True and Humorous Facts About Living with Cats

True and Humorous Facts About Living with Cats

Cats. We can’t get enough of them. From running our lives to owning the internet. Cats are everywhere – and I’m not complaining! Did you know that a little over 31 million people in America have a cat living with them? With this many felines cohabiting with us humans there are bound to be some adjustments, right?

Let’s look at some of the more humorous but true activities that cats engage in that entertain and sometimes confound us.  Although honestly, it could be what makes us love those little furballs all the more!

CATS ARE QUIET – HA!

I had a Great Dane that made less noise than my little Willow at 3 a.m.  How can one small kitty make that much noise running around?  Is she secretly fighting off hordes of marauding mice?  Who knows, all I can say is in the morning it is eerily quiet and things “seem” to be in place. . . . . .

THEY EXPECT YOU TO SHARE

If you thought that dogs had the market cornered on food sharing expectations think again!  Try eating while watching your favorite show and before you can get halfway to your mouth with your fork, a very firm but sly paw has grabbed said hand and leaned in for the morsel.  Pizza, tacos, fish they don’t care, they want it all!

PRIVACY IS GONE

Ahhh, taking a relaxing bubble bath, I don’t think so.  Those bubbles make the most interesting sound and THAT requires intense investigation. Maybe it’s the 2am bathroom break in a sleeping house, all is quiet until . . . .a paw sweeps under the door rattling it looking for something to grab.  Or perhaps, you absentmindedly shut your bedroom door.  Not to worry, your intrepid feline will howl pathetically to let you know that you have abandoned them in their hour of greatest need!

CATS ARE GREAT EXTERMINATORS

While this is true to a good extent, you are just as likely to find various sizes of spiders and other insects, birds, rabbits, lizards and snakes brought into your home!  Perhaps from their point of view they wanted yet another interesting play thing to add to their repertoire of “stuff I am not bored with yet.” Personally, my then 3 year old grandson came upstairs from the basement one day holding a rabbit.  We don’t have any pet rabbits!  Needless to say the little guy survived and returned to the woodlands with Bambi.

WAIT, DID YOU MEAN TO LEAVE THIS CUP, PLANT, PEN HERE?

Cute little plants in cute little planters don’t stand a chance when you have a cat living with you.  For that matter, full glasses of water, soda, wine pretty much any liquid is a goner too.  Foolish you for adding ice, that’s catnip for your cat. Thought you would write a note, better to text it cause your handwriting is going to look like a second graders! (No offense meant to any second graders reading this.)

Free Cat in Christmas Tree Stock Photo

OWNING A CAT IS GOOD FOR YOUR HEART

Walk into your living room with a bowl of popcorn and a glass of soda and from behind, your leg is wrapped up in ninja claws and fiercely kicking back feet, the aforementioned popcorn is everywhere, and then . . .POOF! they’re off and hiding somewhere else. . . . Waiting…. Or maybe after a fun night out you come into a quiet house head to the kitchen for a glass of water only to find them in the cabinet . . . Yikes!!  Forget running in the morning your heart rate probably won’t come down for a week.

Free Orange Cat Sleeping on White Bed Stock Photo

Cats are incredibly creative in the ways that they enrich our lives.  They keep us on our toes, and our attempts to stay one step ahead of them, somehow fulfills this diabolical little hole that brings them a unique joy!

Always remember, that when you’re sitting in your favorite chair and they effortlessly jump up on you rubbing your hand, kneading your lap, purring robustly, that this is what they bring into the relationship. . . . unconditional love.

PRICELESS!

Will My Pet Sitter Watch My Donkey?

Will My Pet Sitter Watch My Donkey?

Will my pet sitter watch my donkey? It might seem like a silly question but we do have a regular donkey client! Meet, Lorenzo!

While Lorenzo isn’t our typical client, he is always a joy to take care of! So if you’re wondering “Will my pet sitter watch my donkey?” the answer is absolutely yes. This World Donkey Day (May 8th) we’re celebrating Lorenzo and all donkey’s with some fun donkey facts and to bring awareness of how these tenacious creatures help us in so many ways.

Donkey Facts

Donkeys are smart, I mean really smart.

They are independent thinkers when it comes to making decisions about their safety and needs. Many think they are stubborn, when in fact they have determined that something up ahead isn’t right so they just stop and won’t budge.

It is estimated that there are 40 million donkeys world wide.

A bit less than the 58 million horses but that is still a huge number. Unfortunately the donkey doesn’t get the respect it deserves so we are going to look at these fascinating little guys and see what makes them tick.

The donkey has been used as a “beast of burden” for around 5,000 years!

They vary in size from 180 pounds up to a little over 1,000 pounds. Pound for pound they are stronger than a horse. The average donkey is 40 inches at the shoulder and they can actually run pretty fast. About 24 miles per hour!

Donkey ears are huge.

Because of their large size they are able to release the inner heat of their bodies in order to regulate a healthy body temperature. A donkey can hear up to 60 miles away! Incredible isn’t it? Those huge ears listen for predators in order to protect themselves as well as sheep or goats that they are roaming with.

Donkeys like horses prefer grass, but when that is scarce they will eat desert plants and bushes.

They use around 95% of everything they eat so their poop doesn’t make very good fertilizer.

The sound they make is called a bray.

They make this loud sound when they seek companionship, or because they are excited or they really want to eat. Take a listen!

Donkey is the general name for these cute animals.

Jack is the name for a male and Jenny or Jennet is what the female is called. Their babies are called foals much like a horse’s are.

Donkeys are fierce and can kill a coyote when threatened.

Male donkeys use both front legs when defending themselves or others while the females usually use both back feet.

Donkeys have two sets of teeth.

One set that comes in when they are very young, much like a child, and then those are replaced by the larger, more permanent teeth. Keeping up with good dental checkups are imperative to the overall health and vitality of the donkey.

Jenny’s can come into season every 18-24 days.

With these fluctuations in hormones can become a bit more fussy or standoffish and unpredictable. Many owners keep a calendar of their cycle in order to offer the Jenny a quieter paddock that provides less interactions with other animals or people. They can be pregnant from 11-14 ½ months.

Donkeys differ from horses in several ways.

One is that they don’t startle easily. They have a keen sense of curiosity and of course they have independent thought processes. They have a flatter back than a horse and smaller hooves and let’s not forget those big beautiful ears!

Training a donkey is the same as most animals.

They need to know they can trust you. Will you keep them safe from danger? Because of their intelligence they remember your kindness or lack thereof. Patience is key along with showing them calmly what you want them to do.

Donkey fur is not waterproof so they really do not like the rain.

Providing a comfortable shelter where they can stay dry and warm is important to their health.

A donkey has a much lower water requirement than its counterpart the horse.

They are more like a camel in their need for water, this is why you see so many of them in dry arid places. If the water is too dirty a donkey won’t drink it!

They are very social creatures and bond deeply with each other as well as other species that they live with.

They can remember places and people from 25 years before! Here is Lorenzo with his Wet Noses sitter. Just like a dog putting its head on your shoulder.

Not-So-Fun Facts

Sadly the abuse of animals is a part of our society. Thankfully there are plenty of determined individuals and sanctuaries that rescue these burros from a life of deprivation and neglect.

Donkeys can live from a short 12 years under harsh working conditions all the way to 40 years in captivity with good care. While they are an easy pet to keep, many people don’t consider the time element involved when bringing one of them home as a pet.

Adequate roaming and foraging will ensure that your donkey stays happy and healthy. Keeping a good dental schedule will maintain his teeth for optimum nutrition is ideal. Don’t forget they will need a farrier to trim their hooves on a regular basis.

Wet Noses Pet Sitting has trained personnel to care for your donkey when you have to be away from home.

Conclusion

In closing these little bundles of big ears and even bigger minds and voices are a delightful addition to any family wanting a smart and sweet companion! Always check your local sanctuaries and rescues when you are ready to bring them home. And think in pairs so that they have their buddy to keep them company when you are away.

All About Tapir’s: Fun Facts About Tapir’s

All About Tapir’s: Fun Facts About Tapir’s

April 27th of this year is World Tapir Day! You may be wondering what exactly is a Tapir and why do they have a day world wide dedicated to them?

Let’s start with an image of a tapir.

A gray, South American tapir standing in a river. The background is made of green leaves and tree roots.

Charles J. Sharp, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Not a fan of the South American tapir? what about this little fella?

A black and white male tapir, it is smiling and having its mouth open.

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/01/TapirAtSDZ.jpg

That handsome guy above is an adult, Malayn tapir.

So why do they have an entire day dedicated to them? Besides them being cute, the tapir is an endangered species that can live up to 25 years in the wild. The date of April 27th was set aside to raise awareness of their low numbers due to habitat encroachment, and hunting. All four species of tapir are considered threatened. With the South American tapir being the least endangered. On average there are only 3,000 – 4,500 of a species left in the wild.

The Tapir is a large herbivore that spreads seeds throughout the areas it feeds in. They are found in South America, Central America, and Southeast Asia. They inhabit grasslands, swamps, mountainous areas and jungles. According to the IUCN, this loss of habitat from deforestation, forest fires, and large scale industrial projects are contributing factors to the tapir’s decline. Poaching, disease transmission from domestic animals, water pollution, and climate change are also reasons.

Before we begin with some interesting facts, let’s have a look at the different types and where they reside.

Four Types of Tapir

Baird’s Tapir

File:Tapirus bairdii -Franklin Park Zoo, Massachusetts, USA-8a.jpg

Eric Kilby from USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

The Baird’s Tapir is the largest mammal in Central America, named for Fullerton Baird who observed these mammals in Mexico in 1843.

Their tail is stubby, and they have a flexible “proboscis” like most Tapirs. Proboscis is just a fancy name for a nose! The Baird Tapir is the largest of the three American species. They are also the largest mammals in both Central and South America!

The numbers of these herbivores is dwindling due to deforestation and other disruptions to their natural habitat.

Brazilian Tapir

File:Jeune tapir au zoo de Hambourg.jpg

Dinkum, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Brazilian Tapir also known as the lowland or South American Tapir, is the least threatened and most widespread of this species. Since 1758 they have been observed and studied. They are found in the Amazon, east of the Andes and down to Argentina and Paraguay.

The hair is darker on the body and they have a short ridge of hair that runs from the crown of their head to the back of their neck. The average weight of the Brazilian Tapir is around 500 pounds. Like their counterparts in other areas, you will find they have four hooves on the front feet and three on the back.

Malayan Tapir

File:Schabrackentapir Tapirus indicus Tiergarten-Nuernberg-1.jpg

Rufus46, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

The Malayan Tapir is unique in its coloring. The dark black front and lighter back half, is very distinctive. The Malayan’s are the biggest by far in height and weight, with the female weighing nearly as much as the males.

The numbers of these wonderful mammals has been reduced due to human encroachment and habitat loss.

Mountain Tapir

File:Tapirus pinchaque portrait.jpg

David Sifry, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Finally we have the Mountain Tapir whose fur is dark brown or black. They have the other characteristics of the above three in the long nose and hooved feet. They are the smallest of all the Tapirs, and have heavy fur on their bodies.

Cattle and hunting are causing the numbers of the Mountain Tapir to remain low. Add in the mining and it poses a significant problem for their survival.

13 Fun Facts About Tapir’s 

  • All Tapirs can live up to 25 years in the wild,
  • With their long nose that can grip the way an elephant does you would think they are related. But that isn’t so, they are closer in relationship to the rhinoceros, donkey, horse, and zebra.
  • The word Tapir is formed from the Brazilian word for “thick” referring to the animal’s hide.
  • There height is generally below 4’ at the shoulder
  • Weight varies but the largest can weigh up to 720 pounds
  • They can grab things like leaves with their snout much like an elephant
  • Their babies have spots and zebra stripes on their bodies
  • They spread seeds throughout their habitat through there poo
  • They love the water, they can swim and even walk on the bottom of lakes and rivers
  • They are very shy and easily startled
  • Momma Tapirs are fierce, they have been know to kill to protect their young
  • They have a very thick tough hide that provides them with protection from attacks and the elements
  • They whistle, some liken the sound to a car brakes screeching to a halt

Conclusion

In closing, knowing all these facts will hopefully spur you and your family to take note of the plight of these interesting mammals. Most of them are on the vulnerable or endangered list for threatened species!

Take the time to find ways through social media and donations, that you can help in maintaining the habitat and well being of such a delightful and necessary animal in our ecosystem!

Why do Cats Sleep so Much?

Why do Cats Sleep so Much?

 
Are you ever curious why cats sleep so much? Scientists have studied the sleeping habits of kitties it turns out they can sleep 12 – 20 hours a day! If there was an Olympic medal for sleeping then our house-lions would take bronze, silver and gold! In this blog, we’ll explore why felines need so much sleep and discuss how understanding their sleeping habits can help keep your cat healthy. We’ll also explain what crepuscular activity is and how it affects your cat’s sleeping patterns. Sleep is an essential part of your cat’s life, and understanding why felines need to sleep so much can help ensure your pet remains healthy and happy.

Why do cats sleep so much?

 
Cats are one of the sleepiest creatures on the planet. In fact, they spend up to 16 hours a day sleeping! This 16 hours spent asleep is the same amount as their bigger wild relatives. This can increase to 18 hours as indoor cats sleep more than outdoor kitties.  Mostly because they have fewer concerns or worries.

So, why do cats sleep so much?

 
One reason is that they are crepuscular, which means that they are most active during dawn and dusk. To conserve energy during the rest of the day, cats sleep for long periods. Additionally, sleep is important for felines as it helps them to recharge their batteries, maintain their body temperature, and keep their immune systems in top condition. While asleep, cats go through various stages of sleep, including deep sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. These stages are crucial for maintaining cognitive function and overall well-being. So, the next time you see your cat dozing off, remember that they are following their natural sleep patterns while maintaining their health and vitality.

What does crepuscular mean?

 
Here is a fun word: crepuscular! Crepuscular is an adjective used to describe animals that are most active during the hours of dawn and dusk. This term is particularly associated with cats, as they are crepuscular animals by nature.
 
One reason why cats sleep so much is because their crepuscular nature means that they have bursts of energy during these hours, and they need rest between to fuel their activity. Another reason why cats need to sleep for long periods of time is because their sleep is crucial for their health and well-being. During sleep, cats are able to rest and recharge, and their body can carry out important functions such as cell repair and growth.
 
By getting enough sleep, cats are able to maintain their energy levels, keep their immune system strong, and stay healthy

What is the importance of sleep for cats?

 
Felines love to sleep, and they do so for good reasons. While it may seem like they are lazy creatures, they are, in fact, designed for restful sleep. This is because they are crepuscular animals, meaning they are most active during the twilight hours of the day. So, they need to rest and conserve their energy during the other parts of the day. Also, cats need more sleep than humans because their sleep cycle is different. They experience more light sleep and have shorter deep sleep stages, which results in them needing to sleep for a longer period of time to feel rested. Furthermore, sleep is essential for kitties to maintain good health as this is the time that their body repairs and regenerates tissues, builds bone and muscle, and strengthens their immune system. Thus, if a cat is not getting enough sleep, it can lead to several health issues. To ensure that your cat gets the rest they need, provide them with a warm and comfortable place to sleep, away from any distractions that could disrupt their rest.
 
Our kitties are also carnivores, meat eaters, and generally they sleep more than herbivores Wild cats are meat eaters so they sleep to recover energy to hunt again and because our cats behavior mirrors that of their wild ancestors they sleep a lot too. Even though the farthest any of my cats have ever traveled to get food is from the top of the couch to the counter where I have placed their bowl!

What are the benefits of sleep for cats?

 
Kitties sleep for long periods of time, with some cats sleeping up to 20 hours a day. But why do cats sleep so much, and how does it benefit them? The answer lies in their biology. Cats are crepuscular animals, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk. Sleeping for long periods of time during the day allows them to conserve energy for their peak activity times. Additionally, our house-panthers are predators, and their sleep patterns reflect their hunting habits. They often sleep for short periods of time throughout the day and night to recharge their energy and be ready for quick bursts of activity to catch prey. Sleep is also important for a cats’ health and well-being. During sleep, cats are able to repair and regenerate their bodies and minds, improving their immunity, cognitive function, and health. As always, it’s important to make sure your kitty has a comfortable and safe place to sleep, and that they are getting enough sleep for their age and activity level.

Is my cat sleeping too much?

 
If they sleep excessively and lose interest in playtime and meals, it could be a sign of illness or depression. Ruling out medical reasons and the age of your cat you need not worry that Felix is getting too much sleep. The same is true if you house-jaguar is sleeping too little. As long as they are acting their usual selves there is typically no reason for concern.
 
Let’s face it, most of us cat parents kind of admire the way our cats look at life.  It is a proven fact that cats improve our health by reducing stress. As long as your feline companion is getting enough exercise and a balanced diet, there is no need to worry about their napping habits.
 
Still concerned about your kitties napping habits? It may be time for a trip to the vet.

Conclusion

 
Although kitties may sleep for up to 16 hours a day, this is perfectly normal behavior for them. While cats are known for being independent, they rely on sleep for their physical and mental well-being. During their periods of rest, cats are able to recharge their energy levels, improve their cognitive function, and enhance their immune system. It’s also worth noting that, as crepuscular animals, felines have evolved to be most active during dusk and dawn, making it necessary for them to sleep at other times of the day.
 
Take the time today to appreciate your cat’s ability to sleep.  There is nothing quite like giving a light ear rub to a slumbering cat, that is then met by a soft mew of your perfectly wonderful feline.   Bliss unmatched!

Checklist Before Bringing a New Puppy Home

Checklist Before Bringing a New Puppy Home

Since March 23rd is National Puppy Day,  here is a simple checklist to help you navigate bringing your puppy home!

1. Commitment

You are making a major commitment when getting a puppy. Puppies grow up, and most live 10-15 years. It’s important to consider the financial, emotional and physical responsibilities involved with bringing this new family member home.

2. Accidents

Puppies piddle . . . A LOT so be sure to invest in quality puppy pads to cover the area where you will be keeping your little furry friend. Don’t forget to get a quality scooper for the backyard as well. If you’re not prepared for a puppy to have an accident on your new carpet or nice hardwood then a puppy may not be right at this time.

3. Licenses

You’ll need to license your puppy within your town or county, just know that most wait until the puppy has received their rabies vaccination. The price varies if the dog is neutered/spayed or not. Most municipalities require a yearly fee after that.

Pet licenses are required in all areas of Larimer County. Yearly renewal may be needed depending on the type of animal and where you live. You can find more information specific to Larmier County and the areas Wet Noses Pet Sitting services (Berthoud & Windosr) on the Larimer Humane Society website.

4. Collars & Harness

Collars are another expense you’ll have, several in fact. You will need to fit new collars correctly until your puppy is fully grown. Now is also the time to decide on a harness and/or a gentle leader head halter remembering to size them as they grow.  Complete everything with a sturdy leash.

We do not recommend using retractable leashes. These types of leashes are often thinner, which means they can snap. It also does not help reinforce how far your dog is allowed to stray from you when walking as the distance changes.

Recommended harnesses:

Ruffwear

Julius K9

Make sure to also get tags made for your puppy! We recommend including your pets name, your name, and a contact number. Most people will not bring your dog to you. Plus if your dog is large, people will know that your large dog is not at home. While rare, this can pose a safety risk.

5. Crate Training

Crates are an excellent way to help your puppy feel safe when you are out of the home.

Fitting your puppy with the correct size crate is paramount. Your new puppy will need room to stand and be able to turn around and lie down comfortably. Also consider the adult size your puppy will be growing into when purchasing your crate. If you’re worried about the crate being too big, most crates come with dividers to make it smaller.

I personally have an extra-large Midwest Pet Product crate for my cat when he was recovering from surgery. It might seem quite silly to get such a large crate for such a small puppy (or cat!) but once you add in bedding, toys, and any other comfort items – plus a growing puppy, that extra-large crate will start to seem smaller than it used to be.

6. Puppy Gate

You’ll want to invest in a sturdy puppy gate to contain your puppy in a particular room or area until all their training is done. Limiting the puppies roaming area will aid in their training. Be sure to find an area that you can dedicate to your puppy throughout the next few months/years.

7. Water & Food Bowls

Water and food bowls should be heavy enough that a puppy cannot tip them over. Sturdy ceramic or solid stainless steel are ideal as they non-porous and less susceptible to bacteria growth compared to plastic.

Be sure to have another water bowl out in the yard for easy access. Make sure to change this bowl daily, or multiple times per day. Standing water is ideal for mosquitos to breed in. Water bowls outside also become dirtier quicker than bowls inside.

8. Toys, Toys, and More Toys

Puppy toys are a great way to use up all that energy, but be sure that they are appropriate for the age of your puppy. Puppies, like toddlers, put everything in their mouth! Make sure that the toys are safe and are made specifically for puppies. Nina Ottosson has some puppy-friendly puzzle toys we recommend. These toys can be purchased at many retailers.

9. Bedding

Providing a soft bed in your puppies crate/kennel is important to support growing bones and ligaments.  Also having another bed in a safe, quiet place in your living room is a great idea when you have them out with you on their supervised visits.

10. Veterinary Care

Finding a veterinarian that you feel comfortable with and trust is vitally important. This relationship will continue throughout the puppies life through yearly exams and vaccinations. If you do not adopt your puppy from a shelter, you will need a veterinarian to microchip your pet. Microchips might seem excessive if your pet already has an ID tag but collars can fall off and tags can get worn away.

11. Dog Training

Consider a dog trainer. Most dogs are surrendered between the ages of 5 months and 3 years. Investing in a qualified trainer who has the knowledge to teach you and your puppy how what is expected of him, can set you both up for success.

12. Pet Sitter

Finally, think about how much time your puppy will be home alone. Puppies need a lot of socialization as well as extra feeding and potty time. Finding a bonded qualified pet sitter is an optimal solution to this issue. Wet Noses Pet Sitting have trained and bonded pet sitters certified in pet CPR ready to help you with your new puppy!

 

Thinking through this checklist is a great start to providing your puppy with everything they need. Supplying well timed visits and walks with a pet sitter will ensure that he or she is mentally and physically fulfilled.  The end result is a happier, more well adjusted puppy that will bring you and your family endless joy and happiness for many years to come!

St. Patrick’s Day Dog-Friendly Smoothie

St. Patrick’s Day Dog-Friendly Smoothie

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with this green, dog-friendly smoothie. You can even try some!

Are carrots good for dogs?

Yes! Carrots are a safe and healthy treat for puppies, but they should only be eaten in small pieces to avoid becoming sick. Carrots are a great treat, raw or cooked for your dog. And like any food, moderation is key.

Carrots are a great way to promote eye health in both humans and dogs. They’re also crunchy, which is perfect for satisfying a dog’s instinctual need to chew. In addition, carrots offer your pet many benefits including vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.”

  • Vitamin A is important for healthy eyes and skin.
  • Vitamin K is important for healthy blood clotting.
  • Potassium is a mineral that is essential for the body’s functioning.
  • B6 is a vitamin that’s important for the body’s normal functioning.
  • Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A and can be found in many foods.
  • Calcium is an important mineral that helps to form bones and teeth.
  • Iron helps promote healthy blood.
  • High in fiber, this cereal is perfect for people who want to stay full throughout the day.

Are cucumbers safe for dogs to eat?

Cucumbers are a excellent source of water, with a 96% water content. They’re also low in calories and sugar, providing the nutritious minerals your dog won’t receive as well from eating small slices of cucumber: vitamins A and C as well as potassium.

Rephrase

  • Vitamin B is essential for healthy bones and muscles.
  • Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin that helps the body absorb other nutrients and supports cell growth.
  • Vitamin K is essential for keeping the blood clean and healthy.
  • Potassium is an important mineral that helps to regulate the body’s fluid balance.
  • Magnesium is an important mineral that is essential for healthy bones and muscles.

Can dogs eat spinach?

Spinach is a healthy vegetable that can be fed to dogs in small portions. However, because it’s a “superfood,” this means that spinach contains numerous vitamins, minerals, and other health benefits. Among these are:

  • Vitamins are essential for the health of both humans and animals.
  • Iron.
  • Antioxidants play an important role in protecting cells from damage and helping to keep the body healthy.
  • Beta-carotene is a nutrient that helps to protect the body from damaging free radicals.
  • Roughage, which is composed of various types of plants and vegetables, helps to stimulate the digestive system.

You should avoid giving your dog canned spinach as canned spinach contains a high level of salt.

St. Patrick’s Day Dog-Friendly Smoothie

Ingredients:

  • 2–3 cups spinach
  • 1 carrot
  • 1 cucumber
  • 1/2–3/4 tsp fresh ginger
  • 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley
  • 1 Tbsp flaxseeds

Directions:

  1. Chop carrot, cucumber, and ginger.
  2. Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
  3. Pour into your pup’s bowl, and garnish with a little parsley and flax seed.

Try the recipe? Let us know your dogs thoughts in the comments below!

5 Holi Safety Tips for Pets

5 Holi Safety Tips for Pets

Holi is a Hindu festival that is also known as the Festival of Color. One of the traditional activities of Holi is throwing colored powder. Unfortunately, not all of this powder is pet safe. While it is best to leave your pet at home if you plan on going out to celebrate Holi sometimes the festivities come to us. Here are a 5 Holi safety tips for pets from the pet experts at Wet Noses Pet Sitting.

Loud noises can be overwhelming.


Loud noises and so many people outside can get very overwhelming for pets. Pets should have at least one person they are familiar with keep them company.

 

 

 

Keep pets away from color .


Keep your pet away from the colors and chemicals used in coloring products. If you want your pet to be colorful for Holi, use pet safe dyes. If you want to take them for a walk during this festival then do it early in the morning before many people are out celebrating.

 

 

 

 

Skincare for pets .


If your pet does get non-pet safe color on them, make sure to wash it off immediately using a pet safe shampoo. If your pet gets any in their eyes, use water to wash their eyes out.

 

 

 

 

Do not feed pets sweet or fried treats .


Sugar, spices, oils, and other ingredients are not safe for pets to consume. If you want your pet to participate in the celebrations, make or buy Holi treats that are safe for pets.

 

 

 

 

Watch your pets .


Keep an eye on your pet for any unusual behaviors that could be an indication of anxiety. Have a safe space for your pets to retreat to with company over and from all of the commotion outside.

 

 

 

 

We hope you and your pets have fun celebrating Holi!

6 Easter Safety Tips for Pets

6 Easter Safety Tips for Pets

Easter is a fun time for humans of all ages and for pets! Keep these 6 Easter safety tips for pets in mind to make sure your pets are safe this Easter.

Keep lilies plants away from pets.


Lilies are known to be toxic to pets, especially cats. Even getting a little pollen on their fur required immediate medical attention. It’s best to not bring lilies into your home to avoid any accidental contact.

 

 

 

No chocolate for pets.


Chocolate is a tasty treat for humans but it is not good for pets. Keep all chocolate out of your pets reach and do not let them out in the yard until you have picked up any leftover eggs.

 

 

 

 

Pick up any leftover eggs from an egg hunt.


Small plastic eggs can be a choking hazard as well as their contents. Before you let your pet outside do a double check of your yard to make sure there were no missed eggs.

 

 

 

 

Keep trash cans secure.


Pets can be mischievous. Make sure your trash cans are secure so they don’t get into something they shouldn’t. Broken plastic eggs, basket filler, and discarded candy can all be dangerous for your pets to ingest.

 

 

 

 

Keep pets in a separate room.


Sometimes the best thing to do is keep your pets locked in their own room, away from the noise and tempting treats. Cats especially may prefer a quiet space to hide.

 

 

 

 

Dressing up your pets? Read their body language.


Some pets like being dressed up while others don’t. Watch your pets body language when attempting to put a festive costume on them. If you are dying your pets fur make sure to use a pet safe dye. Contact your local groomer for recommendations.

We hope you have a safe and fun Easter with your pets! Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments below.

Catnip Tea Recipe (For Cats!)

Catnip Tea Recipe (For Cats!)

Many people are familiar with catnip but it’s often given to cats in a dry, spray, or fresh form. But did you know that you can also brew it into tea? Right now, catnip tea is all the rage within the cat owner community. Keep reading below for the full catnip tea recipe.

What is catnip?

Catnip is a type of herb belonging to the mint family. It attracts cats by causing them to feel pleasure and excitement. It is a plant that can be easily grown in North America, and its leaves are feather-like and green with purple flowers. Catnip is a type of plant that has been used for tea, as well as in some natural bug repellents. The flowers are also said to help with respiratory issues such as coughs.

Is catnip safe for cats?

Rephrase Cats can consume catnip, which may help to improve their digestive system.

Rephrase The plant genus Nepeta is known for its anti-diarrheal properties. This means that it’s important to keep cats away from large amounts of plants in this category, as over consumption can cause digestive problems.

Can cats overdose on catnip?

Cats may experience health problems after consuming too much catnip. These issues can include vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, or difficulty walking. Use a small amount at first and talk to your veterinarian about the right dose for your pet’s individual needs.

Catnip is more potent when fresh, so you won’t need as much of it. In addition, avoid using highly concentrated oils because they can be very powerful.

Catnip Tea Recipe (For Cats!)

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Place dried catnip in tea steeper
  2. Pour boiling water over catnip
  3. Let steep for 3-5 minutes
  4. Drain into vessel and chill or drain over ice and serve

Leftover tea can be stored for up to 5 days.

Let us know how your kitty liked this catnip tea in the comments!

St. Patrick’s Day Costumes for Pets 2023

St. Patrick’s Day Costumes for Pets 2023

If you’re looking for an excuse to dress up your pet St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner. From guinea pigs to great danes we’ve compiled some of our favorite St. Patrick’s Day costumes for pets.

Cats & Dogs

Wagatude Green Bearded Glitter Belt Dog Hat

Wagatude Green Bearded Glitter Belt Dog Hat, Medium/Large slide 1 of 1

Frisco Let’s Get Shamrocked Dog & Cat T-Shirt

Frisco Let's Get Shamrocked Dog & Cat T-Shirt, Small slide 1 of 6

Frisco Kiss Me I’m Lucky Dog & Cat T-Shirt

Frisco Kiss Me I'm Lucky Dog & Cat T-Shirt, Green, X-Small slide 1 of 6

St. Patrick’s Day Riding Leprechaun

JOTFA St. Patrick’s Day Dog Bandanas

Guinea Pigs

Frisco Guinea Pig St. Patrick’s Day Costume, Green

Frisco Guinea Pig St. Patrick's Day Costume, Green slide 1 of 5

4 Pack St. Patricks Day Small Animal Hats

 

Bearded Dragons

Vehomy 4Pcs Saint Patrick’s Day Bearded Dragon Hats & Lizard Bandanas

Rabbits

Vehomy Small Pet St Patrick’s Day Outfit

CooShou Small Animal Patrick’s Day Hats and Bandanas 4 Pcs

Pet Safe Dyes

Warren London Critter Color Central Park Green Temporary Fur Coloring for Dogs

Critter Color - Temporary Pet Fur Coloring/Dog Dye Spa Product Warren London Alexa's Pink Kiss

OPAWZ – Pet Hair Dye

Semi-Permanent Dye - Kelly Green (SM03)