Simple ways to achieve a healthy and shiny dog coat
pets

Simple ways to achieve a healthy and shiny dog coat

Your dog’s coat is one of the first things anyone notices about them. It is also said to be an indicator of their health, both inside and out. Digestive problems, heartworms, flea and tick infestations, and even stress can cause their coat to lose texture. So, if you want your dog to have healthy, shiny, and enviably glossy fur, you must take certain precautions. Here are three easy ways to obtain that dream coat. Proper nutrition A healthy coat comes from a healthy body, which, in turn, comes from healthy food. So, give your dog the right amount of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, carbohydrates, and other essential nutrients. In most cases, a dull coat results from unbalanced meals that fail to meet the body’s nutritional needs. It is recommended to choose whole foods-based meals to benefit your pet in the long run. Regular grooming Regular grooming activities like brushing helps stimulate blood circulation to the coat, making it shiny. It also helps get rid of dead skin and damaged fur. Try brushing both ways, as doing so is said to add shine to the coat. Another common practice is regular bathing. An oatmeal bath will take care of any itching if they have a flea and tick infestation.
4 houseplants that should be kept away from dogs
pets

4 houseplants that should be kept away from dogs

Dogs tend to chew and nibble on anything and everything they come across. But this habit can be rather dangerous when it comes to plants. Certain plants contain toxic elements and can lead to severe symptoms and make your pet pooch ill. Dogs do not know which plants can be toxic to them, and therefore, it is safe to just remove or avoid having such plants in your household. Read on to find out more. Aloe vera Aloe is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Not to mention, it can work wonders for your skin and makes for a great indoor plant. But, what many do not know is that aloe vera can be toxic to dogs. This is because of the saponins in the succulents. Consuming even small amounts of the aloe vera plant and gel can cause severe poisoning in dogs. It can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and even cause general central nervous system depression. Sago palm Another popular houseplant that is toxic to dogs is the sago palm. Commonly known as cardboard palm or coontie palm, this plant contains the toxic element cycasin. Consuming even small amounts of any part of this plant can lead to poisoning and cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even liver failure.
4 tips to manage flea and tick infestations in dogs
pets

4 tips to manage flea and tick infestations in dogs

Flea and ticks are common parasites that carry different types of diseases. These pests thrive in soft and warm environments, and the pet’s fur is a perfect home for them. If left unchecked, they can cause severe complications. But there are simple ways to control and prevent this problem. Here are some effective preventive treatments, plants that repel parasites, changes in daily foods, and DIY remedies to manage the infestation: Effective treatments Simparica TRIO oral chews are suitable for dogs eight weeks and older, weighing at least 2.8 lbs. The tablet should be given once a month. K9 Advantix II, on the other hand, is another popular monthly flea protection treatment that is effective within the first 12 hours of consumption. K9 Advantix is suitable for dogs seven weeks or older, weighing at least 4.4 lbs. Bravetco® is a more long-lasting alternative as one tablet can prevent flea and tick infestations for 12 weeks. Bravetco® is available in five dosing options, depending on the size and weight of the dog. Some heartworm prescriptions like Advantage Multi® topical solution and Trifexis® oral chews also help counter flea and tick infections. Immunity boosting meals and foods Consult with a vet to better understand what dogs should eat daily to develop more resilience and fight flea and tick infestations.
Top 5 healthy foods for dogs
pets

Top 5 healthy foods for dogs

There are plenty of options when it comes to dog food. However, finding the right meal for your dog is not easy, as what works for one may not work for another. Plus a lot of dog food brands claim to be nutritious for your pooch but contain fillers and other harmful preservatives. Therefore, to ensure your dog gets only the best, we have put together a list of the top five dog food: 1. Orijen Original Dry Dog Food Orijen sources its ingredients from trusted farmers to create safe and healthy dog food. 85 percent of its food consists of natural meat protein (from free-run chicken, wild-caught fish, and more), whereas the remainder comprises fresh fruits and vegetables. It is packed with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that positively influence your dog’s health. 2. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Recipe The main ingredients in this are roasted bison and venison, along with other highly nutritious ingredients like peas, sweet potatoes, and berries. This recipe provide your dog with all the nutrients it needs to lead a healthy life. Additionally, it contains probiotics, and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that improve your dog’s coat, immune system, and digestive system.
3 home remedies for dog allergies
pets

3 home remedies for dog allergies

Having a dog for the first time can be challenging if you don’t know what you are doing. If this is your first time caring for a dog, you must be aware of how difficult it is to make sure they receive proper nutrition. If your dog is allergic to certain foods or environmental conditions, you need to be even more attentive. When dogs are allergic to certain foods, they cannot obtain the necessary nutrients from their food. They could also have allergic reactions in the form of hives or skin conditions that is uncomfortable for them. To help you, here are some easy remedies that can provide allergy relief to your dogs. Colloidal oatmeal baths Giving regular medicinal baths to your dogs is a great way to soothe any allergic reactions they are experiencing on the skin. Oatmeal baths have soothing properties that calm itchiness and scratches on the skin, making it a popular recommendation. You could either make your own colloidal concoction of oatmeal-based bath water for your dog, or you could get pre-made colloidal oatmeal from a store. These baths are great for healing redness, swelling, and itchiness. Aloe vera Aloe vera gel is an excellent ingredient to have in your home since it is a natural remedy for a variety of skin and other body conditions.
Top 5 heartworm prevention medication for dogs
pets

Top 5 heartworm prevention medication for dogs

Heartworm is a condition that can lead to heart and lung diseases and is likely to be fatal if neglected. It is better to prevent its occurrence than try to treat it at a later stage. In case you have been on the lookout for methods to prevent heartworm disease in dogs, we have some news for you. This article lists some of the best heartworm prevention medicines for dogs that you can choose from. Iverhart Plus Iverhart Plus is a highly rated medication containing ivermectin and pyrantel. The contents are considered effective against roundworms, heartworms, hookworms, and a lot of other parasitic worms. The chewable tablet has the taste of pork liver, which appeals to canines. The medication is said to be safe for administration once every month without any worrying side effects. Plus, with the taste of juicy pork liver, your dog is likely to chew and swallow it easily rather than you having to force them. Sentinel Spectrum This is a heartworm medicine that also helps prevent infections caused by whipworms and roundworms. With lufenuron, praziquantel, and milbemycin oxime, it is definitely one of the best heartworm prevention medicines for dogs. The chewable tablet also fights fleas along with other parasitic worms.
Top 3 subscription boxes for puppies
pets

Top 3 subscription boxes for puppies

Constantly finding new treats and toys for your puppy can be quite tedious if you lead a busy lifestyle. In the past few years, the concept of subscription boxes has been gaining immense popularity since people love being exposed to new and unique products and brands. There are several subscription boxes curated specifically for puppies and dogs that consist of brand-new toys, treats, and training tools. Here are some of the most popular puppy subscription boxes for you. Barkbox Barkbox is one of the most recommended puppy boxes in the market since it is affordable. It provides a wholesome box containing at least two unique toys, two kinds of treats, and a chew toy as per a particular theme. The cost of this subscription box is quite low considering the quality and variety of products that they provide. There are three different kinds of delivery plans monthly, quarterly, and half-yearly. PupBox PupBox is a great subscription box for growing dogs, as they offer customized boxes as per your dog’s needs and age requirements. It offers multiple subscription options for monthly payments, quarterly, semi-annual, and annual options. If you are planning on using these subscription boxes throughout the year, getting a 12-month subscription will be much more affordable because of the lower monthly price.
Top 3 invisible dog fences
pets

Top 3 invisible dog fences

Invisible dog fences are electric security systems that prevent the dog from exiting the predetermined area. Your dog would have to wear a collar that makes a sound whenever your dog is close to the fence. When the dog is about the cross the fence, it will experience a mild shock that will startle it and prevent it from exiting the premises. Let’s take a look at the types and best invisible fences out there. What are the different types? Wireless fence Wireless fences use GPS or radio signals to communicate with the collars and set the perimeter of the fence. You do not have to dig up the ground or place anything permanently to set the fence. It is portable, adjustable, and can be set up within a couple of hours. Wired underground fence These fences require a wire to be installed around a yard. This fence then communicates with the collar; a professional would need to dig up a personalized perimeter around the yard and install the wire. It is not portable but very efficient and customizable. Top electric fences The top three best electric fences out there are: PetSafe® Wireless Pet Containment System™ Kit This system has a range of about ½ an acre and is easy to carry around and set up.