Tag Archive for: summer

Fun Water Activities for Dogs: Making a Splash with your Canine Companion 

Summer is here! There isn’t a better time to enjoy the water than when you include your dogs. Read along as we take a look at some of the fun activities that you can do with your dog in the pool, lake, or ocean! 

Dogs enjoy getting out on the water in a variety of ways. Boating is one of them. Feeling the air rushing by them, they view this shared time with you with all the enthusiasm expected in man’s best friend! They also love surfing and boogie boards. Just be sure to have your dog fitted with the proper floatation vest to keep them safe. 

Towing is another fun way to expend the energy of your pup. Teach your dog to grab the rope on a flotation device that you are laying on and encourage them to pull you around on it. Just be aware of your dog’s physical ability and endurance and watch them closely for fatigue. 

Canoeing and paddle boarding are great pastimes to enjoy this summer with your dog. Place the canoe on dry ground and encourage your dog to investigate the canoe jumping in and out of it until they are comfortable. Once you are able to control them by voice command to be able to sit quietly, you can then push into the calm waters and paddle away! The same method can be used with the paddle board. As with many of these water sports, outfitting your dog with the correct size water vest will ensure their protection should he/she go into the water. 

Enjoy a freestyle swim with your pup. Let them splash and swim around like the child they are at heart! Retrieving is pretty straightforward, throw a stick, ball or disc and watch them plow into the surf to bring it back for another round of fun. 

Dog diving is for those breeds who LOVE to retrieve and don’t mind swimming under the water to get it! Whatever the ‘it’ is they are game, just keep a close eye on their hydration and fatigue levels and handle them appropriately. Be aware of eye irritants and look into providing your pup with goggles to protect them from sun, surf and debris. 

Dock jumping is a major sport for dogs and their owners. You don’t have to be a pro at this though. All you need is an eager dog and the help of someone to hold them until you toss the object you want them to jump for high and far away from whatever you want them to launch off of. Make sure that the entire area surrounding the jumping platform as well as the water 20 feet out or so is free from limbs, rocks or other things that could cause injury to your canine. Also make sure that the water is deep enough for them to dive into safely. 

Check your local area out for water parks and pools that allow your dogs to join you. Many municipalities have an end-of-summer fun day at the pool event that your social and happy dog just might enjoy. 

You don’t have to go anywhere to have summer water fun with your dog. Setting up a dog-friendly “water park” in your yard is an excellent option. You can purchase water pads and sprinklers that are made just for your dog to interact with. 

Using some pvc and ingenuity you can make your own hoops they can jump through, place flexible tunnels for them to slide through and be sure to have on hand plenty of ball launchers for fetch or retrieve games. 

Freezing fruits and vegetables that are dog safe in ice trays, bowls and buckets and then placing them throughout your yard is a great way to help your dog maintain his hydration and energy levels. 

If you have a digger, place a kiddie/doggie pool on a large tarp and fill it with sand. Hide exciting toys or treats and let them have fun finding them. Cleaning up will be simpler with the tarp there to catch the flying sand! 

Never underestimate the fun quotient of BUBBLES!  Dogs love jumping for them and you can purchase premade and flavored ones or make your own at home. Use your imagination here. 

A day of fun and sun isn’t complete without enticing water toys and a shade station for your pup to relax in out of the sun. Check out these recommendations of water toys your dog might enjoy. Be sure to provide your dog with plenty of cool water and a shady place to relax and recharge. 

Throughout your day of fun in the water with your pup, frequently check them for cuts on paw pads or scrapes on their body. Look at their eyes and ears and make sure to dry their ears well after being in the water. Check exposed skin for sunburn paying particular attention to the nose area and tips of their ears. 

Playing with your dog in the water this summer will be fun and safe if you follow some of the basics. Watch for fatigue in your dog, always remain near them in case they fatigue quickly. Have a dog emergency kit for minor issues. Keep emergency clinics and veterinary hospital numbers close by in a waterproof packet. Bring plenty of towels, fresh water, bowls and food/snacks. 

With a bit of preplanning, whether you are going out to enjoy the water or staying home in your backyard, you are going to have a terrific day around the water with your dog! 

By trying some of these tips I am confident that you and your dog will be worn out and ready to sleep at the end of your day! 

 

Beach Day Essentials for Dogs: Packing for a Pawsome Day at the Shore 

Beach Day Essentials for Dogs: Packing for a Pawsome Day at the Shore 

You and your dog are heading for sand, fun and sun! Before you go you’ll need to plan for a few things and pack the essentials that will make your day at the beach fantastic for you and your canine! 

Some real quick reminders, first check the area you’ll be taking your dog to and verify that it is a “dog friendly” beach. You’ll also want to limit the amount of time your dog spends in the sun throughout the day. They can easily overheat especially if they have a thicker coat. Sunburn can happen on the nose and ears as well as other exposed skin. So, if you’re using a dog approved sunscreen make sure to apply it at least thirty minutes before going out. Please read and follow all manufacturer instructions. 

Taking into consideration your dog’s overall physical abilities and body condition will determine just how active you can be with them. If they are overweight or older, take it easy with exercise on the sand. However, being in the water creates less drag so getting them in the water is a great alternative. Using a quality dog float vest will help them to not tire too easily and provide an easy way to quickly grab them should the need arise. 

To help your dog stay cool all day long check out these terrific cooling vests and bandanas. By wetting these down and placing them on your pet the evaporative effect helps to maintain a proper body temperature while out in the sun. Just remember that your eyes should be on your dog at all times in and around the water. 

Having a variety of fun beach toys that will entertain your dog and allow the two of you to have a great time playing together will guarantee a fun day! Check in with the lifeguard on duty for any reports of jellyfish, undertow or any other concerns with the surf before you let your dog go into the water. 

Bring a few leashes, a harness or collar, a water bowl and fresh water along with snacks and their regular food. You can offer them watermelon slices, apples (without the seeds), blueberries, and cantaloupe to aid in their hydration needs. Have their current tags or a GPS tracker on their collar. If they have a microchip be sure that you check or update your currentcontact information. Keep the phone numbers and addresses of veterinarians for the local area in a water-tight bag for emergencies. 

Bringing a well-supplied first aid kit that is human and dog-friendly is always a good idea. You can make your own or purchase one online. Don’t forget any medications your pet may require while you are gone all day. Be sure to have plenty of poop bags to pick up after your pooch as well as a sturdy bag to place it in until you can get to a trash receptacle that takes dog waste. 

Lay an old sheet over the back seat or cargo area to soak up moisture and provide a barrier to sand and debris. You can bring towels from home or get towels designed to wick up the water after swimming, or after giving them a quick rinse off at a cleaning station. Baby oil will safely remove tar from their pads and a small bottle of shampoo can loosen sand and debris from the skin and coat. Doggie wet wipes could be substituted for the shampoo as well. Don’t forget to check and dry his or her ears! 

Providing shade for your dog is easily just as important as the sunscreen, fresh water and all of the other amenities you’ll be bringing for your dog. Having an easy-to-set-up shade so your pup can relax and recharge before going back into the water is essential. 

Don’t forget to pack the dog paw wax  that will coat your pup’s tender feet, and help to prevent burns from hot concrete and abrasive sand on the tender pads. 

There is no limit to the ways you can have fun at the beach. Obviously swimming with your dog is one of the best ways to have a great time while at the shore. Walking or jogging is another option. Throwing a toy, ball or frisbee will keep the fun going. Be aware of what could be in the sand, things like broken bottles or sharp shells can cause abrasions and cuts to their paws. Offer your dog plenty of fresh cool water in order to lessen their need to lap up salty sea water. Too much of the “sea” can cause intestinal upset. In bodies of fresh water, you’ll want to do the same as parasites can be ingested when they drink the pond or lake water. 

Remember to maintain excellent beach etiquette so that everyone can enjoy their day at the beach with their own dogs and other family members. Watch for other dogs and how your dog reacts to them and be ready to call them back to you if needed. With a little pre-planning, you can have a “pawsitively” perfect day at the beach with your best friend! 

Moths in Summer, Are They a Danger to Your Cat?

Moths in Summer, Are They a Danger to Your Cat?

Here in Eastern Colorado, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Kansas, May and June tend to be the time when the Miller Moth begins their migration. This year with our cooler wetter spring we will see more than the usual population and for a longer period before they move westward toward the mountains. 

A Miller Moth on tree bark

Ben Sale from Stevenage, UK, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

They navigate by the stars and moon so by keeping your outside lights off and your indoor blinds closed, you can minimize the likelihood of them coming in doors. Because they flutter and flounce around our homes your cat is going to be stalking them and very likely eating them. While they may be a nuisance to us we should see if they are a danger to our cats. 

The “Miller moth” is NOT toxic to your cat, if your cat eats more than one or two you probably won’t notice anything different with them. However, there are some pet parents who are noticing their kitty is getting sick from eating too many of them. How many is too many? It really depends on the individual cat. 

The fact is that they are different from your regular cat’s diet and so they can cause digestive issues such as vomiting and diarrhea in some felines. Additionally, the moths could have been exposed to insecticides and this can be dangerous for your cat. 

What Moths Are Toxic to Cats?

The Garden Tiger Moth also called The Great Tiger Moth are toxic to cats, however most cats seem to know this and generally avoid them. This includes their caterpillar form.

"Woolly bear" caterpillar

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

The Tiger Moth does carry a harmful virus that can be deadly for cats. So, familiarize yourself with these two moth species so that you can have a better understanding of what is in your specific region and can keep your cat safely away from them. 

A Garden Tiger Moth on a plain white background

Ben Sale from UK, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Mothballs, used to repel moths, are extremely toxic to kitty’s! Use cat friendly products like lavender and cedar instead to protect fabrics and clothing or try one of these moth traps that are safe and effective around pets and children. 

Generally speaking your cat should be fine playing with and occasionally eating a moth. However you can help them to avoid ingesting one by offering them tasty treats and making sure that they are not hungry, this may lessen their desire to chomp them down! Be sure that you are giving them enough one on one play time to fulfill their need to pounce, jump and attack. 

If you have a lot of moths in and around your home and your cat is lethargic, vomiting and generally not themselves be sure to take them to your veterinarian for a thorough check up so that you can get them back to their normal, fun, and playful selves! 

What Other Insects Are Harmful to Cats?

In Eastern Colorado, there are several insects that can potentially be harmful or poisonous to cats if they are bitten or stung. While these insects may not be exclusive to Colorado, they are commonly found in the region. It’s important to note that most insect bites or stings result in localized reactions such as swelling, pain, or discomfort, but severe reactions are rare.

  • Black Widow Spider: Black widow spiders are venomous and can be found in Eastern Colorado. Their bite can cause muscle pain, tremors, and in severe cases, can be fatal, although fatalities are rare.
  • Brown Recluse Spider: Brown recluse spiders are also venomous and found in Colorado. Their bite can cause tissue necrosis, resulting in an open wound that may take a long time to heal.
  • Bark Scorpions: While scorpions are not commonly found in Colorado, Eastern parts of the state might have a few species. The bark scorpions can deliver venomous stings that can cause pain, swelling, and other localized symptoms.
  • Bees and Wasps: Multiple species of bees and wasps can be found in Eastern Colorado, including honeybees, bumblebees, and various wasp species. If stung, cats may experience pain, swelling, and allergic reactions.

Thankfully not all of these are commonly found in Eastern Colorado, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Kansas. And those that are tend to stay away from people. But we all know how cats are, they’ll get into places we didn’t imagine they could. If you suspect your cat has been bitten or stung, it is best to consult with a veterinarian for appropriate guidance and treatment.

I hope this information has helped you understand what moths are toxic and what to watch out for in your cat’s in order to have a beautiful safe summer! 

Dog Friendly Picnic Food

Dog Friendly Picnic Food

Dog Friendly Picnic Food

Summer is right around the corner which means you’ll want have some dog friendly picnic food. Picnics are a great low-cost way to have fun outdoors. You don’t need a lot of ingredients to make a wonderful picnic. Many of these dog-friendly foods are also great for you and your friends to snack on as well.

What Foods To Bring

  • Unseasoned Cooked Chicken
  • Blueberries
  • Apple Slices
  • Carrots
  • Cucumber
  • Green Beans
  • Watermelon
  • Plenty of Water

This is just a short list of dog friendly picnic foods. Many of these also have the added benefit of hydration. Keeping your pets hydrated is important. Always keep a few extra bottles of water on hand for your pup. Especially if you plan to be out all day.

What Foods to Avoid

There are a lot of foods your dog should avoid. Fortunately, many of these are not common picnic fare. We’ve put together a short list of common picnic foods to avoid giving your dog.

  • Grapes
  • Chocolate
  • Nuts – Nuts are high in fat and can be a choking hazard
  • Chicken Bones – Make sure these are properly disposed of

If you are going to bring any of the foods to avoid, make sure to keep an eye on them at all times. Place any uneaten food either back in the cooler or in the trash. You’d be amazed at how quickly dogs can get into things!

Dog Friendly Picnic Foods Infographic

What are your dogs favorite picnic foods? Let us know in the comments.

Preventing Heatstroke In Your Dog This Summer: 3 Things You Can Do Today Header

Preventing Heatstroke In Your Dog This Summer: 3 Things You Can Do Today

Preventing Heatstroke In Your Dog This Summer: 3 Things You Can Do Today Header

Preventing Heatstroke In Your Dog This Summer: 3 Things You Can Do Today

It’s important that every pet parent know how to prevent heatstroke in your dog or cat. Even as temperatures start to cool, your it can still get too hot for your pets and cause heatstroke. But what exactly is heatstroke? “Heatstroke is a term commonly used for hyperthermia or elevated body temperature.” [Source] Heatstroke can be recognized by:

  • Elevated breathing rates;
  • Dry or sticky gums;
  • Abnormal gum color or busing in the gums;
  • Lethargic behavior or disoriented behavior;
  • Seizures

While these aren’t the only visible signs of heatstroke it’s important to be able to recognize the more common ones so you can act quickly. If you feel your pet is suffering from heatstroke, get them into a shaded or cool area and contact your vet. But we never want your pet to get to that point!

Here are 3 simple things you can do to help prevent heatstroke in your pets:

  1. Never leave your pet unsupervised outside on hot days.
  2. Access to fresh water, shade, and shelter away from direct sunlight.
  3. Never leave your pet alone in the car – even if you think it’s cool enough. Leaving a dog in a hot car without adequate ventilation is the most common cause of heatstroke.

If you know you can’t bring your pet with you inside or if you’re unsure you’ll be able to, it’s best to leave them at home. If you’re going to be gone for awhile, consider hiring a Wet Noses pet sitter to check in on your pets during the day.

 

Preventing Heatstroke In Your Dog This Summer: 3 Things You Can Do Today Infographic

By following these three simple tips you can help prevent heatstroke in your pets. Do you have any tips you think others should know? Let us know down in the comments or @WetNosesPetSitting or #WetNosesPetSitting.

5 Ways to Keep Your Pets Cool in Summer

5 Ways to Keep Your Pets Cool in Summer Header

5 Ways to Keep Your Pets Cool in Summer

With heatwaves sweeping the country it’s important to keep your pets cool in the summer. We have a few ideas you can try to help cool down your pets. Some of these ideas are great for indoor and outdoor use, others are more suitable for indoor or outdoor use.

1. Refill Water Dishes Daily or as Needed

Keeping your pets hydrated is one of the best ways to help keep them cool.You should be refilling water dishes at least once a day but if you notice your pets dish is getting low or empty, make sure to refill it. Dogs need between 0.5-1 ounces of water per pound of body weight per day. Cats need 3.5-4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight per day.

If you’re looking for some more creative ways to keep your pets hydrated check out our recent post.

2. Frozen Treats

You can either purchase or make your own frozen treats to help keep your pets cool and hydrated. Here’s a recipe for our Frozen Apple Smoothie Bites. But if you’re not into making treats, companies like The Bear & The Rat make healthy frozen treats for dogs and cats.

3. Cooling Mat

Cooling mats are a nice way to help pets get that full body cool down during the hot days. These work similar to ice packs in that you chill them or fill them with cool water and they’ll stay cool for quite awhile. These a great to keep on hand even if you don’t plan on using them outside in case your AC breaks. Recently mine went out for a few days and it was sweltering in here. I laid out a few of these and everyone eventually found one to lay on.

Chillz Cooling Mat For Dogs on Amazon, Starting @ $35.97

4. Cooling Bandana/Towel

Cooling bandana’s and towels cool your pet by using evaporation. For these, you’ll dunk them in water, ring them out, and then put them on your pet – unless it instructs you otherwise. As your pet hangs out outside the water will evaporate and create a nice cooling sensation for your pet.

ALL FOR PAWS Chill Out Dog Ice Bandana on Amazon, Starting @ $15.05

5. Cooling Vest

Is a bandana or towel not enough for your pet? Try out these cooling vests! They work the same way as the bandanas and towels but provide the full body experience of the cooling mat while your pet can still be on the move.

SGODA Dog Cooling Vest Harness Cooler Jacket on Amazon, Starting @ $32.95

RUFFWEAR, Swamp Cooler Evaporative Dog Cooling Vest on Amazon @ $59.95

and a bonus….

6. Stay in the shade or AC

With record temperatures hitting the country, sometimes the best thing to do is stay indoors in the AC or near a fan. If you have to go out, try to stick to shaded areas.

Do you have any tips you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments or @WetNosesPetSitting or #WetNosesPetSitting.

The Importance Of Keeping Your Pets Hydrated

The Importance of Keeping Your Pets Hydrated Header

The Importance Of Keeping Your Pets Hydrated

We all know the importance of drinking water daily. But did you know it’s just as important for your pets to stay hydrated as you?

  • Water maintains healthy cell function: Just like in humans, water makes up the majority of our pets cells and is essential to keeping healthy cell function.
  • Helps aid in digestion: Water plays a function in helping your pet digest food. Not enough water means they may have digestive issues.
  • Helps aid in nutrient absorption:  Similar to digestion, water helps your pet absorb nutrients from their food.
  • Makes movement easier: Water helps to lubricate your pets joints and helps to cushion them. Without enough water your pet may have trouble moving and may be in pain.

As you can see, water provides essential functions for life. Make sure your pet is getting between .05-1 ounce of water per pound of body weight each day to help maintain healthy functions.

Here’s some of our favorite ways to help keep your pet hydrated!

  • Add more water bowls: Want to change it up? Try out a fountain with your pet or add ice discs to keep the water cool.
  • Freeze wet dog food to create a pupsicle: Stock up on wet food that comes in a pouch this season. Cut a small hole into the pouch, add a bit of water (ideal for pâté food), and insert a popsicle stick. Let freeze until solid.
  • Add water to your pets food: A simple trick to get more water into your pets diet, add a few teaspoons or tablespoons of water to their food.
  • Fresh fruit as a treat: Blueberries, apple slices, seedless watermelon, and cantaloupe are all hydrating and healthy treats for your dog.Pet Hydration Ideas Infographic

Have you tried any of these ways to keep your pet hydrated? Let us know your favorite methods in the comments!

Watermelon Medley Pupsicles Recipe

Watermelon Medley Pupsicles Header

Watermelon Medley Pupsicles Recipe

National Watermelon Day is coming up and what better way to celebrate by making some watermelon medley pupsicles. Watermelon is low in calories, contains potassium, and vitamins A, B6, and C. Making them not only a refreshing, hydrating snack but also a healthy one! Carrots and apples provide an excellent source of fiber and vitamins A and C. What’s even better is these treats are super easy to make with only three ingredients! All you’ll need is a blender and a dog treat mold to make these pupsicles.

Ingredients:

  • 2c Watermelon
  • 1c Chopped Carrots
  • ½c Diced, Peeled, Apple
  • ½c Fresh Spinach (Optional)

Directions:

  1. Pulse the watermelon, carrots, apple, and spinach in a blender until smooth.
  2. Pour into mold and freeze for two hours.

Watermelon Medley Pupsicles: A recipe for watermelon dog treats

Let us know if you made our watermelon medley pupsicles @WetNosesPetSitting or #WetNosesPetSitting. We’d love to see pictures of your pup enjoying National Watermelon Day.

Want more? Check out our Easy Thanksgiving Treats and our Homemade Peanut Butter Cookies.