Why Choosing a Dog Should Be More Than Fur Deep

by JTwisdom | May 15, 2024 | Pets | 0 comments

So, you’re thinking about getting a dog. Maybe you’ve scrolled through Instagram and fallen in love with those adorable wrinkly-faced pugs or those majestic Siberian Huskies with piercing blue eyes. In general, dog breed trends are a thing, just like breeds for other animals. But when looking for factors to consider when getting a pet, a dog specifically, you have to understand that looks aren’t everything. In fact, how you care for each breed will usually vary.

Photo by fatty corgi on Unsplash

While yes, it’s easy to get caught up in the aesthetics of a particular breed, there’s a lot more to consider when bringing a furry friend into your life. The aesthetics should be the last thing on your list. But why exactly?

Looks Aren’t Everything
Sure, those fluffy coats and floppy ears are undeniably cute, but choosing a dog based solely on looks is like judging a book by its cover. What many people get wrong, primarily when they’ve never owned a dog, is that each breed has unique characteristics, temperament, and energy level that may or may not align with your lifestyle and preferences. So, if you’re in love with the Doberman but are not an active person who likes to go out of the house, this will be a terrible combination. 

Temperament Matters
Now, it’s understandable that you want to high-tail it to a breeder the second you find out about German shepherd puppies for sale near you; it’s understandable because what’s there not to love about German shepherds and puppies? But the thing is, every breed has its temperament, too. Yes, this is something that you need to understand! While yes, generally speaking, dogs share some of the same qualities like energy, playfulness, and loyalty, they all still have varying temperaments. 

Just like people, dogs have their personalities. Some breeds are known for being energetic and outgoing, while others are more laid-back and reserved. Plus, some aren’t nearly as loyal as you’d expect. Consider what personality traits you value in a canine companion and choose a breed that matches your preferences. For example, if you want a loyal dog that’s crazy for you, the Shiba Inu might not be such a great idea. 

What’s Your Lifestyle?
So, what does your lifestyle look like? Are you an avid runner who enjoys long outdoor adventures? Or do you prefer cozy nights with a good book curled up on the couch? Different breeds have different exercise needs and activity levels, so choosing a dog that fits your lifestyle is essential. 

You can’t just expect the dog to have its energy pent up, either; it will lead to a disaster. You have to think about their needs; there’s no compromising; they’re dogs. So, you’ll either have to change your lifestyle or find a dog breed that better matches your current lifestyle. 

Compatibility is Everything
At the end of the day, the most crucial factor in choosing a dog is compatibility. It’s not just about finding the cutest or trendiest breed; it’s about finding a furry friend who will fit seamlessly into your life and bring you joy and companionship for years to come. It’s not just about your happiness; it’s their happiness too!

Top Questions To Consider When Buying A Dog

by JTwisdom | Apr 8, 2024 | Pets | 0 comments

Being a dog owner is a long-term commitment. Knowing that you will be responsible for the life you are raising in your house is one thing when you have a family, but it’s a whole other ball game when you have a pet. Dogs can’t tell you when they feel sick or sad. 

Not in so many words, anyway. In a practical sense, it’s good to understand what makes a healthy dog so that you can keep on top of their health and save your budget. An unhealthy dog can become very expensive so the more you look after your dog with a regular multi-vitamin for dogs. And frequent veterinary visits, the better. Before you search for your brand new best friend, let’s look at some of the ways you can make buying a dog an easy choice.

Image source: Pexels

– Should you buy a puppy or a senior? Purchasing a puppy is adorable, but it takes a lot of work, and they have tons of personality, which means you have a lot to learn. It’s essential to remember that they will require a lot more time and attention than a senior dog would. Training and socializing takes a lot of time, so if you can’t devote this time to it, then make sure you seek a dog of a different age. Senior dogs are often less healthy than puppies, but they are trained and more your speed. You have to ensure that you are conditioned into their health issues before purchasing. 

– Is your dog active or calm? Dog walking is an extremely important part of the day for a dog. No matter the size or breed of the dog you have, you need to ensure that you are giving them adequate exercise out of the house. Otherwise, they can become destructive and anxious. If your lifestyle doesn’t allow you to walk a dog at least once or twice a day, then you should consider a more low maintenance type of pets, such as a cat that can remain indoors. Some dog breeds are highly active by nature, which means that you have to be on top of this at all times.

– Are you considering a small dog or a big dog? Larger dogs make larger poops, and they also require a lot more food. They also need much more space than a Chihuahua or a toy poodle. Larger dogs have more endurance, but they will cost you a lot more money in terms of food budgets and cleaning up. Smaller dog breeds are more suited to smaller environments. If you live in a mobile home or an apartment, you might find a small dog breed like a Chihuahua a better option. Caring for smaller dogs is also cheaper because they eat less and are lower maintenance.

Kitten Prep 101: Getting Ready To Welcome a New Furry Friend

by JTwisdom | Feb 20, 2024 | Pets | 0 comments

Adopting a kitten may just be one of the best experiences of your life. They’ll keep you company, offer fun, and be the perfect furry siblings for your kids. Did you know that cats can even be trained to provide emotional assistance?!

But becoming a cat parent can also feel overwhelming – especially if this is your first time as a pet owner. Fortunately, you don’t have to be alone in this! In this guide, we’ll cover all you need to know about getting your home ready to welcome a new kitten. We’ll also talk about the key factors to look for in a good vet – a professional figure who can guide you through the challenges of becoming a cat parent! 

Image: Freeepik 

Pro tip: Looking to make things easier? Involve your whole family by teaching your kids how to treat pets with love and compassion!

Understanding and Providing for Scratching Behavior
As a pet parent, you’ll soon discover that kittens have instincts to scratch! While this is entirely normal, the last thing you’ll want is to sacrifice your couch or chairs! That’s why providing them with an appropriate outlet is crucial. 

For example, investing in good-quality scratching posts can help protect your furniture and curtains. If you want options matching your home design and space needs, different types include free-standing, wall-mounted, or even corner scratching posts. Unsure which one to choose? Start with an essential alternative, then experiment to see what your kitten prefers!

Kitten-Proofing Your Home: Essential Steps To Keep Your Pet Safe
Bringing home a small kitten is just like looking after a small child! They’ll be drawn towards exploring cabinets and playing with cables. Because of this, it is important to be mindful of loose cords that can be chewed on, medicines, and other chemicals that may cause harm. Ideally, you should lock or store away potentially dangerous items and secure windows that can pose a threat. Last but not least, be sure to store away – at least for some time – those valuable items that can be easily broken.  

Ensuring Freedom To Roam
Once adequately trained, you can let your kittens roam through your garden or terrace. This is the best way to allow them to enjoy exciting adventures over the day and keep them entertained when you are at work. But how can you keep your home secure in the meantime? Solutions such as sliding glass pet door installation can help you modify your access to the garden or outer area to ensure that your pets can roam free without compromising the security of your home. 

Choosing the Right Kind of Litter for Your Kitten
You must train your kitten correctly during the first days and weeks at home. This will help establish a relationship of care and respect between you and your pet! For this, you’ll need to choose a type of litter that feels safe and comfortable for your kitten. 

Speak to a specialist to understand what litter is best for your furry friend. And remember, your kitten may try to taste the litter at first – so you should find a safe type that won’t harm their digestive system!

What To Keep In Mind When Looking for A Good Vet
Finding a trustworthy vet isn’t always easy – especially as each kitten and pet parent may have unique needs. In any case, some of the must-haves to look for in a veterinarian include: 

• Look for local recommendations from friends and family
• Check their online reviews
• Set up an appointment to get a first-hand experience of your chosen clinic
• Ask whether they accept walk-ins and whether they are available after-hours
• Check the range of services offered, as well as their price
• Learn more about how emergencies are covered

Giving The Gift of (Play)Time: Invest in Toys and Rethink Your Routine
Playtime is vital for your kitten’s development and bonding with you. Because of this, you should emphasize finding suitable toys – and don’t forget to look at your schedule to find enough time to dedicate to your kitten. According to guidelines by the Humane Society, it’s best to play at least two to three times a day, for about 15 minutes each time, using interactive toys. This helps your kitten stay active and happy and satisfies their instincts of chasing and hunting. The routine also enables you to create a stronger bond with your little furball! 

Nutrition Basics: What to Feed Your Kitten
It goes without saying that proper nutrition is essential for the healthy development of your kitten. However, striking the right balance and finding the best food for your pet isn’t always straightforward. Although each kitten is unique – and you should seek the opinion of a specialized vet – you should keep in mind the following guidelines:

• Kittens generally need up to twice the energy intake of adult cats 
• They may have particular dietary requirements
• Opt for kitten-specific food, which is specifically formulated for the nutrient-rich diet kittens require
• Prioritize high-quality protein sources like chicken, fish, or turkey 
• Avoid food with artificial colors, flavors, or unnecessary fillers

Giving your kitten the wrong food can lead to serious health problems – so get it right by speaking to a vet!

It’s National Dog Mom’s Day!

by | May 13, 2023 | Pets | 0 comments

CIao Lovelies!

It’s National Dog Mom’s Day!

I found out today and almost missed it. However, the second Saturday in May is National Dog Mom’s Day. According to nationaldaycalendar.com send out a chorus of yips, barks, and howls of praise for all the dog mommas!

Use #Dogmomsday to share on social media.

Dogs have been a part of my family since I was three years old. My first dog was like my little brother; my mother named him Mucho. Mucho was a sable collie, and we grew up together. I will never forget that my Mother got him as a gift for me and she ordered him from Sears, and he came to our house in a wooden box with holes in it. My dad cracked open the box with an ax and was in the box with some food and a bowl of water. He was handsome, loving, smart, and kind. When Mucho became more mature, my parents thought he needed a little brother, so Yukon, the Alaskan malamute, joined the family. In future posts, I plan to write a series of stories about the pups that are forever imprinted in our family.

I wanted to share my puppies, Seppe and Lucca, with you on National Dog Mom’s Day! They love unconditionally, and I must admit I didn’t think of myself as a Dog mom; however, my husband and I train them and ensure they are well taken care of.

Ideas For Nutritious Dog Food

by | Jan 9, 2023 | Pets | 0 comments

As a dog owner, you want to ensure that your furry friend gets all the nutrients they need to stay healthy and happy. But with so many different types of dog food on the market, it can be tough to know what to choose. Can dogs eat mussels? This information should answer questions like this. Here are some of the most nutritious food options for your dog:

Photo by Samson Katt

Meat: Dogs are carnivores, so it’s essential to make sure they get plenty of animal protein in their diet. Look for dog food made with real meat, such as chicken, beef, or lamb, as the first ingredient. Avoid dog food that relies on meat by-products or meals, as these are lower quality protein sources.

Vegetables: While dogs don’t need as many vegetables as humans do, they can still benefit from the nutrients in vegetables such as sweet potatoes, green beans, and peas. These can help provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber to support a healthy digestive system.

Fruits: Fruits can also be a nutritious addition to a dog’s diet. Apples, blueberries, and cranberries are all high in antioxidants and can help support a healthy immune system. Just be sure to remove any seeds or pits, as these can be dangerous for dogs to eat.

Grains: While dogs don’t need a lot of grains in their diet, they can still provide essential nutrients such as B vitamins and fiber. Look for whole grains such as brown rice or oats rather than refined grains like white rice or corn.

Oils: Healthy fats are essential for a dog’s coat and skin health and brain development. Look for dog food that contains oils such as fish oil or flaxseed oil.

In addition to these nutritious ingredients, it’s also important to choose dog food appropriate for your dog’s age, size, and activity level. And as with any significant changes to your dog’s diet, it’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian before making any changes.

Balance is key: Just like human nutrition, it’s essential to strive for balance when feeding your dog. Aim for a diet that includes various proteins, vegetables, and grains. Avoid dog food made up of mostly one ingredient, as this can lead to an imbalanced diet.

Quality matters: When it comes to dog food, not all brands are created equal. Look for high-quality brands that use real, whole ingredients and avoid artificial preservatives and additives. It may cost a little more, but investing in your dog’s health is worth it.

Homemade is an option: If you want even more control over what goes into your dog’s diet, consider making their food at home. This can be an excellent option for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities or those needing a specialized diet. Be sure to consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to ensure that you provide all the necessary nutrients.

Don’t forget about treats: Treats can be a great way to bond with your dog and reward them for good behavior, but it’s important to remember that they should only make up a small portion of your dog’s diet. Choose treats made with whole, nutritious ingredients, and be mindful of the calorie content.

Keep an eye on portion sizes: It’s easy to overfeed your dog, especially if they beg for more food or have a habit of finishing everything in their bowl. Be sure to measure out your dog’s food and treats according to their age, size, and activity level to ensure that they are getting the right amount of food.

Pay attention to your dog’s weight: It’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s weight and ensure that they are healthy for its size and breed. If your dog carries too much extra weight, it can strain its joints and increase its risk of health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. On the other hand, if your dog is underweight, it may not be getting enough nutrients. Work with your veterinarian to determine the ideal weight for your dog and adjust its diet accordingly.

Consider your dog’s life stage: Different life stages (puppyhood, adulthood, and senior age) have different nutritional needs. For example, puppies have a higher energy requirement and need more protein and calories to support their growth and development. Senior dogs, on the other hand, may need fewer calories and more fiber to support their digestive health. Make sure to choose a food formulated for your dog’s specific life stage.

Keep an eye on food expiration dates: Just like human food, dog food can expire and lose its nutritional value over time. Check the expiration date on your dog’s food and treats, and replace them as needed.

Don’t forget about hydration: Water is an essential part of a dog’s diet, and it’s crucial to ensure that your dog is getting enough to drink. Keep a fresh bowl of water available at all times, and consider adding a little bit of broth or low-sodium chicken stock to your dog’s water to make it more appealing.

Don’t forget about dental health: A nutritious diet is vital for your dog’s overall health, but don’t forget about their dental health. Hard, crunchy dog treats and chew toys can help scrape away plaque and tartar, helping to keep your dog’s teeth clean. Be sure to choose products appropriate for your dog’s size and chewing strength.

The most nutritious food for dogs is a balanced diet that includes a variety of real, whole ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and grains. By choosing the right food for your dog, you can help ensure that they get all the nutrients they need to live a long and healthy life.