Category: Pets

Celebrate! Love Your Pet Day

Did you know, today, February 20th is Love Your Pet Day? Whether you have a dog, cat or other furry little critter, pets bring companionship, joy, and fun to your home. Dedicated pet owners always show love to their furry or feathered friends. Today just focuses on the love you have for your pet. Life should be about small celebrations.

How to Celebrate Love Your Pet Day?

Being a responsible pet owner, you already know the activities your dog (or cat) enjoys the most. Set some time aside to engage in your pet’s favorite pastime. If you are looking for new activity, consider the following ideas to celebrate Love Your Pet Day:

Time

Work, family, school, or other commitments keep you busy. Being home alone may leave your pet feeling lonely. Spending some extra quality time with your faithful companion is the perfect way to celebrate Love Your Pet Day.

  • Go to the local dog park or find a new one to explore
  • Go hiking on a new trail
  • Go for a car ride together to find a special treat
  • Snuggle on the sofa

New Toy

Pick up a new toy for your beloved pet. A new squeaky toy for your dog or cat nipped filled mouse for your feline friend will brighten your pet’s day.

Homemade Treats

Head over to Pinterest to search for homemade animal treats. Baking homemade dog or cat treats shows extra love for your pet on this special day. Most recipes require basic ingredients that you may already have on hand. The wide range of recipes available ensures the perfect fit for your pet.

Spa Treatment

Many dogs love pampering (cats not so much). Send your pooch to the local doggy spa for a fresh bath, nail trimming, and more.

Photo of the Occasion

A photo of the occasion is the best way to mark Love Your Pet Day.

  • Take a selfie
  • Set up your own photo shoot
  • Get a professional portrait

Need a Pet? Adopt

Bringing home a pet from a local rescue or animal shelter immediately shows love. Celebrating Love Your Pet Day with a new furry companion goes beyond recognizing the day, the action may actually save a life.

3 Benefits of Adopting a Senior Dog

Making the decision to adopt a dog (or cat) should be carefully considered. Pets are a big responsibility. Take your time and research. Finding the best fit for you and your family is essential.

When you head to your local shelter or rescue center, keep an open mind. Bring home a dog does not necessarily automatically mean a puppy. Older or senior dogs have many benefits. November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month. Embracing an older dog (or cat) into your home is a wonderful way to celebrate a month dedicated to senior pet adoption.

3 Benefits of Adopting an Older Dog

Thousands of animals end up in local shelters or rescue centers due to no fault of their own. Being in a shelter is a scary place for dogs and cats. When people come to adopt, puppies are generally at the top of the list. Unknowing to most new pet owners, older dogs provide many benefits.

1. Background Information

Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to learn the background and medical information on the senior dog. Older dogs end up in shelters for various reasons. When the senior dog comes into the shelter or a recuse center, the establishment will try to get as much background information as possible.

2. Slower Pace

Unlike puppies, senior dogs are less demanding. Keep in mind, an older dog still needs direction. But generally, an older dog already is leash trained, requires less exercise, understands basic commands, and house trained. If not, you can still teach a senior dog. When bringing any newly adopted pet into your home, the key is patience and consistency.

3. Saving a Life

Realistically, adopting a senior dog may save a life. Passing up on an older dog or cat may lead to the animal being euthanized. Euthanizing unadoptable dogs, senior dogs are generally among this group. Bringing home the older dog may be the perfect way to save a life.

When you begin your search for a new furry companion, consider adopting a senior dog at a shelter or rescue. Providing an older dog with a loving home is a rewarding experience.

6 Tips for Adopting a Shelter Dog

Did you know October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month? Millions of dogs (and cats) enter shelters every year. Rescuing a shelter dog is the perfect way to celebrate Adopt a Shelter Dog Month. Keep in mind, shelter dogs may need time to adjust to new living situations. Noisy shelters are a scary place for a dog. Moving to a new home adds to the dog’s anxiety. Consider the following tips to help you with a successful adoption process.

Tips for Successful Shelter Dog Adoption

Before you adopt a shelter dog or any other pets, think. Do you have enough time for your pet? Does your landlord allow animals in your building? Do you have enough money to cover your pet’s expenses? Each question will help you determine the type and size of pet to bring home.

1. Research

One of the best ways to begin the adoption process is research. Learning about different dog breeds will help you find the right dog for your home. Many shelter dogs are mixed breeds. If you have a specific breed in mind, learn about size, weight, temperament and other pertinent information.

2. Take Your Time

Prior to adopting your new shelter dog, prepare your dog’s living space and your entire home.

  • Keep cleaners or other chemicals in a safe place.
  • Place plants out of the dog’s reach.
  • If you plan on keeping your pet out of certain rooms in your house, install baby gates.

3. Dog Necessities

Purchasing the basic supplies will prepare you to bring your new pet home. Remember your new shelter dog’s necessities depend on the size. If you have an idea of your future dog’s size, you may start purchasing the basics.

  • Food and Water Dishes: From small bowls to large self-feeding dishes, you will need one for food and one for water.
  • Leash and Collar: A leash and collar are necessary for walking your dog. The collar should fit properly. A tight fitting collar may cause your dog to choke. A loose fitting one may result in your new dog slipping away from you. When you are not walking your dog on your own private property, doggy cleanup bags are a must.
  • Backyard Fencing: If you are able, fence in a specific area for your dog to play and go potty.
  • Dog Bed: In order to be comfortable, the dog bed needs to be size appropriate.
  • Crate or Kennels: Many dog owners use crates or kennels. Having a kennel set up and ready will ensure a proper routine from the start.
  • Toys: Dogs love to play. Having toys ready will help ease the transition process.

4. Ask Questions

After all the research and preparation, the time is right to find your perfect new four-legged companion. Do not be afraid to ask questions about the dog.

  • Is the dog good with other dogs, cats or children?
  • Do you know the history of the dog?
  • What is the dog’s current food?
  • What is the dog’s energy level?

Every answer will help determine if the dog is right for your household.

5. Bringing Your Pet Home

Your new dog will need time to adjust to unfamiliar surroundings. Allow your dog some time to sniff the house. A new home is intimidating. The adjustment will not happen overnight. Slowly introduce your new dog to others in the household.

6. Vet Appointment

Unfortunately, the shelter may not have a complete background history of your new dog. Taking your pet to the vet is a perfect way to set up a health regiment. Ask your vet about shots, preventive medicines for fleas and ticks, diet suggestions, dog training and any other concerns you may have about your addition. Your vet is a valuable resource.

Adopting a shelter dog is a commitment. However, finding a new fur baby to love and cherish is the best outcome.   

 

 

 

 

6 Halloween Pet Safety Tips

Halloween can be a fun time for kids and adults, but keeping your pets safe may require extra precautionary actions. Keep in mind, implementing simple safety measures may actually save your pet’s life.

Protecting Your Pet at Halloween

As a pet owner, you know what is best for your fur baby. The following tips are a guideline to remind you about Halloween pet safety.

1. Keep Halloween Candy in a Safe Place

Halloween candy is not for your furry companions. Keep the bowl or bag of treats up high away from your pets. Prior to Halloween, consider storing the candy in a container with a lid for extra protection. Chocolate and sugar-free candies are toxic to cats and dogs. Even a small piece may have you running your pet to the vet.

2. Use Kennels

When passing out Halloween candy or hosting a party, your pet may accidentally escape out an opened door. Using kennels, crates or closing your pet in another room keeps your pet safe.

  • Protect Trick-or-Treaters: Using a kennels helps protect the trick-or-treaters coming to your door. Costumes may be scary for your pet. Keeping your fur baby away from the door eliminates the possibility of a child being bitten.
  • Pet Protection: Halloween night often leads to pranks and other mischievous situations. Keeping your pet safe in a kennel or other room eliminates the possibility of your pet being stolen from your yard.

3. Identification

Even with the best intentions, pets may squeeze through the smallest opening to go outdoors. Microchipping or name tags will help bring your pet safely back home.

4. Pumpkin and Decoration Safety

Pumpkins are a great decoration for Halloween. An open flame from a candle is a danger to your curious pet. Placing the pumpkins out of reach or using a battery operated candle will help keep your pet safe.

Along with pumpkins, other decorations may put your pet at risk. Dangling ghosts, flying witches, or cobwebs are all part of Halloween fun. Keeping the decorations up in the air out of your pet’s reach is necessary to avoid harm.

5. Glow Sticks

Glow sticks are a fun accessory for Halloween. The plastic or the inner liquid may have an unwanted effect on your pet.

6. Pet Dress Up

Dressing up your cat or dog in a costume may be fun for you at Halloween. Just remember your pet’s safety and overall well-being.

  • Proper Fit: The costume must be size appropriate. For example, a tight-fitting costume may result in difficulty breathing. A larger one may cause the inability to walk properly.
  • Avoid Stress: Many pets simply do not feel at ease in Halloween costumes or other outfits. If you notice your pet is uncomfortable, removing the costume is a priority.
  • Avoid Choking Hazards: Check your pet’s Halloween costume for potential dangers. Buttons, jewelry or other costume accessories may scratch your pet. Increasing the chance of choking, many pets may attempt to chew or scratch off the pieces of the costume.
  • Keep the Costume Simple: Hats, wigs, helmets or other heavy feeling accessories may cause your pet to panic. Keeping the costume simple and lightweight will help make your pet more comfortable.

Pets are a wonderful addition to the family. Keeping your furry legged companion safe at Halloween may require extra planning.

Tips for Camping With Your Dog

Are you planning a camping trip? Do you plan to take your dog with you? Hitting the open road with your beloved companion is a great way to spend your vacation or weekend getaway.

Tips for Camping With Your Dog

Planning ahead is the best way to have a fun and safe camping trip. Before you head out on your next adventure, consider the following tips for camping with your dog.

Research

Prior to going to a campground or park area, research the location. Knowing the rules and restrictions will help make your vacation fun and relaxing. Simply go online and check out the locations web site for up to date information.

Hiking

If you plan on going hiking as part of your camping experience, being prepared is the best way to ensure a successful day.

  • Lightweight Packs: Larger dog breeds may carry lightweight packs. The small packs are perfect for smaller items.
  • Collapsible Containers: Water bottles and food dishes that collapse helps save room when hiking.
  • Reflective Collar: Attach flashy lights, bells, LED collar, or use reflective collars to help spot your dog when the sun goes down.

Documents

Many pet-friendly establishments welcome your furry companion as long as you have proper documentation. Place your dog’s current records in an envelope for safe keeping. If you do not have the information on hand, copies of licenses and vaccination information may easily be obtained at your vet’s office or county facility.

When picking up the documents, take the time to ask your vet about proper tick and mosquito prevention. Generally, a pill or application is part of routine checkups. Depending on your vacation destination, the preventative measures may help keep your dog happy and healthy.

Pack Supplies

Just like other areas of your vacation planning, your pet should have a checklist of supplies to bring. As a pet owner, you know exactly the types of items your dog needs. Some of the needed supplies may include:

  • Leash: Keeping your pet with you at all times is a must. A secure leash and collar are critical for your dog’s well-being. At a campsite, you may be able to attach a longer leash for a dog run area.
  • Water and Food Containers: Collapsible containers work well for a campsite. Keep water readily available for your pet. When placing dog food outdoors, keeps in mind, wild animals may be close. Removing the food after your dog eats will help keep your area safe.
  • Emergency Pet Kit: Pack an emergency kit for your dog. Purchase one or ask your vet about the items you should bring for emergency situations.
  • Pickup Bags: Keeping camp areas clean is critical. Use pickup bags to clean up after your dog. Dispose of the contents in the proper locations.
  • Bed: Nights in a tent may be cooler. Having a bed or blanket in the tent with you helps keep your pet warm.

 If you have never been camping with your dog, start slowly. Consider taking day trips. Spending an entire day walking, hiking and exploring nature is a valuable experience for you and your dog.  

 

Your Dog’s Summer Bucket List

Bucket lists do not need to be grand scale adventures or limited to family activities. Bucket lists are all about trying something new. For most individuals, pets are a valuable family member. Including your furry companion in activities is a great way to spend the summer. Create a bucket list for you and your dog.

Bucket List Ideas for You and Your Dog

Prior to heading out to any destination, ensure the place is pet-friendly. Simply call or research the rules and guidelines for bringing along your faithful companion. Many travel areas strive to include family pets. Others may have specific restrictions in place. By knowing the rules ahead of time, you will not disappoint your fur baby.

Go Hiking

After a long work week or hectic schedule, both you and your pet will need some outdoor time. Hit the trails. Pack the essentials for you and dog, and spend a day exploring the natural world.

Go Camping

Many campgrounds cater to pets by adding dog runs and other play areas. Finding the best campground for you and your dog may take some research. Being outdoors for a weekend is a great way for you to unplug. Not to mention, time for you and your dog explore.

Visit a Dog Park

Dog parks are an excellent way for socialization and play. Try to visit the dog park regularly. Consider going to a variety of dog parks in your city. Different play areas provide new adventures for your dog.

Go to a Pet-Friendly Hotel

Need a relaxing getaway. Consider going to a pet-friendly hotel. Many hotels strive to include pets in their accommodations. Order room service. Enjoy a night of relaxation with your fur baby.

BBQ a Special Meal

Cook a steak on the BBQ for you and your pet to enjoy. Or host a party for friends and their pets.

Go to the Lake

If your dog loves to swim, head to the lake. Pack a picnic. Enjoy your day.

Create a Pet-Friendly Backyard

Redesign your backyard space with your dog in mind.

  • Dog activity area with ramps for running
  • Swimming spot (child’s wading pool works well)
  • Watering station
  • Shade area
  • Relaxation area
  • Dog run

Get a Professional Photo

As a pet owner, you probably have hundreds (or thousands) of photos or selfies with your pet. Perhaps the time has come for a professional portrait of you and your fur baby.

A Night In

Perhaps, the best activity is a night at home. Watching videos, sitting on your couch, and cuddling with your pet may be the perfect way to spend an evening.

Regardless of the activity, your dog will love the extra attention.Yo