We love our dogs, but the nonstop barking? Not so much. Whether they’re sounding the alarm at every passing car, barking at the wind, or just won’t stop when the doorbell rings, it can get frustrating fast. Not to mention, the neighbors probably aren’t thrilled either.
If your dog is a bit too vocal, the good news is there are some helpful tools out there that can make a big difference without being harsh or uncomfortable. Here are three pet-parent-friendly options that can help bring some peace and quiet back to your home:
Anti-Bark Training Devices (No Shock!) There are some great no-shock bark deterrents that use sound, vibration, or citronella spray to gently discourage barking. Many are automatic and activate only when your dog barks, helping them learn that they need to be quiet. Just make sure to look for ones that are humane, adjustable, and vet-approved.
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Calming Chews or Supplements If your dog barks because they’re anxious or easily overstimulated, calming treats might help. They’re made with natural ingredients like chamomile, L-theanine, or melatonin, and can take the edge off without making your dog drowsy. They’re especially handy during high-trigger times like thunderstorms, fireworks, or visitors.
Bored dogs bark more—plain and simple. A mentally stimulating toy can keep your dog engaged and less focused on barking at every little thing. Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing balls, or even a long-lasting chew can work wonders to redirect their energy.
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There’s no one-size-fits-all fix when it comes to barking, but trying a mix of tools and training can really help tone things down. Start with one of these suggestions and see what works for your pup—and your sanity.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
When you decide that it is the right time to bring home a new puppy or dog for your family, it can be an overwhelming time, especially when you start looking at all the breeds that are out there! You also need to think about whether you want to start with a puppy or get a dog that is older. You may be able to find a dog that is already potty-trained and ready to join your family.
So, how can you choose the right dog for your family? Here are some tips to help.
Think about the care required.
Are you and your family ready for a puppy? Do you have time to potty-train a young puppy? Would you prefer an older dog (maybe one or two years old) that is already potty-trained and knows what is expected of him or her? Maybe you would prefer an older dog who just wants to enjoy life and lie around the house.
You also need to consider the needs of the dog you are choosing.
Dogs have different needs. Consider how much food they will be eating. A Great Dane will go through a huge bag of food in a matter of days, while a ten-pound dog may only go through a small bag a month.
Consider the grooming your dog will require.
Many dogs require a visit to the groomer every six to eight weeks, which can be a significant expense when you are counting every dollar you spend.
It helps to figure out who is going to be doing what when it comes to the new dog.
If you get a puppy, who will be in charge of training and socialization? Every dog needs to be fed and watered on a regular basis. Then, they will need to be taken for walks multiple times a day. Playtime is also essential for any dog. Even if you have a fenced-in yard, your new dog will need to be taken care of multiple times a day.
Size is also important.
Though you may not want a large breed dog around your small children, a tiny dog might be too fragile for your energetic bunch! If one of your children falls on your little puppy, broken bones might happen.
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You also need to think about the size of your house and yard. If you live in a small apartment, you aren’t going to want to get a large-breed dog. There isn’t enough room! A smaller dog will have plenty of room to play in your small living room. If you have a few acres fenced in, consider getting a dog that loves to run and play outside.
You can’t forget about their energy level!
Certain dog breeds are more active than others. You aren’t going to want to get a herding dog that is going to be spending most of his or her time inside! These dogs need to be outside playing and would be great for someone who loves to go on hikes and is very active.
Some breeds are more laid-back, making them a good fit for a family that enjoys spending time indoors. These dogs would be happy sitting on the couch with you in the evenings. You won’t be able to take them on hikes every day!
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Once you have narrowed down the size and breed of the dog you are looking for, it’s time to start considering potential ones.
With each potential dog you look at, consider their personality and temperament. A nervous dog isn’t going to do well in a home full of children. Even one child may be too much for an anxious dog.
Some dogs are playful and happy-go-lucky, while others are very easygoing and calm. You need to ensure that your dog matches your family’s personality.
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It can be challenging to find the right dog for your family, but taking the extra time to do so will ensure that you can enjoy your new dog for years to come. Getting the wrong dog can be very hard on a family. So, really look at the care that your new dog will need, as well as their energy level. Their personality is also vital.
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Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Getting a new puppy is always an exciting time. You are bringing a new bundle of joy into your life, one that should give you lots of love and happiness over the next few years.
In order to make sure that your new puppy stays as healthy and happy as possible, good veterinary care is essential. However, those expenses can quickly add up. Because of that, many people decide to get insurance for their new puppy. Others don’t want the extra expense.
Whether you decide to buy insurance for your new puppy may be a personal decision. To help you make the right decision for you and your family, here are some reasons why you may and may not want to get it!
Here are some reasons to buy insurance for your new puppy.
Some policies cover routine veterinary care, including vaccines, blood work, and medications to keep your new puppy healthy.
Many people find veterinary care to be extremely expensive, and that is just what is necessary to keep their dogs healthy. Many require distemper, Lyme, and rabies vaccines, along with medication to keep them free from heartworms, fleas, and ticks.
Annual examinations are also important. Your veterinarian will examine your dog every year to make sure that he or she is as healthy as possible. It is much easier (and cheaper) to treat problems at the beginning. If you wait, recovery is going to be much longer.
As your puppy gets older, you may want to consider routine blood work to ensure that all of his or her vital organs are working properly. Many problems, such as thyroid disease, can be treated, as long as they are found early. Even if your dog gets kidney disease, you may be able to help him or her feel better for longer. Otherwise, you may not know until it is too late to help.
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Most cover any accidents and illnesses.
If your puppy gets injured or sick, your veterinary bills may be even worse. Even an ear infection can cost a few hundred dollars, especially when you consider the medicine and follow-up care. If you have to visit a specialist or the emergency clinic, your bill may be in the thousands. You may need emergency surgery, although diagnostics can also be quite costly.
In fact, without insurance, you may not be able to afford the veterinary care that your new puppy deserves.
Many pets are euthanized every year because their owners are unable to pay for their veterinary care in the event of an emergency. For that reason alone, you should seriously consider getting insurance for your new puppy.
You and your family don’t deserve to be in the position where your puppy’s care comes down to how much you can really afford.
Essentially, insurance for your new puppy will provide you with peace of mind.
In fact, many pet owners choose to buy insurance so that they know their pet will always receive the necessary care, regardless of the cost. If you don’t want to worry about your finances when it comes to the health of your new puppy, you should look into insurance today!
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Here are some reasons you may hold off.
Many people don’t feel like pet insurance is worth the extra cost.
The most common reason why people don’t buy pet insurance is that they don’t understand its worth. All they see is that they will owe money every month, which they may not be able to recoup.
In fact, some plans can be quite expensive because they are more comprehensive and offer higher coverage. They may pay up to eighty percent of the bill, without a deductible. Others are cheaper, but you are still expected to pay fifty percent of the bill. You might wonder if it is worth the extra cost if you still have to pay at least one hundred dollars every time you go to the veterinarian.
They may not be eligible for certain insurance plans and coverage.
It can be hard to choose the right policy. Many plans don’t cover certain breeds. Others won’t cover certain diseases, some of which may be common for the type of puppy you just bought. If you wait, you may not be able to find an affordable plan for your older dog.
Many people give up when they decide to buy insurance. They see too many regulations for too much money, so they just don’t even bother.
If you do decide to get insurance, when is the best time to get it?
Here are some factors to consider when determining when to get pet insurance.
The best time is when he or she is young.
Many breeders and veterinarians recommend insurance when you first get your new puppy. This ensures that all the routine vaccinations, examinations, and medications are covered. It will also cover any accidents or illnesses that occur throughout his or her life. If your puppy develops a chronic disease, its medical bills should be covered.
If you wait until the day that you need it, insurance will not cover it.
Just like people, many insurances won’t cover pre-existing conditions. Not only does this include emergency surgery on the day that you get the policy, but it may not cover any ear medication for a dog with regular ear problems. It may not cover insulin for patients who have already been diagnosed. If your pet is older, it may not cover all the diagnostics and treatments you may want to perform to help with arthritis and other common issues in older dogs. If it does, it might cost more than you expected to pay.
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When buying a new puppy, it is important that he or she gets the medical care required to ensure that he or she is as healthy as possible.
If you are not interested in pet insurance, Pet Cube offers an emergency fund program that will help pet parents in case of an emergency. When your pet is dealing with a serious issue, their emergency fund will enable you to see a vet within four hours, and they may cover up to $3,000, allowing you to focus on your pet’s recovery.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Many people in America sleep with their pets in their beds. Sometimes, they feel like they are a part of the family and deserve a spot on the bed. Other times, they cannot get their pets to get out of bed.
Either way, how do pets in your bed affect your sleep?
Many people have allergies that might keep them awake at night.
You may not be able to sleep as well because you can’t breathe as well with them beside you.
Pets are just like people.
They can move around, snore, kick you, and basically keep you awake all night. Just like your husband or wife, you may find yourself waking up every time that your pet moves.
Cats are nocturnal, and they tend to be active at night.
They might keep you up while they are pacing around the bedroom looking for something to get. You may hear them running around the house when you should be getting some sleep.
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That being said, some people feel better having their pets in bed with them.
They might feel safer at night with their pet beside them. This may be even more true if they are home alone at night.
Even if you want to get your cats off your bed, you might not be able to.
They are very territorial and may not appreciate being moved off your bed. They might hiss, scream, and bite. You have to be careful of cats that try to scratch you because they can give you cat scratch fever.
Before letting your pets sleep in bed with you, ensure they are healthy.
Pets can pass on diseases such as roundworms, intestinal worms, and much more. You definitely need to take good care of your pets to let them sleep in your bed.
While a pet in your bed may or may not disturb you, it is up to you whether they are allowed in your bed.
It may be a personal reason, though it may also be practical. Only you can make the right decision for you and your pet.
If you decide to sleep beside your pets, here are some tips to ensure that you both get a good night’s sleep every night.
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Take your pets to the veterinarian regularly for checkups and deworming.
You don’t need to get sick just because you sleep with your pet.
Work on training your pet to sleep beside you, not on your chest, head, or any other area.
You don’t want to get woken up feeling like you can’t breathe, simply because they are sleeping on your neck or chest. They can safely stay beside you all night long.
Be sure to get a good mattress protector that will help you against bacteria that grow on your mattress.
If you have allergies, you may also want to consider finding one that is specifically designed for allergy sufferers.
Whether you allow your pets to sleep with you is a decision you need to make for yourself. For some people, their pets are disturbing their rest due to their snoring and roaming. However, some pets will sleep quietly beside you all night long. Some even get mad if you interrupt their sleep! Others may get mad when you try to get them off your bed.
If you decide to let your pets sleep beside you in bed, be sure to take them to the veterinarian regularly. You want to keep your fur babies healthy, as well as your entire family.
Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Groomers see everything. While most of their days are filled with routine grooming, they have also seen dogs and cats that are really in need of a good grooming. Most of their clients will bring their dogs in every few weeks to manage their hair. Others come in a few times a year for a good bath.
If you don’t bring your dog in every few weeks, you need to keep an eye out to see when they are ready for grooming. Here are some signs that you should be looking for.
Your white dog is another color.
There are times when your dog is downright dirty. Your white dog may have rolled in mud (or even freshly cut grass). Did your dog get into your garage while you were working on your car? Does he or she have oil all over? Or maybe something even worse (like poop)?
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You can hear where your dog is by the tapping of his or her toenails on your floor.
You may hear clicks from your dog’s nails all over the house. Not only is this annoying, but their nails may also be long enough to do damage to your floors.
Your dog’s nails are so long that they have curled.
Sometimes they are so long that they curl up and grow into the pads on your dog’s feet. This can cut their pad and cause damage, so it is essential to address the issue before it worsens.
Your dog’s hair is really long.
You may notice that your dog’s hair is dragging on the ground. He or she may even step on it due to the length. Most dogs are happier when they aren’t dealing with hair that is too long for them to run and play.
Your dog has something hanging in his or her fur on his or her back end.
Dogs with long hair can catch a lot of things, including their own stool. They may bring in leaves, twigs, and many other things.
Even if you don’t want to shave your entire dog, you may want to clean up at least his or her rear end and belly area. You may want to think about cutting some of their hair off your dog’s stomach and legs, so you don’t have to worry about so much coming into your home.
Your dog smells like a skunk.
Do you really want to deal with the smell? It can quickly enter your home, cover your furniture, and infiltrate everything you own. Before you even think about bringing your dog into your home, think about heading right to the groomers!
When you touch your dog, all you feel is mats.
If your dog is that matted, he or she might need to be shaved down completely. While we may be able to shave all the mats off, it might be easier (and better looking) to give your dog an entire haircut.
Seasonal changes are a good time for dog grooming.
Does your dog have winter hair coming out? A good brushing with (or without a shave) will make the shedding process go much smoother for you in the spring and summer.
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Trust me. Your dog will not be the worst dog that the groomer has ever seen, no matter how bad you think he or she is. They understand that you get busy, and your dog may not have gotten groomed regularly. Now is the time to start over (sometimes with a completely shaved dog).
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Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Just like with people, dogs can struggle with the heat. They can overheat and get heatstroke, which can be deadly to them! For this reason, you need to understand what heatstroke is and how you can prevent it. You also need to know the signs that you should look for, as well as what you can do if your dog overheats or you find yourself dealing with a dog with heatstroke.
So, what is heatstroke?
Heatstroke is a condition that dogs get when they are outside in the heat and their bodies can’t find a way to cool off. Though they may sweat a little through their paws, there are times when panting isn’t enough to cool them down!
Once a dog’s body temperature is one hundred and five degrees (or higher), they start to suffer from heatstroke. This can damage their organs and make them sick. Their organs may start to shut down, and it can be fatal!
What are the signs of heatstroke?
I recently wrote an article about overheating in dogs. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out here.
Basically, here are the signs that you need to keep an eye out for.
Heavy panting, which can turn into heavy breathing
Drooling
Increased heart rate
Vomiting and diarrhea (with or without blood)
Disorientation
Lethargy
Weakness
Seizures
Death
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What are some causes of heatstroke?
The simple truth is that there are certain characteristics which make certain dogs more likely to suffer from heatstroke. This can be:
Age. Younger puppies and older dogs struggle more with the heat than adult dogs.
Breed. Certain breeds are more likely to suffer from heatstroke. This includes breeds with thick fur, as well as dogs that struggle to breathe on a regular day due to their flat face.
Being overweight. Overweight dogs are going to struggle with the heat more than dogs that are at a healthy weight.
Medical conditions. Certain medical conditions, such as heart disease and laryngeal paralysis can make it harder for dogs to deal with the heat.
That being said, any dog can suffer from heatstroke for the following reasons:
Not having enough water. Dogs can get overheated if they don’t have enough water to stay hydrated during hot summer days.
Spending too much time in the hot sun. Just like us, dogs need time out of the direct sunlight, whether they hang out in the shade or they spend time indoors in the air conditioning.
Exercising during the hottest part of the day. You may need to stop taking long walks with your dog when the temperature is too hot.
Leaving a dog in the hot car. Too many dogs get left in a hot car and suffer from overheating due to it!
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What is the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke?
When a dog first becomes overheated, heat exhaustion can set in. Dogs can be lethargic and weak. They may have vomiting and diarrhea. Their body temperature may be normal at this stage of overheating.
However, if left untreated, it can turn into heatstroke. When this happens, your dog’s body temperature can rise. His or her body organs may start to shut down, and your dog may become unconscious and die.
How does your veterinarian diagnose heatstroke?
Heatstroke is often diagnosed by taking a dog’s temperature and observing the clinical signs. Your veterinarian will do a physical examination to make sure that your dog is doing alright.
Your veterinarian may also request blood work in order to see how your pet’s organs are doing. You want to make sure that the organs haven’t been damaged due to heatstroke.
What is the treatment for heatstroke?
The first thing that needs to be done is to get your dog’s temperature down.
This means getting him or her out of the hot sun. You may want to take him or her in the air conditioning. If you don’t have air conditioning, you may want to use a fan to help him or her cool down.
Spraying or wetting your dog may help to cool him or her off.
You are going to want to use cool water (not cold) in order to help him or her cool down.
Make sure that you seek veterinary care.
Once your veterinarian diagnoses your dog with heatstroke, he or she will come up with a plan to help. He or she may recommend hospitalization, fluids, and medications, depending on your dog’s condition.
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Heatstroke can be a fatal disease that your dog can get from being outside in the hot sun for too long! Because of this, you need to be careful with your dog (and yourself). Make sure that you and your dog have a way to get out of the hot sun and, during the hottest part of the day, you may want to stay inside in the air conditioning.
If your dog is showing signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, you need to get him or her cooled down. You should look for lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and even disorientation. However, you don’t want to cool him or her off too quickly! Make sure that you seek veterinary care so that your dog has the best chance of living a long and healthy life.
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Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
The simple truth is that dogs are known for eating many things, even if it isn’t good for them. Many eat the garbage and things outside that may give them a stomachache. Some dogs eat socks and other objects that don’t even look for smell like food. Then, there are the ones who eat their own poop (or everyone else’s)!
Why do dogs eat poop?
Dogs often eat poop, and it can be quite disgusting for most pet owners. They may eat their own, raid the cat’s litter box, or even eat poop from the wildlife outside.
They can do this for many reasons, which include:
Normal puppy behavior. Eating poop can be a natural behavior in puppies.
Boredom. They can also do it because they are bored. Under stimulated puppies and dogs may play with their stool because they don’t have any toys that they want to play with.
Mimicking others. Your dog may also see other dogs doing it and feel the need to do the same.
Deficiencies in the diet. If your dog isn’t eating a normal, balanced diet, he or she may try to get what is lacking from the stool. He or she may also have an enzyme deficiency.
Poorly digestible diet. There are times when your dog is unable to digest the diet he or she is being fed, which can lead to deficiencies in the diet.
Intestinal parasites. If your dog has parasites, he or she may not be getting the nutrition that is needed.
Hunger. Some dogs are just hungry and will eat anything!
Why is it bad for dogs to eat poop?
Coprophagia, the term for eating poop, can put your dog at risk for internal parasites. If they eat the poop that has parasites in it, like the wildlife that goes through your backyard, they are likely to get the same parasite.
It can also make your dog’s breath smell terrible. If you don’t do anything about your dog’s problem, it can even cause nutritional deficiencies.
What can you do to stop your dog from eating poop?
Though you may want to panic, you don’t have to. You are going to want to make sure that your dog is healthy and doesn’t have intestinal parasites. You can do this by taking your dog to the veterinarian for his or her annual checkup. At that point, you may want to deworm your pet, just in case he or she does have worms.
If he or she continues the behavior, you may want to do something about it. You could try to do any (or all) of the following:
Look into supplements for poop eating.
These supplements are made to change the flavor of the poop so that your dog is less likely to eat it.
You may also want to use a basket muzzle, especially when your dog is outside.
A basket muzzle will not hurt your dog. Instead, it will just keep him or her from eating things in the yard, such as poop, mulch, and other goodies that they feel like they just have to eat!
If you don’t want your dog to eat his or her own poop, you need to pick it up right away. This won’t give your dog a chance to go after it!
Give your dog a better environment.
If your dog is eating poop out of boredom, you may want to look into enriching his or her environment. You may want to buy him or her some toys for entertainment. If he or she eats too fast, you may want to buy balls that you can put food in, so your dog has to work for his or her food.
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When your dog eats poop, it can be really disgusting. However, there are some things that you can do about it. You first need to make sure that your dog is healthy and there is no medical reason why he or she is eating stool. Then, you may want to pick it up right away to take the opportunity away from him or her. You may also need to get a basket muzzle and some toys so that your dog isn’t eating it out of boredom!
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
It is almost that time of year again when most people go away for a few days to relax, unwind, or explore somewhere they have never been before. That is fun for most people, though pet owners also have to worry about what they can do with their beloved babies while they are away.
Many people decide to place their pets in a kennel. I recently wrote an article about choosing the right kennel for your pet. If you haven’t had a chance to check it out, you can read it right here.
That being said, many people would prefer to hire a pet sitter to check in a few times a day or have someone stay at the house so that their pets receive plenty of attention.
Not sure how to choose a pet sitter? Here are some tips to help.
You need to know exactly what you want in a pet sitter.
Do you want someone to come in three to four times daily to let your dogs outside for an hour or so? Do you want someone who will walk your dog like you usually would? What about playing?
Even if you have a cat, you may want someone to come sit with your pet for a little bit each day. Would you prefer someone to stay overnight, so your pets aren’t alone?
If your friends have used someone, don’t hesitate to ask who they use.
It may also be helpful to ask them what they liked and didn’t like about a particular person. This may help you determine the questions you need to ask to feel comfortable leaving your pets with them.
If your friends don’t have any ideas, you can look at the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS). This is a nonprofit trade association for pet sitters and their businesses. You can look up pet sitters by zip code. These are professional pet sitters, meaning that it may cost you more than hiring a high schooler in the neighborhood.
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You may also want to check into a pet-sitting company.
These companies are often bonded and insured, which can provide you with even greater peace of mind. They may offer background checks and training, which can make you feel even better.
These companies, especially those with multiple sitters, may be able to help if something happens to your pet sitter. If your sitter is running late due to an emergency, they likely have arrangements in place to help cover these situations.
You should also find out what the pet sitter will do in the event of an emergency.
While you may hope that your pet sitter will take your dog to the veterinarian if needed, they may have a trusted veterinarian they use when owners are out of town.
If they are happy taking your dog to his or her veterinarian, you need to talk to your veterinarian’s office and let them know that you will be out of town and are letting the sitter make the decisions for you if you are unavailable.
When you narrow down your search, you should meet with them in person (along with your pet).
Not only do you need to feel comfortable, but your pet also needs to be happy with your choice. You will want someone who is genuinely interested in talking to you and asking questions about your pet, as well as someone eager to get to know your pet. Watch how they interact. Does your dog seem happy to see the pet sitter, or is he or she acting leery around them?
Be ready for your pet sitter.
You should have a detailed list of all the things you expect from them, including specific times. If you want your pet fed at a specific time of day or walked during lunch hour, please let your sitter know.
You should also keep all the supplies in one area so that they are easy to find. Make sure that any food that your dog eats (as well as a cup showing them how much he or she needs to be fed) is right there, as well as any treats that your pet is allowed to have. Toys, leashes, and other supplies should all be in the same spot, so your pet sitter doesn’t waste time looking for things.
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Hiring a pet sitter is a big decision. You will need to find someone whom you trust, as well as your dog trusts. But before you get that far, you need to figure out what you want in a pet sitter. Do you want someone to come for an hour, three or four times a day? Do you want someone to stay at your house overnight? Do you want someone to play with your pet or take your dog for extra-long walks?
When you figure that out, you can start looking by asking around. You may feel comfortable hiring the high school girl next door; however, you may also want to consider a company that specializes in hiring pet sitters. These companies are often bonded and insured, prepared for any unforeseen event that may occur. This may give you extra peace of mind when you head out on vacation!
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Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
As June gets closer to July, which quickly turns into August, the temperatures are getting hotter and hotter. In fact, there are many days when it feels suffocating to step outside your home!
Just as we have trouble in the heat, our pets can also. They can also get overheated and suffer from heat stroke. Just like it can be terrifying for us, it can be for them too. It can be deadly, so you need to be prepared to help your pets throughout these hot summer months!
Here are some ways that you can help your pet this summer.
Make sure that your pets have plenty of water.
Your pets need to drink plenty of water in order to cool down and stay hydrated. You may even want to add some ice cubes to your pet’s water to help keep him or her cool.
Your dog may enjoy having a pool.
Just like we like to jump in the pool to cool down, there are many dogs who love splashing and playing around in a baby pool.
This may help keep them cool, especially when they have been active outside. However, they may just enjoy it, even if they weren’t running around and playing. It can just be a nice way to cool off.
Amazon offers many different doggie pools, like this one, to help keep your dogs as cool as possible this summer!
Product Available on Amazon
Do your best to keep your pets in the shade.
Lying around in the sun can be nice, but everyone needs a place where they can get out of it! If your backyard doesn’t have any shade trees, you may want to look into a dog house or shed where your pets can hide.
If there aren’t many places to hide, make sure that you look under your vehicles before you leave.
Many animals will hide in the shade of a vehicle, and can get run over when their owners leave. For this reason, you need to look around before you drive off.
Be careful with exercise.
On really hot days, you might not want to take your dog on his or her usual five-mile walk. That may be too much. You can take shorter walks instead. You may want to get up early before the day gets too hot, or wait until it is cooler in the evening. Some people may do a mile in the morning and one in the evening to still get their dog (and themselves) some exercise.
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When you do go out, make sure that you take plenty of breaks.
Don’t overdo it. If you or your dog needs to take a break, do so. Take along plenty of water so that both of you can stay hydrated while you are out. And if you need to stop early, please do so for the health and safety of you and your pet.
Never leave your pets in a hot car.
It is way too hot to leave your pets in the hot car, even with the air conditioner running. It doesn’t take long for your car to get over one hundred degrees, which can really hurt your pet (if not kill him or her).
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The best way to keep your pets happy and healthy as the temperatures rise is to make sure that they have enough water. If you have a dog that loves to play outside, a kiddie pool may be the best. It is a good way for them to cool off after a good romp. You should also make sure that there is plenty of shade in your yard, so that they can get out of the sun if needed.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
As summer approaches quickly, more and more people are starting to plan their summer vacations. Many rush to different beaches where they can spend time lying in the sun and playing in the water. Others prefer to go to a remote cabin in the woods. Some people enjoy visiting amusement parks, while others prefer to explore different cities and cultures.
Regardless of your plans, you will likely not be able to take your beloved pet with you. For this reason, you may be looking for the perfect kennel. Here are some tips to help you find one.
Do your research.
Ask around to find out which kennels your friends have tried and liked. Don’t be afraid to ask your veterinarian. Many veterinarians receive recommendations from their clients about kennels, and they can pass them on.
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Start early.
Many of the good kennels fill up quickly, so you should book your kennel as soon as you book your vacation. In fact, you should be doing your research before you even do that!
Many people prefer to use kennels that have both an indoor and an outdoor area.
This allows your pet to get plenty of exercise, no matter how busy the kennel is. If your dog is in a kennel all day and only gets a few short walks a day, he or she is going to be wound up when you get back home. This may be fine for a few days, but a week or more might be overwhelming for your dog, especially if he or she is really active.
Will they let you visit the facility?
When visiting, you’ll want to take a look around and assess the cleanliness of the kennel. Though there are going to be times when multiple cages are getting cleaned at once, the kennels should be in good condition, one that you wouldn’t be afraid to take your dog.
What about your dog?
Some kennels offer trial days, where you can board your dog at the kennel for a few hours to ensure they are comfortable with the place. That being said, if the kennel you want to use is too busy or full, you may not be able to try this.
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With various diseases that can spread rapidly throughout a kennel, it is essential to know which vaccinations are required.
At the very least, you will want to ensure that all dogs entering the facility have a valid Rabies vaccine and one that protects against Kennel Cough. The distemper shot, for both dogs and cats, is also a good idea.
Don’t hesitate to ask kennel owners about any certifications and licenses that they may have.
Though all states are different, kennels may need to have different licenses to operate. Many kennels want to ensure they have the right employees and may require them to hold certifications in first aid, among other things.
You may also want to know how many caretakers are on staff at any given time, along with the number of pets being boarded.
If there is just one person to take care of forty dogs, he or she will have their hands full. That being said, you shouldn’t expect kennels to be fully staffed at all times.
You may want to consider meeting the caretakers before you take your dog to the kennel.
Though many kennels hire high schoolers to help with the extra load in the summer, you are going to want to make sure that there are plenty of adults around so that your dog is safe with the kennel.
You should ask about what they will do in case of an emergency.
You want to know if your kennel will take your pet to the veterinarian in case of an emergency. Although they may have one that they work with closely, you may also want to find out if they are comfortable taking your pet to the veterinarian that your pet is used to.
You may also want to inquire about their policies regarding dogs that are stressed or nervous in a new environment.
What will your kennel do to make sure that your dog is more comfortable? Are they able to spend more time with pets that are pretty scared? Can they walk the dogs around for those who are too nervous to do much of anything? Will they make sure that your dog eats?
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Choosing a boarding kennel can be overwhelming, but when you find the right one, you can leave your dogs to go on vacation without worrying about them. For this reason, you need to take your time and ask around. Then, ask the kennel questions until you feel confident. You may even want to tour the facility and see if your dog can stay there for a few hours to make sure that he or she will do fine when you are away.
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Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
