allowing your dog to drink the pool water. The chlorine and chemicals used in the pool will cause your dog to become sick with health problems such as dry mouth or gastric distress, which is no fun for anyone. Many of these same precautions and tips apply to ponds, rivers, and lakes as well. Although they are declared to be safer for dogs because they have better exits and a lack of chemicals, these places can also be harmful. Do not let your dog consume pond, puddle, or lake water. These areas are a common source of parasites that cause gastrointestinal issues that can also be passed on to other members of your family. Keep a close eye on them to make sure they do not wander and pick up any harmful objects such as dead fish or broken glass.
Essentially, when it comes to pet safety around swimming pools, they are a lot like people. So before you make a big splash with your pet this season, keep these things in mind to ensure that everyone in your family has a safe, and exciting summer.
]]>Even with gas prices as inflated as they are, hopping in the car for a joy ride with your canine companion always comes to mind when the sun begins to shine. It is important to avoid leaving your pet in the car on hot days, even with the windows cracked. The interior of a car parked in the sun can reach upwards of 160 degrees, which can lead to brain damage or even death via heat stroke in your pet. While you're on your joy ride, avoid allowing your pet to hang its head out of the window. The wind can lead to ear infections, and debris may enter the eyes. When you've arrived home safely, be aware that sometimes antifreeze can leak from the engine of your car. Pets have been known to lap up this harmful fluid because of its sweet taste.
Another liquid harmful to your pet's digestion is water. That's right, water. Not all water is safe for consumption by animals. If you wouldn't drink it, don't allow your pet to drink it. If you are going to the beach or will be near stagnant water, make sure to bring plenty of water for your pet. Drain any reservoirs such as tires from around your house to prevent your pet from taking a drink of water rife with bacteria.
If you're going to be outdoors on a sunny day, give your pet the same sunscreen protection you provide yourself; pets can get sunburned too, especially around the nose and ears. Although it may seem as if you are helping your pet cool off, shaving its fur close to the skin will more likely lead to sunburn than relief from the heat.
Any sort of lawn chemicals such as fertilizers, rodenticides, herbicides, or pesticides can accumulate in fur and be ingested while your pet is grooming itself. Keep your pets out of reach of these chemicals as well as any other dangerous lawn equipment such as mowers, hedge clippers and the like.
There is an abundance of wildlife present in the spring. Monitor your animals, not allowing them out of sight for too long, especially near wooded areas to prevent interaction with wild animals that may carry disease or less harmful adverse effects, like a skunk’s spray. Exercise frequent screenings for fleas and ticks to mitigate the possibility of the transmission of tapeworms, Lyme, and other infections.
Follow these tips and enjoy a fun and healthy spring season with your pets.
]]>Poor dental habits for your pet can lead to a number of health issues throughout the rest of its body. American Veterinary Medical Association President Dr. Douglas Aspros said that, "Dental problems are extremely common, and many are painful and can lead to serious systemic conditions. An untreated dental infection can spread to the heart, kidneys and other organs, and suddenly become life threatening."
Symptoms
The first sign of dental problems in your pet is bad breath. Take a look inside of their mouth and check the teeth and gums. Yellow, brown, or discolored teeth are another sign. As dental disease progresses, you may notice loose teeth and red, inflamed gums. Both dogs and cats will show an uncharacteristic reluctance to eating food or playing with toys and an overall sense of lethargy. Cats may show decreased grooming and increased drooling. You may even see your pet pawing at its mouth, as its gums become irritated. If you see any of these symptoms, the AVMA recommends taking your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible.
Checkups and cleanings
The best way to prevent dental disease from developing in your pet is to make regular appointments for health examinations with your veterinarian. After the exam, your vet may recommend an oral care regimen, schedule regular cleanings, or offer a specific treatment based on your pet’s current dental health.
Brushing and alternatives
Dr. Aspros acknowledges that only 1% of pet owners brush their pet’s teeth. Not only do more owners need to begin brushing, they also should use chew toys, treats and rawhides to help keep their pet’s teeth clean. Your veterinarian can recommend many of the products available to help maintain your pet’s oral health between checkups.
Foods that bear the VOHC® (Veterinary Oral Health Council) Seal of Acceptance ensure that they adhere to their strict standards and protocols. The VOHC® allow their seal to be used on products meant to help retard the development of plaque and tarter on the teeth of animals.
For now, though, good old dental habits like regular brushing, checkups as well as good eating habits are the best way to maintain proper oral health for your pet. While you or a family member can easily express oral discomfort, your pet cannot. It is important to keep an eye out for the above symptoms and follow a pro-active approach to avoid discomfort for your pet and more costly veterinary procedures down the road.
Indoor areas aren’t always the best spaces for play, with breakable objects, limited space, and immovable obstacles that can get in the way of a good time. But despite those difficulties, there are many reasons why indoor play may be best for pets, including…
When an indoor space is safer and more comfortable for playing with your pet, there are many fun games you can choose from for entertaining and enjoyable activities. While different pets will appreciate different games, the most popular options include…
No matter what games you play indoors with your pets, always keep your pet’s safety in mind. Be sure breakable objects are out of reach and not in danger of energetic play, and teach your pet the proper commands to stop playing if the game gets out of hand. Restrict games to one space to control your pet’s behavior and ensure they know where games can be played. With careful play and a variety of activities, indoor games can be a great time for you and your pet.
]]>There are many different ways holiday foods can pose dangers for dogs and cats. The more alert pet owners are to these dangers, the easier it will be to protect pets and ensure they have a safe, healthy diet throughout the holiday season.
Fortunately, it is easy to protect cats and dogs from unexpected holiday food dangers. Sticking to a pet’s typical diet is essential, without adding potentially dangerous treats to the menu. If special, pet-friendly treats are part of the holiday festivities, the pet’s regular meals should be adjusted to compensate for the extra calories. Reinforcing behavioral training during the holidays can help minimize the risk of behavioral problems, and all guests should also be aware of what a cat or dog can and cannot have so they do not inadvertently put pets at risk. Open dishes of candies, cookies, and other treats should be well out of reach of pets, even if they are accomplished counter-surfers. Pets should always be watched carefully in case they do sneakily get into holiday treats, and pet owners shouldn’t hesitate to contact emergency veterinary care if there are any problems.
With conscientious care, holiday foods don’t need to pose risks to four-legged friends and family members, and the holidays can be just as delicious as ever without creating hazards to pets.
]]>Some Nuts Are Okay – In Moderation
When dog owners first learn that nuts can be dangerous to dogs, they may be shocked to see peanut and peanut butter-flavored treats available for dogs from pet stores, major retailers and even specialty pet bakeries. The truth is that not all nuts are equally hazardous, and peanuts and peanut butter in limited quantities can be a fine treat for dogs if the nuts are offered appropriately. Roasted peanuts without any added salt or flavorings are best, and nuts should be already shelled. If offering peanut butter to dogs, low sodium varieties are best, but avoid any peanut butter with sugar substitutes or artificial sweeteners as they can be extremely toxic, even fatal, to dogs. It is also important to note that some dogs can have peanut allergies, so peanuts and peanut butter should be offered cautiously until pet owners are sure their dogs have no adverse reactions.
In addition to peanuts and peanut butter, several other types of nuts are also suitable for dogs if offered appropriately. Almonds, Brazil nuts and hazelnuts can be eaten by dogs, but always offer these treats only rarely to avoid too much fat, choking hazards or other potential problems.
Say Never to These Nuts
Many nuts that are popular favorites as human treats are never suitable for dogs and can cause drastic health problems such as diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, neurological damage, hives, disorientation and pancreatitis. While every dog's tolerance for different nuts will vary and some dog breeds and even individual dogs are more sensitive than others, these nuts should never be offered to dogs:
Even small amounts of these nuts can be dangerous to dogs, and for some, such as cashews, the dangers are much stronger with raw nuts rather than roasted, but the risk is still there.
Hidden Dangers All Nuts Pose to Dogs
The dangers nuts create for dogs go beyond just ingesting potentially toxic foods. All nuts, even those that are considered safe for dogs, can still be dangerous in different ways.
Keeping Your Dog Safe From Nuts
Fortunately, it is easy to keep your dog completely safe from nuts with a few simple steps.
Because all types of nuts, even the "safe" varieties, can be risky for dogs, it is best for many dog owners to simply avoid feeding their pets these morsels. With a good understanding of dangers nuts can pose to dogs, however, it is easy to choose safer, healthier treats dogs will enjoy just as much without any of the risks.
]]>Despite the fun, treats, and excitement associated with the holiday, there are surprising threats and hazards toward pets at Halloween. The most dangerous Halloween pet dangers include…
Despite all the possible threats Halloween can pose to pets, there are easy ways to keep every animal comfortable and at ease while spooky fun goes on all around them.
Halloween can be a fun holiday for all family members, even the four-legged, furry, or feathered ones, if you take steps to keep your pets safe from the different dangers the holiday can present. With care, there’s no reason for you or your pet to fear even the spookiest celebrations at Halloween.
]]>Good preparation begins long before hurricane season. Understanding a pet’s needs and knowing how to care for the animal in an emergency is essential for hurricane season safety, and includes…
The more preparation you do for your pet’s well-being before hurricane season, the better equipped you will be to keep the animal safe during any emergency, including a severe storm.
It can be several days from the time a tropical depression is first sighted before a hurricane makes landfall. During this time, it is critical to make additional preparations so you, your family, and your pets are as safe as possible when the storm is closer. To prepare for your pet’s safety as a hurricane is approaching…
If you undertake this pre-hurricane preparation as soon as a storm seems headed for your area, you should have plenty of time to prepare your pet to stay safe and comfortable until the storm passes.
Depending on its speed, strength, and size, a hurricane can take just a few hours to a full day or more to pass one area. During that time, it is critical to stay alert to warnings and take all necessary measures to keep safe not just from the storm, but from any debris, flooding, or other hazards it may create. To keep your pet safe during a hurricane…
Within a few hours, the hurricane will have passed and you and your pet can immediately work to get back to a normal routine.
After the hurricane ends, it is best to wait for the all-clear from local officials before returning to evacuated areas or anywhere extensive flooding or damage may have occurred. Once it is safe to return, it is also important to keep your pet safe in the storm’s aftermath. To do so…
It will take time to recover from a hurricane, even if damage has been minimal. With careful recovery efforts, it is possible to help your pet stay safe during a hurricane and adjust to life after one of these terrifying storms.
]]>It is perfectly natural for a pet to be afraid of severe storms, but there are ways that pet owners can help their dogs and cats adjust to anxious conditions and weather storms without fear.
]]>Know Your Pet’s Temperature Tolerances
Different pets enjoy different temperatures, and some pets are more sensitive to heat than others. Fish, for example, are more temperature-sensitive and must be kept within an optimum range or they can begin to suffer ill effects very quickly. Many reptiles, such as lizards, tortoises and snakes, often prefer warmer temperatures. Small animals, such as ferrets and rabbits, can be more tolerant of wider temperature ranges, but still suffer in extremes. Very small pets, such as hamsters and gerbils, are more vulnerable to extreme temperatures. Birds are more tolerant of temperature changes than many pets, but still need to be kept at reasonable temperatures to stay healthy and comfortable. Cats and dogs are generally the most adaptable when it comes to changing temperatures, but very high heat can be deadly to them as well.
Other than the type of animal, there are many factors that must be considered when noting a pet’s tolerance of rising temperatures, including…
Every pet will have different reactions to summer heat, and while some pets may be more tolerant of high temperatures than others, pet owners should always take safe steps to help their pets keep cool.
Tips to Keep Your Pet Cool
Fortunately, there are many easy steps that can help keep any pet cool.
Know the Warning Signs
Even when different steps are taken to keep pets cool, there is always a risk of dehydration, heat stroke or sunstroke. Pet owners should always watch their pets carefully for signs of distress on hot days, particularly reactions like tremors, disorientation, weakness, dry tissues, trouble breathing or rapid heartbeat, any of which could indicate a serious problem. If a pet shows signs of heat-related stress, consult a veterinarian immediately for proper emergency care to cool the animal off safely.
Temperatures always rise in the summer, and with them, the risk of heat-related illnesses and emergencies. By taking different steps to keep pets cool, however, pet owners can keep their feathered, furred and scaled friends safe and comfortable even on the hottest days.
]]>Bone broth and goat milk provide essential hydration for cats and dogs, especially during the warmer months. Whether you feed these products as supplements or as part of a holistic dog or cat food regimen, the benefits of adding bone brother and goat milk to your pet's diet are work chowing down on.
Our furbabies love summer! From exploring the trails to laying in the sun, our cats and dogs are always ready to welcome warmer days.
What pet parents don't love is the dangers of dehydration. An increase in activity can take a toll on your pet's health when the temperatures rise. During the summer, it's more important than ever to ensure your dog or cat is getting the right nutrition. Bone broth and goat milk provide hydration that's readily absorbed by cats and dogs.
Goat milk contains complex fatty acid chains and rich Omega-3's to lubricate stiff joints, cushion kidneys, and deliver excellent moisture akin to your dog or cat's natural diet. Likewise, bone broth is great for delivering whole nutrition and can even be made into delicious doggy popsicles or frappes!
A happy belly means a happy pet. Bone broth and goat milk contain vital probiotics that improve digestion and overall gut health. These amazing supplements can boost your pet's immune system and even help manage seasonal allergies. Probiotics and vital nutrients strengthen joints by fortifying your pet's diet with a blend of vitamins and minerals like magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, collagen, and gelation. These ingredients improve flexibility which can help senior dogs and cats feel their best, while also supporting overall digestive health and wellness.
Simplicity is key when it comes to providing a great raw food diet for your pet. Unlike other raw food alternatives, bone broth and goat milk is readily available in a variety of treats, soft foods, kibbles, and even frozen fresh products. This makes adding moisture to your pet's diet simple and easy, as well as cost efficient.
Looking for more ways to support your dog or cat's health and wellness? Reach out to our team to learn more.
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