Tag: love dogs

  • Reasons Dogs Are Better Than Cats

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    Most people consider themselves “dog people” or “cat people.” Even if they own multiple critters, they may feel like they love either dogs or cats more.

    Unsure if you prefer one over the other? Here are some reasons why dogs are better than cats.

    Dogs are often known as man’s best friend (and for good reason). 

    They have been faithful companions for thousands of years and will continue to do so as long as we want them to be our friends. They love us unconditionally and want nothing more than to spend all of their time with us.

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    Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, no matter what you are looking for. 

    Cats are pretty much all the same. You may see some unique Maine Coons, but most house cats are just domestic short-haired cats.

    Meanwhile, you can get a dog that is smaller than your cat, or you can choose a dog that weighs more than you! This allows you to find the perfect breed of dog for you, taking into account your lifestyle and even your location. If you live in a tiny apartment, a little dog can run for hours in it, while a Great Dane might struggle to move around at all. If you spend your time outdoors all year long, you’ll want to consider a dog that suits that lifestyle rather than a couch potato.

    Many people acquire dogs as a means of protection for themselves and their families. 

    Most dogs are quick to bark when anyone comes to their home. They want to protect their owners and warn them when someone comes onto their property. Even if they aren’t vicious, their bark may make someone think otherwise before coming into your yard.

    Training dogs is easier than training cats. 

    In fact, if you want your cat to do something, it probably isn’t going to happen. They do what they want, when they want to, without considering what we think.

    Many dogs enjoy training sessions. They want to please you and will do anything that they can to ensure that you are happy with them. Most are also motivated by food and will do whatever you want them to.

    Dogs just love to play!

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    Most dogs love to play with you and your family. They enjoy playing fetch with a ball or even a Frisbee. They will play tug-of-war. They may chase you and your children around the yard. If you have multiple dogs, you may even get to watch them play together. Some people get their dogs together for “play dates” where they can have fun and burn off some steam!

    They may even help you get healthy (or stay healthy if you already are). 

    If you have a dog, you know that you’ll have to get up and take them outside multiple times a day. Even if you have a fenced-in backyard, you will likely take your dog for a walk every day to help them stay fit. These daily walks may even help you lose some of your extra weight!

    Many people enjoy taking their dogs on walks and hikes around their neighborhoods. You may even find yourself looking for parks and hiking trails to take your dog. Some runners train their dogs to run alongside them during their training sessions. You may even want to try a dog sport like agility or diving. These can be a great bonding experience while also keeping you both active.

    Dogs go to the bathroom outside. 

    Cats use litter boxes inside your home, and if you aren’t able to keep up with it, it can really stink up your home. Dogs go outside your home. Though you should pick up their stools for health reasons, you aren’t responsible for cleaning up their urine. You also don’t need to worry about your house smelling due to their urine and feces (once they are potty-trained)!

    Dogs can be more than just your pet! 

    Many working dogs have important jobs to do. There are farm dogs that can protect livestock and herd them from one field to another. Some dogs work alongside our police and military. Many breeds excel in search and rescue missions. They are often better at finding lost humans due to their sense of smell. Service dogs are helpful for people with disabilities and those who are blind.

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    Dogs can be great companions, as they have proven to be for years. They have been faithful friends for thousands of years. This is because they love us and want to spend time with us. This makes them easy to train, because they want to please us.

    Even better, there are numerous types of dogs, making it easy to find one that suits your lifestyle. If you are away a lot, you will want a smaller dog that may not require as much exercise as a larger one. That being said, dogs love to play, and you can find a lot of enjoyment in them. They may even help you stay healthy by taking them for regular walks!

    Not a dog person? My next piece is going to be about why cats are better than dogs. You may feel like you would rather spend time with your cats instead of a 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.

  • Tips For Traveling With Your Dog

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    Many people love their dogs and spend as much time with them as they can. This includes vacations. They enjoy sharing their new experiences with them. However, traveling with a dog can be a little stressful. With some careful planning, you can make your life work with pets.

    Here are some tips to make traveling with your dog.

    Make sure that your dog has a collar with identification on it.

    Your name and phone number should be on the collar so that, if your dog gets lost, you are able to get him back. You can also go a step further and get him a microchip. This ensures that your dog will be brought back to you.

    Photo Off of Amazon Website

    Amazon sells these amazing customizable collars, which will help you get your pet back, in case he or she gets away.

    Pack appropriately for your dog.

    Make sure that you bring his or her bed, bowls, and food. Many dogs enjoy their familiar toys when they are on a road trip. Anything that reminds your dog of home is good to take along.

    Don’t forget that some water can taste different, so it might be a good idea to bring some water from home to ensure that your dog gets enough to drink while you are away.

    Use carriers or seat belt restraints when traveling by car.

    Putting your dog in the back of the pickup truck is not a safe option when traveling. Many dogs jump (or fall out) and get hurt. Sometimes this causes death.

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    Instead, put them in a carrier, so they can move around and still be safe. If you have a bigger dog, you should get a seat belt restraint. Both of these things will keep your dog safe if you are in an accident.

    Product Courtesy of Amazon

    Amazon has this great product, with two leashes that buckle into your seat belt, as well as a collapsible water bowl.

    Do a few practice car rides to see how your dog will handle a long car ride.

    Dogs can get car sick, too. They can also get anxious and really wound up in the car. Prepare for this by taking them on several short rides to see how they will react. You may have to talk to your veterinarian about getting a sedative to make the car ride a little less stressful.

    Make sure that you take a lot of breaks.

    Though many people love to rush to their destination, it is not possible with dogs. They need to take frequent bathroom breaks. Taking short walks every few hours is a good idea so that they can stretch their legs and get something to drink.

    Before you even leave for your destination (or sooner than that), make sure that your dog can stay with you at the hotel or bed and breakfast.

    Not all hotels and bed and breakfasts are dog-friendly. You need to make sure that you can find places where you can take your dog. You can’t leave him in the car overnight.

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    Taking your dog along on vacation is a great idea, with plenty of planning. Make sure that your dog has a collar and identification. If possible, get him microchipped so, even if he gets lost, you will be able to find him. Make sure you plan ahead with where you are staying and pack appropriately. Be sure to bring his bedding, bowls, food, and water.

    Travel safely in the car with either a crate or a seat belt restraint. It might be a good idea to take a few trips around town to see how your dog reacts in the car. While on the road, be sure to take plenty of breaks and walks to keep both you and your dog limber on the long drive. With all of these tips, you should have a wonderful vacation with your furry friend.

    Product Courtesy of Amazon

    Amazon offers this all-in-one dog travel set, which is the perfect place for you to start traveling with your dog!

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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 to know 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.