Tag Archives: rescue dogs

Mar22

Keeping Your Home Clean – Even With A Pet!

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Keeping Your Home Clean – Even With A Pet!

Are you thinking about bringing a pet into your life? If so, then it’s important to make sure that the right precautions are taken to keep your home in good shape during the process. New pets have lots of exploring to do in their new digs, which can sometimes lead to disaster! Here are some of the key points to consider:

Choose The Right Option:

First, you need to make sure that you are choosing the right pet. If you have a smaller home, for example, you might want to avoid bringing home a larger breed of dog. It could be in your best interest to think about a smaller dog like a Terrier rather than a German Shepherd. Larger dogs can also be more difficult to train and control. You should also think about how much time you are going to have for your pet. Some dogs need almost constant attention or company to keep them happy. If you’re out a lot of the day, then a cat could be a better choice. They are more independent.

Training:

With a new pet, it is crucial to put in the time and effort to train them from day one. There are lots of training options that are going to make your life a little easier in the long run. For instance, you might want to think about training them to chew their toys instead of your furniture. This is particularly important when your pet is teething. If you don’t train your pet, you can’t be mad when they do something you don’t like!

Pest Treatment:

Pets can mean pests in your home. Some of the common pests include fleas and tics. The good news is that this doesn’t have to be an issue. You just need to make sure that you invest in the right pest treatment. A lot of vets will provide this as a standard. As such, you don’t have to worry about it costing you a fortune. Dog flea treatment and other pest solutions are available to purchase directly at a low cost from a wide range of sources.

Cleaning Products:

Finally, you need to make sure that you are choosing the right cleaning products and equipment. If you are bringing a dog into your home, it’s important to be aware that some breeds shed more than others. The best way to stop your home from becoming a furry nightmare is to make sure that you have the right pet vacuum. The best pet vacuum will ensure that your floors are spotless in a matter of seconds. You should also research carpet cleaners if you are worried about your pet causing stains that can permanently damage your carpet. Or, alternatively, consider switching to flooring that is easier to maintain such as laminate tiles.

Bringing a new pet home is exciting! Keep the good vibes in check by preparing accordingly so you can focus on your new friend as opposed to a potential mess!

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Aug6

5 Things To Do Before Bringing A Dog Home

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5 Things To Do Before Bringing A Dog Home

A dog is man’s best friend. You’ve probably heard that statement too often, but that doesn’t make it any less true. Dogs are the perfect pets or housemates to have. Pick the right one for you and your family, and you’ll have the most loyal and lovable creature! Numerous studies highlight the several benefits of owning a dog. But if you’re thinking about owning a pet dog for the first time, there are some things you should do first. Here are a few:

Have a good supply of healthy food and treats:

While you may visit several places to get dog food and treats, you don’t need to wait to get a dog before attempting to find the right one. Dog nutrition is complex, and you must ensure that you get the right dog food and treats to help your new family member grow and stay healthy. Be sure to find a reliable and holistic pet store with different dog food types, treats, and other supplies your dog will need. And this leads to the next point:

Stock up on essential dog supplies:

In addition to food, your dog will need several other essentials to make them comfortable, healthy, and safe. These supplies include food and water bowls, a crate, a bed and sleeping area, a dog collar and leash, dog toys, stain and odor removal cleaners, and so much more.

Prepare everyone in your home for their new responsibility:

A dog is a fun addition to the family, but these little guys also have some responsibility. And if you live with others in your home, it’s only right that you prepare them for this. Share the various responsibilities of dog care amongst your family before you bring the dog home. For example, decide who will take care of its daily meals, take the dog out for walks, handle the dog’s training, etc.

Prepare a safe spot for the dog to play and sleep in:

If you’re expecting to bring home a pup, then it needs a safe space to play and sleep in. This space should be confined enough to restrict it from wandering away when not supervised. A safe and confined space also gives a pup enough time to learn its house manners and a spot to chill out comfortably.

Be sure that you’re ready for the responsibility:

If you live alone and cannot rely on anyone else to help you take care of your dog, then you need to be sure that you’re more than ready for the extra load of responsibility. If you have a very busy lifestyle, for example, you must first make enough time in your schedule to devote to your dog, from taking it out for walks to trips to the vet. Also, you might want to make sure that dogs do not trigger any allergic reactions from you.

Once you have implemented these tips, you and your family are ready to welcome your new and special addition. Life truly is great when you have a healthy and loving dog!

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Jun30

5 Tips To Reduce Stress In Your Pets

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5 Tips To Reduce Stress In Your Pets

Just like humans, it’s necessary to reduce stress in your pets. Animals can get overwhelmed by sounds and other events. With fireworks season fast approaching, you can try the following to help calm them down:

Provide Human and Animal Social Interaction:

Humans require social interaction to survive. However, many species of animals, including cats and dogs, need social interaction even though they might appear independent. For instance, your Persian cat doesn’t purr for nothing and the Aussie Cobberdog will play with you for hours on end and stay close to you all night. This is because your pet feels affection towards you and trusts you. They find solace in you, just as you find comfort in them. Conversations, walks outside, and introductions to other animals can all help to lessen animal stress.

Pet Your Animals as Much as You Can:

Petting an animal reduces stress for both of you. Both your body and your pet’s body release oxytocin when you stroke their fur or hair. The hormone oxytocin is also released when you fall in love with someone or something. Playing with a pet also raises serotonin and dopamine levels, which are both known to lower stress and anxiety. For animals with restricted senses, touch is also crucial. For example, they will use their keen sense of smell to determine that you are not a threat if you pet them gently. Most have this ability.

Stay Inside:

Animals and people share the same chemicals, but they are concentrated differently in animals. For instance, they experience the effects of cortisol and serotonin. These cause both humans and animals to experience the fight or flight response. However, external factors have the potential to seriously distress animals. Cats and dogs, for instance, are easily distracted by loud noises, bright lights, and potent odors. Although training can lessen the reactions, it is best to simply stay away from triggering areas.

Recognize that Your Pets Have Phobias:

Fears are common among animals, particularly cats and dogs. To help them adjust, you must allay their fears. When puppies leave the house, separation anxiety is a common occurrence. When they perceive a threat, animals also experience intense fear. And an animal that is scared may lash out and attack you. You can reassure a scared pet, but they might mistake it for affection and start misbehaving. However, just like humans, exposing animals to their fears helps them cope with the stress that comes with it.

Try Natural Drugs and Herbal Remedies:

Both cats and dogs experience pain and fall ill. Antibiotics and painkillers essentially have the same effect on animals as they do on people. You’ve probably administered pain medication to your dog or cat when they broke a leg or had a bad tooth. Of course, suffering from pain makes an animal distressed and it may start to get restless and distracted. Products made from cannabis can benefit animals. Treats containing CBD for dogs can aid in lowering sources of medical stress in your animals. They are also excellent for dogs with medical conditions like epilepsy, as well as for younger dogs with injuries and older dogs with joint problems.

Animals are sensitive creatures and you can reduce stress in your pets in specific ways. Utilize these tips to help your furry friends and yourself in some cases too!

Featured Image By: Pixabay

Jun10

Preparing Your Child For Getting A Pet

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Preparing Your Child For Getting A Pet

Getting a pet is a rite of passage for many children. If you grew up with pets, you might feel like it’s an essential part of childhood. And if you didn’t, perhaps you want to give your children an experience you didn’t get. But it’s important to consider what pet ownership entails before you get one. Making sure your child is ready for the responsibility of a pet is crucial, especially if you don’t want to end up being the only one to care for it. You can prepare your child for getting a pet using a few different techniques:

Start with Toys:

Before taking on the responsibility of caring for a living thing, it’s a good idea for your child to get some practice. One of the ways children often develop key skills such as empathy is through play. Getting your child some toys to care for is a good way to practice some of the things they’ll need to care for a pet. You can get them some Schleich animal figurines or some stuffed toys to role play caring for. Baby dolls can also be an option for taking care of something without the responsibility of actually having to keep something alive.

Give Them Some Other Responsibilities:

Caring for a pet is a big responsibility, so you need to know that your child is ready to take it on. They will need to show that they can manage some responsibilities of their own and keep it up long term too. When you get a pet, your child might help with things like feeding, cleaning, or exercising your pet. But before you go out and get one, they could have a few other chores to show that they’re capable. You can get them to do daily tasks such as making their bed to demonstrate that they can build consistent habits.

Borrow a Pet:

Borrowing a pet from a friend or family member can be a great way to have a practice run. You can have their pet for a day or a few days so you and your child understand the responsibility of caring for a pet. Obviously, some pets are easier to “borrow” than others. A dog will often be happier to spend time with another family than a cat will. You could offer to pet-sit while someone you know is away if you’re looking for a way to trial pet ownership.

Teach How to Behave Around a Pet:

Children need to be able to behave well around a pet to keep both them and the animal safe. Even when they have been taught how to handle an animal, they should still be supervised. It’s crucial to teach your child important things like how to recognize when a pet wants to be left alone, how to pet them gently, and how to avoid upsetting an animal with their behavior. You can do this by talking to them, demonstrating, reading books, or watching videos.

Getting a pet isn’t something you should do lightly. If your child is asking for a pet, make sure you don’t rush into it and get a lot of practice beforehand.

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Sep14

Toy Tips For Your Dog   

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Toy Tips For Your Dog   

A new toy for your dog can be exciting because of all the fun ways they interact with it. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for getting your dog what he needs out of life, but there are some general guidelines you can follow if you’re unsure where to start with choosing the right toys for him. Some examples might include rubber balls or rope tug-of-war games like Runball, which are heavy-duty enough to withstand serious chewing without tearing. Here are some tips on what types of toys you should get for your furry friend:

Don’t Buy Cheap:

Don’t buy any cheap non-breathable rubber toys when buying something for your canine pal. These products often contain chemicals such as lead which could cause serious harm if ingested by our pets. It isn’t worth risking everything, so save yourself some money and buy a nice toy that will last.

Measure Up:

If you are buying a new toy for your dog to play with, then consider their size. A small breed of dogs should not be given large toys because they could potentially choke on them. While the larger breeds may need medium-sized toys that will still provide fun but won’t swallow entirely, so it is important to take this into consideration before making any purchases.

Compatibility:

Dogs are naturally inclined to want to chew. They love it, so toys that encourage this behavior can be a great way of giving your dog an appropriate outlet for his chewing instincts. But not all dogs have the same interests when it comes to playtime. Some will tear through another toy in seconds, while others prefer more interactive activities with their owners or other pets.

Plush Toys:

Another option would be a durable plush toy. Ones that can stand up to your dog’s chewing for a few weeks, at least. Plush toys make excellent toys for younger dogs that have been separated from their mothers. In the early days, your pup might also need toilet training, so in the short term, definitely consider a scooping service from scooptroop.com. 

Balls:

For any game involving fetching or throwing, balls provide lots of entertainment value. Dogs love chasing after them too! There are many different kinds available. Like tennis balls, squeaky balls, and even glow-in-the-dark balls if you want something extra special for nighttime playtime.

Give A Variety:

Give at least three different specific toy choices for the dog to play with. This helps them get used to new things and it also makes the experience more fun because they won’t know what’s coming up next. Ensure you know which size toys are appropriate and how much supervision is needed when your dog is playing with them.

^^^ Image by Mat Coulton from Pixabay

Dogs will love any treat you give them, even if it isn’t edible. They just want something they can enjoy playing around with. But, of course, every pup is unique, so don’t expect them all to go crazy over the same toys. As long as you provide them with a good, durable toy that fits their personality or play style, then they’ll have hours of fun playing around and being rewarded for it.

Featured Image By: Katrin B. from Pixabay

Sep3

How To Prepare For A New Puppy

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How To Prepare For A New Puppy

Adding a new addition to the family is an exciting time. A new puppy is bound to please the children as well as bring joy to the adult’s life. However, it can also be a lot more time and energy-consuming for adults. Although young children can care for and play with the new pup, it will likely not be their responsibility to take them for long walks, train them not to chew the sofa, and feed them at the right hours. If you are new to having a puppy and want some guidance, here are some tips.

Make sure their breeder is reputable:

If you are not rescuing your pup, then making sure that he or she comes from a reputable breeder is key. You will want to make sure that the puppy has had a caring and secure upbringing until they come into your home. Also, having a pup from a reputable breeder will ensure that they are free of illnesses and are as happy as can be. No matter if you are looking for a reputable Havanese breeder or Dachshund, you can find out more online as well as discover the story behind their owners while you do your research.

Prepare your home:

Before your new pup enters the home, you will want to set up a dedicated sleep and eat area so that they can settle in as soon as possible. Your dog might have had a long journey and need some food when they arrive. Thus, if you have somewhere ready for them, then they can eat and feel at home quickly. An area that is secure and warm is the best. You will want them to feel safe when they first arrive at your home and it will help them settle in.

Get their vaccines:

When a pup is young, they will need vaccines before they head out into the world. No matter if you plan to explore with your dog or go hiking with your dog, they will need to be protected from germs and disease. You will be able to attain these vaccines at any vet to help best protect your pup.

Consider puppy gates:

Puppies have a tendency to roam around a new home and explore. It is within their nature to be playful and this may result in them chewing through your favorite shoes and clothes. Putting up puppy gates will help limit them to certain areas. Gates are a great way of training the pup about where they should and should not go in the house. It will also keep them safe and away from any dangerous rooms or objects.

Likewise, you should make sure that your gates and fences are secure in the garden. Your pup will love to play in the yard and if you leave them alone for five minutes and the fence isn’t secure, you could put your puppy’s safety at risk.

Follow the tips above to keep the new addition to your family protected and happy!

Featured Image By: Karen Warfel from Pixabay

Aug5

4 Things You Will Need For Your Puppy

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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.

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Jun30

3 Best Dog Gift Ideas You May Have Not Considered

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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.

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May12

4 Best Dog Breeds For Families With Kids

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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.

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Feb16

Daily Dose Of Cuteness

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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:

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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