What To Do If You Can’t Take Your Cat On Vacation

Whether you’re visiting a distant friend or relative, or you just want to take a break and go on a vacation, bringing your furry companion with you might be tempting. Since you’ll have them with you, you won’t have to worry about whether they’re being taken care of and whether they’re safe.

However, there might be instances where you can’t take your cat with you. Maybe you booked a hotel that isn’t pet-friendly, or maybe you’re going to visit someone who’s allergic to cats. Whatever the reason, you’ll have no choice but to say goodbye to your furry friend for a while.

Though it’s sad, there’s no need to worry. If you need to leave your cats behind, there are plenty of ways to ensure that they’ll be comfortable and well taken care of while you’re away. Below are some things you can do if you can’t take your cat on vacation with you.

Consider Cat Boarding

If you want a stress-free option for both yourself and your cat, you might want to check out cat boarding. That essentially means taking them to an establishment or facility that takes care of cats while their owners are away. This way, someone can look after them and provide them with all the necessities. Since these establishments are meant specifically for that purpose, the staff’s full attention will be on the cats, and they can readily give them daily meals, rest, exercise, and toys to play with.

There are different establishments that offer cat boarding, so you may want to read more about the different types, their rates, and what they can offer you. Remember to check the facility first to see if you’d feel comfortable leaving your cat there for a while. Depending on your cat’s temperament, you might also want to inquire if the cat boarding facility offers the option of letting your cat join others or letting them have a space to themselves.

Ask A Family Member Or Friend

If your cat is low-maintenance and bonds well with people, you can consider asking a family member or friend to look after them. This way, you can be at peace knowing that someone you trust will care for them while you’re on your trip. And if your cat knows the person well or has spent a lot of time with them, they’re less likely to feel anxious or distressed about being left behind.

Before you start making calls to family members or friends, however, remember to take several things into consideration. For instance, it would be best to entrust your cat to someone who doesn’t already have pets, as your cat may feel uncomfortable around other animals. Also, consider the lifestyle of the person. If they usually have a packed schedule or are out at all hours of the day, they might not be able to care for your cat the way you want them to.

Hire A Pet Sitter

If you’re unable to find a good candidate among friends or family, a great alternative is to hire a pet sitter. There are two types you can choose from. The first type is someone who will stay in your home for the entire time you’re away. The other type is someone who will just visit your home during specific times of the day to check up on your cat, give them food, refill their water bowl, and clean up their litter box. Your choice of pet sitter will depend on your cat’s personality (such as whether they’re independent or prefer to be around someone constantly) and your budget.

Whichever type you go with, be sure to choose a pet sitter who’s experienced and trustworthy. It’s advisable to ask family or friends for recommendations. If possible, try to see if there are reviews for the pet sitter’s services, or ask the pet sitter to provide you with references so you can ask their previous clients about their experience with them. This way, you can be assured that your cat will be in good hands.

Prep Your Home So Your Cat Can Be Self-Sufficient

If you’re confident that your cat will be fine even if left alone, you can simply let them be and leave them alone at home. Of course, you’ll still have to make arrangements to ensure their safety, such as enlisting a family member or friend to check up on them every once in a while.

Additionally, you should make adjustments to your home to make it more cat-friendly and safe. There are various ways you can ensure that your cat will be well-fed, hydrated, and comfortable while you’re away.

• Purchase An Automatic Feeder: If you’ll only be gone for a few days, it would be wise to purchase an automatic feeder for your cat. All you have to do is set a timer for their meals, and the feeder will release a set amount of food at the specified times. This will ensure that your cat will be well-fed and have enough to eat while you’re away.
• Prepare A Water Dispenser: If you only leave water bowls for your cat to drink out of, they might get knocked aside or fall down. Even if your cat is well-behaved, accidents can still happen. To prevent this from happening and to keep them hydrated, you should prepare at least two full water dispensers that they can drink from. Ideally, they should be secured in place to prevent them from falling or getting knocked over.
• Decide Free Spaces: Before you leave the house, decide which areas of your home your cat can freely roam. This way, you can limit possible chaos while still allowing your cat to be comfortable. For restricted areas, make sure the doors and windows are locked and can’t be opened by your cat. For free spaces, clear out any objects they could possibly break.
• Keep Electrical Cords Out Of The Way: To prevent your cat from getting tangled or tripping, you should ensure that electrical cords are kept out of the way. Apart from unplugging them, manage the cables properly and consider tying them up to prevent mishaps.
• Install A Pet Camera: If you want to be able to check on your pet yourself, you can install pet cameras inside your home. There are many kinds available that come with different features, such as treat dispensers and speakers that allow you to talk to your pet, but their primary purpose is to provide you with a means to monitor them.

Takeaway

It’s normal to be worried about your cat when you have to go on a trip without them. However, you can make the situation less stressful for both you and your pet by considering the options above. Think carefully about the pros and cons of each one, and take into consideration your cat’s personality as well. This way, you can enjoy your trip without having to worry about them.

10 Benefits of Feminized Hemp Seeds to Your Dog

Every dog owner wants what’s best for his or her pup, and for holistically minded pet owners, that means finding natural ways to support health and wellness. Hemp seeds offer all kinds of health benefits, so it should come as no surprise that many people have been adding them to their dogs’ diets. Read on to find out about 10 benefits of feeding hemp seeds to dogs.

1. Pain Relief

Plenty of people shopping for feminized seeds are doing so because they are looking for pain relief for themselves. Dog owners will be happy to know that the same pain-relieving properties also apply to furry friends. Hemp is especially beneficial for decreasing arthritis symptoms, although it can also help with nerve pain and inflammation.

2. Cancer-Fighting Properties

The American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that nearly half of all dogs that reach the age of 10 will get cancer. Because hemp seeds contain nutrients known to inhibit tumor growth, their regular consumption can help to avoid this common issue.

3. Great Source of Fiber

Just three tablespoons of hemp seeds contain 1.2 grams of fiber, which is beneficial to a dog’s digestive tract. Fiber is a must for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.

4. Lots of Vegetable Protein

Hemp seeds have about one ounce of protein per 100 grams. That’s equivalent to the amount of protein found in meat and fish, but it’s easily absorbed in the body and complements meat-based sources of protein well in a dog’s diet.

5. Healthy Fatty Acids

Hemp seeds contain large amounts of both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These two healthy fatty acids are responsible for lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, regulating the metabolism of fat, and reducing insulin dependence. They’re also anti-inflammatory.

6. Important Source of Minerals

A dog’s body needs a wide variety of minerals to perform at peak levels, and many of those minerals are found in hemp seeds. This superfood contains large amounts of potassium, which regulates muscle and nerve function, metabolism, and hormones.

7. Diverse B Vitamins

Hemp seeds also contain a healthy balance of B vitamins, including folic acid, riboflavin, and thiamine. These micronutrients help dogs’ digestive tracts with absorbing proteins and act as antioxidants within the body.

8. Weight Management

Eating hemp seeds can help to speed up a dog’s metabolism, which can be good news for overweight pooches. Adding hemp to the diet can also increase energy levels, encouraging dogs to become more active.

9. Reducing Anxiety

Some dogs get separation anxiety, while others struggle to tolerate car rides, trips to the vet, and other common triggers. Feeding dogs hemp seeds can help to reduce anxiety without the potentially dangerous side effects of prescription medications.

10. Treating Nausea

Dogs vomit in response to not just things like motion sickness and stomach bugs but also changes in food, medications, and other issues. Feeding dogs hemp seeds is a good way to treat nausea naturally. Hemp seeds can also help to alleviate some of the underlying problems that cause nausea in dogs.

Dog Owners Can Benefit From Hemp, Too

One of the great things about cannabis is that its beneficial effects are just as prevalent in people as they are in dogs. Both dog owners and their furry friends stand to benefit substantially from growing cannabis plants at home for the seeds, which requires both male and female plants. Learn more about how to grow cannabis for seed production online before getting started.

Important Things To Consider Before Getting A Hamster

Hamsters can make great pets for people of all ages, but there are some things you should consider before bringing one home. They require a lot of attention and care, and if you’re not prepared to commit to taking care of a hamster, it’s best not to get one at all. In this article, you will learn about the most important things you need to know before getting a hamster!

Diet 

The main concern of all new hamster owners is what they can feed them, and what foods they can never get their paws onto. A very common question in the community is can hamsters eat apples and people usually worry about any other type of fruit. As with any food it is best to give them a small piece first and see how they react before giving them more.

Do your homework on what hamsters eat and what nutrients they need in their diet, so you can ensure your hammy is getting everything they need to stay healthy and happy.

A diet that consists of hay, fresh vegetables, a small number of pellets, and the occasional treat is best for hamsters. They also need water available at all times. Make sure to do your research on what foods are poisonous to hamsters as well, so you can avoid offering them anything that could make them sick.

Living Space 

The cage in which you’ll be keeping your hamster should be at least 24″ by 12″ and no taller than 18″. The bar spacing on the cage should be no more than ¼ inch to prevent your hamster from escaping. You’ll also need a water bottle, food dish, hiding place, wheel (optional), and bedding. Bedding can be made of paper products, aspen shavings, or refresh. Avoid using pine or cedar shavings as they can cause respiratory problems for your hamster.

The temperature in your hamster’s living space should be between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. You’ll also need to make sure the living space is free of drafts and out of direct sunlight. Lastly, you’ll want to place the cage in an area where your family spends a lot of time so your hamster doesn’t feel isolated. 

It’s also essential to know how to clean your hamster’s living space. You’ll need to do a full cleaning of the cage and all of its accessories at least once a week. This means removing your hamster from the cage, washing everything down with hot water and vinegar, and letting it all air dry before putting your hamster back in. 

Health 

Unfortunately, there are some health issues you need to keep an eye on if you own a pet hamster. These are the following things:

• Tumors: You should keep an eye out for any lumps or bumps on your hamster’s body. 
• Dental health: Hamsters have a lot of teeth and they grow quickly. This can cause problems with their teeth if they’re not properly cared for.
• Hamsters are prone to respiratory problems due to their small size.
• Eye problems: If you notice your hamster’s eyes are red or swollen, take them to the vet.
• Diarrhea: If your hamster has it, take them to the vet to make sure it’s not something serious.
• Wet tail: A condition that can be fatal to hamsters. 

As you can see, there are some health issues you need to be aware of if you own a pet hamster. However, as long as you keep an eye on these things and take your hamster to the vet regularly, they should be healthy and happy! 

Hygiene 

You have to keep your hands clean when handling a hamster. This also means that you have to keep their home clean as well. If you don’t, your hamster can get sick very easily. 

Make sure to change their bedding often and clean their cage regularly. You also shouldn’t put anything in their cage that could make them sick.

When giving them a bath, use special hamster shampoo. Don’t use soap, because it can dry out their skin. Hamsters are very clean animals and they groom themselves often. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do anything. You still have to take care of them and make sure they’re healthy and happy. 

Reproduction 

Never keep a male and female hamster together unless you want babies. If you do, get ready for baby hamsters, as a female can have litters of up to 12! Hamsters reach sexual maturity at around six weeks old. That means if you got your hamster when she was four weeks old, she could already be pregnant. Litters are usually born 21 days after conception. 

So, if you’re not planning on breeding your hamster, it’s best to get a same-sex pair or have your pet spayed or neutered. Your vet can do this as early as four months old (before the first heat cycle in females). This is also a good idea if you don’t want your hamster to become aggressive or territorial.

Behavior 

It’s important to keep your hamster tame as they can develop a behavior where they become aggressive and bite. Doing this is easy, just handle them every day so they get used to you. Once your hamster is tame, you can play with them and even teach them tricks!

Remember, every hamster is different so it’s important to get to know yours. Some may never want to be held while others love cuddles. Just take the time to get to know your furry friend and you’ll have a great relationship in no time! 

Do some research on what type of behavior is common for the breed of hamster you are getting. 

They’re Nocturnal 

Don’t get spooked when you start hearing noises in the middle of the night. Hamsters are nocturnal, so they’re most active after sundown. If you want a pet you can cuddle during movie night, this isn’t the animal for you. Consider getting a hamster if you’re prepared to handle being woken up in the wee hours of the morning. 

Do some research on whether or not being nocturnal is something that would work with your lifestyle before getting a hamster. They’re lovely creatures, but it’s important to be aware of their needs before making any commitments.

Hamsters are awesome and cute pets, but you do need to take proper care of them. Make sure to research their diet and set up the living space properly, after which you’ll keep it clean. It’s essential to keep an eye on their health and hygiene and never put males and females together as they reproduce quickly. Their behavior depends on how you act towards them and don’t be scared once they start doing some nighttime activities. Have fun with your new pet!

What You Need to Know Before Getting a Betta Fish

Also known as Siamese fighting fish, betta fish is a beautiful fish with colored tails. Bettas are the most popular fish in aquariums globally, perhaps due to their pleasant color. 

Pet fish require less work as it is confined in the aquarium. If you wish to keep a betta fish, here is a guide to help you.

Invest in a Big Aquarium 

These fish species swim a lot and hence need ample space. Experts recommend a tank that holds a minimum of 5 gallons. If you decide to add more pets from the same family, get a bigger space for them.  

Though the fish size varies, the average length of a grown betta is around 2.5 – 3 inches without the tail. Vibrant, healthy fish have big, long tails that are open wide and flow smoothly. 

Note that the fish love to jump. Keep the aquarium covered, or if you wish to leave it open, provide enough space between the top of the tank and the water.  

Unlike the widespread misinformation, you cannot keep betta fish in small bowls. Bettas need more than bowls.

Do Betta Fish Love Company?

One rule of thumb is never put two male betta fish together! Bettas are also known as Siamese fighting fish for this reason. 

Betta fish have poor social skills and prefer their own space. Both male and female betta fish can accommodate snails, cory catfish, feeder guppies, and shrimp and coexist peacefully. However, two Siamese cannot stay in the same aquarium.

If you find non-aggressive female bettas, you can place two of them in one container with enough water. 

What to Put in the Aquarium

Bettas hide when nervous or fearful and swim around decorations or plants to stimulate their brains. You need to provide ‘hiding spots’ for the betta fish. 

Though the choice of aquarium décor is personal, avoid pointed or sharp items in the aquarium as they can hurt the fish when swimming. 

Also, remember these types of fish need plenty of space to swim around. Hence if you love lots of decorations, invest in a bigger tank. You can have artificial or natural plants as they all work with the fish. 

Add Plants in the Aquarium

Aquatic plants keep the water oxygenated and clean, enrich your pet and make the environment attractive. Adding some live plants to the tank hosting the fish is a great plus. 

When choosing plants, ensure you settle for those that do not grow too large or tall. Betta loves plants with dense and long leaves like Java Ferns, Marimo Moss Balls, Amazon Sword, and Anubias Nana. 

Water Temperature

Tropical fish like betta thrive in warm waters. Since it is impossible to consistently maintain a temperature above 75 degrees, buy a heater to keep the water temperature at 78 – 80 degrees. 

You will need a safe aquarium thermometer to ensure constant water temperature. When the surrounding temperatures drop, betta fish become lethargic and withdrawn as they are sensitive to changes in water parameters.

Betta Fish Diet

Living things thrive when fed on their most natural diet. Larvae and small insects are the best for betta fish due to their carnivorous nature. Frozen food like bloodworms and brine shrimp will also work. Betta fish need foods rich in protein and varied for their healthy development. 

The stomach size of a betta fish is the size of its eyeball, so one feed a day is enough. Once the betta stops actively feeding, do not give more food. If there is uneaten food that builds at the tank bottom, it will pollute the water.  

Conclusion

You are now qualified to adopt a betta fish! The above tips are essential to help you start your journey of fish keeping. 

Top Signs Of Anxiety In Dogs And How To Deal With Them

Dogs are prone to experiencing anxiety just like humans. In fact, according to the American Kennel Club, around 15% of all dogs in the United States suffer from some form of anxiety. And while it may seem like a small number, it still means a lot of anxious pups out there!

There are many different types of anxiety that can affect dogs, but the most common ones include separation anxiety, social anxiety, and noise phobias. Regardless of the type of anxiety your dog may have, it’s important to be aware of the signs so you can help them cope.

Know the General Symptoms of Canine Anxiety

Anxiety is a normal emotion that we all feel from time to time. It’s what helps us humans stay alert and safe in potentially dangerous situations. But when anxiety becomes excessive, it can be debilitating and have a serious impact on our quality of life. The same is true for dogs.

While some amount of anxiety is normal and even beneficial for dogs, when it becomes excessive it can lead to serious behavioral problems. That’s why it’s important to be able to recognize the signs of anxiety in dogs so you can help your furry friend through tough times.

Below are other general symptoms of canine anxiety to watch out for.

1. Excessive Barking or Howling

Dogs that are anxious may bark or howl excessively. This may be in response to something that is troubling them or simply out of boredom and frustration. If your dog is exhibiting this behavior, it’s important to try to figure out the source of their anxiety and address it accordingly. As a dog owner, it’s important to take action to help ease their anxiety. One way to do this is by giving them melatonin for dogs. Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate sleep and is often used as a natural remedy for anxiety. It can be given to dogs in the form of a supplement and is typically safe for most dogs with no known side effects. However, it’s always best to check with your veterinarian first before giving your dog any supplements.

2. Pacing or Shaking

Another common sign of anxiety in dogs is pacing back and forth or shaking uncontrollably. This is often a result of stress and can make your dog very uncomfortable. If you notice your dog doing this, it’s important to provide them with a calm environment and try to ease their anxiety.

3. Destructive Behavior

Dogs that are anxious may also exhibit destructive behavior, such as chewing on furniture or ripping up carpet. This is often a way for them to release their energy and relieve stress. If your dog is exhibiting this behavior, it’s important to provide them with appropriate chew toys and redirect their attention when they start to exhibit destructive behavior.

4. Excessive Shedding

Another common sign of anxiety in dogs is excessive shedding. This is often caused by stress and can be a result of your dog’s coat not being properly groomed. If you notice your dog shedding excessively, it’s important to take them to the vet to rule out any medical conditions and to get them on a proper grooming schedule.

5. Loss of Appetite

Dogs that are anxious may also lose their appetite. This is often due to stress and can make your dog very uncomfortable. If you notice your dog is not eating, it’s important to take them to the vet to rule out any medical conditions and to help them regain their appetite.

Know the Types of Canine Anxiety

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take your dog to the vet to rule out any medical conditions. Once you’ve ruled out any medical conditions, you can start working on treating your dog’s anxiety. There are several types of anxiety and many different ways to treat anxiety in dogs, so it’s important to talk to your vet about what would be best for your dog.

1. Separation Anxiety

One of the most common types of anxiety in dogs is separation anxiety. This is when a dog becomes anxious or stressed when they’re away from its owner.

Signs of separation anxiety in dogs include:

• Pacing
• Whining
• Barking
• Chewing on furniture or other objects
• Escape attempts (jumping fences, digging holes, etc.)

If your dog is displaying any of these signs, it’s important to seek professional help. A certified animal behaviorist or veterinary behaviorist can help you create a treatment plan for your dog. Treatment may include desensitization training (teaching your dog to be okay with being away from you), medication, and/or anxiety wraps.

2. Social Anxiety

Social anxiety is another type of anxiety that affects dogs. This is when a dog is afraid of other people or animals.

Signs of social anxiety in dogs include:

• Panting
• Trembling
• Hiding from people or animals
• Aggression towards people or animals

Again, if your dog is displaying any of these signs, it’s important to seek professional help. A certified animal behaviorist or veterinary behaviorist can help you create a treatment plan for your dog. Treatment may include desensitization training (teaching your dog to be okay around people or animals), medication, and/or anxiety wraps.

3. Noise Phobias

Noise phobias are another type of anxiety that affects dogs. This is when a dog is afraid of loud noises, such as thunderstorms, fireworks, or construction noise.

Signs of noise phobias in dogs include:

• Panting
• Trembling
• Hiding
• Barking
• Chewing on furniture or other objects

If your dog is displaying any of these signs, it’s important to seek professional help. A certified animal behaviorist or veterinary behaviorist can help you create a treatment plan for your dog. Treatment may include desensitization training (teaching your dog to be okay with loud noises), medication, and/or anxiety wraps.

Treatment Options for Canine Anxiety

One way to treat anxiety in dogs is through behavior modification. This involves teaching your dog new behaviors that will help them cope with their anxiety. This can be done through positive reinforcement training or by using anti-anxiety medication.

Another way to treat anxiety in dogs is through desensitization and counterconditioning. This involves slowly exposing your dog to the things that trigger their anxiety and teaching them to associate these things with positive experiences. This can be a long and difficult process, but it’s often very effective in treating anxiety in dogs.

Anxiety is a common problem in dogs, but it’s important to be aware of the signs so you can help your dog cope. If your dog is displaying any signs of anxiety, seek professional help. A certified animal behaviorist or veterinary behaviorist can help you create a treatment plan for your dog. Treatment may include desensitization training, medication, and/or anxiety wraps.

Dog Breeding 101

Breeding your dog is a big responsibility. There are many factors to consider, as you will have to ensure the wellbeing of the mother and her puppies, as well as fulfil the expectations of the future owners. Your dog will need long-term care before breeding so that the puppies turn out healthy. The most successful dog breeders have spent a lot of time studying how to breed their dog before even planning on a litter of puppies.

Educating yourself about the process of dog breeding is one of the most important things to do before actually breeding your dog. For those who want to breed dogs as a business, you likely have local resources if you are interested in learning how to become a registered dog breeder. Breeding your dog ethically and responsibly is going to be paramount when you sell your dogs. You will have clients who are expecting that the dogs they get from you are free from health and behavioural problems. 

Your Dog’s Reproductive Cycle

Female dogs have a reproductive cycle that goes through four phases. Unspayed female dogs typically have two periods of “heat” called estrus cycles per year. These cycles last around two to three weeks. However, the interval between these cycles may be different for your specific dog. A female dog’s first heat generally happens between 6 months and 15 months of age, but can happen later if for large dog breeds. It is generally advised that dogs be 12 months of age before their first mating. 

Estrus cycle

• Proestrus – This is the first phase of the estrus cycle lasting around a week. The female dog’s vulva will become swollen, and they will start attracting males. 
• Estrus – This is the active mating period, where the female dog will allow males to mount her. Ovulation will occur around two to three days after mating. 
• Diestrus – This is the resting period ten to 140 days after the female dog’s heat. 
• Anestrus – This is the period of downtime between the two estrus cycles, which lasts around six months. 

Male dogs have no such cycle, and will respond to female dogs whenever they are in heat. 

Vet Visits

Before deciding to breed your dog, a trip to a trustworthy veterinarian is in order. They should be able to give your dog a thorough health check to see whether the dog is fit to breed. The veterinarian will have to consider the dog’s age, breed, and overall well being before approving the dog for breeding. Female dogs will have to head to the vet several weeks or months before the estrus cycle when you plan to breed the dog. 

A female dog should be in good health, have up-to-date vaccinations, and be free from parasites. The standard wellness checks will be performed, such as a stool test and heartworm test. It is also recommended that the dog be tested for brucellosis, which is a type of bacterial sexually transmitted disease. To ensure that the dog is clear of problems, one or more of the following tests may be conducted:

• Hip and elbow scoring
• Eye testing
• Hearing tests
• Inherited disease/DNA testing 
• Respiratory function

Your vet will know more about the specific tests that need to be performed on your dog. Your vet should also evaluate your dog’s temperament, as nervous, anxious or fearful dogs tend to pass these characteristics down to their puppies. It is crucial to visit a veterinarian in Apache Junction, AZ, or your area on a regular basis in order to ensure your dog receives proper care and management. Veterinarians provide expert advice on overall health and wellness, vaccinations, and any other specific needs your dog might have.

Determining if Your Dog is Pregnant

For dogs, the gestation period is normally around 63 days from conception. However, it’s not exactly easy to tell when to begin counting these days. The male dog’s sperm is able to live for several days inside the female, and the female’s eggs are fertile for up to two days. The day of mating may not be the conception date. It is likely that you will have to visit your veterinarian to determine whether your dog is pregnant. Let your vet know when the mating occurred, or at least an approximate timeframe if you did not witness the mating happen. 

There are four methods that can be used to tell if your dog is pregnant:

1. Hormone test
2. X-ray
3. Ultrasound
4. Palpation

Your vet will be better able to determine which test to perform on your dog.

Whelping

Once you have determined that the dog is pregnant, you can begin preparing for the puppies. This also involves prenatal care as directed by your veterinarian, as your female dog’s health will determine the health of the puppies. A couple of weeks before the expected due date of your litter, you should prepare a whelping box where your female dog can have her puppies, ideally located somewhere your dog feels safe. You can either construct a whelping box yourself, or purchase a ready-made whelping box. What matters is that it is safe, comfortable and, most importantly, easy to clean, because you’ll be cleaning it out almost daily. 

The day before your female dog gives birth, they will likely lose their appetite and start to become restless. They may start looking for a place to give birth, often shown by digging or hiding under furniture. Direct your dog to their whelping box so that they don’t need to be moved later on, which is more difficult for both you and the dog. Make sure you know where the nearest emergency vet hospital is, as well as have on hand the number for your veterinarian. 

Take your dog’s rectal temperature periodically – the normal range is 38.3C to 39.8C. Once it drops around one degree to between approximately 37.0C and 37.5C, they should give birth within 24 hours.

Post-Pregnancy Care

Once your dog has given birth, bring her and her puppies to your veterinarian within the first 24 hours to make sure that they’re all healthy. If they’re all clear, you can ask your vet about how to care for your female dog while they’re nursing their puppies. You’ll likely have to make dietary changes to keep up with your female dog’s nutritional needs while they raise their pups. 

Your dog will likely be very protective of their puppies for the next couple of weeks, so avoid bringing any strangers over during this period. Also limit handling of the puppies until they are a few weeks old. Daily changes for the whelping box bedding are a good idea, and the whelping box itself will need to be disinfected weekly. 

7 Things You’ll Need When You Start With Puppy Training

Bringing home your new furry bundle of joy is all fun and games until baby Fido starts chewing through every piece of furniture you own. Puppy training is no joke, and it’s crucial that you start their training at a young age so they learn the ropes and don’t develop ad habits. 

If you’re serious about your training, you want your doggo to be in shows or even if you just have a particularly unruly pup, investing in some equipment will certainly help make the process a little easier. Who knows? You may find that you have an aptitude for dog training. If so, you may want to consider starting a dog training business to help dog owners who are struggling in this area.

Here are seven things you’ll need when you start training your puppy. 

Harnesses

Harnesses are great for dogs. They’re safe and comfortable for all dogs and puppies and can be a much better option than a collar and leash for these reasons. When your puppy is comfortable, he will be much easier to train, since he’s less likely to be tripping over his leash and straining at his collar. 

You can find the best dog harnesses online or even at your local pet store. Investing in a high-quality harness (and the right type) will make all the difference for your dog. 

Collar and Leash

Of course, there is still the option of the good old collar. While a harness works better for many dog trainers and owners, some digs and their humans simply prefer a collar when it comes to attaching a leash. 

Having a good quality, strong leash is important too. For training purposes, a longer leash is always the better option as this will allow our dog space to move around, but you’ll also want to be able to train your puppy to walk closer to you – for this, an adjustable leash is a great investment. 

Treats

No matter what age, breed or type of personality your dog has, you’ll need to reward them during training sessions, and there is no better way to do this than with dog treats. It’s a good idea to wean them off treats eventually as they progress in their training, but they’re important in the early stages.

Any type of treat that your dog loves will do the trick. You can even purchase CBD dog treats which have loads of health benefits for your pupper. 

Treat Pouch or Bag

Having somewhere to keep the treats will simply make your training sessions quicker and easier. A treat pouch or a bag will be a great way to store them and even keep them fresh. You could keep this tied around your waist for easy access too.

A larger bag might be a good idea too, to keep all your dog training supplies including your treats, leash, harness, training sticks, balls and any other items you use on a regular basis. This could double as a bag you take along with you on walks – just include some poop bags and a doggie water bottle.  

Training Stick

A training stick is a great addition to your puppy training regime. These are usually long and lightweight and can be folded up to store easily. These are most commonly used for a particular type of training known as target training, where you train your dog to touch a target with their nose or paw. 

Teaching your dog to follow your target is also a great way to train them to follow you without coaxing or fighting – into the car, into the bathtub, you name it!

These are crucial for dog owners who wish to enter their dogs into shows, but useful for anyone who wants to teach obedience and discipline to a puppy. 

Resources

Of course, you could grab your treat bag and simply start training your pup with the basics. However, reading some resources and getting some professional training advice can be a great help.

Investing in a top-rated dog training book might be helpful for you to understand classic, tried and tested methods of training your dog. If you don’t want to spend any money, there are plenty of free resources online that can help you through the process. Taking your dog to a training school will be your best bet as you’ll be working with a professional. 

Patience

Finally, you’ll need to have patience with your dog. Being stern is important, but try to not let your frustration turn into anger as you could frighten your puppy or turn them against the idea of what you’re trying to teach them.

Consider training time as fun and playful, and when your dog sees you enjoying the process, they’ll be more likely to comply.