Pets and Holidays: Things to do with your pets

With holidays, it is always fun to find ways to include your pets in the celebration.  They are, after all, part of the family and should be actively involved in family activities.  That said, sometimes it is hard to find ways to do this that are fun for your both and will be safe for your pet.  

Since most of us own dogs or cats (no offense to the mice, gerbil, parrot, ferret, pig, etc.) here are a few ideas for you to consider this holiday season to help include your baby in all the family festivities.

Holiday Photo Shoot: 

Almost everyone love to dress up their pets for holidays, so dress up your pets in festive attire and have a holiday-themed photo session. This can be a fun way to create lasting memories and adorable holiday cards.

Pet-Friendly Holiday Treats: 

While you are making special foods for the family, don't forget your babies. Bake or buy special holiday treats that are safe for pets. You can find recipes for dog or cat-friendly cookies and cakes online, and you pet will love them (be sure to check the ingredients for things that might be harmful). Here is a list of foods to avoid.

Gift Exchange: 

Include your pets in the gift-giving tradition. Get them new toys, comfy beds, or special treats and let them unwrap their gifts. If you hide a treat in the wrapping, your pet can smell it and will gladly unwrap the present to find it.

Holiday Walks: 

It is always fun to walk around the neighborhood to look at the holiday lights. Take your pets for the walks with you to see the lights and decorations. Make sure they are comfortably dressed for the weather. If you drive to see the lights and decorations, consider taking your dog along for the ride.  Your pet will enjoy the time spent with you.

Pet-Friendly Parties: 

If you're hosting a holiday party, create a pet-friendly space where your pets can interact with guests. Ensure that all foods and decorations in this area are safe for pets. Or, if your guests have pets, maybe consider a small party in advance of the holiday, to hold a pet meet-and-greet type party to see if they can all get along and be part of the holiday celebration.

Visit a Pet-Friendly Event: 

Look for pet-friendly holiday events in your area, such as markets or festivals where pets are welcome. Most places have these and taking your pet to visit with you is a wonderful way to enjoy both.  You will meet many people because you have your pet. It is a proven fact that walking around with a dog is a good way to interact with other people at events.

Create a Holiday Playlist: 

Some pets enjoy music, so you could create a holiday playlist with calming or festive tunes to play for them. Cats seem to enjoy watching TV, so find some holiday themed viewing for them.  Some dogs will watch TV if there is a lot of movement on the screen, so look for that for your dogs. This will help keep them busy while you are preparing for the gathering.

Decorate Together: 

Let your pets be part of the decorating process. Make sure all decorations are pet-safe and avoid small, ingestible items. This is only practical if your pet has a calm demeanor and enjoys this type of activity.  You know your pet best.

Charity Work: 

Involve your pet in charity work, like visiting a nursing home or hospital (if allowed). It can bring joy to others and be a fulfilling experience for you and your pet. Taking your dog or cat to a nursing home will give them a chance to interact with people that will love on them and make them very happy.  At the same time, you may be making a lonely person very happy too.

I hope this list of things to do with your pets on the holidays inspires you to include your babies in the family festivities. They will enjoy all the attention and all the special treats, for sure.

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Navigating the World of Pet Supplements: Ensuring the Best for Your Furry Friends

In recent years, the focus on pet health and wellness has significantly intensified. As pet owners, we constantly seek ways to improve the quality of life for our furry companions. 

We've talked before about pet health and common conditions to watch out for here.  We also talked about using CBD oil with your pet, and that is one type of supplement.

One area that has seen a notable surge in interest is the use of pet supplements. But what exactly are these supplements, and how do they contribute to the well-being of our pets? This blog post goes into the world of pet supplements, exploring their benefits, uses, and how to gauge their effectiveness.

What Are Pet Supplements?

Pet supplements are products designed to provide nutrients or compounds that may not be sufficiently available in a pet's regular diet. These can range from vitamins and minerals to probiotics, enzymes, and even fatty acids. Unlike medications, which are used to treat specific health conditions, supplements are generally used to support overall health and well-being. They come in various forms, including chews, pills, powders, and liquids, making them easy to incorporate into your pet’s diet.

Why Use Pet Supplements? 

The reasons for incorporating supplements into your pet's regimen can be as varied as the pets themselves. Some common motivations include:

• Age-Related Support: As pets age, their nutritional needs can change. Supplements like glucosamine can support joint health, while antioxidants can help combat the effects of aging.
• Dietary Deficiencies: Pets on homemade diets, or those with selective eating habits, might miss out on essential nutrients. Supplements can help fill these nutritional gaps.
• Health Conditions: Pets with specific health issues, such as skin allergies or digestive problems, may benefit from targeted supplements like omega fatty acids or probiotics.

What Do Pet Supplements Do? 

The role of supplements is to support the overall health of your pet. For example, omega-3 fatty acids can promote a healthy coat and skin, probiotics can aid in digestion, and antioxidants can support immune health. However, it's crucial to understand that supplements are not cures but rather a means to support various aspects of your pet's health.

How to Know if Supplements are Working 

Evaluating the effectiveness of supplements can be subtle and gradual. Here are some signs to look for:

• Improved Energy Levels: A general increase in vitality or activity levels can be a good indicator.
• Better Coat and Skin Health: Look for a shinier coat and healthier skin.
• Digestive Regularity: Improvements in digestion can often be seen in more consistent and healthy bowel movements.
• Behavioral Changes: Positive changes in behavior, such as reduced anxiety or increased playfulness, can also be a sign of effective supplementation.

Pet supplements can be a valuable addition to your pet's health regimen, but it's essential to approach them with care. Always consult with a veterinarian before starting any new supplement to ensure it's appropriate for your pet's specific health needs. 

Remember, supplements should complement, not replace, a well-balanced diet. With the right approach, pet supplements can play a significant role in maintaining the health and happiness of your beloved companion.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a veterinarian for professional guidance regarding your pet's health.

Resources:

Supplements - Selecting Supplements for your Pet

What Are Dog Supplements and How Do They Work?

THE IMPORTANCE OF SUPPLEMENTS FOR YOUR PETS

The Charming Corgis: A Comprehensive Guide to the Beloved Breed

 

Corgis have captured the hearts of dog lovers around the world with their short legs, long bodies, and expressive faces. But there's much more to these pint-sized pups than meets the eye. In this blog post, we'll dive into the world of corgis, exploring their origins, temperament, how they stack up against other breeds, and some tips on training these intelligent and affectionate dogs.

What Exactly is a Corgi?

The term "corgi" actually refers to two distinct breeds: the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. Both breeds originated in Wales and were used as herding dogs, adept at driving cattle by nipping at their heels. Their low stature allowed them to avoid kicks from cattle, making them excellent herding companions.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is perhaps the more famous of the two, partly due to Queen Elizabeth II's fondness for the breed. Pembrokes are known for their outgoing and friendly nature, their lack of a tail (or a very short one), and their slightly smaller size compared to the Cardigan.

Cardigan Welsh Corgi

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is older than the Pembroke and is distinguished by its long tail and larger, more rounded ears. Cardigans are also known for being affectionate and loyal, with a more reserved demeanor compared to their Pembroke cousins.

The Corgi Temperament

Corgis are known for their bold and friendly personalities. They are active and intelligent dogs, which means they need regular mental and physical stimulation. Despite their size, they have a big-dog bark and are often alert and aware of their surroundings, making them excellent watchdogs.

Corgis are also known for their strong herding instincts, which can manifest as a tendency to herd children or other pets. Early socialization and training can help manage this behavior.

Comparing Corgis to Other Breeds

When compared to other breeds, corgis are:

• More active than many small breeds: Their herding background gives them plenty of energy.
• More trainable than some breeds: Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them relatively easy to train.
• Sturdier than they look: Despite their short stature, they are strong and athletic.
• Prone to certain health issues: Like many purebred dogs, they can be susceptible to specific health problems, such as hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy.

Training Your Corgi

Training a corgi can be a delightful experience due to their quick wit and desire to please. Here are some tips for training your corgi:

Start Early

Begin training and socialization as soon as you bring your corgi home. Early exposure to different people, pets, and environments will help your corgi grow into a well-adjusted adult.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Corgis respond well to positive training methods. Use treats, praise, and play as rewards for good behavior.

Keep Training Sessions Short and Fun

Their attention spans can be short, and they can become bored with repetitive tasks. Keep training sessions brief and engaging to maintain their interest.

Be Consistent

Consistency is key in training any dog. Make sure everyone in the household is on the same page with commands and rules.

Address Herding Behavior

If your corgi tries to herd people or animals, redirect this behavior by engaging them in other activities like fetch or agility training.

Exercise is Crucial

A tired corgi is a well-behaved corgi. Ensure they get plenty of exercises to burn off energy and reduce the likelihood of mischief.

Caring for Your Corgi

Corgis have a thick double coat that sheds year-round and more heavily during the change of seasons. Regular brushing can help manage the shedding. They also require a balanced diet and regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight, as their long backs can lead to issues if they become overweight.

Corgis are more than just a cute face; they are active, intelligent, and loyal companions that can fit well into various lifestyles. Whether you're looking for a family pet, a vigilant watchdog, or a herding dog, the corgi might just be the perfect breed for you. With the right training and care, a corgi can be a delightful addition to your family for years to come.

Top 10 Family-Friendly Dog Breeds: A Guide for Pet Lovers

Choosing the right dog for your family is a crucial decision. You need a pet that is not only loving and loyal but also gentle and patient with children. In this blog post, we will introduce you to the top 10 dog breeds that are known for their family-friendly nature.

1. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, and for good reason. They are friendly, intelligent, and have a great temperament. Labs are excellent with children and other pets, making them a perfect choice for families.

2. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly and tolerant attitude. They are highly intelligent and easy to train, making them great companions for families with kids.

3. Beagle

Beagles are curious, friendly, and playful. They are great with kids and have a lot of energy, which makes them perfect for active families.

4. Bulldog

Bulldogs are known for their loose, wrinkled skin and distinctive pushed-nose. They are very gentle and get along well with children and other pets.

5. Poodle

Poodles are intelligent, energetic, and sociable. They are great with kids and other pets, and their hypoallergenic coat makes them a good choice for families with allergies.

6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

These dogs are affectionate, gentle, and good with kids. They are also very intelligent and easy to train.

7. Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdogs are intelligent, playful, and affectionate. They are great with children and are known for their loyalty.

8. Boxer

Boxers are energetic, playful, and loyal. They are great with children and have a protective nature.

9. Irish Setter

Irish Setters are energetic, intelligent, and affectionate. They are great with kids and require a lot of exercise.

10. Bichon Frise 

Bichon Frises are affectionate, playful, and great with kids and other pets. They have a hypoallergenic coat, which is perfect for families with allergies.

Choosing the right dog for your family depends on your lifestyle, living situation, and the ages of your children. Any of the breeds listed above would make a great addition to a family, providing years of joy and companionship.