Tag Archives: adopt don’t shop

Aug13

4 Advantages Of Hiking With Your Dog

Posted on by
Standard
4 Advantages Of Hiking With Your Dog

Hiking does not have to just be a human pursuit; it can be undertaken with a dog too! Why not combine your exercise with theirs? It will be time-saving, your dog will love it, and will save you money on paying to keep them fit in other ways that will keep you inside rather than enjoying the outdoors. So, let us consider the advantages of Hiking with dogs:

Cure for Dog Boredom:

Hiking is a good way to cure dog boredom. If they are not kept occupied, then dogs have been known to develop some rather destructive habits around the home. Owners must keep dogs both physically and mentally stimulated to avoid things being chewed and destroyed. Longer walks, such as hikes, are likely to be the solution that you have been looking for to this problem.

Extra Exercise for Both:

We could all benefit from more exercise than a couple of dog walks a day. Although all exercise is good for us, these are hardly going to keep us at peak fitness levels. So, why not make the walks longer and consider going on a hike with your dog? It will be both stimulating and healthy.

Dogs make excellent hiking or trail partners when it comes to exploring new places, and there are many breeds of dogs that are the perfect choice when it comes to extended exercise. These include Alaskan Malamute, Australian Cattle Dog, Australian Shepherd, Bernese Mountain Dog, German Shorthaired Pointer, Portuguese Water Dog, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Siberian Husky, Vizsla, and the Weimaraner.

Don’t worry if your breed of dog is not on this list because they should still love hiking. You can take them on longer runs to test out their endurance levels, while always being aware that you have to get home again and some breeds are likely to be too heavy to carry!

Boost a Dog’s Enthusiasm for the Outdoors:

Although the majority of dogs will enjoy the outdoors and their walks, there will be dogs that would seem to prefer to stay inside and sleep, even on a nice day. This will require some motivation on your part as most dog owners seek out a dog to take it on walks as much as for the company it provides.

Dogs may fear a walk if they have come across another dog that has been nasty to them or one that they simply do not like. So, if you can take them out in the car to their walk, then this may provide a more enjoyable experience and hopefully wean them back into walking as they did on the streets before they were spooked. Making a walk as enjoyable as possible will boost their enthusiasm. A hiking trail with lots of new sights and scents should do the trick.

Minimal Expense:

It costs nothing to walk and involves minimal expense commuting to a nearby spot to hike. We can rule out the cost of gym membership and, at the same time, exercise ourselves and our dog for virtually nothing in comparison. We might buy some hiking equipment to enhance, protect, and provide for a better hiking experience for us and our dog, but this can be used time and time again. Every time we enjoy hiking together, we can make use of our purchases of hiking accessories.

In terms of the hiking equipment you might need to purchase for your dog, you should consider a harness to provide more comfort and support when you are walking your dog on a lead. A collapsible bowl will be inexpensive yet take up less space in your rucksack. Most importantly, make sure that your dog has an ID tag in case they should stray from you.

Just like us, dogs can get bored! This can be rectified by exploring hiking trails in your area together for a fun new way to exercise.

Aug5

4 Things You Will Need For Your Puppy

Posted on by
Standard
4 Things You Will Need For Your Puppy

It can be a bit overwhelming for first-time pet owners to know what they need to get for their new puppy. You have to buy so many different things and most of them will cost quite a lot of money. You might not even know where to start! Don’t worry, though; this blog post is here to help with four essential items that every first-time pet owner needs for their new pup:

Collar and ID Tags:

Collar and ID tags are a must-have for any pet owner, but they’re especially important when adopting your first puppy that you’ll need to keep track of at all times! It’s also wise to get two of them in case one gets lost or chewed up by the pup. Include the dog’s name, your address, and phone number so that your puppy can be returned safely. A great store to buy the collars, tags, and other accessories would be Dog Friendly Co.

Complete and Balanced Puppy Food:

Complete and balanced puppy food is essential for your new pet’s health. Puppy chow contains all of the nutrients that a pup needs, such as protein, vitamins, minerals, and more in just the right amounts. All you need to do is determine with your vet what type of dog food your new pet will be eating.

There are several different types of pet food: kibble or dry, canned wet foods, natural balanced raw diet, freeze-dried foods, or fresh frozen diet. Whichever one you choose, it should always have an AAFCO nutritional statement on its label so you know it meets the minimum standards outlined by AAFCO.

Food and Water Bowls:

Now you need to get the necessities for your puppy. Get a water dish that is heavy and deep enough so they can’t knock it over as well as food bowls large enough to accommodate your pup’s needs. Consider using stainless steel dishes because plastic ones are porous and will retain bacteria if not properly cleaned every day. Pet stores sell all of these items together in an all-in-one kit which includes other valuable things like food storage bags, chew toys, collars with tags, etc. Remember to double-check measurements before purchasing anything if you’re buying supplies from a pet store or online.

Grooming Supplies:

For first-time pet owners, another essential thing you will need are supplies for grooming your pet. You’ll want to have a brush on hand so that your pup doesn’t get matted hair and you can brush it out when necessary. It’s also good to have brushes for furniture (fabric or leather) and walls if they happen to shed some of their fur in those areas.

A dog toothbrush is helpful, too, as it will help keep teeth clean, which helps prevent plaque build-up and gum disease down the road. Finally, if your pup has sensitive skin, there are shampoos explicitly made with them in mind that can help get rid of dog fleas quickly and ease the washing process.

As you can see, puppies require lots of basic supplies to be happy and healthy. Planning ensures your puppy has everything they need from the start so you don’t have to worry about it later.

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jun30

3 Best Dog Gift Ideas You May Have Not Considered

Posted on by
Standard
3 Best Dog Gift Ideas You May Have Not Considered

A dog is a man’s best friend; its loyalty and intelligence when interacting with humans are pretty advanced. Caring for a dog is one of the most straightforward yet complex tasks every owner has to go through. You need to identify how you can train your dog to respond to your commands and requests to ease your worries.

It takes time to mesh your personalities together and trust each other in the do-owner relationship. However, once you are in sync with each other, there are many activities which you can enjoy with your dog. Notably, these pet relationships usually have many health benefits to the owner. The mental, physical, and emotional health significantly improves due to the dog and the owner’s numerous activities.

If you are thinking of gifting your dog, here are three ideas to consider:

Personalized Collars:

Even though collars are usually the first thought on every dog owner’s mind, you can personalize and make them unique for your pet. Look into the design and print or emboss your favorite memory with your dog; it can be a picture or a place that you both enjoy. Most people usually prefer having their dog’s name for identification and their signature style. However, you can diversify and have numerous symbolic writings or drawings to make it more memorable.

Some people have also taken a step further by getting waterproof shock collars which are electronic but can still function properly while underwater. These collars also come in handy while training the dogs or, at worst, restraining the dog in extreme situations. It is a good gift as it provides identification, connection, and enhances communication with you.

Dog Sofa:

Getting a dog sofa or a dog bed is a brilliant idea. Many types of dog beds and sofas enhance the comfort of the dog while resting or relaxing. Some bed designs can heat the mattress to provide more warmth for the dog during cold days or nights. It is a thoughtful gift as you will ease the dog’s worries during these periods. You can also purchase a matching blanket for the sofa or the bed.

If you are thinking of gifting your dog with a new bed this holiday season, then look no further than Bobby Bed. They have lots of wonderful orthopedic options for your older pups as well as calming beds to sooth restless puppies to sleep. We all deserve a good night’s sleep (and a nap or two during the day) and your doggos are no exception!

A Trip to Their Favorite Park/Place:

Dogs always yearn to connect with their owners through spending time and doing their favorite activities. Doing what makes your dog happy can be a simple but expensive gift you will give your dog – the gift of time. It will be a special moment with your dog. It will mean a lot to them because of the understanding and connection that you have with each other. You can also include activities like playing games while giving them their favorite treats.

Gifting your dog can seem like a waste of time for all who cannot understand and perceive your connection with your pet. However, you have to gift according to your love and understanding of the dog. Be keen on the dog’s likes and preferences, and you will hit the jackpot with these three ideas.

Featured Image By: Pexels

May13

5 Things They Don’t Tell New Dog Owners

Posted on by
Standard
5 Things They Don’t Tell New Dog Owners

If you have your heart set on having a new canine companion in your life, no one will blame you. According to a recent survey, over 63 million people own at least one pet dog in the United States. Dogs are loyal, loving, and offer owners companionship and happiness.

You’re likely reading this because you’ve never owned a pet dog before, although you may have had a dog in the family when you were growing up, or perhaps you spend a lot of time with friends that have dogs themselves. There are some things that existing dog owners never tell people that are considering getting their first pet dog. It’s not necessarily that they’re deliberately withholding the information; it’s more they assume those people might already know this stuff:

1. Some Dogs Bark a Lot

It’s no secret that dogs have unique and individual personalities in addition to the traits of their breeds. With that in mind, it’s worth knowing that some dogs bark a lot whereas others seldom utter any noise! If you’re planning to get a smaller dog, it might be worth getting the best bark collar for small dogs to help keep noise levels down, especially if you need to leave your new canine friend alone at home sometimes.

2. Some Breeds Have Known Health Problems

You could be lucky and end up with a dog that seldom has any health issues during its time with you. Or, you might end up with a canine companion that spends much of their time at the vets. The fact is, some dog breeds are genetically predisposed to certain medical conditions. For example, greyhounds are well known for having dental problems, and others like dachshunds might have heart conditions. Keep this in mind when looking at purebred dogs.

3. Dog Toys Don’t Last Long

One thing you want to do is ensure that your dog is happy and has plenty of mental stimulation, so you’ll likely buy your new pet some toys to play with and chew. If you thought those toys would last a long time, think again! Dog toys aren’t indestructible, and if you end up with a pet that loves chewing everything all the time, you’ll need to buy new toys for them regularly.

4. Dogs Can Get Jealous and Protective

While some dog breeds are known for having a laid-back attitude, it’s typically the luck of the draw whether you end up with a chill dog or one that gets jealous and protective over you – especially if you are female. If jealousy and over-protectiveness become a big problem in your house, especially when you’ve got a family in tow, you could try engaging the services of a dog behaviorist to help you and your pet.

5. Dogs Can Be Fussy About Their Food

Lastly, don’t assume you can feed your dog any brand of dog food. Like humans, dogs have preferences over the food they consume, and if you give them something to eat they don’t like, they’ll end up being very hungry! Fortunately, it’s relatively straightforward to work out what your dog likes and dislikes at dinnertime.

Getting a pet dog is a huge commitment so do your research well and remember the above when making your choice!

Featured Image By: Pixabay

May12

4 Best Dog Breeds For Families With Kids

Posted on by
Standard
4 Best Dog Breeds For Families With Kids

While one breed of dog can never be considered the ‘best’ breed around, some are more suited to different situations than others. For example, if you wanted a security dog, you’d likely opt for an Alsatian over a Chihuahua! The same sort of logic applies to families that are looking for a pet dog. If you have children, you need dogs that respond well to these small humans. So, here are some of the top dog breeds for families with kids:

Labrador Retriever:

You can’t go wrong with a Labrador, and it is arguably the most popular family dog of all time. They’re playful, loving, and extremely loyal. Plus, they train really well and are extremely intelligent. The only thing to be wary of is that Labradors require a lot of exercise. So, keep that in mind if you’re welcoming one into your home. They grow to be large dogs, but not overly large to intimidate your kids. Honestly, they’re pretty much the perfect family dog.

Beagle:

Beagles have been in families for generations, and for a few good reasons. First, they’re a relatively small dog, so any intimidation is taken out of the equation right away. They’re also always up for some fun and love the outdoors, making them perfect for kids who like to go out and play all day long. Beagles are also one of the happiest and friendliest dogs around, getting along well with other breeds. Not only that, but they also get along with other pets, so they could be a great option if you have a cat in the home as well.

Too cute!

French Bulldog:

The French Bulldog is another small dog that’s suited to families with children. They’re one of the best around for families that live in the city and don’t have much backyard space. Frenchies are so easy to maintain and don’t require lots of daily walks at all. Plus, they’re one of the most accessorized dogs out there! You can find loads of Frenchie apparel online, letting you kit out your pup in many different safe items of clothing. Frenchies are also very playful and friendly, so they suit kids to a tee.

Pexels Image

Rough Collie:

A breed that was made famous by the movie Lassie, the Rough Collie is an excellent family dog. They are loyal to a fault and get on so well with kids. Honestly, in terms of dog-child relationships, the Rough Collie is probably the most kid-friendly dog out there. Again, they’re not too hard to handle, and their intelligence means they are one of the easiest dogs to train. A Rough Collie is typically seen as a medium-sized dog, so they won’t grow to be too hard to handle!

Smile!

Don’t worry if your favorite dog breed hasn’t made this list! There are loads of other breeds that can be suitable for families with children, these are just the top four to consider. If you don’t mind what type of dog you get, perhaps opting for one of these will make your life easier.

Featured Image By: Pexels

Feb16

Daily Dose Of Cuteness

Posted on by
Standard
Daily Dose Of Cuteness

Hello!! I don’t know about you guys, but there is never a time for me when I don’t want to see pictures of someone’s pets. Dogs, cats, rabbits, lizards, fish – I don’t care what it is, I want the 411. Their names, funny stories, which rescue organization they came from, the list goes on! My life would not be the same without my family’s sweet rescue dogs, a tiny Terrier mix named Ollie and a Golden Retriever named Archie. They are both very good boys… Actually, they’re the best and here they are:

DD3C4DB7-F097-4475-9A2F-0A06E472B18325124C0E-D630-4BCD-A92C-6F028504E59C

My family will always be eternally grateful to the rescue organizations, Canine Lifeline and One Of A Kind Pets, for giving us the opportunity to care for both of our boys. Ollie is our more mellow of the two, who loves napping, playing with squeaker toys, and stepping out in his finest bandanas! On the other hand, we have Archie, our rambunctious puppy who is a HUGE lover of playing, kisses, and chewing all of the things! Both of our pups have such unique personalities that are so different from each other, but they get along just fine. 🙂

In my household, we are passionate about animal rescue and are so thankful to all of the amazing organizations for their hard work that saves countless lives. Nothing makes me happier than playing tug of war with Archie or snuggling up with little Ollie while he snoozes. The connection between a pet and its owner is so therapeutic as it is such a pure form of love and I am so over the moon about both of our angels.

Ollie and Archie send a virtual tail wag your way with the hopes that their precious pics puts a smile on your face today! ❤

What kind of pets do you have? What is your favorite animal? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Nov27

Picking The Perfect Pet For Your Family

Posted on by
Standard
Picking The Perfect Pet For Your Family

Animals are an amazing addition to your life. They offer companionship and give you a reason to be more active. There are many different pets you can add to your family like a cat, dog, fish, hamster, bird, or guinea pig. The important thing is to make an informed decision, so you end up with a good fit for your family:

Narrow it down:

Before you start looking at pets, you need to ask yourself some questions to try to narrow down your search for the perfect pet. You need to think about your lifestyle and how a pet will fit into it. If you are not at home very often, then you shouldn’t get a dog that will need a lot of attention and walks every day.

You should also consider your personality. If you are extroverted, then a dog may be a good fit because they tend to be extroverted, as well. Quieter personalities may prefer the companionship of a cat, hamster, or reptile. You should also consider if you have any allergies that pet dander will make worse. If you do have pet allergies, then you may want to welcome a reptile or amphibian into your home. You can go here for more information.

Always keep in mind where you live and the level of care that you are capable of providing. If you live in an apartment, then you will want an animal that can thrive without a lot of space. If you are not able to take a dog on regular walks or change a cage often, then you need to consider that in your decision.

Dogs:

If you think a dog will be a good fit for your family, then you need to think about the breed that would be best. Some dogs are much higher energy than others so it is important to find a dog that is the best fit for your expectations. If you have small children, you want to make sure that the kind of dog you get will coexist happily with them.

According to Devin Harris Joplin, MO, Great Danes are the perfect family pet because they have a gentle nature, love children, and don’t need much exercise. They can be calm inside while still having enough energy to play in the yard or go for a walk when you want them to. Consider other breeds as well, like retrievers, schnauzers, and bulldogs, that also make great family pets.

Cats:

Cats are great low-maintenance pets once they are fully grown. If you want a cat that is a little more affectionate, then you need to consider the breeds when you are searching for the right fit. Long hair cats may also be a little higher maintenance to keep groomed and clean up after.

Birds:

Some types of birds are better suited for human companionship than others, so be sure to do your research before finding a bird to have as a pet. Different kinds of birds will all prove to be extremely different for handling, teaching to talk, or performing tricks.

Fish:

Fish have the lowest care needs of any of the pets, so they are ideal for people who want minimal effort. They do not provide any affection or tricks, but they do provide some companionship and beautify any space. Be sure that you understand the needs of the kind of fish you get to make sure it is comfortable and safe in the tank.

Pets will make a wonderful addition to any home but they are a huge responsibility. Consider the care you are able to best provide before making any decisions!

Featured Image By: Krista Mangulsone on Unsplash

May9

The Best Things About Owning A Dog

Posted on by
Standard
The Best Things About Owning A Dog

Dogs are one of the first domesticated animals in history, and it doesn’t take long to figure out why humans have had such a long and amicable relationship with these amazing creatures. They’re funny, loyal, and are always happy to see you, whether you’re in the mood for their antics or not! If you or someone in your house needs just a little more convincing, here are some of the best things about owning a dog (besides for all of the things!!):

They’re Hilarious! Your dog will make you laugh pretty often, perhaps every day if you bring the right pooch home from the shelter! Dogs are always getting up to silly, funny things that will bring a little more joy to your day, even when you’re having a really tough one. Whether it’s breaking into fits of barking and howling when a certain song comes on or licking peanut butter off of their nose for an hour straight (and they will), as a dog owner, you’re sure to see all kinds of things that will put a smile on your face!

pupper1

DOGGO!

They Keep Your Mind Engaged: You probably already knew that dogs can be great for getting more physical exercise in, but they’re also very conducive to regular mental exercise, which is often just as important for a healthy, happy life. Any long-time dog owner will tell you that their dog has taught them all kinds of things, and continues to teach them to this day. This is especially true when they’re puppies and your mind is buzzing with all kinds of questions and uncertainties. What are the signs that they’re ill? How often should you walk them? What’s the best food for your dog? Similar to caring for a child, getting into the rhythm of parenting (lol) a dog takes a lot of time and mental effort, which never really stops.

pupper2

#friendship

You’ll Have a Friend for Life: Dogs spend a large part of their lives observing us and interacting with us. After a few years of living with a dog, they’ll be intimately familiar with all the little mannerisms and quirks that makes you the person that you are. Healthy dogs also have a natural sense of empathy, and will be able to pick up on a familiar human’s emotions with the drop of a hat. Many long-time dog owners have had instances where they’ve been feeling particularly dejected, and their pet had started exhibiting worried, submissive behavior. At times, it seems that man’s best friend can communicate better than man! Good dog. ❤

pupper3

Sweet PUPPER!

They’re Great Personal Trainers: If you know that you should be getting more exercise, you’ll obviously know how hard it is to push yourself into a solid regimen and then stick to it. When you own a dog, on the other hand, you’ll have your own little personal trainer who will keep on getting you out of the door and moving those muscles. No matter how lazy you’re feeling, when a dog wants a walk, they’ll come right up to you with some intense, meaningful looks, maybe even with their leash in their mouth. You won’t be able to turn down that little face as easily as yourself! Seriously. You won’t.

pupper4

SO. CUTE!

Long story short: dogs are the best. The end. 😀

Featured Image By: Pixabay

Apr21

The Secret Life Of Cats

Posted on by
Standard
The Secret Life Of Cats

We all want companionship in our lives, and so for many of us, the option to get a pet seems like a great idea. For those of us that are infatuated with felines, we will immediately think about adopting a cat. Compared to other animals, cats are considerably low-maintenance and are easy to transport. In fact, some people love them so much that they decide to give several felines a forever home!

It’s likely you are reading this blog post because you are putting serious consideration into adopting a cat. But, before you start looking for potential new feline friends, you should think about what a day in the life of a pet cat is like from an owner’s point of view. If you’ve never owned a feline before, you need to do plenty of research on the subject so that you can make an informed choice.

In today’s blog post, you will learn more about the “secret” life of cats and the impact it has on their owners or people visiting them in their homes. Here is what you need to know before bringing a kitty cat home:

Cats have individual personalities just like we do: Some people are under the illusion that animals we keep as pets generally behave in the same way. The thing is, cats have unique and individual personalities just like human beings. Some cats might be docile, others feisty, and some are just plain scary!

When you go out to look at potential cats to adopt, you need to find out about their temperament from the adoption agency or seller. It’s even more vital that you do this if you’ve got other people living with you, especially children and babies. The last thing you want is for your family to get mauled by your new pet cat on a daily basis! It goes without saying that you should only get a cat if there is a strong likelihood that they will “get on” with your existing pets.

Always remember that your cat might not have nine lives, but their personalities are for keeps! We have all heard the nine lives expression before but if you are curious, you should try to convert your cat’s age to human years – it’s interesting for adults and children alike!

Cats need looking after: No-one should expect a cat to fend for itself on a daily basis, whether it roams within the confines of your home or out on the street during the day. You need to be a responsible cat owner and ensure that its health and welfare is your top priority.

That means giving your feline friend access to the right food and plenty of fresh water. Plus, cats that roam outdoors during the day need flea protection. Products such as Advecta 3 are suitable for keeping flea infestation risks to a minimum. Also, it goes without saying that you should ensure that your cat lives in a sanitary environment. In other words, you must keep your home and their favorite hideaways as clean as possible.

Cats will do things that annoy you: You can try to train your cat as much as you like, but we all know that they will just do their own thing! With that in mind, you must make your home cat-friendly as much as possible. Try not to be angry at them for doing things like:

  • Wrecking your Christmas tree during the holidays;
  • Going to the toilet in places other than their litter tray;
  • Bringing back “presents” for you (i.e. dead mice and birds);
  • Sleeping in your bed!

They will also dig their claws into your furniture, especially carpets. For that reason, it’s crucial that you buy them a cat scratching post, such as the Purrfect Post.

If you’ve made it this far and are still determined to adopt a cat, you will at least know more about what to expect when you live with one. Good luck and congrats! 🙂

Featured Image By: Pexels