Tag Archive for: dog safety

Tips for Traveling with Your Dog or Cat

Tips for Traveling with Your Dog or Cat

Our summer is right around the corner, and that means traveling for weekend fun or perhaps a longer camping trip. Many of us love exploring our great country from the comfort of our cars, SUVs, campers, or trucks.

Bringing our pets along on these excursions is something many people enjoy. For others, their service pets accompany them everywhere they go, and their pet’s comfort is just as important as their own.

In this article, we will explore safety issues, tips, and tricks that will help even the seasoned traveler fully enjoy their on-the-road experience with their dog or cat by their side!

Microchipping

If your pet isn’t already microchipped, getting them chipped is a crucial step in ensuring their safe return if they were to get lost. Collars and leashes can easily be lost. Having your pet microchipped is also a way to prevent somebody claiming your pet as a stray. Part of a standard veterinarian examination, especially for new pets, includes a microchip scan to make sure the information matches up with what is on file. If somebody takes your pet to the vet, they should see that this information does not match up and call you to verify. Either to confirm that ownership was transferred or that yes, you pet is indeed lost and you would like them returned to you.

Even if you pet is microchipped, many lost pets who are found are never reunited due to outdated contact information. Verify that your dog or cat has a chip, and ensure your contact information is up to date before making travel arrangements. Even better, make sure you put a backup number that is unlikely to change to a place that could reach you, such as your employer.

Vaccinations

Update your pet’s vaccinations to ensure their maximum protection and well-being while traveling. If they have lapsed check with your veterinarian and get them updated as soon as possible in order to ensure the maximum effectiveness for your pet. While you’re at the vet, it’s a great idea to talk to them about parasite prevention.

Parasite Prevention

Keep your pets updated on flea, tick, heartworm, and other parasitic medications. Consult with your veterinarian for the best approach and consider necessary blood tests before administering medications.

Plant Toxicity

There may be new flowers, bushes and plants that your cat or dog may not be familiar with, so keep a close eye on them to avoid the unpleasant effects that would result in them ingesting any one of the following. Azaleas, mushrooms, and milkweed are toxic to dogs and lilies are toxic for cats. Remember to keep any and all of your medications whether prescribed or over the counter, locked away where your pet is not able to access them.

Emergency Preparedness

Carry all your pet’s important documents, medications, and contact information for the Pet Poison Helpline, local veterinarians, and emergency hospitals in the area(s) you will be traveling to.

Familiar Food

Bring your dog or cat’s usual food to avoid digestive issues on the road and don’t forget the treats. If your pet tends to have an upset stomach on the road, like my cat, skipping meal time before hitting the road might be your best pet. You can also talk to your veterinarian about medications or supplements you can give your pet with their food to help ease any carsickness.

Resting Crate

Having a crate where your pet can rest while in motion provides safety for both of you. Your pet can relax in their bed and blankets, minimizing distractions while you drive and reducing the risk of injury in sudden stops. Help them to enjoy the road as much as you do by frequently stopping and giving them ample “sniffing” time (for dogs) to exercise their minds as well as their body. The more adventurous and inquisitive cat will enjoy these forays into the great outdoors as well; just be sure to have a secure harness and leash before letting them out.

Travel Harness & Backpacks

Consider a travel harness that connects to the child seat anchors, allowing your pet to sit or lie down comfortably outside of a crate.

Many people have pet travel backpacks that allow them to ride safely but still take in the sites.  For cats here are the 5 best travel backpacks for 2023 and don’t forget your dog backpacks; they come in varying sizes, colors, and patterns.

These above-mentioned packs for dogs or cats are really smart if you are hiking a long way from your camp, trailer or SUV. If your dog sprains his ankle, foot or leg you have a great way to get them back to camp without adding to their injury. A smart move for anyone thinking of getting out into the wide open spaces of our land.

Dog-Friendly Beaches & Hotels

Research and discover dog-friendly beaches where you can enjoy the surf with your furry friend. Engage in activities like frisbee chasing, surfing, or playing in the water for a fun-filled travel experience with your dog. While you’re researching beaches, researching pet-friendly hotels isn’t such a bad idea either. Check out this site for pet hotel friendliness!  Be sure to get your reservations plenty early enough so that you know that you and your pet will have a comfy place to bed down for the night.

Traveling with Cats

Introduce your cat to various environments and situations from a young age to help them become more comfortable with outdoor experiences. Exposing them to various environments and situations will help them to form a more well rounded opinion of the outdoors.

Another thing to remember when traveling with cats is cats sleep a lot! So entertaining them is pretty easy on the road. They are most active in the early morning and early evening hours so coordinate your travel times around then. Most travelers attest to the ease of disposable litter boxes. Traveling with pets adds to the overall “baggage” but this is a great way to cut the time and mess of the home litter box setup.

Conclusion

Remember to prioritize your pet’s health, personality, and breed when deciding to take them on vacation. If traveling isn’t suitable for your pet, leaving them at home under the care of a bonded, insured, and trained pet sitting professional, such as Wet Noses Pet Sitting, is an excellent option.

Traveling with your pet can strengthen the bond between you both. Consider their comfort and well-being in new environments and enjoy the unforgettable moments you will share together. Don’t forget to capture precious vacation photos and videos with your pet!

Now is the time to embark on a fun and sunny adventure with your furry companion. Happy travels!

Wet Noses Pet Sitting is here to cater to your pet’s needs, whether it’s a dog, cat, farm animal, exotic pet, or reptile. Our trained professionals are available to care for pets requiring medication or recovering from surgery, offering convenient day visits or overnight stays for older or anxious pets. You can feel confident leaving your pet at home in familiar surroundings with our reliable services.

What Fruits Are Safe For Your Dog To Eat_Header

What Fruits Are Safe For Your Dog To Eat

What Fruits Are Safe For Your Dog To Eat_Header

What Fruits Are Safe For Your Dog To Eat

Before you give Fido some of that banana you’re eating ask yourself: what fruits are safe for your dog to eat. We’ve compiled a list of some of the fruit that your dog is allowed to have, but we can’t promise they’ll like all of them.

Rows of fresh fruit in eco-friendly boxed

Rows Of Fresh Fruit In Eco-friendly Boxed by Anna Ivanova from NounProject.com

Why is fruit good for dogs?

Fruit typically contains two things across the board: fiber and low in calories. Both of these are great for your dogs health. Not to mention the numerous vitamins and minerals you’ll find in fruit. It also makes the perfect training treat and it’s something you might already have around the house.

What fruits can my dog have?

This list is not comprehensive and you should consult a veterinarian before giving your dog anything that you’re unsure of.

Apples

Apples provide an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as being a good source of fiber. Make sure to remove the seeds and core first before serving them to your dog. Yes, you can keep the peel on.

Blueberries

High in antioxidants, blueberries also bring fiber to the table as well. Small fruits like blueberries make for great training treats. If you’re worried about them getting too mushy consider popping them in the freezer for a few minutes to harden them up.

Bananas

Bananas a great in moderation as they are a low-calorie treat. Bananas are high in vitamins C and B6 as well as potassium. Why the moderation? Bananas are high in sugar so they should only be used as a treat, not as a core part of your dogs diet. Unripe bananas will also bring more fiber due to their resistant starches than a ripe banana[1].

Cantaloupe

As with bananas cantaloupe should be given in moderation. While packed with vitamins, minerals, water, and fiber, cantaloupe is also high in sugar.

Cranberries

So far everything we’ve listed your dog will probably like. Cranberries are known for their tartness and may not be a hit with your dog. If you want the health benefits of cranberries and are not having any luck with getting your pup to eat fresh or dried cranberries, consider cranberry supplements.

Mango

Mango is an excellent snack for your dog. When the pit is removed mango provides a great source of vitamins: A, B6, C, and E. On this list, mango is one of the fruits higher in sugar and should only be given occasionally. If you find mango is a bit too mushy you can freeze slices or puree it. Pour the pureed mango into an ice cube mold and you’ll have a fun, frozen, snack for your pup.

Oranges

Peeled oranges are perfectly okay for your dog to eat. Oranges add vitamin C, potassium, and fiber to your dogs diet. But don’t worry if your dog does not like oranges. The citrus smell turns many dogs off.

Peaches

As with all pitted fruits we have discussed make sure to remove the pit. Peaches are a source of vitamin A and fiber. You can peel the skin off of a peach if you’d like but it’s not necessary before giving to your dog.

Pears

Pears can have the same issue as mangoes as they can be too soft. Look for a firmer pear when buying them or let them sit in the freezer for a few minutes before giving a slice to your dog. Make sure the pit and seeds are removed.

Pineapple

Pineapple is perfectly fine for your dog to eat. Make sure you peel your pineapple first. Pineapple is packed with vitamins C & B6 as well as iron and magnesium. Pineapple can be very sweet and should only be given in moderation.

Raspberries

Raspberries contain small amounts of xylitol[2]. As such, your dogs raspberry consumption should be limited. But this does not mean that a single raspberry requires a vet trip. Raspberries are high in fiber, vitamins C, K, and B-Complex, potassium, manganese, and copper. If you’re worried about not being able to moderate how many raspberries to give to your dog it’s best to avoid them all together.

Strawberries

Strawberries are another alternative to blueberries or raspberries as training treats. One cup of strawberries is around 53 calories[3]. Cut these in half or quarters and place them in the freezer and voilà! You now have a training treat that contains vitamin C & K, potassium, and phosphorous. Alternatively, you can easily find no sugar added freeze dried strawberries at the grocery store.

Watermelon

Before giving your dog watermelon, make sure the seeds and rind are removed first. Watermelon contains vitamins A, B6, and C along with potassium. Watermelon is mostly made up of water which makes it an excellent choice if you’re looking to add more hydration to your dogs diet.

What Fruits are Safe For Your Dog to Eat Infographic

Alternatives to Fresh

If it’s out of season or you’re finding a fruit hard to find there are some alternatives out there. Do consider buying no sugar added freeze-dried versions. Apples, bananas, mangoes, and strawberries all have relatively easy to find freeze-dried options. Don’t buy canned fruit. These fruits often are in high sugar content syrup. As some fruits, such as pineapple, are already high in sugar; adding additional sugar is not the best option.

Let us know what your dogs favorite fruit is @WetNosesPetSitting. We’d love to hear the creative ways you come up with to add fruit to your dogs diet.

How to Choose the Right Toys for Your Dog Header

How to Choose the Right Toys for Your Dog

How to Choose the Right Toys for Your Dog Header

How to Choose the Right Toys for Your Dog

With the holidays approaching it’s important to choose the right toys for your dog when picking out presents. This information applies year-round (since do we really need a specific reason to buy our dogs toys?) but if a family member or friend buys your dog a toy it’s good to know if that toy is right for your dog or if you should keep it out of their toy bin.

Watch the video below to learn more or continue reading.

Most importantly, dog toys should be safe, fun, and durable.

Toys to Avoid

Thankfully most toys that are made for dogs don’t include these elements but some slip through the cracks.

  • Sharp
  • Pointy
  • Is a string – rubber bands, ribbons, etc.
  • Kids toys that contain small parts
  • Pantyhose
  • Anything that could be easily swallowed and digested

If you find your dog playing with any of these things, take them away immediately. If you suspect your dog has ingested the toy call your veterinarian immediately. Toys that are sharp, string and string-like, and choking hazards can all be fatal even if not apparent right away. Intestinal blockages typically require surgery and sharp objects can tear the esophagus, stomach, or digestive track.

Now, onto picking the right toy for your dog!

Size

Toys should be just big enough for your dog to carry, not small enough for them to swallow. A good rule of thumb is if it is smaller than their snout/muzzle – the protruding portion of an animal’s face, consisting of its nose, mouth, and jaw length[1] – they can potentially swallow it.

Dog in blue shirt running on sand

Dog In Blue Shirt Running On Sand by Scopio from NounProject.com

Play-style

How rough is your dog with their toys? Are they gentle and carry them around like a baby doll or do they prefer to destroy them before they even hit the ground? If your dog is more gentle you may be able to get away with giving them soft toys with squeakers such as Fluff n Tuff that aren’t marketed as extremely durable. For dogs that like to be rough, toys like KONG or Tuffy Dog Toys may be a better option as they are made for rough play. By no means are those the only dog toy brands out there. Shop around to find ones that suit your dogs play-style and preferred material/texture.

Is it edible?

This might be a weird one but we feel it’s important to touch on it. Some pet owners consider various chews to be toys. While not technically a toy if you or someone else buys your dog a chew the same rule of size and play-style apply.

If your dog is given something like a bully stick, it is important to take it away from them once it becomes the same length as their snout/muzzle or smaller. If your dog is really rough and doesn’t like to take their time on chews, it’s important to take it away from them before they finish the whole thing and get a belly ache.

With the holiday season many pet stores still promote and sell rawhide. Rawhide can be dangerous. If you dog swallows a large enough piece it can cause an obstruction which may require surgery, just as if they ate some string. Rawhide should always be given with supervision, if at all. If you are considering purchasing rawhide for a friends pet or your own, consider a safer and more easily digestible alternative such a No-Hide.

The same rules apple. Smaller than the snout/muzzle – throw it out. Monitor consumption to avoid belly aches.

Material

The material you choose will depend on your dogs play-style. You know your dog best.

For high energy dogs, toys that are made of hard rubber, KONG or RuffDawg, toys that are marketed for active/rough on toys dogs. Tug toys, such as the Super Tug are great when you are engaging in supervised play with your dog. Rope toys can easily be shredded and swallow bits of the rope, especially if left unsupervised. Finding tug toys made out of hard rubber is a bit of a challenge but there are toys out there. Tennis balls can be a great toy. If your dog likes to eat the outsides of them then this material may not be the ideal one for your dog.

For lower energy dogs, soft and plush toys may be ideal for them. There are countless brands of soft toys. Be sure to take a look at the toy aisle next time you’re at the pet store. If you are worried about stuffing there are brands out there that make stuffing free toys such as Outward Hound. Even if your dog is low energy they may still like to play with toys that are designed for high energy dogs.

Bernese dog with ring toy in mouth

Bernese Dog With Ring In Mouth by Avel Shah from NounProject.com

Mental Stimulation

For high energy dogs or dogs that may be left alone part of the day, mental stimulation may be an important factor for you. Tennis balls are fun, but they don’t provide much enrichment and stimulation. Those pet parents looking for mentally stimulating toys should check out our blog on interactive puzzle games for cats and dogs.

Rotate Dog Toys

Okay this is a bit of cheating but it works! Why bother buying more toys when you already have the right toys for your dog? If your dog is getting tired of the same toys consider swapping them out for some other ones you have. Often times, pet owners keep all of their pets toys out at once. You should only keep around 4-5 toys out at a time and rotate between sets frequently. This keeps the novelty of the toys and keeps your dog excited. An added bonus is toys won’t wear out as fast and you save money by not having to buy new toys constantly.

You picked out a toy. Now what?

Test it out! Whenever you are giving your dog a new toy make sure to supervise them. This supervision ensures you know how your dog interacts with that toy.

Congratulations!

You have successfully picked out the right toys for your dog! It’s a bit of a challenge, we know, but the reward is worth it. Nothing beats watching a happy dog play.

Let us know what your dogs favorite toy is in the comments or @WetNosesPetSitting

Reasons To Microchip Your Pets

Reasons To Microchip Your Pets

If you’ve adopted your pet in the past few years, your pet may already have been microchipped. If you’ve moved, this is your reminder to make to update your pets microchip information. But what if your pet isn’t microchipped? Is it really worth it? Here’s 5 reasons to get your pet microchipped.

  1. Improved chances of being reunited: If your dog is microchipped you have a chance of over 52% of being reunited. For cats, that number is 38%.
  2. It’s quick: Microchipping takes less than a minute. This video is a little under 4 minutes by Dr. Mohlman does a great job explaining the procedure. It took less than 30 seconds to inset the microchip.
  3. It’s inexpensive: Many people think microchipping is expensive but the average cost is around $45. Some areas will have local, free microchipping events as well so keep an eye out for those.
  4. Provides proof of ownership if your pet is stolen: Sadly, this is an issue some pet parents will have to face. Having up-to-date information on your pets microchip can ensure that you get your pet back if somebody else has stolen your pet and attempts to claim him or her as theirs.
  5. Peace of mind: If your pet gets lose and looses their collar, they still have a form of identification on them.

5 Reasons to Microchip Your Pet

Did you get your pet microchipped? Let us know in the comments about your experience.

Fireworks Pet Safety Tips Header

Fireworks Pet Safety Tips

Fireworks Pet Safety Tips Header

Pet Fireworks Safety Tips

Holidays like the 4th of July, New Year, and others are great fun with lots of fireworks but are maybe not as fun for our pets. If you want to keep your dogs and cats happy and healthy, here are all your Fireworks Pet Safety Tips!

1. Fireworks are fun for us, but are scary for pets!

We might love the pretty lights but for many dogs and cats, fireworks can feel like the end of the world. If you keep that in mind it can make it easier to plan for your pets.

2. Make sure all tags and microchips are up-to-date.

If you have moved recently then your information might be out of date. Making sure it is all current will be a life-saver if one of your pets gets out.

3. Have a current picture of your pets, just in case.

If your pet is picked up by animal control you might need to prove ownership. Or if you need to make flyers you will need a current, clear picture ready to go.

4. Set up a safe and quiet place at home.

If your pet does get nervous with the loud noises, it helps to have a quiet area for them to rest. This is also helpful during any festivities like parties and barbecues.

5. Make sure all windows and doors are closed.

If your dog or cat were to get really nervous, jumping out an open window can look like an easy escape. Even screens might not stop a determined pet, so be safe and keep them securely latched.

6. Do not let dogs out loose in the yard.

Your dog may never have shown an interest in jumping a fence before, but scary noises can push a dog to new limits. I have even heard of dogs that jumped the fence while their person was in the yard with them, so be overly cautious.

7. Try calming items like music and ThunderShirts.

For pets that are extra nervous, you can try all sorts of calming items. Loud music that drowns out the sound of the fireworks may help and so may calming music for dogs. So can ThunderShirts, essential oils, and CBD oil (check with experts on these first as some can be toxic to pets).

Fireworks Pet Safety Tips Infographic

 

Be safe and have fun this holiday!

Why Does My Dog Not Like New Year’s Eve?

If you are asking yourself this question, then you’ve probably had a traumatizing experience with Fido while watching the Times Square ball drop at midnight. If you’re like most people, New Year’s Eve is a night filled with lots of family, friends, fun, and noise. LOTS of noise. Though the noise may not bother you, your dog’s hearing is four times better than yours. Their natural instinct is to RUN.

One minute you’re cuddling with Fido and the next he is nowhere to be found. He most likely ran outside or hid under the bed, searching for a secure place to hide. While you’re frantically running around looking for your precious pooch, you get a knock on the door from your neighbor saying they found him wandering in their front yard. You think to yourself, “I’m so lucky I found you”.

If you can relate to this scenario, your dog most likely does not like New Year’s Eve.

A few reasons your dog doesn’t like New Year’s Eve

  • Decorations

See those streamers, balloons, and party hats? They may be fun for you, but for Fido? Not so much. He may be scared and not recognize you. This may lead to a change in behavior and his reactivity to you. If he shows signs of fear, take the hat off and reassure your pup that everything will be okay.

  • Loud Noises

Noisemakers, cheering and laughter are all part of the New Year’s Eve festivities. These are all scary noises for Fido. You may find him trembling and whining in fear. Ask your guests to bring the noise down a notch, and put your dog in a separate room with the TV or radio on.

  • Crowds

Is it your turn to host the annual New Year’s Eve party? Whether you are hosting a huge party, or it’s a group of your closest friends, these people are getting in your dog’s personal space. Large crowds are scary and Fido may react adversely. If your dog is not a social creature, spare him the anxiety and put him in a separate room.

  • Fireworks

Are your neighbors the type to set off fireworks in the middle of the street and make a huge commotion? If you answered yes, this may be why Fido is shaking uncontrollably while you “ooh” and “ah” at the light show. Fireworks are some of the scariest, loudest noises for dogs. Turn up the TV and keep your furry friend in a secure kennel or bedroom. If you have the opportunity to, try to stroke his back while you reassuringly hold him.

The reasons mentioned above may just be the tip of the iceberg as to why your dog does not like New Year’s Eve. Just remember, while you’re excited and ready to ring in the New Year, keep your furry friend in mind!

 

 

What are the Leash Laws in Fort Collins?

What are the Leash Laws in Fort Collins?_Header

Do you ever notice dog’s off leash at parks, on trails, or in neighborhoods? Then you start to wonder if they really need to be on a leash? What about the safety of smaller dogs and cats? Why have your dog on a leash if they don’t really need it? Especially if they have excellent voice command skills. And that’s why it is important to be familiar with our county’s leash laws.

Basically, the laws state that all animals need to be in a fenced in area or leashed. But what’s more is that this seems to be an area of great debate in Fort Collins; being as we have tons of trails and natural wildlife area to explore. Some pet owners don’t agree with always having to restrain their pets, especially if they love to spend time outdoors. But parents, home owner associations, dog owners vs. cat owners, all have different opinions.

What’s all the fuss about:

  • Owners like their pets to be able to expend energy and explore the wilderness
  • People are worried about wildlife and their own pets (big dogs vs. little dogs, dogs, vs. cats)
  • Destruction of property
  • Safety

No matter how you feel, if your pet is found off leash and deemed “a stray” the following is stated at the Larimer Humane Society:

Even the most responsible pet owners can be accidentally separated from their pets. Each year, Larimer Humane Society receives close to 5,000 stray animals. Licensed pets that wander away from home can be returned to their owner without ever coming to the shelter. Lost pets not in compliance with the local pet license ordinance will be brought to Larimer Humane Society.

If you encounter a stray animal and feel comfortable bringing it into the shelter, please do so. If the animal you encounter is wearing its license tag, you can call Larimer Humane Society and obtain the owner’s contact information to notify the owner that you have their animal.
Impound and boarding fees will apply to pets brought into the shelter. For more information regarding animals at large as it pertains to the Fort Collins municipal code, please visit code section 4-93.

Impound & Boarding Fees
The impound fee for pets wearing their license tag is $40.

The impound fee for licensed pets not wearing their tag and unlicensed pets is $60.
In addition to the impound fee, an additional $15 boarding fee will apply per calendar day.
Stray animals are held for five days, not including the day the animal was impounded. After the five-day waiting period, stray animals become the property of Larimer Humane Society and are evaluated for potential placement in our adoptions program.

Clearly there are a lot of points of view on this matter, but the law stands. So, keep your pets restrained or confined (humanely, that is) because it’s the law. And that’s why even if you don’t agree with it, you could face fines, which no one wants.

7 Foods Your Dog Should Never Eat

 

We’re usually careful about what our pets eat during the holidays, but there are things that they can get into all year long. Making sure that your pets are healthy  In fact there are seven foods that your dog should never eat.

1. Alliums

These types of food have been associated with a red blood cell damaging condition, hemolytic anemia. Garlic and onions, plus any food season with them could end up with your pup feeling disoriented, fatigued and listless. Plus, they could suffer rapid heartbeat, darkened urine or vomiting.

2. Spoiled food

I don’t know why some pet owners have fallen into a trap of letting our pets dispose of spoiled food, but we kind of have. But in all truth, if you wouldn’t eat it, then neither should your dog. Especially if it was mold or smells funny, send that old food straight to the trash.

3. Fried foods

There is no doubt that us Americans love our fried food. But extremely fatty food, such as fried chicken is very toxic for our dogs. We have more complex digestive systems that can handle the extra oil and breading, but our pet do not. This can cause pancreatic inflammation that can in turn damage to your dog’s other intestines.

4. Grapes/Raisins

We’re not really sure why that most dogs get sick from eating grapes, but it happens frequently. There is a strong correlation between eating grapes and kidney failure. If your dog has eaten grapes and show signs of diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, lethargy, or weakness, it’s time to contact the vet.

5. Macadamia nuts

Another mysterious and trouble causing food is macadamia nuts. Luckily this isn’t a big problem because your dog would have to eat a good amount of them to get sick. But if they do it can get serious. Symptoms from eating these nuts include, fever, muscle weakness, depression and vomiting.

6. Salty snacks

If your dog ingests too many salty they could end up with sodium ion poisoning. A chip or two isn’t going to hurt them; but if they get into a whole bag, you need to watch them closely and give them plenty of water. Symptoms include depression, high fever, diarrhea, vomiting,  excessive thirst, kidney damage, and seizures.

7. Xylitol

If you have sugar free foods in your house, check them for this low-calorie sugar substitute. Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs. If ingested they can cause a drastic spike in insulin levels which can cause dangerously low blood sugar later on. Signs of xylitol poisoning includes vomiting at first, followed by fainting, seizures, weakness, staggering and even death.


If you’re ever concerned about your dog having consumed these foods, call the vet right away. The best way to avoiding accidental poisoning is to keep these foods locked away where your dog can’t reach them.

 

Dog Treats for Valentine’s Day

 

 

When we think of Valentine’s day, we think of a day of love that is filled with chocolate and flowers. And there is no reason not to include your canine companion with these dog treats for Valentine’s Day. After all, they have a piece of your heart too.

Remember to always keep your dogs away from candy, but making them there own special dog-friendly treats is a great way to include them.  Check out these easy to make recipes for your dog this year!

 

Heart Shapped Pup-cakes

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of all purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup of peanut butter (xylitol free)
  • 1 cup of shredded carrots or chopped broccoli
  • 2 1/2  tablespoons of honey
  • 1/2 cup of buttermilk
  • Cream cheese as frosting
  • Strawberry (optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees fahrenheit  and grease your cupcake pan with butter or vegetable oil
  2. Mix the flour and baking powder in a small bowl
  3. Add the oil, peanut butter, and honey to the flour mixture
  4. Add the buttermilk in a small amount at a time and mix
  5. Add in the carrots or broccoli
  6. Place the mixture into the cupcake pan and bake until a toothpick can be cleanly removed from the cupcake
  7. Let the cupcakes cool for 20 minutes and remove them from the pan
  8. After the cupcakes are cooled mix up your frosting

For frosting:

  1. Apply softened cream cheese to ice the cupcake
  2. Optional: cut up strawberries and mix them into the cream cheese
  3. Spread the strawberry cream cheese on the cupcakes

No- Bake Peanut Butter Balls

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup of plain greek yogurt (make sure there are no dog toxic ingredients like artificial sweeteners)
  • 1 cup of peanut butter (dog safe)
  • 3 cups of rolled oats

Directions:

  1. Mix the yogurt and peanut butter to make a paste
  2. Add oats 1/4 a cup at a time and fully mix all the oats with the wet ingredients
  3. Scoop out tablespoon sized portions of the mixture and roll it into balls
  4. Place the balls on a parchment paper lined baking sheet and cool in the fridge for one hour

These treats can be stored for 7-9 days if kept in the refrigerator.


It’s true that many Valentine’s Day presents are chocolaty hazards to your dog. But, these delicious homemade treats are the perfect way to share the sweetness with your dog.

 

 

 

How Do I know If It Is Too Cold to Walk My Dog?_Header

How Do I know If It Is Too Cold to Walk My Dog?

How Do I know If It Is Too Cold to Walk My Dog?_Header

Winter does not have to put a damper on you and your dog’s activities, but how do you know when it is too cold outside? Dog walks provide health benefits when done in the proper conditions. There are a variety of factors that influence when it is too cold to walk your dogs. Here are some general guidelines.

 

Want to learn more in video format? Check out the video below.

Factors

There are a few factors to account for when determining if it’s too cold to walk your dog. They are fur length, size and body condition, and health conditions. As with all of these, make sure you are following general winter weather precautions.

Fur Length

What type and length of fur your dog has can impact how tolerant to cold he is. Short haired or shaved dogs have less fur to protect them from the cold and wind. Which means, they do not tolerate winter walks as well. For shorter haired dogs, do not walk them outside when the temperature is below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit) without a coat or sweater. Long and thick haired dogs are more tolerant to the cold. These dogs can handle walks outside in the cold, but these walks should be short.

Size and Body Condition

Small dogs tend to have a harder time adjusting to the cold. This is because they are closer to the ground and generally have short hair. These dogs should not walk outside in temperatures below 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Even with a sweater or coat.

Larger dogs are higher off the ground and tend to have more healthy body fat compared to smaller dogs. This helps larger dogs be more tolerant to the cold.

Body condition is also an important factor in determining how cold is too cold. Fat helps insulate the body and keep your dog warm. Many dogs, particularly hunting dogs, have fat under their skin. This is why labs can jump into freezing lakes. For this reason, dogs who are underweight should not be outside for extended periods of time in the cold.

brown short coated dog wearing red and white polka dot shirt sitting on snow covered ground

Health Conditions

Many health conditions impact how your dog will react to the cold. When the temperature is below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, dogs with arthritis or dogs with hip dysplasia should only be walked for short periods of time. The cold tends to exacerbate these conditions and will make your dog extra sore and grumpy. Other health conditions, like thyroid issues, affect your dog’s ability to regulate his body temperature. Dogs with these conditions should not be walked for long periods of time in the cold. Talk to your vet to see if any health conditions your dog has can be affected by the cold.

Ways to Make the Cold Better

You should never send your dog outside if it’s too cold but what if you have to. If you must go outside with your dog make sure you are in and out as quick as possible. You should supervise your dog the entire time. Also consider getting some of the following items to make the bitter cold less bitter.

Conclusion

There are a variety of factors to consider when deciding how cold is too cold to walk your dog. In general, use caution when the temperature is below freezing. Keep walks short and brisk to help prevent your dog from getting too cold. Always be aware of other winter weather dangers, such as ice and sidewalk salt.