Allergies, infections, hairs, blocked tear ducts and yeast are reasons dogs eyes can get gunky or stained. The author explains the reddish stains are caused by iron released from the breakdown of red blood cells which becomes part of a pigment-containing molecule called porphyrin. Porphyrin is in dogs’ tears and causes the actual staining. The author shares a few tips to … [Read more...]
Caring for the outdoor cat
Caring for an outdoor cat may be an oxymoron if considering lifespans. Indoor cats outlive outdoor cats by as much as 10 years. The author shares some proactive measures to help keep cats safe while they’re away from home including microchipping, vaccination and parasite prevention. Source: Happy Puppy Tips. Link. Before opening the door to feline freedom, consider investing … [Read more...]
Tostitos toes: Why dogs paws sometimes smell like corn chips
Frito feet; pup-corn paws; Tostito toes . . . vets have heard it all! Pseudomonas and Proteus bacteria are a type of yeast present in most dogs’ feet. Activated by exercise, the bacteria cause the smell when dogs sweat. Washing feet with warm soapy water is the first line of defense to reduce the odor. Source: Happy Puppy Tips. Link. Indications of an infection needing … [Read more...]
Safety required around poison ivy, oak and sumac for humans and pets
In many parts of the U.S., the edges and undergrowth of stands of trees, timber, forests and marshes contain poisonous vines. These plants are poisonous because of urushiol, a potent oily sap found all over the plants. While rare, dogs get poison ivy, poison oak or poison sumac through touch or ingestion. A dog's fur protects against the urushiol. But areas of a dog's body … [Read more...]
Make traveling with dogs easy and fun
With careful planning and preparation, traveling with dogs can be fun and less stressful on the pet than being left at a pet sitter. It is not for everyone, however. Here are three resources = to help dog owners enjoy traveling with their dogs. Sources: 8 tips to get your car pet-friendly, Happy Puppy Tips. Link. Ideas to help dogs, especially puppies, feel at ease … [Read more...]
Tips to make car travel pet friendly
Vacation season is almost here. Traveling with a pet can be enjoyable with preparation and planning. The tips shared here can make the whole experience more enjoyable and hassle-free for the pet and passengers. Source: Happy Puppy Tips. Link. … [Read more...]
The 411 on fetch
We’re including this item because it will be especially helpful for new dog owners. Playing fetch with our dogs is well known, but not all know it is a DNA-driven trait and may psychologically feel good to most dogs. Source: Happy Puppy Tips, Link. Also see: Dog toys: How to pick the best and safest, Humane Society of the U.S. Link. Also see: The 16 best dog toys to … [Read more...]
Dogs can enjoy TV
Domestic dogs can perceive images on television almost like we do. They also recognize sounds from it. The author shares what affects what dogs really see on TV, canine dichromatic vision, motion detection and channels dogs enjoy. Source: Happy Puppy Tips. Link. Sitting in front of a screen is not a replacement for outdoor play and exercise, but can be fine on occasion, … [Read more...]
Cruelty-free pet brands growing
More brands are coming to market that are certified as cruelty-free, making them an option garnering attention from animal owners. Source: Happy Puppy Tips. Link. When it comes to understanding what exactly qualifies a brand as “cruelty-free,” consumers are often left to fill in the gaps . . . . . . there is no “official” or government-sanctioned cruelty-free label” … [Read more...]
Mental stimulation matters for dogs
. . . just 15 minutes of mental stimulation can have the same positive benefits of an hour of physical exercise in dogs.” The author outlines the top tips and tricks to ensure dogs’ mental health stays as fit as their physical bodies. Source: Happy Puppy Tips. Link. INSIGHTS: Consider this article for newsletters and social media. It reinforces the need for exercise in … [Read more...]
7 ways to help puppies socialize with other dogs
There are at least three television shows airing now that deal with canine behavior issues. As much information as there is about socializing, there’s always a need to reinforce what’s known and encourage owners to learn and do more. Socialization is very important in a dog’s life. It is crucial for its development and for its safety too. All dogs need to interact with … [Read more...]