Pets are often curious and like to sniff around what their human parents are eating. As a result, one may get tempted to feed their pets from their own plate. However, this is a bad and dangerous habit. Individuals must remember that not all human foods are safe for pets. Some can harm them by causing severe health complications. Here are a few toxic foods to avoid feeding one’s pets. Garlic Garlic, onions, leeks, and chives belong to the family of vegetables called allium, which is highly toxic to cats and dogs. Feeding these may cause the pet’s red blood cells to rupture and lead to poisoning. Furthermore, garlic and onion can lead to gastrointestinal problems, such as excessive drooling, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Some pets may also experience symptoms like pale gums, lethargy, weakness, sudden collapse, and increased respiratory and heart rate. Chocolate People are often tempted to treat their furry companions with chocolate. However, even a small amount can harm them. Chocolate contains theobromine and methylxanthines, elements that are toxic to pets. It can cause diarrhea, vomiting, panting, hyperactivity, excessive urination and thirst, abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, and tremors. Raisins Grapes, raisins, and currants can cause extreme toxicity, particularly in dogs.

Pet parents must always be ready to deal with worm infestations in their furry companions. The problem could arise from any worm, like heartworms, tapeworms, hookworms, roundworms, whipworms, or intestinal worms. Dogs usually get worms from chasing wildlife, touching animal feces, or eating soil. Sometimes, fleas and ticks are to be blamed for passing on worms to one’s beloved pets. Whatever the cause, individuals should know how to treat and prevent worms in pets. Apple cider vinegar Apple cider vinegar is very useful for treating and preventing worms. It improves the good bacteria in the pet’s intestine, helping them fight the worms. The improved pH levels and higher amounts of good bacteria gradually make it difficult for the worms to survive. Add a little raw organic ACV to the pet’s water every day to reap this remedy’s benefits. Coconut Coconut is a natural deworming agent. Feeding the pet fresh or dried coconut chunks can help them eliminate the worms from their system. However, ensure there are no additional ingredients in the coconut if it comes in a package. It’s also vital to keep the pup hydrated and avoid overfeeding them with coconut. Decide a proper dosage based on their age, breed, and weight.

Keeping pets entertained all day can be tough, and that is where toys help. They are a great way to inspire play, improve training, and deal with dog behavior problems. With so many novelty dog toys currently on the market, choosing the right ones can feel like a struggle at times. Here is a short guide to choosing safe chews and non-toxic dog toys: 1. Consider durability Any toy purchased should be durable and strong enough to withstand repeated use. Brittle or easy-to-break toys create a choking hazard and could damage the pet’s internal organs if ingested. Experts recommend staying away from toys made of cheap plastic and flimsy rubber. Instead, look for toys made from tougher materials, such as nylon and heavy-duty rubber, to ensure safe and lasting playtime. Additionally, pet parents must keep an eye on the wear and tear of the toys and replace any damaged or worn-out pieces. 2. Check safety In recent tests conducted by ConsumerAffairs.com, toxic heavy metals, such as cadmium and chromium, were found in several popular dog toys, posing significant risks to their health. That is why one must exercise caution when picking out new toys and avoid any with too many dyes, preservatives, or chemical residue.

Ticks are tiny external parasites that latch onto pets, feed on their blood, and leave small, red, and itchy bumps on their skin. These bites can be quite common in pets and are often harmless. But, if left unchecked, they can sometimes lead to other health issues. So, it’s crucial to check the pets regularly for tick bites. Also, understanding the signs of tick bites can help one promptly address them and avoid complications. 1. Visible ticks Finding a tick on a pet’s body is one of the most common signs of a tick bite. Ticks can vary in size and color, some are dark and small, while others seem swollen. It is important to check pets regularly for these pests, particularly in and around their ears, between the toes, and armpits. 2. Skin redness Once a tick bites the pet, the affected area turns red, inflamed, and slightly swollen. This can cause persistent itching and a burning sensation, making the pet restless. So, one should check for any red spots, and if they turn into rashes, they should consult a veterinarian immediately. 3. Excessive scratching If a pet constantly scratches, bites, or chews a particular area in their body, it could be a sign of a tick bite.