Diet and health might be perpetually hot topics when it comes to men and women, but concerns about canine nutrition aren’t far behind (though perhaps not quite at the level of the 5:2, Hay, or color-coded bracket just yet). Indeed, quite a few dogs probably eat better than most owners these days, given the human adoration for fur babies (i.e. replacement children) and booming trends for raw feeding and homemade dishes (instructions and recipes for which have propelled Amazon book and Kindle sales no end). Yet, what should your dog actually be eating? These publications and many websites are overflowing with often contradictory information, fierce debate raging over particular foods (tomatoes and garlic, for instance, really seem to fire up forum and comment vitriol). Nevertheless, basic sense goes a long way in finding what suits your pet. Just as with humans, a particular diet is not a health panacea for all breeds.

Forbidden Foods

Very few dog owners don’t know which foods are absolutely toxic to their pets. For the avoidance of doubt, however, these are chocolate, onions, pitted fruit (nectarines and avocados, for example), citrus fruit, grapes and raisins, coffee, and it need not be said what should be done to those who think it amusing to drink a beer with their dog. Nevertheless, given the tendency (perpetuated by movies) to think peanut butter is acceptable, many owners might not realize that that peanut butter must be salt free and wholly natural to be side-effect free. Further, peanuts are actually legumes (think beans and other pulses). In fact, all proper nuts are toxic to dogs, particularly macadamia nuts.

Contentious Ingredients

Although the internet is replete with Top Dog Tips that can be accessed at the click of a mouse or the swipe of a finger across a Smartphone screen, it is also worth knowing about “borderline” products which some schools of canine nutritionists consider suitable for inclusion in dogs’ diets, while others predict if not a slow death from such consumption then at least resultant health problems. These are coconut oil, milk and other dairy, eggs, yeast products, and the tomatoes and garlic previously mentioned. Tomatoes having a skin similar to grapes and sharpness of flavor, and garlic being of the allium family shared with onions, questioning whether or not to share a slice of (yeasty, cheesy) pizza with your pooch isn’t especially hard to answer.

Planning and Preparation

At the end of the day, are veterinarian-consulted and approved complete pre-prepared dry and canned dog foods and even canned really all that bad? Every dog is unique, just as each owner has a personal routine in which to make time for caring for their pet, to the best of their ability and budget. Therefore, though raw bones and similar feeding plans obviously don’t require cooking time, defrosting these products and (if you are without a garden or outside area) cleaning up after these have been eaten is a rather lengthy (and unappealing) process. Similarly, unless you’re later altering a basic meal rustled up for your pet for your own enjoyment (or even sharing the very same dish), then cooking for a dog from scratch is a pursuit really only suitable for non-professionals. The choice isn’t Fido’s, it’s yours.

Pets become part of the family quickly, so when they become sick, everyone feels anxious and upset. Although most of their ailments will pass without any issue, it is important that you are aware of anything that might need further attention. If your pet does become sick and needs to be treated, what is the best way to keep them comfortable and relaxed?

Noticing Any Changes

The first sign that something may be wrong is when your pet starts to react differently to normal. For some animals this might be that they hide in their bedding and don’t want to come out, for others like dogs, they may just sleep all day and not want to move. If you notice anything like that, keep a record of their habits for a day or so to see if the situation improves.

Seeking Professional Advice

If the symptoms haven’t improved, or if they have got worse and you are concerned, then you can need to seek help from a qualified veterinarian. Keep writing down their symptoms as the vet may need this information to help make the diagnosis. If they are a small animal, it is vital that you transport them in a pet carrier. You don’t want them to be running around at the surgery as their condition might be contagious to other animals.

Administering Medication

If you vet recommends medication for your pet, then they will give this to you before you leave. In most cases, this will be in the form of a liquid or a tablet. If you are unsure how to administer the medication, speak to the vet before you leave and they will be able to give you the best advice. You can hide medication for dogs in treats such as Vetiq pill treats. They are designed so that you can place the medication inside, so the dog doesn’t smell it before he eats it. In some serious cases, they may require an injection that will need to be given by the vet.

Caring for Your Pet at Home

While your pet is at home, they will need you to take care of them. Try to create a nice cozy bed in their cage or for dogs and cats, a nice pillow in their favorite sleeping place. It is ok to let them sleep as this will help them to get better. You should try to keep the room as quiet as possible so that you don’t disturb them, in some cases, this might mean moving them to a quieter room until they are better. It is important to keep monitoring them and writing your observations down. If they have diarrhea or vomiting, you will need to keep a log of this. Don’t feed them for 24 hours if it is persistent and then only give them bland food with no treats.

If you stay in touch with the vet and can administer the medication, your pet should be back to their old self in no time.

There is little doubt that having a family pet can be a rewarding part of family life. Not only do they add an extra dimension to home life, but they also encourage your children to be responsible and teach them how to look after animals. If you are considering bringing a pet into your home, you need to find one that will work around your lifestyle and home environment. Here are a few ideas to think about when choosing a pet.

What Type of Animal?

You need to think about what the best type of animal will be for your home. Does your family have any allergies that might be triggered by a certain animal? Do you already have a pet that might not get on with a new one? Do you have the time and energy to commit to caring for a pet? These are questions that you need to answer to get the most suitable animal for your family. You need to think about your family’s requirements, but more importantly the animal’s welfare

Dogs

For many individuals and families, a dog is more than just a pet; they become part of the family. If you are thinking of getting a dog, you must be aware of the commitment you will make. Dog’s require a lot of exercise and play, or they become bored. Owning a dog is the ideal way to make your family more active because you can all walk your dog together. You also need to think about buying the correct food for them to stay healthy. You must ensure that you feed your dog healthy food and snacks, and you can see more here for healthy and nutritious options.

Fish

One of the most common kid-friendly pets is the fish, or to be specific, the Gold Fish. They are a hardy fish that can live several years in cold water without a filter, although it is recommended that you do use one. They are placid and will be happy to swim around even the smallest tank. It is important to give them the correct food, or they may become sick, you should also try to stop feeding them too much. Only a small pinch twice a day is enough to keep them happy. You can encourage your children to clean out the tank week and teach them about how to look after the fish.

Cats

Another hugely popular family pet, the cat is not like other animals. You won’t need to keep them in a cage, in fact, they love to wander both inside and outside. They are tremendously independent, unlike a dog, and benefit from being able to roam outside. Depending on the temperament of the cat, some are quite feisty, while others are gentle and calm. You will need to remember this, especially if you have a young baby.

These are just a few of the animals you can bring into your home. It needs to be one that all your family will love and help to look after.

Whether you’re the proud owner of a thoroughbred retriever or have been competing with short-haired pointers for years; you’ll want to give your beloved dog the best chance possible if they’re entering a competition. You might be fresh to the competition world, or just in need of a little reminder on how to keep on top of your preparation. Planning each stage of your pooch’s journey to potential awards is a crucial element of the process. Therefore, the following are things to consider if you’re embarking on the adventure towards competing with your dog, and a helping hand for those who are just starting out.

Image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/animal-dog-golden-retriever-9716/

Invest Where Needed

If you’re rusty to competition, or a complete beginner; you’ll need to invest some time, effort, and money in helping your dog to reach the required standard for your chosen event. Start with training; unless you’ve worked in the field of training dogs, you’ll want a qualified professional to come and help you teach your pooch what to do. The expert will be training you at the same time, so take note of what they do and say, and implement a training schedule for when they’re not there. You also want your canine to look the part; so make sure you invest in the grooming and maintenance of their appearance and prepare your dog while ensuring that it meets the guidelines of the competition. A quick shampoo and brushing their fur will not suffice when it comes to competitions, so be smart and seek the help of a professional and reputable dog groomer.

Getting The Admin Done

Whatever level that you and your dog are hoping to compete at; you’ll need to ensure that you register for specific competitions in time, with a thorough understanding of what’s required for each of you. You can take a look here: https://championshipbreeders.com/dog-show-101-count-akc-championship-points/ to discover how to the AKC Championship points, for a clearer understanding of what you’ll be up against and how your canine measures up. You don’t want to waste your time with training and your money on grooming if you’re unable to compete or move forward with your dog for an array of other factors. Therefore, make sure they’re qualified, and that you’ve sorted out the relevant paperwork needed for each event, well ahead of time.

Confidence Is Key

You may have all the correct paperwork, certification, and applications in place; but, these will have little meaning if your dog just isn’t cut out for competition life. Nervous and insecure dogs can be trained to be obedient and utilize their skills; however, if they become terrified of the competition arena setting, they’re unlikely to perform as you’d hope. Test your dog’s personality and character out in an array of environments and gauge whether or not they’ll be able to cope and do well when they compete. Have a look here: https://pethelpful.com/dogs/When-is-Your-Agility-Team-Ready-to-Trial-The-Pitfalls-of-Competing-too-Early-in-Dog-Agility and discover the signs that your dog may not be ready to compete, or doesn’t fit the criteria needed due to its personality.

 

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If you’re in the final trimester of pregnancy, then you’re probably thinking deeply about how to prepare yourself, and your home, for the arrival of a newborn. At first, it seems like a rather simple task: just go down to local big box furniture store and pick up a crib, some blankets, and perhaps a car seat. But it soon becomes clear, the more research you do, that a lot more goes into welcoming a baby into the home than just a bit of shopping. There are so many factors to consider, not only to make sure that your baby stays happy, but also that they remain safe. Here’s what to do.

Get The Pooch Out Of The Way

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You might have lived with your pet cat or dog for years and never seen any act of aggression from them. With that said, animals can still be dangerous to babies, even those that are otherwise tame and pleasant to be around. Dogs have been known to maul babies, and so keeping them separate from one another is essential.

The best way to do this for dogs is to install gates around the kitchen or at the bottom of the stairs as a physical barrier to prevent their movement. With cats, it’s a little more difficult, but things like cat nets over the cot can prevent cats from killing children in their sleep. You should have a policy of no pets in the bedroom while the child is vulnerable and helpless, and then introduce pets under supervision as the child gets older.

Prepare Older Siblings

If this is your second baby, then it’s important to manage the expectations of your existing children before it arrives. Children, especially infants and toddlers, don’t like it when your attention is suddenly diverted away from them and onto a new baby. It generates a profound sense of jealousy and can often lead to destructive behavior. Ideally, your existing children should behave tenderly towards the new baby, but without the right preparation, this is by no means guaranteed.

Sit down with your existing children before the new baby arrives and remind them of how important they are to you. Make sure you include them in any way possible in helping you to raise the child, so that you’re both on the same team and they don’t feel like they’re competing for your attention. You can also ask talk to the older siblings about their duties when the new baby arrives, such as helping mommy fill up the baby’s bottle.

Find An Experienced Mom, Take A Notepad, And Ask For Tips

If you’re completely new to the motherhood gig, it’s worth approaching existing moms for some much-needed advice. Moms will often have tips and tricks which they developed through bitter experience. As a new mom, it’s worth taking advantage of these conversations to make things less frantic once the baby finally arrives.

Remove All Dangerous Chemicals

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Because they’re so new to the world and haven’t yet built up substantial immune systems or even protective microbiomes, newborn babies are very susceptible to chemicals in the external environment. Early exposure to harmful toxins in cleaning products can lead to illnesses and allergies which last for the rest of their lives.

It’s a good idea, therefore, to root through your cleaning cupboard and throw out all but the safe cleaning products. Only use products which contain minimal amounts of artificial ingredients and state clearly on the packaging that they’re hypoallergenic. These products have been tested in clinical trials and proven not to harm babies.

Make Sure You And Your Partner Present A United Front

When it comes to parenting, consistency is key. But consistency is hard for individuals, let alone couples with different ideas. Experts recommend that parents get on the same page before bringing a new child into the home. Not only will you have to agree on your personal value when raising children, but also the day to day regimen for the child’s upbringing. Who will be responsible for what? What chores will you and your partner need to agree on doing in advance? What will be your partner’s role during labor and birth?

Prepare For A Laundry Avalanche

Anyone who has ever raised children will tell you that doing the laundry is a major undertaking. It’s incredible how something so small can generate so much mess. Before the baby even arrives home, you’ll want to get ahead. Make sure that everything is already clean and washed before the baby arrives so that you’re in the best possible condition to face the mountain of washing that is to come.

According to Laura Dellutri, the woman who wrote “Speed Cleaning 101,” it’s important to make sure that you’re using a detergent that doesn’t contain any dyes or perfumes that might irritate baby’s skin. There are specials kinds of detergents which have been formulated to have powerful stain removing actions while also protecting baby’s skin.

With that said, stains are inevitable with a newborn baby. Poop, baby formula, and dribble are par for the course. With that said, you can win the war against stains with enzymatic cleaners which break down stains at the molecular level. If you notice a stain on fabric, use the enzymatic cleaner as soon as possible to remove the stain before it becomes incorporated into the material.

Make Room In Your Fridge

If you’re like most families, your fridge is already full to bursting. But with the addition of a baby, you’ll need even more space. Though your child will be on a liquid diet, to begin with, over time, it’ll need to be transitioned on to solid food, and you’ll need space in your refrigerator to keep it all.

It’s a good idea to work from top to bottom in your fridge. Start by removing food from the top shelf, give it a good clean, and then move on to the next. The bottom of the refrigerator is the area most prone to spills. Remove any milk stains and make sure the refrigerator is fresh and clean.

 

As the cold weather fronts draw in, temperatures drop and the days get shorter, there’s one other member of your family who you will also need to prepare for when winter rolls in. As one of the most popular pets in the US, your four-legged friends need just as much love and attention as you would give you to your nearest and dearest in readiness for the holiday season. Ok, so you don’t have to go completely overboard, but the difference between outdoors and indoors temperatures, frostbite and even sniffles can affect your pet too. Be prepared to review your dog’s food, check that they are in optimal health and introduce a few small changes that will ensure to keep your four-legged friend’s tail wagging right through until spring! There’s nothing worse than a sick pet to spoil your holiday season, so read on to find out how to prepare your dog for the winter season.

Wrap up warm

It’s worth doing some research into your pet to find out how their breed adapts and copes with lower temperatures. Larger breeds such as German Shepherds and Huskies, for example, will grow a thicker coat to withstand adverse weather conditions, but if your pooch is originally from warmer climates, chances are they will feel the chill. If your pet lives in the yard, don’t forget to check if the dog house is properly insulated and prepared for the oncoming cold spell. Does your dog live indoors? Then check that their bed provides enough comfort and warmth so that they don’t feel the cold through floor tiles or due to a pesky draught, damaging for aging joints.

Limit the amount of time that your pet spends outdoors and be sure to dry them off before they enter the house thoroughly. Pay particular attention to your pooch’s ears, as damp, dirty ear canals can result in painful ear infections. Don’t forget to thoroughly clean your pet’s paws too, as snow and ice can collect in between the toe pads, resulting in sore, peeling skin and even frostbite in some more severe cases – extremely painful for your dog’s sensitive paws.

A serious winter concern in dogs is hypothermia. Keep a close eye on your pet’s mood if they have spent a long period of time outside. Lethargy and depression, combined with a slower breathing rate could be a sign of a more serious condition. Hypothermia can be life threatening for your pet, so make sure that they come inside to dry off at regular intervals.

Is your pet a lover of the great outdoors? Why not look to invest in a coat if you own a smaller breed if they lack a naturally thicker coat.

Get your vaccines

Colder months mean a higher risk of infection and illness for dogs, just as for humans. Take extra care if your pet loves to play in the snow, as it could be hiding frozen ponds or dirty water, full of bacteria and damaging to your dog’s immune and digestive system. Just because it’s the season for you to overindulge, do keep an eye on all those sweet treats around your home. Remember chocolate and dried fruits are incredibly poisonous to dogs – so keep all temptation well out of reach.

Take care when using antifreeze! Its sweet taste is incredibly appealing to dogs. Antifreeze is extremely toxic and should be used and stored well out of the reach of your pet (and children). Similarly, as in the warmer months, do not leave your dog in your car for a prolonged period of time during the winter – leave them at home where they will be out the way for you to run all those pre-Christmas errands.

It’s important to keep your pet’s vaccines up to date and valid all year round. This applies to your worm and dog flea treatment too. A pest free pooch will ensure that your holiday celebrations go without an itch or a tick.

Consider diet

Do you feel lazier during the winter months? There’s a chance that your dog does too! It’s not always appealing going for a walk in the cold and dark, but that’s no excuse to compensate for lack of exercise with treats and snacks. Don’t divert from your dog’s diet – it’s important that they remain lean and in prime health all year round. A varied, raw, nutrient-filled diet is best for your dog to adjust to colder temperatures, providing them with the energy that they need to enjoy and explore with you.

Keep an eye on your dog’s hydration levels. Just as in summer, it’s important to check that your dog is drinking enough water and keeping hydrated. Extra clothing in winter and warm central heating will mean that your pet needs to take on more water. If your pooch lives outdoors, change a metal bowl for a plastic one to prevent your pet from injuring their sensitive tongue.

Don’t neglect grooming

It may be cold outside, but keep that grooming regime on track. Don’t neglect brushing and grooming after spending time outside. Fun in the snow can dirty fur and result in knots and matted fur which is painful to brush out and makes it difficult for your pet to groom themselves properly. Brushing is a great exercise for you to bond with your pet, so why not get that coat to really shine.

Own an older dog? Be sure to make a fuss of them this winter. Senior pets are much more susceptible to bugs and germs, while older joints will feel the cold a lot more. The cold can also aggravate any existing illness that your dog already suffers from. Consider giving your senior a joint supplement in their food ration and make time for extra hugs.

Even if the weather gets colder, there’s no excuse for you not to get outside and enjoy time with your faithful companion. Keep the above tips in mind to have a happy and healthy holiday for all.

 

 

 

Bringing home a new dog is exciting. You’ve picked out the perfect pet and now you’re ready to give it a beautiful life. The issue is that you’re not quite sure where to start or what to do with them. It’s an obstacle many new pet owners run into when they first bring their animal home.

Believe that you can do it and you will. Do whatever it takes to give them a great place to live. Ask around your friends and relatives and get their pointers for how they’ve managed over the years. Take your time and be patient with yourself. See tips for caring for your new pet.

Provide a Comfortable Home

Once you agree to own a pet, your home becomes a shared space. It’s very important you provide a warm and cozy home for your dog to roam and lay its head. Block off a separate area that’s made for the dog. Place their food and water and bedding in locations around the home that are easy to access. Show the dog where their personal space is so they know where they can go when they want to be alone. Understand you’re going to be sharing your space now. It’s up to you to train your dog about where they can and can’t go in and around the home.

Learn about Them

Go online and learn about your pet. For example, research the best dog food for boxers if this is the type of dog you own. According to American Kennel Club, boxers are among the top ten most popular dog breeds in America. Since boxers are a comparatively active breed of dog, choosing food that fits their physical needs can be tricky. That’s why it’s important to learn about your type of dog and what their particular needs are, such as the kind of food they eat. Equipping yourself with knowledge will help guide you in making a lot of your decisions going forward. You don’t know until you find out, and there are plenty of resources online to help you.

Supplies

Get your supplies ready for your dog’s arrival. Bring home items such as a kennel, leash, dishes and more. Prepare your home for their first few days and you should be just fine. There will be other items you’ll want to grab along the way, but start with the essentials. Having the right supplies will make carrying for your pet a lot easier on you. Make a list and have the pet supplies on hand for when your new pet comes home. Remember that you can always go find what you’re missing at a later date.

See a Vet

It’s a good idea for your pet to see a veterinarian when they first get home. Establish a relationship so you’re prepared should you have an emergency situation down the road. The vet will be able to tell you what kind of shape your dog is in and what shots they’ll need in the near future. You’ll feel much more comfortable knowing you have a good vet you can turn to in a time of need or for regular checkups.

Exercise & Play

Getting a dog means that you better be ready to run and pay. Your pet needs exercise and benefits greatly from being able to walk or run around. Just like us, dogs need to burn calories, stimulate their minds and stay healthy. Research the exercise needs for your breed, because it varies depending on the type of dog. Another major reason dogs need exercise is to avoid boredom, which leads to destructive behaviors. Take them out the in backyard and play chase or fetch if you don’t want to leave your house. On other days when you have more time, take them on a hike or go for a long walk. Have lots of toys around the house so they can play whenever their heart desires.

Grooming

Groom your pet by taking them to a professional shop or doing it yourself at home. Your dog needs baths and to be brushed on a regular basis. Doing this will keep your dog clean and reduce the amount of shedding. It’s also important to use flea and tick preventatives and check their fur for them daily during the warm weather months. Also, having a pet will require more maintenance by you around the place. Clean the house and vacuum often to keep fur and dirt at a minimum.

Reward Them

It’s a smart idea to reward your dog for good behavior. This is how you get them to listen to you and be on their best behavior. Do it early so they learn in the early stages of their life before they’re adults. Use treats as a reward when you’re training them and bring home a new toy once in a while when they’re obedient. Give them hugs and snuggles when they’re acting appropriately and continuously enforce positive actions. You’ll be pleasantly surprised how well they react to your encouraging voice tones and commands.

Love Them

Owning a pet is a big responsibility, but most pet owners find it enjoyable. While it can be stressful at times, don’t let it overwhelm you. Remember why you got your dog in the first place. Love and care for them and show them affection. Animals are great companions and are always there for you. Let them know who’s boss, but make sure you show them how much you love them on a daily basis. You’ll create a bond between you and your new pet and produce a level of trust which will help when you’re training them.

Conclusion

Understand what you’re getting into before you agree to take on the responsibility of owning a new pet. Once you’re sure, follow through with your end of the bargain and build a nice home where they can live and play. It’s okay to make mistakes and learn along the way. These are tips for caring for your new pet.