5 New Year's Resolutions for You and Your Pet!

As the new year begins, it's the perfect time to set resolutions to benefit you and your furry friends! Whether you’re focusing on fitness or strengthening your bond with your pet, let's set some exciting goals for the new year!

1. Drink More Water

Staying hydrated is essential for both you and your pet as it helps regulate body temperature, supports digestion, and keeps your organs functioning properly. To keep your pet hydrated, you can use a pet fountain, which encourages them to drink more water with moving, fresh water. You can also offer water in multiple bowls around your home.

2. Outdoor Adventures

To embrace a more outdoorsy, adventurous lifestyle with your pets, start by incorporating regular lanai time where you can relax outside while your pets explore safely. Try new hiking trails, visit parks for open space, and enjoy picnics together. Open windows at home too to let your pets enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.

3. Prioritize Playtime

Playtime with your pets, both indoors and outdoors, is essential for their physical and mental well-being. It helps reduce stress, improve socialization, and strengthens the bond between you and your pet. Regular play also provides exercise and stimulation, preventing boredom and behavioral issues.

4. Brush Away!

Regular brushing keeps your cat or dog’s coat smooth, reduces shedding, and prevents mats. It also promotes healthy skin and strengthens the bond between you and your pet. Additionally, it provides a calming routine that can make grooming more enjoyable for both you and your pet.

5. Dental Health

Incorporate dental treats and dog-specific toothpaste this year! They are effective ways to support your pet's dental health. Dental treats help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, while dog toothpaste helps maintain healthy gums and fresh breath.

If you decide on incorporating extra outdoor time with your pet, check out our past blog on Hot Weather Safety Tips for Your Dog! 

References:

Nationwide -- Pet Health Zone

Rainy Days Don't Have to be Ruff!

With the right essentials, you can turn a gloomy stroll into a splashy adventure and keep tails wagging through every raindrop! 

We humans can easily throw on a raincoat and grab an umbrella, but it’s up to us to keep our furry pals protected when the downpour strikes. Grab your umbrella and let’s dive into the must haves for walking your furry friend in the rain!

Here are some essentials to pack for your rainy day walk: 

• Raincoat: Your dog will appreciate it! Not only will a waterproof raincoat help keep them dry, but it will also keep breeds with fur that mats easily (like poodles and bichons) safe from tangles. For smaller dogs, raincoats can keep them warm on chilly, rainy days. 

• Booties: Boots help keep your pup’s paws dry, and safe from bacteria, sharp objects and toxins that may be lurking in puddles. 

• Reflective Leash/Harness: Visibility can be compromised in rainy weather; therefore, a reflective leash adds an extra layer of safety on the sidewalk for passing cars. Any small glimpse of light will reflect on the leash and make the pup at the end of it more visible. 

• Absorbent Towels: Prepare absorbent towels at the door for when you return. It will help absorb as much moisture as possible compared to a regular towel! 

• Brush: After toweling off, a quick brush can help prevent knots and matting, especially for breeds with longer fur. Make sure to dry them thoroughly afterward! 

Remember, on a rainy day, your pup might need some extra love and attention if they can't get their usual outdoor time. Be sure to offer plenty of snuggles and playtime inside until those clouds clear! 

References:

The Dogington Post

11 Holiday Safety Tips For Your Pet

As the holiday season approaches, our homes transform into bustling hubs of celebration. Among the twinkling lights and festive feasts, it's essential to remember the well-being of our beloved pets. While they eagerly partake in the holiday excitement, their safety must remain a priority.

Mind the Decorations: Holiday decorations can be fascinating to our pets but can also be dangerous. Keep a close eye on tinsel, ribbon, and small ornaments that could be choking hazards. Opt for pet-friendly decorations and secure larger ones out of your pet's reach.

Create a Calm Retreat: Holiday gatherings can be overwhelming for pets with all the noise and commotion. Designate a quiet, safe space where your furry friend can retreat when they need a break. Provide comfortable bedding, water, and their favorite comfort items to make it an inviting, relaxing place.

Watch the Door: Holiday gatherings mean more people coming and going from your home. Keep an eye on your pets near the door, as they may try to slip outside, especially if they're anxious or curious about the guests.

Secure the Trash: The aroma of holiday leftovers can be irresistible to pets. Ensure trash cans are securely closed or kept in a pet-proof area to prevent scavenging, which can lead to digestive issues.

Pet-Proof Your Feast: Be cautious about what your pets consume while indulging in holiday feasts. Many human foods, such as chocolate, grapes, onions, and alcohol, can be toxic to pets. A trigger for pancreatitis in our furry friends often stems from the consumption of high-fat foods. During holiday seasons, this can include indulgences such as turkey (especially the skin), fatty leftovers, gravy, bacon, and dishes with butter. Keep festive foods out of their reach and discourage guests from feeding them table scraps. Never give your pet cooked bones. Bones can splinter into shards that injure your pet's mouth and digestive tract. They can also harden in their intestines, causing a blockage.

Be Cautious with Candles: If you're using candles for ambiance, place them out of your pet's reach. Curious pets can knock them over and cause fires or burns. Consider using flameless, battery-operated candles as a safer alternative.

Limit Access to Electrical Cords: Holiday lights and decorations often come with electrical cords that can attract pets. Use cord covers or secure them in a way that keeps your pets from chewing on them, which can lead to electrical shock.

Avoid Harmful Plants: Certain holiday plants, like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly, can be toxic to pets if ingested. Keep them away, or consider using artificial alternatives to keep your pets safe and your home festive. Curious about which other plants are harmful to your pets? Click here to find out!

Introduce Your Pet to New Faces: If you're hosting guests, especially those with children or other pets, ensure proper introductions with your own pets. Some pets may be anxious around unfamiliar faces, so a gradual introduction can help ease tension. Remind guests, especially children, how to properly interact with your pet to avoid potential anxiety in your pet that may result in a reactive bite or scratch. If your pet isn't fond of company, escort them to their safe space and check on them during the event.

On The Road Again: If the holiday takes you on a road trip, make sure your pet is wearing proper identification, a harness that is secured to a tether or doggy seat belt (do not attach any restraint directly to their collar), or place them in their crate (secured to the vehicle in the event of an accident). Bring food/treats, bowls, water, leash, potty supplies, blanket, medication, first-aid kit, toys, and vet documents. Create a list of emergency vets along your route in case of emergency or illness.

Exercise Your Pal: Be mindful of your pet's need for proper exercise during the busy season. Create a schedule that allows time to care for your pet, or call your local pet-sitting company for assistance!

Resources
VETSS