10 Tantalizing Boston Terrier Trifles

10 Reasons Why Rabbits Make Great Pets

If you are looking to get a pet, but can’t (or don’t want to) adopt a cat or a dog, you’re probably considering your other options. Some pet owners find joy in sharing their life with a feathered friend, such as a clever African Gray or a pair of cute lovebirds, others are passionate about aquatics and enjoy caring for a shoal of exotic fish, and some prefer small animals such as hamsters, guinea pigs, ferrets, or rabbits – which consistently top the lists as some of the most popular pets around. Bunnies are so well loved for a number of reasons, starting from their cute looks to their lovable personalities and many in between. We’ve selected a few of the causes why rabbits are such popular companions for families of all shapes and sizes, so you can determine if a bunny is a right choice for you and your lifestyle. Read on and find out what are the 10 reasons why rabbits make great pets – it might be just what you need to know before adopting a bunny. Rabbits come in all shapes and sizesWhether you’re in love with fluffy bunnies, giant bunnies, tiny bunnies, bunnies with spots on their coat, or bunnies that have exotic colors, you will find what you are looking for. There are numerous different rabbit breeds to choose from, and their unique traits are often related only to their appearance and some slight changes in temperament, as they tend to be sweet, loving, and quite adaptable in general, no matter their breed. As a result, every type of owner – be they single, seniors, or a family with young kids, will certainly find a rabbit pet for their own liking. Rabbits don’t need a lot of spaceWith some pets, things become challenging when there is a lack of space. For example, if you live in a cramped studio, you can’t really consider adopting a large breed dog or a working breed that needs a big backyard to burn off excess energy. But with rabbits, space is not an issue, as even the bigger breeds don’t need as much room as some other pets do. A bunny will be fine with a reasonably sized enclosure in the corner of the room, a litter, and a bit of safe and enclosed space to exercise and stretch. Anything more than that is up to you and your abilities. So, even those that live in small homes can enjoy the company of the rabbit – without worrying about overcrowding or neglect! Rabbits are hardy animalsContrary to popular belief, rabbits are not fragile and frail. In fact, they can be quite hardy and tend to have good health. While rabbits are not impervious to diseases, there aren’t many serious illnesses that can affect them genetically, and most of the ailments that can happen are treatable by experienced veterinarians. Of course, a rabbit is only as healthy as you care for it. They are robust, sure, but still require your care and attention to stay that way. This means that their diet will have to be balanced and healthy, as well as their hygiene, exercise, and all the other parts of rabbit care. With all this taken care of, you can definitely count on your rabbit pet to be very resilient. Rabbits have a reasonably long lifespanIt is only natural that all owners would love their pets to be around for many long years. Some animals have longer lifespans than others, and some pets are very short-lived. But luckily, rabbits do not belong to this group! These animals have reasonable lifespans. On average, they live between 7 and 10 years, and many can live beyond that as well. This gives you plenty of time for bonding and creating some wonderful memories. Of course, as usual, this can only happen if you provide your pet with proper care and attention. Take care of them –and they will stay with you for long. Rabbits get along well with childrenRabbits make ideal family pets and make good first companions for children. As we already know, pets are important for children and can be a crucial part of their development. And rabbits are amongst the most adored pets! Kids will love these fluffy, adorable, and gentle balls of fur. But most importantly, they can learn a lot of important lessons from owning a rabbit. They will learn to be gentle with animals, to care for them and keep them healthy and safe, and to bond and play with them. Bunnies, in turn, can provide them company when you cannot, playing with them or simply cuddling. It is a match made in heaven, and bunnies make some of the best pets for children of all ages. Rabbits are quiet and won’t bother your neighborsSome owners find parrots or dogs too loud and have to find a more quiet pet. You might also be living in an apartment building, and simply can’t have a pet that makes noise due to neighbors complaining. This is not an issue if you get a bunny. Rabbits are very quiet animals and make almost zero sounds that can be considered loud. With a rabbit, there won’t be any risk of annoyance, being woken up, babies restless, or neighbors alarmed. Instead, you can get a good amount of peace and quiet, which can be ideal for snoozing, working from home, etc.Rabbits are clean animalsSome owners, understandably, would prefer a pet that isn’t a hassle to clean after. Poop, pee, loose hair, bird seed, feathers, food crumbs – different pets can leave all sorts of dirt behind them. This is natural and understandable, of course, but it simply isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. With rabbits, dirt is down to a minimum. Sure, they have to do their “business”, but they aren’t as messy about it as some other animals. Of course, a rabbit is only clean when they are litter trained – otherwise, they will simply pee or poop wherever they happen to be. But training them is not a great challenge, and it will pay off, in the long run, to do so.Rabbits are quite affectionate when socializedEvery owner would love a pet that is affectionate and loves to cuddle and doesn’t mind interaction with their owners. Luckily, when socialized early, rabbits are precisely like that – sweet, loving, and adoring of the attention their owners give them. Of course, some rabbits don’t like being handled and it’s important to note this. This is usually a consequence of poor training: you need to socialize and handle a bunny from an early age, in order to get them accustomed to human interaction and your hands. With this accomplished, however, the bunny will have no problem resting in your lap. Rabbits are relatively low-maintenance petsIf you live a busy life with plenty of daily chores, rabbits won’t really get in your way as cats or dogs can. These are generally considered to be low-maintenance pets, that won’t give you all that much hassle. Regular feed times, and a bit of cleanup, and they’re pretty much good to go. This, of course, does not mean you should neglect your rabbit – they will need mental stimulation, affection, interaction, and exercise in order to remain the best version of themselves. Still, if your day is especially busy, you can count on your bunny to not get in their way! Rabbits are intelligent animalsDid you know that bunnies can be real smarty pants? They might seem docile and lethargic at first glance, but don’t be fooled. These are intelligent and inquisitive animals, whose curiosity is often the instigator for some quirky and fun behavior. With a bunny, fun is always around the corner: they love to play, solve riddles, and play with special rabbit toys. They can even learn basic tricks, so don’t hesitate to try some training. You would be surprised at how smart they are, especially after a few years of living by your side. These are fast learners whose antics can really take you by surprise! ConclusionWhen you take all these reasons into account, it’s easy to see why rabbits are so loved by their owners and don’t lose their spot among the most popular pets decades back. They have many positive traits and are so adaptable that they make perfect pets for a range of owners, which is not something that can be said about many animals. They’re relatively easy to handle and take care of, and won’t be a constant hassle. Still, you’ll do good to remember that rabbits will need your attention and constant care – just like every other pet on the planet. Otherwise, your bunny won’t thrive or fulfill their potential. Be sure to take care of their needs, and they will remain steadfast companions for a good number of years.

The Benefits of Grain Free Dog Food

Why Some Dog Foods Have GrainIf you look at the ingredient lists of most dog foods, you’ll notice that a great deal of them contain grains, some of them even listing grains as their first or second ingredient. But do dogs really thrive when fed grain-rich foods? The answer is not completely black or white. While carbohydrates are essential for dogs and need to be a staple of a canine’s nutrition, there are some key aspects to be considered. First, the carbs should come from complex sources such as barley, whole oats, brown rice, whole wheat, whole corn, and sweet potato, to balance blood glucose levels and sustainably support your pet’s energy levels throughout the day. Secondly, carbs, while important, shouldn’t make up for such a huge chunk of your pet’s diet – protein should always be the primary ingredient in dog food. Pros and Cons of Grains in Dog Food: How Grains Affect Your Pet’s Health

How to Train Your Pet to Be a Visiting Therapy Dog

So, you think your gentle, people-loving pooch would be a great fit as a nursing home Therapy dog? Let’s start by saying congratulations on exploring this option. Pet visitation programs have become popular across the globe because of their proven ability to enhance the quality of life and help improve the health of seniors including those suffering from depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.And while you may be right about your little buddy being an ideal candidate for this type of work, there’s more to it than simply a winning disposition and disarming grin.Breeds that QualifyWonder which breeds qualify? The short answer is that all breeds qualify however due to potential liability issues, each dog requires a certain level of certification before he gets to share the love. And because what this certification actually looks like can vary from state to state, province to province and even between the various retirement communities, you’ll want to start with the basic accreditations.Let’s Get StartedThe American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) offer behavioral certifications called the Canine Good Citizen (AKC) and the Canine Good Neighbor (CKC). Both programs include a series of tests that your pooch must perform and pass in front of a live evaluator.Each club’s testing system requires among other things, that your dog to be friendly with strangers, that he come when called, sit and stay on command, be receptive to patting and have a clean, well-groomed appearance. The TestsThe requirements below, are pulled from both the AKC and CKC testing requirements. For each objective, we share training tips on how to get your pooch up to speed and ready for his final evaluation. That evaluation takes no more than 10 to 15 minutes and is conducted by accredited, dog-friendly folk who are located throughout North America and are both supportive and rooting for your best buddy to claim his title.1. Willing to accept the approach of a friendly stranger reaching out to shake hands with you.Socialization is key here and if your pet wasn’t introduced to new sights, sounds, and faces when he was a fearless little pup, he’ll likely feel anxious when taken out of his comfort zone as an adult. Your goal is to build his confidence and lessen his fears by providing him with gradual, controlled exposure to new situations. Plan to:· Bring him to a dog park and remain within sight in case he feels crowded or overwhelmed by other dogs.· Introduce him to new faces – both adults and children. Progress can be measured in his reaction to these new situations. Is he comfortable when strangers approach – meaning he doesn’t growl, bark, lunge, or hide behind you?· As he progresses, consider dropping him at a doggie daycare center from time to time. This allows him to mix with new faces in a supervised situation where you’re not present. And staff are great at sharing report cards on just how well your dog integrated with others and if there were any hot buttons.2. Sit politely and accept being patted over a period of time without shying away or showing wariness. Meeting this requirement relies heavily on how well socialized your dog is. If he’s passed the meet and greet phase with flying colors, it’s time to introduce him to the sensation of being patted and touched by strangers. Start with people you know but who your dog may not be as familiar with. He should be able to sit, stay and accept the pat without mouthing, pulling back or feeling threatened (treats help keep your pooch on point).This needs to happen in a controlled manner, one person at a time, and with them instantly withdrawing if your pet becomes anxious. His comfort level with being touched and cuddled by strangers will grow with continued exposure. It’s not a process you can rush and is a step that is critically important to how well he will perform as a therapy dog.3. Be responsive when taken for a short walk including completing, left, right and about-turns as well as stopping. One of the five basic commands, “heel” can be a tricky one to master when your dog is excitedly tugging and pulling in an effort to get the walk started. Because this is an important discipline for a Therapy dog, clicker training might be the way to go. And it’s a fairly simple process. Call your dog to come to you as you start to walk (the standard heel position is on your left side). When he arrives, say “good boy/girl” while at the same time clicking the clicker and offering up that all-important treat.Practice this a few times until your pet has the hang of it. Then eliminate the verbal command and simply use the clicker to draw your dog over to you and into position. Once the task has been completed successfully, mix it up by changing your pace or direction to require your dog to regain his heel position and adapt his stride.4. Be comfortable moving through a crowd of strangers without jumping up.Here’s another requirement that relies on your pet being fully socialized and capable of interacting with strangers, minus fear, aggression, or over-exuberance. And it’s an important skill for Therapy dogs who may need to move through crowded nursing homes or hospitals while remaining calm and focused. Start with taking him on short, leashed walks of no more than five to 10 minutes through a crowd where he can still see ahead and to the sides. Offer plenty of verbal praise (with treats) as he remains focused on the walk and non-reactive to the outside stimulation.Over time, your pet will change his association with crowds and strangers from a fearful experience to one loaded with encouragement and treats. Gradually extend the length of your walks to help reinforce the positive/non-threatening nature of these situations.5. Sit and stay on command, then remain in the stay position when you walk away before returning.The American Kennel Club emphasizes the need for a start and finish to the Stay command. Choose a word to be used exclusively to release your pet from the Stay position. It could be “over” or “OK” or “free” - you pick. Now, because it should be strictly for releasing your pet from his Stay, avoid choosing his name, “come”, or any other command word that might confuse when used later.When your pet has assumed a Sit or Down position, use the Stay command. Within a few seconds, use the release word and issue a treat. If he remains in his Stay position, encourage him to get up and come toward you.6. Sit, stay, and then come when called from a 30-foot distance.Once the Stay/Release command is mastered you’re ready to move on to the three Ds: Duration, Distance and Distractions.Duration is how long your dog remains in a stay position, Distance is how far you move away from your pet, and Distractions are all that stuff that can happen around him while he’s patiently waiting in the Stay position. All can be trained and controlled.· To build on Duration, issue the Stay command, count to three, then issue the release word with a treat. Repeat the process, increasing each interval by a few seconds. If he releases early, repeat the Sit/Stay commands and begin again.· Distance training takes longer and requires a little more patience. Deliver the Sit/Stay commands, then take one step back from your dog while he remains in the Stay position. Pause, then step back toward him and deliver the treat if he’s remained in place. Next, take two steps back, then forward to your dog. Repeat the process, adding an extra step each time.· It’s important to have mastered the Distance and Duration commands before adding Distractions. Noise, a squirrel, anything can draw your dog’s attention away from the task at hand. To de-sensitize your pet, add small distractions in a controlled environment such as your backyard. Increase the number and level of distractions, then move to a different environment and repeat. And up the game as it relates to treats. AKC recommends “higher value” options for this one.Want a handy training tip? Always hold treats up at chest level to prevent luring (dog just following the food versus the command).When your training is complete and your pet has received his Canine Good Citizen or Canine Good Neighbor certification, you’ll want to align yourself with an established Therapy dog program that can identify those facilities that are in need of this service. In the United States, the AKC website has a list of Therapy dog organizations including the Alliance of Therapy Dogs and Therapy Dogs International. In Canada, organizations such as St. John’s Ambulance are good places to start once you feel your dog is ready to start spreading the love.

Hay for Rabbits and Why It’s Important

Rabbits are grazing herbivores, which means that they only eat plants and eat them throughout the day – and the plant they eat most of is hay. In fact, at least 75% to 80% of a rabbit’s diet should consist primarily of high-quality grass hay! Their digestive systems are perfectly adapted to hay, as a high-fiber diet is optimal for their complex needs. As avid self-groomers, rabbits tend to ingest a lot of hair when cleaning themselves, but unfortunately, their gastrointestinal tract cannot properly break down and pass hair. That’s why they need a lot of roughage in their daily diet – it helps pass the hair through the intestines safely where it is expelled in the stool. Additionally, if a rabbit isn’t eating enough hay – and mind you, they should be eating their body’s weight in hay per day – their gut flora will change, and it can lead to a deadly condition called GI stasis.In addition to helping keep their digestive system functioning properly, hay also helps file down rabbit’s teeth and prevent overgrowth or malocclusion. Rabbit’s teeth grow throughout their life, and if left unchecked, they can grow too much and cause health issues. On average, a rabbit’s teeth will grow as much as 2 mm each day, and it quickly adds up – in a year, they can grow up to 12 cm! When a rabbit eats a lot of hay, the coarseness of it will gradually grind the new growth, keeping their teeth in check.What Type of Hay Rabbits Eat? There are various types of hay for rabbits available, so you might be wondering which type of it is the best for your pet. While hay is basically just dried grass, it doesn’t mean that any dried grass will do – it has to be safe for rabbits to consume and contain the right amount of fiber and nutrients. The most common choice is timothy hay, which is a mix of leaves and stems of the perennial Timothy grass – it’s thick and coarse, which is optimally suited to a rabbit’s digestive system, and has the right amount of protein and fiber as well. Next, you have orchard grass hay. This type of hay has a softer texture than timothy hay does and contains less protein even though it’s exceptionally rich in fiber, but it has a sweeter smell and taste, which is why some bunnies prefer it. Meadow grass hay (or pasture hay) is not “real” hay, but rather a mixture of various types of grass that have been gathered from meadows and pastures (hence the name) and then dried in a kiln. The combination of different textures and tastes suits picky bunnies, but it might be more calorie-dense than timothy hay, which is why it should be fed in moderation.Oat hay is grown as a specific crop and harvested before the seed heads form, to ensure its digestibility. It is rich in fiber, minerals, and vitamins. Rabbits tend to love it mostly because of oat husks which have a crunchy texture they appreciate.Alfalfa hay is technically neither grass nor hay but rather a legume in the pea family – it’s also called lucerne. As a result, it is quite rich in protein and can be too nutrient dense for adult bunnies, and could lead to obesity if fed often or exclusively. However, when it comes to kits and growing bunnies, alfalfa hay is an excellent choice as it will help them grow into strong, healthy rabbits.Herbal hay can be a fun treat for an indoor-only rabbit, as it introduces certain herbs that bunnies would normally eat when foraging outdoors into their daily meals. It mixes timothy hay with dried chamomile, dandelions, or marigolds to give your pet a taste of what they would normally eat on the outside.ConclusionHay is the primary food source for rabbits – it contains high amounts of fiber, which helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome and wear down constantly growing teeth, which in turn prevents common health issues for rabbits such as GI stasis or malocclusion. You should offer high-quality hay in unlimited amounts, as your rabbit needs to eat their body weight of hay on a daily basis, combined with occasional rabbit pellets and rabbit-safe vegetables to introduce essential vitamins and minerals to their diet. The best choice is timothy hay, for its coarseness and high fiber content, but if you have a picky bunny, you can mix timothy hay with some tastier, richer hay such as oat hay or orchard grass hay.

Cranberry and Yogurt Dog Treat Recipe

Does your dog have tummy troubles? Try making this Cranberry and Yogurt Dog Treat Recipe. Great for the digestive system, yogurt can act as a probiotic. As well, it’s high in calcium and protein. Just make sure that you use plain yogurt, as the fruit kinds may contain sugar or artificial sweeteners. Makes 24 cookiesIngredients:1 cup cranberries fresh, frozen, or dried1/2 cup plain yogurt1 1/4 cups whole wheat flour1/4 cup ground flax seed2/3 cup oats1 tablespoon honey3 tablespoons water Directions:1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper. 2. Put oatmeal in a food processor and grind until fine in texture, as well as cranberries. Add to bowl.3. Add flour, ground flax seed, honey, water, and yogurt to bowl. Mix the ingredients together until incorporated and the dough holds together. 4. Lightly flour a large cutting board or clean counter. Flip dough onto surface and roll to ¼-inch thickness.5. Cut out cookies with cookie cutter and place on cookie sheets. 6. Place in oven for 20 minutes. 7. Remove from oven and cool on rack. 8. Store treats in airtight bags or containers and keep in refrigerator or freezer.

Top Proteins - Which Protein is Best for Your Dog

Main Types of Protein In Dog Food: Pros and ConsProtein in pet food can be either animal-based or plant-based. Animal-based protein comes from meat, either muscle meat or organs, as well as meat meal, which is also rich in glucosamine and chondroitin to promote joint health. When it comes to plant-based proteins, in dog food, they usually come from legumes and grains, such as peas, lentils, chickpeas, or soy, to name a few.Naturally, animal-based protein is much better for dogs as it contains other essential nutrients as well, and it is easy to digest – dogs have evolved to digest animal protein with ease and to get crucial nutrients from meat, organs, eggs, etc. On the other hand, dogs may not digest plant-based protein as well and it can be considered an inferior source of protein for canines.What Protein Is Best for My DogAlthough we’ve already covered that animal-based protein is generally the superior protein source in dog food, it still doesn’t narrow the list down. Is it eggs, liver, chicken, turkey, beef, salmon…? The most common protein sources in pet food are beef, chicken, and fish, and there are varieties there, as well – it’s better to opt for cage-free chicken or grass-fed beef, wild-caught salmon, and other quality types of real meat rather than a vague description of meat source. While most dogs will enjoy any of the three popular protein options, beef and chicken also happen to be one of the most common culprits for dogs with food sensitivities, so you might want to opt for a novel protein (Bison, Elk, Alligator, Kangaroo, Beaver) in that case.

How to Keep Your Cat Safe This Halloween

Make Sure Your Cat Doesn’t Get OutHalloween is a busy occasion, with more people than usual walking around town during the day and at night. There’s a lot of activity, and trick-or-treaters will be ringing your doorbell asking for candy. If you aren’t careful, your cat might rush out or sneak out, so it’s important to take steps to ensure your pet will stay inside. If your cat is the type to dart out the door, try training her so she won’t do it. And consider keeping your cat in another room on Halloween so she won’t get stressed by the doorbell repeatedly ringing and the door opening to strangers in costumes. Tip: It’s a good idea to put a collar with an ID tag on your cat on Halloween, just in case she does end up getting out. Keep Candy Away from Your CatThere may be a lot of candy in your house on Halloween and in the days before and after the holiday, but make sure your kitty doesn’t ingest any of it. Chocolate and various candies, such as those that contain xylitol, can be toxic to cats.Store all of your Halloween candy securely in an area where your cat won’t be able to access it. Also, throw away candy wrappers so you won’t accidentally leave them where your pet might find them, as you don’t want your kitty to lick the wrappers or swallow them. Choose Cat-Safe Decorations and CostumesWhen decorating the inside of your home for Halloween, keep your cat’s safety in mind. Choose decorations that she won’t be able to chew on or ingest. Also, ensure that she won’t be able to get tangled in any decorations. And bear in mind that a kitty could get burned by a flame or knock over a lit candle -- now that’s scary! -- so stick with using battery-powered candles. Should you dress your cat up for Halloween? It depends on your unique companion. If she doesn’t get stressed when you put accessories or outfits on her, you might be able to include her in the festivities. Select a costume that’s specifically designed for felines and is the right size for your kitty. Also, ensure it isn’t hazardous to your pet in any way -- you don’t want your cat to eat any part of the costume or get tangled in it, as a couple examples. And keep an eye on her while she’s wearing the costume to be sure she’s safe and comfortable in it at all times. But if your cat isn’t comfortable wearing a costume, just respect her preferences. Have Fun with Your Cat This Halloween!By keeping a few things in mind, you can rest assured that everyone in your family, including your pets, will have a good time this Halloween. Remember, if your cat gets hurt or eats something she shouldn’t, be sure to contact a veterinarian right away.

How To Get Snowballs Out Of Your Dog's Fur

Dogs who love snow really love snow. They run and romp and are about the most adorable things ever.But, the downside of winter fun for your best bud is snow and ice balls getting matted in their fur. It’s weird; you’d think that something as simple as snow would be easy just to brush off, but that’s not always the case. Especially for some of our favorite and hairier breeds like Goldens or German Shepherds, snow in dog fur can be a hot mess. Not only can it be messy, it can also be pretty painful for your dog. If the snow is dirty or contaminated with chemicals, it could lead to skin irritation or other health issues if it gets all matted in their fur.Still, so many dogs love playing in the snow (and we love playing with and taking pictures of them); it’s important to have a plan for getting snowballs out of dog fur before you get outside and your dog has to deal with it.Here are some tried and true ways to get snowballs out of dog fur.Begin With Brushing or CombingThis is typically a dog pawrent’s first line of attack when it comes to getting snowballs or ice out of dog fur. A lot of the success with brushing your dog’s fur with snowballs will depend on the type of fur. Some shorter-haired breeds are easier, and they don’t have quite as many snowballs in fur to begin with. A nice, gentle brush with a rubber brush or even a curry comb can be just what the ice doctor called for. Start by using your hands to gently shake their coat and break up snowballs as you can. If you have a dog with longer fur, that may not be as easy, and you’ll want to be careful because snow/ice can be pretty tenacious and make the matting and tangling even worse. If that’s the case, it can be a lot of pain for your dog, so be gentle and patient when brushing.If you’re using a comb or brush, start at the end of their fur and work your way back toward their skin. Pulling at the mats can hurt, but this will help get rid of any tangles or mats that happened in their wet fur. You could also a slicker brush to help if at there are lots of mats and tangles. It has fine wire bristles that can untangle, but the wire bristles can be tough, so be sure to be gentle and don’t pull or tug. Wipe With Warm Cloths or TowelsSnowballs in a dog’s fur are just frozen water balls that are matted. The antidote to frozen problems is heat. After a fun romp in a winter wonderland, warm cloths or towels wrapped around fur with snowball mats can feel like heaven to your best bud. Similar to how good a warm shower feels to you, warm cloths can feel like a spa treatment for your dog, while also helping melt the snowballs in dog fur in a gentle way. This will also take some patience, so be prepared for that. An easy way to warm cloths or towels is to run them through your clothes dryer for a few minutes.Apply Higher HeatOn that same note, consider using a hair dryer to melt the snowballs before you attempt to brush your dog’s fur out. Be sure that you use a low setting, as you’re basically heating their skin as well as their fur, and be mindful of how your dog feels with the noise. Some dogs with snowballs in fur don’t love the noise of a hair dryer, and that’s why warm cloths or towels work better. Still, if your dog is okay with the noise of a hairdryer, using one is a fast, easy way to melt every snowball in a dog’s fur away with little else needed but a nice brush down.You may be in a situation where you don’t have access to a hair dryer or a way to warm cloths or towels. If that’s the case, you could always use your own body heat to melt snowballs in your dog’s fur. Hold them close and wrap yourself around him to allow the body heat to melt the snowballs. If you have a towel or blanket, you can wrap it around your dog and allow body heat to help melt the snowballs. Try a Trend!There’s a TikTok trend that dog parents are loving when it comes to getting snowballs out of a dog’s fur. It uses a whisk (yes, a kitchen whisk!) and seems to be a super success for breeds with longer hair. Check out this video of an adorable little Pomeranian getting the ‘Whisk Treatment’ and kissing all those snowballs goodbye!

5 Most Common Horse Injuries and How to Treat Them

In the lifetime of every horse, injuries are bound to happen at some time – maybe even more than once. This is especially true for horses that are fairly active, such as race and show horses, or work horses. These injuries can be fairly common and range from minor ones to major ones. Either way, as a responsible horse owner, you should be familiar with the most common of these injuries and just how to treat them before the vet arrives (if needed). #1 PuncturesScrapes, cuts, punctures – these are some of the most common injuries to happen to horses. They are usually caused by long and sharp objects that can penetrate deep below the skin. For example, imagine a long thorn piercing the horse's leg as they trundle through a bush, or a sharp piece of wire hiding in the dust poking deep into the hoof. These injuries are hard to avoid, especially since you simply can’t know what hides in the dirt or the grass. But you can treat them. And time is of the essence in such a case, as untreated puncture wounds can get infected, damaging the horse's leg and causing lameness. Keep in mind that punctures are not the same as slashes. They can be easy to overlook since the puncture is marked only by a tiny wound. However, it is hard to properly handle such a wound, unless you are a pro. You should call the vet immediately, and try to relieve the pain of the wound by hosing it with cold water. #2 Inflamed Joints (Osteoarthritis)Joint inflammation can affect both senior and younger horses, and usually targets parts called the “coffin”, hock joints, and fetlock. A common way for inflammation to occur is through a sudden increase in workloads, as well as certain movements that a horse might perform, such as jumping, tight turns, collected gaits, novel footing, or any other uncommon movements. Working on difficult rocky terrain for prolonged periods can also cause such inflammation. Joint inflammation can appear suddenly and unexpectedly, and disappear quite quickly. But if it keeps reappearing, it can turn into osteoarthritis, which can be more difficult to cure. Sings of joint inflammation are subtle, but still noticeable: difficulty moving, stiff and unusual movements, and later swelling, heat, and pain. This condition unarguably requires a careful veterinary examination, and a lighter case of inflammation can be relieved with box rest and cold hosing of the inflamed joints. #3 SorenessSore muscles affect all creatures. But horses, being so powerfully built, can feel that ailment more than others. It is true that hard work and exercise will build muscle, but when you overwork your horse, soreness can occur. Strained muscles are painful and can quickly lead to more serious injury. They are commonly seen in horses, and usually target a single group of muscles that is continually overworked. For example, it is common in dressage horses, who place greater focus on their hind quarters. Muscle soreness is a common injury, but is considered mild, and its symptoms can be somewhat difficult to spot. Keep an eye out for stiff movements or avoidance of certain exercises. To treat this injury, give your horse some time off to rest and relax, and try massaging the affected muscles. Also, don’t rush into their exercises – give them time to warm up. #4 Strained ligamentsLigaments are very important in a horse’s body, and certain accidents can cause them to be strained, especially in the hind legs. These injuries are caused by missteps, increased stress, or a particularly hard landing. As such, the injury is common in show horses that perform jumps or in dressage horses. Furthermore, a ligament injury can range from light to heavy – or in other words, from strain to a tear. This is a potentially serious injury, and recovery of a ligament can take months and up to a year. Of course, veterinary care is necessary, and plenty of rest throughout. And even when the ligament is healed, your horse will have to get back into action gradually and with plenty of patience and care. To prevent this injury from occurring, avoid overworking your horse or exercising on uneven and unpredictable ground. #5 AbrasionsJust like punctures, abrasions are perhaps the most common horse injury of all. They usually occur on the legs, especially the lower part, and can happen during work or exercise. Abrasions are varied and can range from scrapes to large open cuts and slashes. A common way they can occur is through low foliage, thorn bushes, barbed wire fences, sharp rocks, and anything in between. They can also be lighter or more serious, and depending on this, you can potentially treat them yourself, or call in a veterinarian. Either way, these abrasions will need to be cleaned and sanitized, because if left untreated, they can get infected and cause further trouble!

Dandy Pet Wellness: Personalized Supplements for Your Pup

That goes for our furry best friends, too. After all, we’re in charge of keeping them healthy so we can keep playing fetch with them for as long as we can.The pet supplement market has expanded over the last several years, much as the human supplement market. A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that up to a third of all dogs in the United States are given nutritional supplements for their health.So how’s a dog parent to find the best supplements for dogs? Every dog is different, and every dog’s needs are different.And that’s just what dandy decided to tackle with their customized pet supplements (in delicious treat form) that come each month right to your door.All About dandy

Pumpkin and Cheese Dog Treat Recipe

Pumpkins are for more than just carving, they’re also for eating. And not just for humans – your pooches can get in on all the goodness and benefits of eating pumpkin. And in our Pumpkin and Cheese Dog Treats, you’ll get that and so much more. Did you know that pumpkin is a wonderful source of Vitamins A, E, and C – these are important for your dog’s immune system, brain function, eyes, and skin health. On top of that, pumpkin also contains minerals such as potassium, copper, manganese, and iron, all of which play a role in cellular functions. And when you add cheese into the mix, you’ve got a homemade cookie that will have your doggie drooling!Makes about 40 cookiesIngredients:2 cups whole wheat flour1 cup pureed pumpkin2 cups shredded cheddar cheese1 teaspoon baking powder2 eggs2 tablespoons olive oilDirections:1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.2. In a large bowl, beat eggs, then mix in oil and pumpkin. Stir in cheddar cheese.3. Add flour and baking powder, mixing until combined. You may want to get your hands into the mix to make sure it’s all combined.4. Flour your countertop and roll out dough to ¼ inch thickness. Cut out shapes using a cookie cutter. Place shapes on cookie sheets.5. Place in oven and let bake for 17 - 20 minutes, until golden brown.6. Remove cookies from oven and allow to cool for 2-3 hours.7. Place treats in an airtight containers and store in refrigerator or freezer.

Top 10 Drug Detection Dogs

Think your pooch could sniff out drugs just because he discovered that errant potato chip you lost between the sofa cushions two weeks ago. Hey, we all know our pooches are uber-quick when it comes to sniffing out the good stuff. In fact, while humans typically have 400 olfactory (scent) receptors in their nose, dogs are reputed to have up to 100 million – which explains why they go into sniff-and-snort overload when out on a walk. But does that mean all dogs have what it takes to detect drugs?In this instance, the answer comes down to both nature and nurture. You see, some dog breeds are better suited to taking on this type of role. And it’s their natural scenting ability coupled with targeted training that turns them into the secret weapon border patrols around the world rely on for detecting contraband.So, what are the characteristics a trainer is looking for? According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), they’re seeking out a dog that is keen, driven and almost always purebred. The latter is because certain breeds have a proven aptitude for this type of work due to their predictable behaviors and reliable capabilities. With non-purebred dogs you can often get a mix of different disciplines and temperaments, making it impossible to train them for this type of highly specialized work.And it’s not just marijuana from that vacation in Jamaica these keeners are trained to sniff out. Drugs such as amphetamines, cocaine, heroin, hashish, ketamine and methamphetamines/speed (to name just a few) have also made the scratch-and-sniff list. So, this is serious business and it leads to which are the breeds that law enforcement agencies seek out when it comes to developing a top-quality drug detection dog.

Best Horses for Jumping

In the equine world, there are numerous roles a horse can fulfill. A horse can be bred for hard work – pulling plows and equipment, logging, and carrying heavy loads. They can also be exclusively bred for high-speed racing, where endurance is key. A horse can be bred for casual riding as well, or for competitive shows where the ability to jump high is an absolute must. Jumping horses need to display a certain set of characteristics and physical traits, in order to be successful in this sport. And that means that not all breeds are suited for this role. If you are looking for a jumping horse but don’t know where to start, we will help narrow the selection. Here is the list of the best horses for jumping – each one has the selective traits and abilities that can make them the true champions at equestrian jumping shows. Read on!

How to Litter Train a Rabbit

All across the world, rabbits are quite popular pets and make affectionate, sweet companions. They are up there on the list of favorites, with cats and dogs and other small animals, and boast an arsenal of great traits all of their own. And not at all surprisingly – rabbits too can be litter trained and live mess-free with you in your home. That’s because, contrary to popular belief, rabbits are quite intelligent and obedient and respond well to training. Of course, it takes a bit of practice and patience before your bunny will finally take a hold of the whole “potty” concept. But, still, if you follow a few set rules and stay true to the course, you will litter train your rabbit in no time. Here are 4 tips that will make the whole process run smoothly – and ensure you successfully potty train your bunny.#1 Spaying/Neutering Makes a Huge DifferenceBefore the actual litter training begins, you need to consider that spayed or neutered rabbits are much easier to litter train than “intact” rabbits. The latter bunnies are difficult to properly train, and getting them fixed can make all the difference. When their hormones come into play, they can often mark their territory by spraying urine all over the place. Spaying and neutering is a routine procedure that will make your bunnies much happier – and healthier! And, most importantly, this will make them much more inclined to use the litter box as trained.#2 Pick the Right Litter Box and LitterChoosing the right litter box is not all that difficult when you know what to look for. Keep in mind that it will most certainly be different than a kitty litter box for example. Rabbits have different tendencies, and you might see them in their litter box often and for longer periods. You can also place their food bowl and other goodies nearby – this will enhance the sense of safety and security. Luckily, there are plenty of rabbit litter boxes that are designed specifically for bunny’s preferences you can find in most pet stores.Another important thing to consider is that rabbits will often nibble on the actual litter. That is why you need to prepare organic material: hay, wheat grass, oat, pellets, sawdust, or paper. Check out your pet store – there are many options for rabbit-friendly litter. #3 Location Is KeyRabbits have a natural tendency to relieve themselves in certain spots and corners of their choosing. They are not the animals that will just “do their business” wherever. And when litter training is considered, this is the perfect starting point! One of the major aspects of this behavior is the feeling of safety and security. Rabbits are known to poop only in certain nooks and corners where they know they won’t be disturbed or in danger. They love their privacy, after all! And it is up to you to place the litter in a safe and comfy nook where no one will disturb your bunny while they do their thing.If you already spot them peeing or pooping into one of the corners, place the litter box there – easy peasy. Of course, if it just so happens that they miss on their first try and use another corner, just keep moving the litter box – one of the spots is bound to be right. What is more, if you see that your bunny has trouble learning the whole process (after a few days), you can always add another litter box or even a few! Place them into different corners until one of them becomes the “go-to” place. In case you and your pet are successful on the first try, and the enclosure litter box becomes the place they use, you can start letting them run about the house without worrying about accidents. If the process went well, they should follow their instinct and return to the enclosure and the litter box when nature calls. However, if you spot them getting ready to “do the business” anywhere else, use a commanding tone of voice to stop them and to usher them towards the litter box as a gentle reminder. Still, if it happens that they poop somewhere else while you are not looking, just place the poop into the litter box – this is a great reminder. #4 More Is MoreKeep in mind that you are not limited to a single litter box. To help your bunny understand, you can place several boxes in and out of the rabbit enclosure. They’ll probably use multiple litter boxes at first and then gravitate towards a single one that suits their preferences the most, which is when you can safely remove the others without having to worry about your bunny doing their business all over the place.In no time, you will see how easy and straightforward this process can be – especially with spayed and neutered rabbits. They often choose just one place for their needs, and you just follow and put the litter there. Quick and easy. ConclusionWhen rabbits are spayed or neutered, the process of litter training them can be surprisingly successful. Once you pick out the right type of litter and a proper litter box for bunnies, you can start with setting it up in their enclosure or the place you’ve noticed they usually go potty – alternatively, you can place multiple ones around the home until they find the location they prefer the most. In the end, it’s important to remember that it can be a process of trial and error, and it may take you a few turns before you get the exact right type of litter, the environment setup, and the proper pace. Arm yourself with patience and persistence, adjust as needed, and success will follow in no time – you will have a perfectly litter-trained rabbit!

All The Best Things We Found At SuperZoo 2022

SuperZoo 2022 did not disappoint! It was full of amazing people, amazing companies, amazing products and of course, amazing pets.

Adoptable Dog of the Week - Sandy

Sweet, playful, and full of life, this striking gal is looking for someone to give her a forever home! Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Sandy, an almost 2 years old Border Collie and Shepherd mix from Lincoln, Nebraska. She is spayed, up to date with her vaccinations, microchipped, given flea, tick, and heartworm preventative, as well as dewormed – she has a clean bill of health and is ready for adoption! Sandy is a friendly dog that would do best in a family that already has canine(s) in the home, but needs an adult-only home.Sandy’s TaleSandy came from a rural shelter in Oklahoma where she was in grave danger of being euthanized due to limited space at the shelter, but luckily, she was rescued and given a second chance at life. Despite her bad experiences, Sandy is a sweet loving gal – she is a bit shy when meeting new people though, and will need a while to warm up to you once she first meets you. After that, however, she shows her true colors and her beautiful, loving personality.While she might be a little unsure about humans at first, the same can’t be said about dogs – Sandy absolutely adores meeting other dogs and playing with them! She is great at taking behavioral cues from other canines and adapts quickly, so she’ll probably get along perfectly with most dogs – her rescuers would prefer it if she goes to a home that already has one or more dogs in their family. She is also very outdoorsy and spends most of her time outside, playing with her foster canine siblings and chasing squirrels, so her adopters would have to have a securely fenced-in yard where she could play and explore. Sandy needs a home without children in the family, and preferably a calm environment where she could relax and feel safe.If you want to adopt Sandy, contact Dolly's Legacy Animal Rescue for more information about her and the adoption process.

Neurological Study Reveals Powerful Effect Petting Dogs Has On Brain

Petting a pooch sure feels nice, but did you know that petting a dog causes increased prefrontal brain activity? A new study by a team of scientists published at PLOS sheds some light on how interacting with our canine friends affects our brains – and the results are very promising.The study involved 21 people, who participated in six sessions – in three, they were asked to pet a stuffed animal, and in the second three a dog. What the researchers report is that, when participants were interacting with a dog, their brains practically lit up, or more precisely – their prefrontal cortex. This area of the brain is involved in several executive functions, such as attention, working memory, and problem-solving processes, as well as social and emotional processes. What does this mean, in layman's terms? Well, according to the study lead, doctor Rahel Marti, this goes to prove that live human-animal therapy interactions may boost cognitive and emotional activity in the brain and solidifies the proven benefits of animal-assisted therapy in medically supervised neural rehabilitation for nervous system conditions (such as brain trauma, strokes, seizures, etc.)Although it would have to be repeated on a grander scale for further analysis, this study was rigorously conducted, with functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) devices, which is essentially a portable brain scanner that measures oxygen saturation and blood in the brain to determine activity levels in the brain. Once fitted with the scanner, the participants were asked to first watch a dog across the room, then be seated next to one, and lastly, to pet the dog to measure their response. There were 3 dogs involved in the study – a Jack Russell terrier, a Goldendoodle, and a Golden Retriever. After this session, the process was repeated but with a heated stuffed plush animal, and while there was brain activity in the same area, the intensity was much less intense, probably because there wasn’t an emotional response of affection like it happened with a dog. While there have been previous studies – and real-life experiences – that have highlighted the importance and the many benefits of animal-assisted therapy, it’s fascinating to have recorded data on brain activity that provides solid evidence and further insight into the reasoning behind the efficiency of this type of therapy. It seems that, at the end of the day, dogs really are a man’s best friend – in more ways than one, they always have our back!

The Difference Between Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes for Cats

Before giving your cat either of these supplements, it’s wise to consult with your veterinarian to be sure you’re making the right choice and to be certain you’re providing the highest quality supplements that are made specifically for cats. In addition to that, take some time to learn about these supplements so you can have a clearer understanding of how they work. To get started, check out the information below. The Basics About Feline ProbioticsPut simply, probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in the gut and support digestion. When these are depleted, such as after a pet has taken antibiotics, digestive problems might occur. So, by giving your cat a probiotics supplement, you may be able to replenish the number of good bacteria and relieve her symptoms. The key, though, is to give your companion a top-quality supplement that’s made specifically for felines. This will help ensure she gets the right types of probiotics that will be effective. You also want to be sure you give your pet a supplement with adequate amounts of probiotics to ensure she gets a dose that will help make a difference in her digestive health. The Basics About Feline Digestive EnzymesDigestive enzymes also help with digestion, but they work in a different way. There are multiple types of digestive enzymes, which help break down the food that your kitty eats. Protease is the enzyme that helps break down protein, while amylase helps break down carbohydrates and lipase helps break down fat. So, in addition to feeding your pet a species-appropriate, high-quality diet, providing digestive enzymes might help ensure that your cat is able to properly absorb the nutrients in food. Once your kitty’s body is able to absorb and utilize the various nutrients from her food, her overall wellness can be supported. But, again, it’s necessary to give her supplements that are made specifically for felines. And it’s also important to administer digestive enzyme supplements properly to ensure they will be effective. Talk to Your Veterinarian About Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes As you can see, probiotics and digestive enzymes can both be used to support a cat’s digestive health. And when your kitty’s digestion is strong, other areas of her health can benefit as well. Your pet might need just one or both of these types of supplements, depending on what her symptoms are and whether you are planning on providing the supplements to maintain an already healthy digestive tract or to relieve symptoms and improve the way the digestive system functions. Remember, if your cat is experiencing digestive ailments, it’s super important that you talk to a veterinarian about her symptoms. That way, you can get the right diagnosis and treatment, which might include digestive enzymes and/or probiotics.

10 Tantalizing Boston Terrier Trifles

1. Oven Mitts

2. Wallet

3. Dry Erase Board

4. Duvet Cover

5. Travel Mug

6. Coloring Book

7. Garden Stake

8. Journal

9. Speaker

10. License Plate Cover

Popular Pet Guide

Adoptable Dog of the Week - Clef

Popular Article

American Kennel Club Shares Most Popular Dog Names of 2022

10 Tantalizing Boston Terrier Trifles

1. Oven Mitts

2. Wallet

3. Dry Erase Board

4. Duvet Cover

5. Travel Mug

6. Coloring Book

7. Garden Stake

8. Journal

9. Speaker

10. License Plate Cover

Popular Pet Guide

Popular Article

Related articles