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Category: Pet Owner Concerns

  • Pet-Friendly Vacuums Face-Off: Shark Navigator Lift-Away vs. Dyson V11 Animal

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    If you’re a pet owner, you know the struggle of keeping your home free from pet hair, dirt, and dander. It can feel like no matter how often you clean, the fur keeps piling up. That’s why many people end up looking for the best pet-friendly vacuum to make their lives easier. With so many options available, two popular choices tend to come up in conversations: the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional and the Dyson V11 Animal Cordless Vacuum. Both are great options, but they cater to slightly different needs.

    So, how do you decide which one is right for you?

    The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional is a well-loved upright vacuum that brings a lot of power to the table. Its lift-away technology allows you to detach the canister, making it super easy to clean stairs, upholstery, and other hard-to-reach areas. The vacuum features a large dustbin and a HEPA filter, making it perfect for those with allergies, as it traps 99.9% of dust and allergens. This vacuum also has powerful suction, so it’s great for homes with multiple pets that shed a lot. Plus, it’s generally more affordable compared to some other pet-specific vacuums on the market.

    Product Available on Amazon

    On the other hand, the Dyson V11 Animal Cordless Vacuum is a high-end cordless option designed specifically for homes with pets. One of its standout features is its powerful suction and smart technology that adjusts the vacuum’s suction power based on the floor type. Whether you’re vacuuming hardwood, carpet, or tile, the V11 will automatically optimize performance, making it incredibly efficient. Plus, the Dyson V11 is lightweight, making it easy to move around the house or even take up stairs without much hassle. Its larger dustbin and longer battery life (up to 60 minutes of cleaning on a full charge) make it a top choice for anyone looking for more flexibility and power in a vacuum.

    Product Available on Amazon

    When it comes to comparing the two, it really comes down to your preferences. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, versatile option that gives you the convenience of a lift-away canister, the Shark Navigator is a solid choice. It’s excellent for a thorough clean on all surfaces and is especially great for people who need a traditional upright vacuum.

    However, if you want something more high-tech, lightweight, and cordless, the Dyson V11 Animal is hard to beat. It’s ideal for those who want the freedom of cord-free cleaning with the added benefit of intelligent floor detection. It’s perfect for quick cleanups and homes where mobility and convenience are key.

    So, which one should you choose? If you’re on a budget but still want solid performance for pet hair and allergens, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional is a great option. But if you’re willing to invest a bit more for advanced features, ease of use, and the convenience of a cordless design, the Dyson V11 Animal is likely your best bet. Either way, both are excellent choices for keeping your home fur-free and fresh.

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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. 

  • Facts about Rabies You Should Know

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    Rabies is a zoonotic disease that every pet owner (and really every person) needs to know about. A zoonotic disease is one that can be passed from animal to person, which is a reason why we need to be careful around our own animals and those that roam the neighborhood (and farm).

    What animals can get rabies?

    • The most common animals to carry rabies are raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes.
    • Humans are more likely to get rabies from an infected bat than any other animal.
    • Livestock can also become infected by rabies.
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    What are the signs of rabies?

    • Though most people assume that rabid animals are going to have erratic behavior, drool, and become aggressive, those aren’t the most common signs.
    • In fact, the signs of rabies are varied. Most commonly, animals may be acting quiet and depressed, though they also may act erratically.
    • Early signs are often just a change in behavior and temperament.

    How is rabies transmitted from one animal to another?

    Rabies is transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, through his or her saliva.

    The other animal or human will get rabies when the infected saliva gets into his or her system, though an open wound or fresh abrasion. It can also get in the mucous membranes or the eyes!

    What should you do if you are bitten by any animal (whether you are worried about rabies)?

    • Any bite wound should be washed out with plenty of soap and water.
    • If you were bitten by a dog or a cat, you need to ask the owner to make sure that the pet is up-to-date on his or her rabies vaccine.
    • You should seek medical attention if needed.
    • If the owner can’t provide rabies information (or it is wild), you need to talk to your doctor or go to the emergency room. You may need treatment for rabies, just in case.
    • If you have the wild animal that bit you or a bat that was in the house with you, you should get it tested for rabies.
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    What should you do if your dog or cat was bitten?

    • Many times, we don’t see what has gotten our dog or cat. We simply see the bite wound.
    • However, if you do see what got your animal, and it is another dog or cat, you need to make sure that that dog or cat is up-to-date with his or her rabies vaccine.
    • If it is a wild animal, you need to euthanize it and test it for rabies.
    • Your own pet should get his or her rabies vaccine updated, as a precaution. If it is overdue, you definitely need to get the rabies vaccine done as soon as possible.
    • Then, you need to confine your dog or cat for a few months. This is to watch for any signs of rabies. You shouldn’t handle your dog or cat during this time, because you don’t want to have to worry about getting any saliva on you.
    • How long you have to quarantine your pet depends on several factors. Plus, the rules are always changing. While most pets will die within ten days of getting symptoms, it can take a few months to show those symptoms! Check with your veterinarian for the latest protocols.
    • If your dog or cat shows any signs of disease, you need to get him or her checked out right away. This doesn’t necessarily mean that your dog is going to get aggressive right away. You may notice that he or she simply doesn’t feel good. Your dog or cat may not be eating as well as normal.

    How can you protect your family (and pets)?

    If you want to protect your family, you need to start with your pets. You need to make sure that your pet has a rabies vaccine. In fact, many states require both dogs and cats to have an up-to-date rabies vaccine.

    You also want to use caution around wildlife. If an animal that is wondering outside looks sick, you need to stay away. Don’t let anyone in your family near it. Most likely, it will move on.

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    Rabies is a serious disease and one that is very preventable! You can keep your family safe by vaccinating your pets and watching out for wildlife. However, if you or your pet gets bitten, you need to make sure that you get the medical attention that you need!

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    Please note, this 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.

  • Tips for Weight Loss in Dogs and Cats

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    The truth is that most pets weigh more than they should. As they age, they aren’t as active. Not only that, but their metabolism drops, so they don’t need as much food as you might think. For this reason, many pets could stand to lose a few pounds.

    That being said, it isn’t as easy as it sounds. However, it shouldn’t be. Here are some tips to help your pet lose weight.

    Allowing food to be available at all times isn’t the best way to feed pets. 

    Most people fill their pet’s food bowl as needed. Whenever it is empty, they will refill it, even if they do this multiple times a day. Your pet could be eating way more than he or she should!

    In fact, you need to feed for your pet’s ideal weight, not his or her current weight. 

    The bag of food will give you an idea of how much food your dog or cat needs to eat. You should feed your dog or cat according to its ideal weight. If your dog is forty pounds but should weigh thirty, feed the amount that a thirty-pound dog needs.

    That being said, you should feed your dog or cat according to its shape and not the amount on the bag. 

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    If you cut back on the amount of food you are feeding, it may not reach them where needed. He or she may need less than the bag says, so cut back for a few weeks. If you aren’t getting the results you want, consider cutting back even further.

    Pate-style canned food is often the best food for cats. 

    Dry food is filled with carbohydrates, which can cause cats to gain weight instead of lose it. A good pate-style canned food has fewer carbohydrates, which will help with weight loss.

    Providing your cat with canned food will also help increase its water intake. Most cats don’t drink enough, so supplementing with canned food is a big help. If your cat tolerates it, you can even add some extra water to their food.

    My veterinarian recommends Friskie’s pate-style canned food like the one listed on Amazon below.

    Product available on Amazon

    A regular-sized cat should only need one 5.5-ounce can of food a day. 

    Though he or she may beg for more, you don’t need to give your cat more than one can of food a day.

    Treats can be a significant problem when it comes to overfeeding. 

    Though you may be only feeding your dog one cup of food a day, you can’t forget about treats. Many dogs (and cats) receive more treats than they need. These are also filled with carbohydrates, which is why they are so good!

    Instead of treats, you may want to try animal crackers for your dog. If he or she likes vegetables, you can also give him or her those. Carrots make great snacks for dogs!

    It is important to remember that your dog or cat isn’t begging for food. 

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    Instead, he or she is begging for your attention. Instead of reaching for a treat, you could easily get down on his or her level and pet your dog or cat.

    Make exercise an essential part of your pet’s life. 

    With dogs, you can start taking them out on daily walks. Not only will this be good for his or her weight, but it may also help you reach your own health goals! Go outside and throw the ball. You can even throw the ball down the stairs in the winter when it is too cold to go outside.

    Cats can be a little more complicated. You may want to get a laser pointer and get them to run after that. Some will play ball a little bit. Any extra exercise that you get with your cat will be beneficial.

    Amazon and Chewy have a lot of cat toys to keep your cat as active and playful as possible.

    Product Available on Amazon

    Even though you may not see a problem with your dog or cat’s weight, the truth is that it is shortening your pet’s life. Even losing a few pounds can help decrease your pet’s chance of getting diabetes and respiratory disease. If your pet develops arthritis, he or she will be able to get around more easily with a few fewer pounds.

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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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    It is also important that you understand that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • The Vacuum That Actually Tackles Pet Hair and Allergies

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    Pet hair everywhere, lingering odors, and that never-quite-clean feeling? We’ve all been there—especially if your furry friends shed like it’s a full-time job. No matter how much you vacuum, it can feel like you’re just moving the mess around rather than actually getting rid of it.

    That’s where the Rainbow Vacuum Cleaner steps in—and let’s just say, it’s a total game-changer.

    Photo Courtesy of Amazon

    Unlike traditional vacuums that rely on bags or dry filters (which can clog up and release dust back into the air), the Rainbow uses advanced water filtration. What does that mean for your home? It means pet hair, dander, and dust get trapped in water, not your lungs. No more musty smells or allergens getting recirculated into the air. Just a genuinely clean home that feels and smells fresh.

    Whether it’s deep-cleaning your carpets, refreshing hardwood floors, or tackling pet-stained upholstery, the Rainbow gets the job done—and then some. It’s especially handy for multi-pet households or those with allergy sufferers in the family. You’ll notice the difference after just one use.

    So if you’re tired of fighting pet mess with underwhelming tools that leave more behind than they pick up, it might be time to upgrade. The Rainbow isn’t just a vacuum—it’s a whole-home cleaning system that actually works.

    Your nose (and your couch) will thank you.

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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.

    ***

    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. 

  • Reasons to Microchip Your Pet

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    What is a Microchip?

    A microchip is a tiny device that gets placed under your pet’s skin. It is usually placed between the shoulder blades so that others know where to look for it, if your pet is ever lost.

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    It is only about the size of a grain of rice and is quick and easy to implant. It only costs about forty dollars, which may include the registration fee.

    Here are some reasons to microchip your pet.

    It helps you find your lost pet. 

    This is the main reason that microchips were designed. If your pet gets lost and he or she is taken to the veterinarian (or even local shelters), they will get scanned for a microchip.

    When this happens, your pet’s microchip number will be read. The database will help the veterinarian or local shelters get in touch with you once your pet is found.

    Microchipping is a quick and mostly painless procedure. 

    It only takes a few seconds to implant a microchip into your pet. Despite the needle being larger, most pets don’t even seem to flinch. They don’t usually get sore afterward either.

    The chip will stay in your pet, so it can’t get lost. 

    Though collars and tags are a great way to help return your pet, the truth is that they can get loose when a pet is missing. Tags easily fall off collars, which can easily come off if your pet gets stuck on something like a fence.

    That being said, if your pet has a microchip, it will always be implanted in him or her. It may shift positions slightly, but it can still be found.

    The database is national, so regardless of where your pet is located, it will be found. 

    Even if your pet crosses state lines or gets lost while you are moving, anyone who finds your pet and gets him or her scanned for a microchip will be able to find you.

    It is really easy. 

    If you don’t want to have to worry about losing your beloved pet, all you need to do is talk to your veterinarian about getting a microchip implanted into your pet. Then, all you have to do is fill out the paperwork, and you are good to go!

    In Pennsylvania (and possibly other states), a microchip can also serve as a lifetime license. 

    Instead of having to get a license every year, you can pay one time for a lifetime license for your dog. You used to be able to do that only if you got a tattoo on your dog, which required anesthesia.

    Here are some reasons why you might not want to.

    The chip may move. 

    The truth is that the microchip can travel a little bit in your pet’s body. Because of this, most veterinarians and animal shelters recognize that they can’t simply scan one area. They scan all over, just to make sure that the microchip hasn’t moved.

    For this reason, it wouldn’t hurt to have your pet scanned for a microchip whenever you take him or her to the veterinarian. This will give you some peace of mind, knowing that the chip can be found.

    Some pets have a reaction to microchips. 

    That being said, they are usually mild. You may notice some inflammation where the chip was placed. There is also a small risk of cancer developing in the future.

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    Deciding whether to microchip your pet is a personal decision. If you are serious about getting your pet back if he or she is ever lost, you are definitely going to want to consider a microchip. It works even better than tags and collars at returning your lost pet, even if he or she is found in another state!

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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. 

  • Things to Consider When Looking for the Right Pet For Your Family

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    When you decide to add a pet to your family, it shouldn’t be taken lightly. It can be both exciting and scary at the same time! It is essential to choose the right pet to complete your family. You need to take the time to find the right pet, or you may not have a good experience. That being said, it does sound really difficult, though it doesn’t have to be that way.

    Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when selecting the right pet for your family.

    What type of pet do you want? 

    Take your time to figure out what kind of pet you want. You may feel like a cat person or a dog person. Would you prefer a cat who would be happy to play at your feet? Do you want a dog that needs to be taken outside for walks or playtime? Do you want a smaller dog that doesn’t need as much exercise?

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    You may also want to consider other types of pets. What about a tank full of colorful fish? What about pocket pets? You might want to check out hamsters or even guinea pigs. You may also prefer lizards, turtles, or other amphibians. You may prefer to watch your new pets in their cage environment.

    Figure out what your expenses will be, both now and in the future. 

    By thinking about your expenses, you may be able to narrow down your top choices when it comes to the type of pet that you want to have. You may not be able to care for a cat or a dog. The yearly veterinary costs may be too much for you to consider.

    You may be better off buying a fish or a pocket pet to keep you company. That being said, you will need to invest some money to get the right setup for your new pet. An aquarium needs to have a filter, a lid, lights, and much more. Your rabbit may require an outside pen. Your lizard’s setup could cost more than you realized.

    When considering expenses, don’t forget to factor in food. 

    Your fish may go through a batch of food twice a year, while your fifty-pound bag of rabbit food should last several months. Your eight-pound cat may eat a can of food a day, while your eighty-pound dog may go through a bag of food every two weeks. The same bag may last months for a five-pound dog.

    You also need to consider your lifestyle. 

    If you are home a lot, you may have the time to spend with a dog. You can take him or her outside multiple times a day for walks and play. If your children are in sports every night of the week, you may have to reconsider. You may do better with a cat who is self-sufficient. Your fish, pocket pets, and exotics don’t need as much time as other animals. They will do fine, as long as they are fed and their home is clean.

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    Deciding what type of pet you want can be challenging. However, you have to be honest. It is not fair to a puppy if he or she spends most of the day and evening in a crate. You might do better with a cat or an exotic pet.

    You also need to consider expenses. Though it may cost more to set up a fish tank or a cage for an exotic pet, you shouldn’t have too many expenses with them, other than food. Your dog may eat a bag of food a week, plus the veterinary bills. Though they make wonderful pets, they might not be right for you at the moment!

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    Dogo App

    If you get a dog and want to unleash his or her potential, you may want to check out Dogo’s tailored training programs. After taking a survey, you will receive a customized training plan for you and your dog. They also offer courses for your new dog, no biting, potty training, basic obedience, tricks, and more! 

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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.

    ***

    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. 

  • Are Your Other Pets Grieving the Loss of Another Pet?

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    If you have recently lost a pet, whether you had to make the decision or not, the truth is that it can be very hard on you. In fact, I recently wrote an article about dealing with your own grief after the loss of your pet, Are You Struggling with the Loss of Your Pet? If you want to, you can read it right here. 

    That being said, your animals may also be grieving. To effectively help them, you need to know the specific signs to look for.

    Here are some signs that your pet may also be grieving.

    Changes in their personalities. 

    Many pets form a strong bond with their owners and each other after one of their family members passes away. Others may become quieter and disinterested in things that used to interest them.

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    You may find that one of your pets spends more time sleeping than he or she used to. Others show signs of anxiety, pacing around the house, hiding, or just looking like they are sulking.

    You may have to watch out for destructive behaviors. Some cats and dogs will start tearing up things in order to get your attention.

    Changes in grooming. 

    You may notice that your pets may not be grooming themselves as much as they normally do. Some cats may get rather matted quickly if they stop grooming themselves altogether.

    Changes in bathroom habits. 

    Your cat may miss the litter box due to anxiety and depression following the loss of a friend. Dogs may have accidents in the house for the same reason.

    Changes in their appetite. 

    Many pets don’t have as much of an appetite when they are grieving. Just like people, some pets get depressed enough that they just aren’t interested in eating as well as they used to.

    If your deceased pet was the one who controlled the others, you might see this even more. If your pets were used to eating only when they ate, they may still be waiting for their friend to eat first. These pets are often unsure about what to do without their guidance.

    Changes in vocalization. 

    You may notice that your normally quiet dog starts barking excessively. If your dog is normally vocal, you may also notice that they are quieter than usual.

    The same goes with cats. Some cats seem to be meowing and trying to find their lost friend, while others get abnormally quiet.

    Looking around. 

    You may also notice that your pets may continue to look around for their friend. They may visit their favorite spots multiple times a day, simply trying to figure out where their friend is. They may even take to sleeping in their spot, as if they are waiting for them to come home.

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    Although you may be grieving the loss of your pet, you also need to consider your other pets. They may also be dealing with their own grief in their own way. And just like people, it is different for everyone.

    You may notice that your pets’ behavior changes. While he or she used to love to sit on your lap, your pet may be too preoccupied looking for their friend to do so. One of your other pets may cling to you or your other pets, seeking comfort.

    Some become very anxious, vocalizing more than normal, while others spend more time sleeping. Some pets have accidents in the house (or outside their litter box) as a sign of grief and stress. You may even notice that they aren’t eating as well as they used to! They may even spend a lot of time waiting for their lost friend to come home.

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    Please note, 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. 

  • Reasons to Adopt Your Next Pet!

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    Adding a new furry family member is a significant decision. While many people believe that rescuing a dog is the way to go, just as many people go to breeders and pet shops when it is time to get their next dog.

    Many people are seeking a specific breed of dog, believing they can only obtain one through a breeder. Others want a puppy, instead of an older dog, so that it can grow up with their children.

    However, the truth is that dogs of all ages are looking for a forever home and are often in need of rescue. The same can be said about the breed. Dogs of all breeds (purebred and mutts) need homes. There are local SPCA’s and Animal Rescues overflowing with dogs. There are also breed-specific rescues available if you prefer to adopt a specific breed.

    There are so many reasons that you need to get a rescue dog today!

    Getting a rescue dog saves their lives! 

    Many dogs are euthanized each year because shelters and rescues are overflowing with dogs. Often, there is nothing wrong with the dogs other than the fact that nobody wants them. So, save a dog today!

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    When you rescue a dog, you are not supporting puppy mills. 

    Puppy mills contribute to the problem of dog overpopulation. Buying puppies only encourages breeders to breed their dogs more, so they can produce more puppies and earn more money. By rescuing your next dog, you are saving one without supporting breeders.

    Unless you get a puppy, you do not have to deal with the puppy stage. 

    You might get a dog that is already socialized and potty-trained. They might already be used to children of all ages. Many of the dogs have basic manners when you receive them, depending on how the previous owner treated them. You may find yourself with a perfect, well-trained dog!

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    Training can go a little easier, especially when it has already begun. 

    If someone has already started training, it makes the whole process a little easier. Potty training and leash walking might be within reach (and soon)! Some even come to you already going outside when they need to go to the bathroom.

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    If you want to unleash your rescue dog’s potential, you may want to check out Dogo’s tailored training programs. After taking a survey, you will receive a customized training plan for you and your dog. They also offer courses for your new dog, no biting, potty training, basic obedience, tricks, and more! 

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    Rescue dogs are cheaper than puppies. 

    Even with cheaper fees than purebred puppies, rescue dogs are often spayed or neutered. They are usually up-to-date on their vaccines, which also saves you some money on vet bills.

    When you get a puppy, you have to sign up for several vet visits to make sure that your new dog is up-to-date on all of his or her shots. Then, you need to spay or neuter him or her, which could cost you a few hundred dollars.

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    Looking to get pet insurance for your new rescue pet, The Swiftest has helped over 100,000 cat owners find the perfect insurance for their cats. They also have a list of the best insurance options for families with both dogs and cats. If you are looking for the best insurance companies for your pets this month, check out this list by The Swiftest. 

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    Rescue dogs often form strong bonds with their new owners. 

    Often, neglected dogs are so overjoyed at finding a home and people who love them that they attach to them quickly. They typically love to follow them around and spend time with them. They can make the best and happiest pets!

    Often, unless you get a puppy, you will know what kind of personality your dog has. 

    With puppies, you can’t guarantee what your adult dog will act like. Instead, when you rescue an older dog, he already has a personality and way of behaving. You can decide precisely what you want in a dog and find one that matches your needs.

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    Rescuing a dog can be beneficial for many reasons. You can decide what traits you want in a dog and find one that matches them. You do not have to deal with the messy puppy stage (unless you want one)! The dogs will also come to you fully vaccinated and fixed. They will have some basic training and socialization.

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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.

    ***

    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.

  • How to Gently Stop Your Dog From Barking So Much

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    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.

    Product Available on Amazon

    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.

    Product Available on Amazon

    Interactive Toys or Puzzles

    Product Available on Amazon

    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.

    Product Available on Amazon

    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.

    ***

    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. 

  • Are You Struggling With the Loss of Your Pet?

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    Whether you have made the decision to put your pet to sleep or he or she died suddenly while sleeping, getting over the death of a pet is never easy. It doesn’t even matter if you had him or her for five years or fifteen. You (and your family) need time to grieve.

    Still struggling? Here are some tips that may help you cope with your loss.

    Give yourself plenty of time. 

    Grief isn’t something that happens overnight. In fact, it can take months for some. It can also hit you like a ton of bricks once in a while, meaning that you may never get over your loss.

    For this reason, you need to give yourself time to grieve and to feel the pain. If it takes you longer than most, that is how you cope. There is nothing wrong with that. Take all the time you need to process your feelings.

    Don’t be afraid to show your emotions. 

    You will likely experience a range of emotions, from anger to sadness. You may face feelings of depression and may be asking if you did the right thing (if you had to make the decision to put your pet to sleep).

    Don’t be afraid to talk about your feelings. You don’t want to bottle them up, because this will only exacerbate the problem in the future.

    Don’t forget about your other pets. 

    Just because you lost one of your pets doesn’t mean that you can forget about your other ones. In fact, many of them may also be grieving!

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    You need to ensure that you spend plenty of time with them, giving them extra love and attention during this challenging time. They are going to need you as much as you need them while you are working your way through your grief!

    Find a way to say goodbye. 

    Unlike people, we don’t hold a funeral or memorial services to help us say goodbye to those we love. However, if you think it would help, you may want to do something for your pet. Invite your friends and family over to spend a few hours remembering your beloved pet.

    Don’t forget to move on. 

    Many people struggle to move on after their pet dies. They almost get stuck in their grief, which can be very detrimental to their lives. You need to find a way to move on with your life.

    It may also be helpful to consult a professional. 

    Many people have no problem seeing a therapist if they lose someone who is very dear to them. However, doing the same when their pet dies may seem a little silly. That being said, it is much better to talk to someone, so that you don’t get stuck in your grief!

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    When you lose your pet, it takes time to deal with your grief. However, if you don’t deal with it, you may find yourself struggling years later. You are allowed to feel everything that you do, from anger and sadness to utter depression.

    That being said, you can’t forget about your other pets. They are likely to be going through the stages of grief also. Make sure to spend extra time with them, as they will also find ways to move on without their best friend.

    You may also want to spend some time with your family and friends thinking about your beloved pet. They may miss your pet as much as you do, so this may help all of you say goodbye.

    You should also not be afraid to seek help if you need it. You might not think anything of seeing a therapist if someone you loved died, but you may not want to do the same when your pet dies. However, it may really help you find a way to move on, while still remembering your beloved pet.

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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.