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7 Essential Products Every Dog Owner Must Have

Dogs become part of the family, and, in some cases, they make us feel safe as a form of protection. Dogs are more than mere pets to most animal lovers. Having a pet is what makes a house a home for many families, as the loyal and devote presence of a dog can transform the atmosphere. So if you are considering getting a four-legged companion for your family, be sure to have these essential products.

Dog Sweaters For Smaller Breeds

Keeping your furry companion warm during the winter months with a dog sweater is crucial if you have a smaller breed dog and live in cold areas as smaller pups cannot keep warm by themselves. Dog sweaters are available in so many styles and designs that you can dress your pup up in cute ways while ensuring they stay warm.

A Dog Leash And Harness

 Whether you stay in a small apartment or have a large backyard, your dog will always want to go on adventures. Taking your dog for walks also increases the bond between pet and owner. So a leash and a harness are essential. Steer clear from choker chains as they can strangle your pup.

Microchip So Your Dog Can Be Found

Although it’s not national law, some areas require you to get your dog chipped, and this is good as it can be the only option to find your dog if your pet gets lost. You can have your pet microchipped when he/she is about eight weeks old, and it’s quick and straightforward. A microchip contains your information, and when your pup is found and taken to an animal shelter or vet, the chip can be scanned, and your furry companion will be returned home.

The Correct Food And Bowls

There are countless types of dog food and water bowls. Some feed your dog automatically. Investing in a suitably sized bowl for your dog is essential as a large bowl can lead to overfeeding. Providing your pup with the correct food is just as crucial as cheaper brands can lead to malnutrition and other health issues. It is a great idea to check with your vet which food is best for your dog to ensure their daily nutritional intake is met.

Dog Bed And Blanket

Even if you let your dog sleep in your bed, as most animal lovers do, you should get your dog a comfy bed and a blanket that is just for your pet as this is a place where your dog can relax. Your pup will consider the bed as his/her territory, and it’s a great idea to keep your dog comfortable and warm. Ensure that you wash it regularly and find a place for the bed where your furry companion will feel close to you and the family. Dog blankets are also cheap and can be found in any pet shop. However, you don’t have to buy a dog blanket as any type of soft blanket will do just fine.

A Variety Of Dog Toys

Every dog loves to play and spend quality time with its owners. And getting chew toys, throwing balls, and tugging ropes can be a great way to keep your dog entertained and active. This is also an excellent way for your dog to be entertained when life gets busy, as some dogs can entertain themselves if they have a variety of pet toys. Some toys are designed to put treats in and make it a mission for your dog to get the treats out, which is excellent for keeping your pup entertained when you cannot be at home. Make sure, though, that you get the correct sized toy for the size of your dog.

Dog Training Manual 

If you want to train your dog and don’t want to spend money on dog trainers, which can be pretty pricey, get yourself a dog training manual. Most of these books have been published by professional dog trainers anyway. These books will give you information on your dog’s needs and wants. You can also get a book for the specific breed of dog you have, giving you insight into everything about your furry companion.

Keeping a dog in your home is a big responsibility, from cleaning to pricey vet bills, although most pet lovers are up for the task. Dogs need love and attention, and you will have a great companion. Make sure, though, that you have everything that your pet needs to stay active, healthy, and comfortable.

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10 Warning Signs You Should Take Your Dog To The Vet

Most animals are likely to mask or conceal any vulnerabilities they have, which is true when they have injuries or feel sick. However, it’s important to note that this instinct is hard for them to overcome, making it challenging for pet owners to tell if their pet is unwell or in need of immediate medical help. In addition, it can be tough to settle on whether to wait for a regular appointment or to see a vet immediately in certain instances. 

There are several indications you need to monitor. Here are 10 potential warning signs that tell you when you need to bring your dog to a vet right away:

1. Breathing Difficulties 

When your dog has a hard time breathing, consider it an emergency requiring an immediate vet visit. Breathing difficulties include gasping sounds, wheezing, or other signs of evident distress.  

Some of the usual causes of breathing issues among dogs include a severe allergic reaction, an object lodged in the throat, lung infection, or even heart disease. Once you suspect your dog is having breathing difficulties, get in touch with your vet in your area or at—especially in the State of New York—Bond Vet’s Garden City, NY Animal Hospital right away.

2. Excessive Thirst 

Although you may not monitor your dog every hour, you might have a good idea of how much your companion drinks throughout the day. In case the amount of fluid your dog is drinking increases, it might be an indication of a developing health condition such as kidney disease or diabetes.

In some cases, you’ll also notice your dog frequently urinating than usual. After consulting a vet, an assessment can help determine an underlying cause for excessive thirst.

3. Persistent Vomiting Or Diarrhea 

Dogs can become sick now and then, especially when most aren’t selective with what they eat and often chew on something inedible. In the same way, episodes of diarrhea can occur from time to time.

Nevertheless, if either of these becomes continuous and your dog suffers from multiple episodes in 24 hours, it might be a developing condition, and there is a need to see a vet. A cause for concern is if your dog is passing blood or fever is evident. Don’t wait any longer and seek immediate medical attention.

4. Lethargy/Lameness 

When your active and playful dog suddenly sleeps all day and seems tired or reluctant to exercise, there’s an underlying cause. For example, it might be an injury or an internal condition making your dog sick.

Reluctance to exercise and lethargy are the common symptoms linked with heartworm infestations. Although it might not be an emergency unless your dog is in pain, it’s best to seek emergency care as soon as possible.

5. Suspected Poisoning 

Both diarrhea and vomiting can be signs of poisoning. Even if you think that poisoning is unlikely, it’s one of the leading reasons for a vet checkup. Remember that various substances are potentially dangerous to dogs, including some human foods, medications, chemicals, and even flowers and plants.

Ensure that you learn more about the potential poison hazards you might have in your home to avoid a case of poisoning. Depending on the substance that your dog ingests, some of the symptoms of poisoning include the following:

• Rapid breathing/difficulty breathing 
• Drooling 
• Diarrhea and vomiting 
• Pale gums 
• Weakness 
• Convulsions 

If you believe your dog ingests something that it shouldn’t have had, see a vet right away.

6. Abdominal Pain Or Distention 

A warning sign of a medical emergency is when your dog has abdominal distention. When your dog shows this sign or appears to be in pain or vocalizes when you feel the abdomen, consult a veterinarian right away.

Abdominal distention often indicates a severe condition known as gastric dilation volvulus or bloat. When this condition develops, the stomach twists over itself, which results in complete obstruction. Other possible causes of distention include fluid distention due to heart disease or internal bleeding.

7. Poor Appetite 

Lack of appetite within 24 hours may not indicate a severe issue, but it’s best to see a vet if it lasts longer. Your dog might have an underlying condition. When your dog refuses to eat, it can also lead to dehydration and lethargy.

8. Seizures 

A seizure with an abrupt onset and the potential for multiple episodes to occur should require immediate assessment by a vet. It’s important to note that the seizure episodes can be due to various underlying conditions including metabolic disorders, electrolyte imbalance, epilepsy, or toxin ingestion.

Seeing a veterinarian right away is vital to stop further episodes, understand the underlying cause, and potentially treat or prevent seizures from occurring in the future. 

9. Leg Paralysis 

When your dog suddenly has difficulty or can’t use one or more legs, it’s a medical emergency. Leg paralysis might indicate a herniation in a section of the spinal cord, which can be painful. The condition requires immediate assessment and treatment to improve the outcome. Dogs with longer bodies are predisposed to this condition.

The paralysis might also indicate a neurologic condition that can cause changes to your dog’s status. You should monitor for lethargy, poor coordination, lack of alertness or inadequate response to sounds, and rapid eye movement. If you notice an abrupt change to your dog’s mental status, see a vet right away. 

10. Eye Emergencies 

You should never overlook any eye issues since they result in severe consequences. For example, once your dog’s eye appears severely red, bulging out of the socket, has excessive tearing, or significant swelling, seeking emergency care is essential.

A red eye might indicate a bacterial or viral infection, corneal bleeding, trauma, or conditions such as glaucoma and hypertension. If you delay treatment, it can potentially lead to loss of vision.

Conclusion

For pet owners out there, keeping your furry companion in good shape is essential. However, it can be worrisome to find your playful and active dog sleeping all day or not eating. When your dog exhibits any of these warning signs, don’t wait any longer for them to worsen and see a veterinarian right away. Prompt treatment can go a long way in ensuring a good outcome.

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The Benefits of Feeding Raw Bones to Your Dog

As a pet owner, you may have heard some rumours spreading over the years about the dangers of feeding raw bones to our dogs. These warnings may be depriving you the pleasure of seeing your lovely dogs gnawing with pleasure on raw bones and depriving them of the many benefits of eating raw bones. So, are bones really dangerous for our furry friends? Apart from the myths, this article will help you to understand more about the benefits of feeding raw bones to our dogs.

Why bones are beneficial to your dog?

Feeding raw bones has many benefits for our canine friends. Veterinarians suggest raw bones as a great addition to your dog’s diet. Dogs can easily digest all types of bones, and these bones comprise a huge amount of nutrients that help promote good dental health, growth, and overall development. Here are some more benefits of feeding your dog raw bones:

1. Dental Health: The chewing action is an important part of dental care in dogs. In addition to the presence of bacteria-fighting enzymes in raw bones, chewing helps to remove dental plaque and keep their teeth strong and healthy ¹. Raw bones are a great and simple way to maintain a dental care routine of your dog. Avoid giving large and hard bones to your puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with poor/weak teeth. Softer bones like brisket bones or chicken necks are more suitable in this case.
2. Recreational Activity: Bones are an excellent way to keep your dog happy and occupied. Raw meaty bones prevent boredom in adult dogs and act as a great chewing outlet for puppies. Besides providing a fun activity to distract them and hold their attention for long periods of time, raw bones help to strengthen a young dog’s jaw and fulfil physical and psychological needs.

3. Nutritional Source: Raw bones, and the bone marrow inside them, act as a great source of nutrition. They comprise of an abundant source of proteins, fats, calcium, minerals, phosphorus, etc.² Calcium usually acts as a vital constituent of bone and for dogs, calcium helps to make their bone stronger and performs its action in blood coagulation and muscle contraction. Poultry bones contain wet glucosamine that helps strengths a dog’s own bones. Usually, a dog’s raw diet should comprise of at least 10-15% edible bone content.
4. Healthy Coat and Skin: A variety of minerals inside the bone helps to improve skin and coat health. Bone marrow and cartilage usually contain collagen, an abundant protein that makes your skin and coat shinier and healthier ³. You can choose raw bone with marrow and connective tissues to give more nutrition to your dog.

How to source raw bones affordably?

You can easily purchase raw meaty bones from your nearest local butcher shops, farms, or local grocery shops. You can also find and order bulk bones from several online sites. While searching for affordable raw meaty bones, you can easily compare the price between online raw dog food retailers and other grocery stores. One thing you need to keep in your mind that these online shops will charge you a shipping fee that will be added to the actual price. The shipping fee usually depends upon the distance between your home and its warehouse. Several retail stores offer free shipping costs if you spend a minimum amount, which is a great chance to reduce your total cost. Also, if you’re living close to their warehouse, you may be able to pick the products in person and minimize your costs.

What kind of bones is best for certain ages or sizes of a dog?

Every pet owner should know about safely feeding raw bones to their canine friends by picking the right bones. Since dog safety is our first priority, you need to consider your dog’s size, chewing style, and age before feeding just any raw bones. 

• While choosing the right bone for your dog, you need to think about the density of the bone ⁴. Thick bone will make it difficult to break when chewing and can cause choking in your dog. Avoid giving a large-sized bone to your puppies. Some dogs are very choosy about the size of the chew bone you give them. If the bone is too big, they might not touch it. Usually, smaller dogs prefer smaller bones. 
• You also need to consider the surface of the bones, whether it is smooth or rough. Bones with smoother surfaces are usually considered a safer option because they are less likely to splinter and cut the mouth of your dog. Bones usually comprise of a lot of small pores across the outer surface. Numerous small holes are the sign of weak bone which makes it vulnerable to fracture when your dog chews it.
• Veterinarians recommend avoiding beef, bison, or buffalo shank bones due to their hard appearance. These may cause injury and crack one or more teeth of your dog. 

Finally, the right-sized bones can save you and your dog a lot from trouble. Many veterinarians suggest feeding bones like soft beef bones, lamb or goat bones twice a week. Feeding chicken bones are also safe and perfect for keeping your dog’s teeth without any risk of dental fracture.

References

 1. Freeman, L. M., Chandler, M. L., Hamper, B. A. & Weeth, L. P. Current knowledge about the risks and benefits of raw meat-based diets for dogs and cats. J. Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. 243, 1549–1558 (2013).

2. Schlesinger, D. P. & Joffe, D. J. Raw food diets in companion animals: A critical review. Can. Vet. J. 52, 50–54 (2011).

3. A Guide to Feeding Raw Bones For Dogs. https://blog.homesalive.ca/dog-blog/raw-bones-for-dogs.4. How To Safely Give Your Dog a Bone | Redbarn.com. https://www.redbarn.com/blogs/blog/how-to-safely-give-your-dog-a-bone.

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7 Housekeeping Tips For Busy Pet Owners

Owning a pet is a huge commitment, while most of the time spent with our furry friends is a delight, they do come with their drawbacks. A cat or dog, or anything else that roams free around your house, will inevitably leave its mark. Here’s X handy tips to squeeze all that extra pet keeping housework into your day.

Smell

How many times has your pet dragged mud through the house or slobbered on the carpet? You’ll need a proper clean to remove pet odors from your rug. Getting a professional on board will ease your burden and it’s the best way to eliminate that smell for good. Until the cleaner comes, you could always try essential oils, wax melters or scented candles to keep your house smelling fresh.

Baking soda is a pet-safe and effective method for eliminating odors in your house. Try sprinkling some on your furniture, letting it sit, then wiping it clean with a damp cloth. A washable pet bed is another essential, it’s a good idea to buy two so you can alternate on a regular basis to make sure a clean bed is always to hand. 

Training

Training is essential for any pet to thrive in its environment. A well trained dog can learn which areas it isn’t allowed into, not to bound onto furniture, and they can even return toys to their crate. As with all training, the earlier you start, the better. Your dog will need to know the ground rules and how to follow them from as early as possible, so don’t waste any time!

If you have a cat, then litter tray maintenance needs to be a part of your daily routine. Cats are naturally clean and tidy creatures, so they will not want to use a dirty litter tray. Make sure to clean out the tray daily and refill it with litter which you know your cat is comfortable with – trial and error can be the key to this step! Cats won’t enjoy doing their business in a noisy or crowded area, so make sure to give them some privacy.

Be Prepared

There are plenty of measures you can take to stop the dirt coming into your house in the first place. If you’re taking your dog on a walk, make sure to leave a tray of water and a towel by the door for a quick clean when you get back. You can protect the floor around cat flaps, messy food bowls and animal beds with some well placed doormats or, better still, washable floor mats. 

For more general protection, a good rug will keep grubby prints and bits of undergrowth off of your floor. There are many points to consider when selecting your perfect pet-friendly rug, such as durability, stain resistance, and material. Avoiding natural fibres is normally a good idea, as a wool rug will be difficult to clean. 

Fur

All pet owners know that fur can get absolutely everywhere. A lint roller will do the trick on your furniture and clothes, you could even consider an electric roller to get the job done faster. These wireless gadgets will remove that layer of fine hairs from your sofa in no time. 

You can limit the amount of fur sticking to your fabrics with a good grooming regime. Animal’s hair will always molt, but a healthy, strong coat will minimise the damage, and spending 10 minutes brushing your animal will dislodge any loose fur before it falls out on it’s own. 

Organisation

Say goodbye to clutter and get yourself some crates, baskets, or clear off a space in a cupboard. Having a designated place to keep all of your pet paraphernalia will make your house look far more tidy. Hiding toys, bowls and leads out of the way is handy for when visitors come over and you want to remove the obstacle course from your living room. 

Cover Up

Blankets and throws make great accessories for pet-filled households. Cover over armchairs, sofas and beds with cosy blankets that can be thrown straight in the wash. If you get a few then you can cycle through them regularly to always keep your house fresh and clean. A regular rotation of throws will liven up your living room while you’re at it!

Automate It

If you’re really looking to cut back on housework, an automatic vacuum cleaner is the way to go! It will clean up after your pet without you even having to lift a finger. We all know that the worst part of cleaning is how quickly it gets messy again, so this investment will always stay on top of the job. It’ll even give your pet something new to watch roaming around the kitchen.

While you’re at it, you can even get self-cleaning litter trays, which are especially good if you’re away for the weekend. You’ll be able to go away safe in the knowledge that your cat is well looked after without your help.

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What to consider when buying cat litter?

Choosing the right kind of litter for your cat is necessary yet something that can quickly become overwhelming. With so many different options, which is best for your kitty? Scented? Clumping or non-clumping? Flushable? Clay or silica? Walnuts, wheat, recycled newspaper, or corn?

The essential thing to consider while choosing the litter is the need for your cat and the idea is to choose the one that he prefers, and in some of the cases, there can be a trial and error method to go with.

What kind of litter does the cat like?

They have their preferences when considering a litter box. This can be because of the habits when they were kittens, sensitive paws, or simply a whim. Actually, why your cat prefers this one and not that one will always remain a mystery unsolved. 

You don’t need to worry as the “Why” doesn’t matter. You only need to think about the litter in which your cat feels comfortable. Otherwise, the litter box will be rejected. Elimination problems can be prevented easier than fixing.

Why consider the litter type?

Considering changing the litter that your cat is using faithfully? The old saying – “if it isn’t broke – don’t fix it” works very well here. If the cat is using it on a regular basis and is comfortable with the current type of litter, feel blessed and let it go.

The good reason is essential to have to mess with the preference of cat litter.

You always need to keep in mind that it is all about what the cat prefers and for most of them, different litters don’t make much difference while for others it can be crucial to ignore the little box one after another.

However, there are situations where choosing a new litter for your cat makes a lot of sense:

• Adopting a new cat without knowing the preference.
• Getting the outside cat indoors.
• A serious issue with currently used litter.
• Dealing with the avoidance of litter boxes which might be because of the kind of litter used.

Cat litter considerations

Let’s go through some of the considerations which will help you to find the best litter for your cat or kitty as there are literally hundreds of possibilities in the market when it comes to offer the most suitable toilet to your furry friend. 

Clumping vs. non-clumping

Perhaps the most notable characteristic of a cat litter is whether it clumps in the presence of liquid or not. 

Usually, clumping litter comprises a substance known as bentonite which itself absorbs the urine and creates a solid lump, leaving the entire litter clean and dry. When it’s time to scoop, you only need to take the hardened urine clumps with the feces.

Non-clumping litter lets the urine sift through, absorbing the smell through things like charcoal or baking soda. Only the feces can be scooped when the urine dries up in the rest of the litter. If you want to clean the urine, the only way is to change the entire litter, at least once a week.

For the cats, both of these options depend upon their personal preference. Owners usually prefer clamping as it can be cleaned easily.

Scented vs. unscented

Most people like using scented litter as it leaves less urine odor and keeps the feces away. Whereas, most of the cats don’t like scented ones because of the strong smell that they have to bear while remaining in there and it’s not good for the kitty’s fur as well after coming out. 

Considering the environment

The waste produced by a kitty can leave a significant impact on the environment.

Disposing it off by flushing in the toilet, or dumping it in the trash bins, is not considered to be earth-friendly unless you have no other choice. If there’s a garden nearby, opt for the greener solution by switching to plant-based litter, which can be entirely disposed of in the compost pile.

Conclusion

Unless your cat is experiencing the elimination problem, it is better to stick with the litter that the cat is using already. But, if you are considering changing, make sure to change it gradually and always leave the new one with the old one around until you are sure that the cat is happy with the new one.

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Great Food Choices You Can Feed Your Dog

Dogs offer us companionship and emotional support, and in return, we feel compelled to give them the best treats we can afford. We owe to them a duty of care, and we want them to be safe and healthy. Ask any pet parent, and they will tell you that taking care of your dog’s nutrition is arguably the most important undertaking.

While knowing what to feed your dog can be a bit challenging, they require a balanced diet. However, the nutrients and portions differ according to their size, age, and breed. The same goes for the types of food you can give them. This piece will shed some light on some great food choices for your dog.

1. Commercial Feeds

With so many varieties in the market, you should be careful when choosing dog food. You will need to consider their age and health, along with whether they are pregnant or nursing. The best part is that most commercial food comes with a description of the nutrient components and amounts per serving.

Some varieties contain meat protein, grains, fruits, and vegetables in the same package, giving your pooch a balanced diet in every feed. You will also come across commercial dog food of different varieties in terms of texture, from solid to semi-solid, powders, and liquid dog food. The next time you are shopping, try to learn the particulars and consult with your vet about the best nutritional plan for your furry friend.

2. Table Scraps

Do not let your dog’s adorable eyes tempt you into giving them big scoops from the serving dish. While feeding your dog some table scraps from time to time is acceptable, this should be kept at 10% of their entire diet, maximum. Giving them too much may lead to weight issues that affect their health. Moreover, some kinds of human food can be toxic to dogs. When feeding them from your table, avoid fatty and spicy food, chocolates, and onions, just to name a few.

3. Fish

Most dog foods lack an omega-3 component that is found in fish. This component helps in improving skin and joint health, cognitive development, and combating some allergies in dogs. However, before feeding your dog fish, you need to choose carefully to avoid giving food poisoning and other harmful effects. For instance, salmon needs to be cooked to avoid food poisoning. On the other hand, it is best to go for boneless fillets when you choose flounder as the next meal for your pup. Whitefish and sardines can be a great option, but you need to ensure the fish is free from parasites, high mercury, and thiaminase. Alternatively, you can use fish oil supplements that are available in stores.

4. Natural or Raw Foods

These include a wide range of raw eggs, meat, and vegetables. When it comes to meat, feed them organ or muscle meat, and not sausage or other types of manufactured meat. Some of these have preservatives that can affect the health of your dog. Freshly cut fruits and vegetables are also okay for your dog. Unlike a cat, a dog can survive on a vegetarian diet alone. Also, the next time you are having your yogurt, feel free to share it with your cuddly fellow. The raw diet helps boost his health and energy levels.

5. Bones

We all know how much dogs love their bones. Chewing on them actually helps them have strong and healthy teeth. Make sure you avoid bones that are cooked, as they could break easily and hurt your dog.

A well-fed dog is happy and playful. By feeding them properly, you are helping them live a full and healthy life.

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Things You Should Consider While Looking For A Cat Sitter

Here are the qualities you need to check in the person you will leave your precious pet with while you are not home.

We all know there are two types of people when it comes to pet animals – cat people and dog people. Additionally, cats and dogs need very different skill sets to care for them, which is why each needs a unique range of skills. So you will need to hire a professional who has a lot of experience to take care of your beloved feline while you are out for work or on vacation. If you live in the busiest city in the world, NYC, it’s a no-brainer that, more often than not, you don’t have enough time for your beloved feline buddy. Therefore,  you just keep looking for a reliable NYC Cat Sitting service to make sure that when you’re busy with your life, your beloved feline buddy is taken care of. Because from their feeding habits to exercise and play, cats have a  totally different way of living with their owners than dogs, and that’s why you should get such a cat sitter who will understand these differences and act accordingly. So scroll down until the end to find out how to find a suitable new buddy-cum-sitter for your beloved cat.

Dogs are people pleasers, but Cats are not 

Cats tend to have an introverted nature, but that obviously doesn’t mean that they don’t crave affection or that they don’t feel lonely. Yes, they need daily care, which is almost effortlessly simple, but they also like to be cared for. They also love quality cuddling, playtime, and a watchful eye by the master or the sitter.

Dogs need constant care, whereas cats are low maintenance

Generally, cats have a litter box which they need to take care of their bathroom needs, and then throughout the day, they will just keep having food (unless they are put on a special diet, or they have to take some sort of medication with their food). They exercise according to their mood. Most of the day, they sleep throughout the day; the average will be 17 hours a day! Most of the cats will be really happy and satisfied if someone just stops by for 30-40 minutes once a day and spends some quality time snuggling, cuddling, or playing with them, but sometimes a cat needs a little more human contact than the typical amount we assume is fine. When you are gone for a longer period for work or travel, your feline buddy might get anxious or feel lonely without you. In that case, just one visit a day will not be enough. Therefore, you can hire a pet sitter who is capable of reading all of these signals and communicating to you what you ought to do to calm your cat’s nerves.

Dogs generally like to play with people, but   cats would rather observe and play by themselves  

Dogs, in general, enjoy chasing objects, puzzles, and sticks and returning them to their human partner for one-on-one play. Cats, on the other side, are not like us, since they often engage in their own sports. Cats are skilled hunters, and hunting is meant to be done alone. Cats will often pretend that they are hunting and will try to catch their toys without you. That doesn’t mean that a cat doesn’t want or enjoy playing with humans. And if they don’t play with humans who are going to their favorite things like dragging a long stick toy with wire and catnip attached to them or who will operate the infamous laser beam flashlight, which they love to run after? So, the key to finding a suitable cat sitter for your cat would be to look for someone who can read your pet’s way of playing and who will participate accordingly. 

CHARACTERISTICS YOUR  CAT SITTER SHOULD HAVE 

• Has to be patient: Generally, cats take a while to open up to someone new who is a complete stranger to them or watching them. So, your potential sitter must be willing to hang around with your cat without anyone else or show some affection during their first couple visits to become close with your cat and win its trust. Moreover, the greatest reward for any sitter is when a cat finally crawls into their lap.

• Has to be observant: Cats tend to hide their pain really well, so a sitter must keep an eye out for stuff that cats can’t control. So you should hire a sitter who will keep an eye on cats’ every little detail and habits, such as whether their stool consistency is okay, is their urine amount fine, and whether or not they are doing their bowel business in the litter box! They should also watch out for vomiting because while vomiting is actually a “cat thing”, more often than not, it’s nothing more than a hairball issue.

• Has to be experienced: An experienced cat sitter is better because they can help with cats that are more demanding and need more care. Because if they know the tricks about how to feed them, also how to get more comfortable with a  new cat faster than the non-experienced ones.
• Has to be flexible: Every cat has a different and unique personality, so every one of them requires different types of care. For example, some cats are really close to their owners, so when their owners go out of the town or country for a long time, they start to feel left out, making them anxious. So to tackle this situation, more than one visit a day is definitely required. Also, to cheer them up, the sitter should take them out for a walk to a park or to some place where there are more furry buddies to play with. Also, your furry buddy might fall sick while you are away, so your sitter should be someone who will know all the good vets in the case of an emergency. Because only playing, feeding, helping them with their bowel movement, and taking them to the park won’t keep them healthy. So you should try and find someone willing to work with you to create such a care schedule that is perfectly compatible with the specific needs of your cat.
• Has to be communicative: All the qualities I have mentioned until now will be useless if you get a  cat sitter who isn’t willing or able to communicate with you on a regular basis. Because you would want such a sitter who will give you post-visit reports, pictures, and videos while you are away for work or on vacation, and you would want to be able to reach your sitter at reasonable hours or the time of an emergency or sometimes if you just miss your feline buddy a lot. This might seem too much to ask for some people, but it’s actually not. It is your right to ask for such a  communicative cat sitter who will give you an ample number of messages and pics rather than someone who won’t even respond to your texts! 

Why Is Pet-Sitting Better Than Pet Boarding? 

Boarding is considered to be a great option for dogs because we all know dogs are more of a social animal, so they love to socialize more. But when it comes to cats, they prefer to stay in the safety of their own homes. They’re such creatures whose behavior can be disrupted immensely if small changes happen in their habits or environment, so if you don’t want to make them stressed and lonely, then you should keep them at your home in familiar surroundings. Generally, boarding is recommended for such cats who need round-the-clock supervision and care, and if that is the case, veterinary boarding is the best choice. 

If you feel like daily visits aren’t enough for your cat, then you should consider overnight pet sitting as an option. This is a great option because this is when a pro sitter will stay overnight at your home, which will allow them to give even more supervision and care to your feline buddy. And before you hire someone to be your overnight sitter make sure that they have their own insurance and also try to find out what benefits you will get from their overnight services and what their rates will be. Some pet sitters charge separately for day and night visits. 

Lastly, I would say you should always remember that all animals are different and so they all need different types of care. So you should make sure that you should get such a  pet sitter who is experienced and is willing to give all the love, care, and affection your fur-baby requires.

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Can an Aggressive Dog be Cured Once and for All?

You adopted a cute adult dog from the local shelter. You love him to bits but he can be quite the task, thanks to his aggressive behaviour. From biting your strangers to bullying other dogs to growling and snarling, he has become tough to handle.

Despite your best efforts of having him trained by the best behavioural trainers, things are not changing. Now, you are afraid of taking him on walks, going to the dog park, or letting him loose when there are strangers at home.

An aggressive dog is not a very desirable dog to have. If you own one, you must be driving yourself insane trying to come up with ideas of stopping the behaviour. You have probably asked yourself whether there’s a permanent cure for dog aggression or not. In this guide, we will seek to answer this question.

Signs of Dog Aggression

When the words ‘canine aggression’ is mentioned, what immediately comes to mind is a dog that bites. Granted, that is the common sign of an aggressive pooch but there are subtle yet serious signs that will help you know whether your dog is aggressive or not. Ideally, your pup’s body language will tell you a lot as far as aggression is concerned. Some of the common signs include:

• Biting (from snipping to intense bites)
• Barging through doors
• Growling
• Demanding of attention
• Stiff body posture
• Protecting sleep area
• Snarling
• Punching people with the nose
• Baring the teeth
• Ears pinned back

Knowing the body language displayed by your dog will help you understand the origin of the problem. Dogs generally don’t become aggressive from the blues. Often, it is because of fear, pain, illness, improper socialization, lack of training, territory protection, and establishing dominance.

Can Aggression Be Cured?

Harbouring an aggressive dog is a risky affair. Not only do you compromise the danger of your family members, neighbours, and strangers but you also put the dog at risk. Plus, you increase the chance of having to hire a dog bite lawyer to defend you in case of a lawsuit.

According to ASPCA, dog aggression cannot be cured in the sense of the word. Most times, the probable solution is to manage the issue. Pet parents can do this by controlling the trigger situations. For example, if your pup becomes bloodthirsty and aggressive when he sees other dogs, consider limiting interactions. If he tends to develop fear aggression during meal times, find ways to separate your pups from eating together.

Unfortunately, many behavioural trainers make empty promises about curing aggression. They will give you a guarantee that if you hire them, they will get rid of the problem once and for all. When you are desperate for something positive, you can fall for the lies. However, realize that this is nothing but a marketing gimmick for a whole lot of them.

What To Do

As mentioned, the best treatment for aggression is not curing it but rather controlling it. There are a few things you can do to achieve this:

1. Determine the reason for the behaviour

We cannot stress this enough. Your first line of defense concerning canine aggression is to get to the root cause. Although the reasons for aggression span wide, most canines get aggressive because of pain and fear. Ideally, if your Fido develops the behaviour all of a sudden, there’s a high likelihood that he’s sick or in pain.

You might want to have him checked by the vet to diagnose the issue and hopefully, treat it. However, if your baby is acting out of fear, you need a reputable behavioural trainer to train him. You can tell this by how your pup behaves when he sees other animals in the park or the vet’s office. When a stranger approaches the house, he may also exhibit aggressive behaviour.

2. Socialize the puppy

With the help of a dog behaviourist, organize supervised visits to the dog park. Encourage your dog to play and interact with other dogs. Make sure the other dogs are calm and well-mannered to avoid the breakout of war.

3. Treat your dog right

An aggressive dog makes it hard to love, cuddle, and play with. However, you want to try your best to be a kind and supportive pet parent no matter what. Use positive reinforcement during training. Avoid hitting the dog, shouting at him, using intimidation as a tool, and isolating the poor dog in a bid to punish him.

4. Neuter or spay

Hormone aggression can be taken care of by spaying or neutering the doggie. If you haven’t done so already, plan on it. It will make a huge difference for sure.

Final Thoughts

Can an aggressive dog be cured once and for all? The genuine answer is no. However, the behaviour can be managed to a greater extent. The secret lies in finding out the origin of the problem. From there, you can devise a strategy of keeping the behaviour at bay.

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Why Your Calm Dog Sometimes Bites And What To Do About It

Have you ever heard somebody tell you their dog never jumps on people as he is jumping on you? Well, that’s because most dogs are very calm and don’t do things like jump or bite until that one time that they do. 

In other words, even the most docile dog can be unpredictable. You can predict the unpredictable by understanding dog behavior. If your dog does something out of character there is always a reason for it. Understanding the reason why will help you prevent dog bites that could injure somebody and put your dog at risk, too. 

In this article, I will go over what some of those reasons are so that you can possibly see it coming beforehand and take some steps to prevent it. 

He’s being protective

Your dog is governed by a lot of different instincts. And the protective instinct is very powerful. They will be territorial and want to protect their territory and also the members of your family. It’s not just big dogs like German Shepherds or Rottweilers, either. Even small dogs have the instinct. 

This is one of the reasons to get a dog but there are times when it isn’t so obvious to a human when that instinct is going to kick in. it could happen when they feel like one of the family is being abused. Playing rough with one of the kids could spark this kind of reaction from your dog. Even kids playing with each other might set off the instinct. 

The best way to deal with this is to make sure that when you have guests over that the dog is never left alone with just the kids, no matter how calm he or she is. 

They’re territorial

One sure way to get a docile dog to bite is to try to take food away from him. This is when their territorial instinct kicks in big. In the wild a dog has to protect his territory from those that want to take their food supply. If they didn’t get aggressive in this situation then they could easily starve. 

If a dog is chewing on a bone, make sure your kids know to never try to take it away even in a playful way. Let them eat in peace when it is feeding time so they don’t feel like they have to snap at somebody who is disrupting their meal. 

When you are out with your dog at the dog park or for a walk, try to avoid giving them food so they don’t try to get territorial around strangers to prevent them from acting out. 

They’re injured

Dogs don’t always show you when they are hurt or in pain. Sometimes you may touch them in a spot that hurts so they snap at you or somebody else to protect their injury. Make sure that you are aware of your dog’s behavior to understand when something isn’t right and they are in pain. 

Then, make sure to keep them away from others so there is no risk of them getting bitten by accident.

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5 All-Natural Supplements For Dogs

Like humans, our furry pets need a well-balanced nutrition to live healthier and longer lives. Unfortunately, like us, your dogs aren’t capable of producing all of these essential compounds, hence the need for consuming vitamin-rich foods.    

Ideally, all of these needs should’ve been provided by the nourishment from the food we eat. But it’s not every day that our pets have access to these foods, which is where supplementation comes in. 

One of the most effective ways to ensure that your dogs get the right amount of these essential vitamins is to know the most important types of vitamins and minerals our fur babies need in order to boost their health. In choosing the best nutritional supplements for your dogs, look for the presence of these compounds: 

1. Glucosamine

One of the most popular all-natural supplements for dogs is glucosamine, a compound that’s naturally present in your dogs’ joints, cushioning them against impact and preventing the joints from rubbing against each other. Glucosamine works two ways–it helps protect the joints and aids in building cartilages. Glucosamine is typically sourced from shellfish or synthetically produced in the laboratory to be sold as supplements.

In younger dogs, glucosamine can help improve mobility, making running and playing with your dog seamless. This supplement may later contribute to the prevention of arthritis in dogs. As a degenerative disease, arthritis wears away the cartilage in the joints, making basic movements extremely painful. A 2007 study showed that a glucosamine supplement aid pain and increased mobility over a month of treatment.

Glucosamine supplements come in many forms–capsules, powders, and as dog treats. It’s often mixed with chondroitin sulfate, another naturally occurring compound found in the bone and cartilage tissues.    

2. Fish Oil

Fish oil bursts with essential fatty acids such as Omega-3, which is believed to be effective in improving cardiovascular health, boost your dog’s coat health, as well as reduce skin allergies. In humans, the Food and Drug Administration has approved a drug sourced from fish oil. Its aim is to reduce triglyceride levels and alleviate the risks of heart attack and stroke.    

A study suggests that fish oils also reduce inflammation, which may be beneficial in reducing the incidence of seizures, meningoencephalomyelitis, and other similar inflammatory diseases that may develop in your pets. 

Despite its benefits, your dog can’t organically produce Omega-3 fatty acids, hence the need to source them from food or supplements. Some Omega-3 supplements are mixed with turmeric to boost immunity, moisturize the skin, and relieve all types of allergies. If you’re thinking about the plausibility of giving turmeric to your dogs, learn the facts here. 

3. Antioxidants

The chemical reactions from metabolizing food generate free radicals, which contain electron-deficient oxygen. These free radicals steal the electrons from the body’s healthy cells, especially when our dogs get sick or are exposed to poisonous substances and stress. When free radicals successfully take away electrons from the cells, it can damage the cells. When antioxidants are introduced in our body and that of your pet’s, free radicals are weakened and cells are repaired.

Antioxidants are found in supplements that are rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, Selenium, and Coenzyme Q10 for dogs. In humans, CoQ10 has been used as a supplement for the treatment of various health conditions. Few studies reveal that this compound can help lower blood pressure, lessen the risks of heart attack, and Alzheimer’s disease. However, more studies are needed to support these claims. 

In dogs and people, antioxidants are perceived to have anti-aging effects, including cognitive problems and memory gaps. Some pet owners swear by the effects of antioxidants in helping treat heart disease and minimizing inflammation. 

With these same benefits believed to be applicable to dogs as well, it’s no wonder why some dog parents rely on these supplements to keep their dogs healthy.

4. Probiotics

More and more people are taking probiotics for gut health, and so should pets. Probiotics refer to the friendly microbes, composed of bacteria and yeasts present in the gastrointestinal systems of all animals. They’re responsible for aiding the digestion process and the maintenance of intestinal health. 

Maintaining gut health is said to be one of the keys to maintaining overall well-being. It’s believed that those who take probiotics are able to produce essential nutrients needed to combat disease-causing organisms and augment the immune system. When probiotics are damaged or destroyed, our pets may suffer from diarrhea and upset stomachs.       

Probiotic supplements benefit dogs in the same manner that they benefit humans. They help increase the good bacteria in the gut. In the immediate terms, it helps the digestive tract break down food better, therefore nutrient extraction becomes more efficient. Probiotics may likewise prevent the growth of harmful bacteria that make your dogs sick. 

Supplements of this type may come in the form of chewables, yogurts, drinks, capsules, and powders. 

5. Multivitamins 

Like us, our beloved pets need their daily dose of multivitamins to support their overall health. While a balanced diet can get some or most of these nutrients, complementing these nutrients is critical to make sure that your dogs get the ideal doses. Besides, our pets cannot get all these recommended vitamins from their normal food consumption. Additionally, some of the vitamin content integrated into most ready-to-eat dog meals break down and disappear in the cooking or preparation processes.    

Before feeding your dog with multivitamin supplements, take time to consider these essential vitamins for your four-legged companions:       

• Vitamin A – for better vision, improved immunity, and overall growth 
• Vitamin B1 or Thiamine – for carbohydrate metabolism and energy facilitation
• Riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3), and B12 – aids in the proper functioning of your dog’s enzymes 
• Vitamin B6 – responsible for multiple processes such as better immune response, nervous system functions, production of glucose, red blood cell generation, and hormone regulation   
• Pantothenic Acid – helps with metabolism and energy regulation 
• Folic Acid – facilitates your dog’s production and proper use of proteins, including amino acid metabolism
• Vitamin C – boosts the immune system and a great source of antioxidants 
• Vitamin E – for boosting cell functions, metabolism of fats, and anti-oxidative functions
• Vitamin K – helps with blood clots and the production of proteins, which is important for bone health

Final Thoughts 

If your dog exhibits normal behavior for its age and breed, doesn’t show any symptoms of sickness, and you believe that they’re getting the essential vitamins and minerals mentioned earlier, your dog may not need supplementation. 

If you decide to push through with the use of nutritional supplements, discuss with your veterinarian first to find out the best nutrients your dog needs. Once your vet comes up with some recommendations, look for a reputable company with science-backed claims about the efficacy of their products. Read the label properly to ensure that your fur babies are getting the amount they need.