Should You Take Your Dog to a Daycare for Animals? 

Are you a pet parent looking for a fun and safe way to keep your dog happy while you're away from home? Taking your pet to a daycare for animals is a brilliant solution. Because what pet wouldn't enjoy a fun-filled space with newfound furry friends? 

This blog post will cover everything you need to know about pet daycare, including the benefits and things to consider while selecting one for your dogs.

What is a Dog Daycare?

A dog daycare is a temporary dog shelter and play area. You can leave your dog in this fun facility during the day and pick him up after work. A dog daycare usually offers training sessions, boarding, and grooming services during a pet's stay on the premises. 

Dog Daycare vs. Dog Kennels

Dog daycare centers are a great option if your dog is social and loves to play. Most daycare centers have a large indoor and outdoor play area where your dog can run around and socialize with other dogs. 

Kennels, on the other hand, are often found at vet clinics and grooming facilities. Most kennels also provide grooming services, training, and veterinary care. When dogs check into a boarding kennel, they're provided with private living areas.

Dog Daycare vs. Pet Sitter

A dog daycare operates with a drop and pickup system. Usually, some daycare facilities don't allow overnight guests. So, if you're looking to have someone who can take great care of your pet in your home while you're away, pet sitters are a good option. 

These professionals come into your home and give your furry friends the love and attention they need in a familiar and comfy environment. 

4 Benefits of Doggy Daycare

Dogs are incredibly social animals. While your dog is used to your daily routine, they may not be thrilled about spending their days alone while you're away. This is where enrolling your dog in a daycare facility might be helpful.

Here are some benefits of doggy daycare for your furry friends:

Reduces Separation Anxiety

A dog suffering from separation anxiety may spend the day howling and wailing. Some dogs' anxiety often leads to destructive behavior while you're away. This can be a dilemma for pet owners like you. 

A doggy daycare can help reduce their separation anxiety. This type of facility allows your pup to bond with other furry friends. Playing with their companions helps them have the physical activity and connection they need. 

Socialization

Pet owners want the best for their furbabies. This includes providing opportunities for socialization, even if it means making some new furry friends of their own. Dog daycare services give your dog the needed socialization in a safe and structured environment. 

Your dog can interact with other canines in this facility while being monitored by trained professionals. This helps your dog become more comfortable around other dogs and develop critical social skills. 

Dog Training

Sometimes, a dog daycare may offer more than just fun playtime for your pets. You can bundle all these extra services with on-site training and optional grooming services into a single visit. 

Dog daycare facilities usually have trained employees who can teach your pet about basic commands or other advanced tricks. 

If they do not offer pet training, you can always teach your beloved pet at home and treat them with their favorite food and toys as a reward.

Maintains Routine

Depending on your pet's age, their typical routine at home may include regular walks, exercise, meal times, and well-deserved naps that keep them healthy and happy. If you're away from home, this routine may be affected. 

When you're away for long hours, it's important to provide structure for your dog's activities. Dog daycare services help maintain a routine for your pets while you're away. You can feel at ease knowing your dog will follow consistent routines.

5 Things Pet Parents Must Consider When Choosing a Doggy Daycare

Every dog daycare facility is different. Services, training, and prices will vary. Of course, pet parents would only be comfortable leaving their dearest dogs in daycare if safety and great care were guaranteed. 

Here's a list of things you need to check before boarding your pet at a dog daycare:

• Clean and Safe Facilities

A tour of the facilities helps you choose the best doggy daycare for your pup. This will give you an idea of what a typical day in the daycare would look like. 

Ask the staff members how often they clean the food and water bowls, toys, and the shared activity spaces. Check if the facility offers good ventilation, solid fencing, and safe floor surfaces during your tour. 

• Dog Behavior Test

Although the benefits of taking your dog to daycare are promising, not all dogs are suitable for a daycare environment. Some dogs may have aggressive behavior that may affect other dogs and staff in the facility. 

Even if your pet is friendly, it may feel overwhelmed in a setting with numerous other dogs around them. This is why most well-run daycare centers assess each dog before they're allowed entry. Some conduct a temperament test and assess the dog's personality. 

Dog daycare facilities usually introduce your pet to other dogs in the facility slowly until they become comfortable. Make sure your chosen daycare has this kind of rule before boarding your dog at the facility. 

Pet Health Policies

When choosing a doggy daycare, ensure they require vaccination records for every dog. If they don't ask for your pet's records, it might be the same for other pups. So be mindful of this when enrolling your furbaby. 

Aside from vaccination records, ensure the daycare knows what to do if a health emergency arises. Talk to them about special conditions your pet may have, like allergies or other chronic illnesses. This will help ensure your pet's safe stay in the daycare.

Staff Members' Training

The staff at a daycare facility must have professional experience working with dogs. They should also have received additional training on safely handling a group of dogs. This is essential to provide a secure space for every pup. 

The staff's knowledge can make all the difference in calming any tension between dogs. Make sure to inquire about their proper protocols if an altercation or incident happens inside the facility. 

Daycare Cost

As a pet parent, feeling reassured that your dog would be in good company while in doggy daycare is important. That is why many doggy daycare centers offer free half-day trials. This will put your mind at ease and allow you to save money before you commit full-time.

Check for discounts and other promo programs that you can avail of with regular visits. It wouldn't hurt to save money that can be used for buying other pet necessities. 

Can You Handle Being Away From Your Furry Friends? 

It can be daunting to consider boarding your pup or kitty in daycare. It's natural to worry that their routines may get disrupted or that they may not be in the best hands once you leave them at the facility. 

Why not try a pet alternative? Perfect Petzzz offers lifelike dogs and cats that can give you the gift of companionship without the hassles of pet ownership. With these lifelike pets, you don't have to worry about their routine or socialization once you're away for work or vacation. 

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Poop Patrol: A Simple Guide to Picking Up After Your Dog

Becoming a parent to your cute dog is one of life’s greatest joys. From the snuggles, the belly-tickling laughter, and all those priceless moments that warm our hearts, it’s only natural for you to want to show off your furry bundles of love.

But before you take your pup out for a spin around the block, remember that one of pet parenting’s less exciting duties is picking up a dog’s waste. It might not be glamorous, but it’s significant for you and your community. After all, leaving dog messes on the ground is neither sanitary nor pleasant for anyone.

Consider this blog post your guide to mastering the protocol: the essential do’s and don’ts for picking up dog poop. We’ll explain why this healthy habit is critical and discuss how to make cleanup duty easy and second nature for pet owners.

5 Reasons You Must Pick Up Your Dog’s Poop

Being a pet owner is an enormous job. Along with the unconditional love and joy your dog brings, there’s also an obligation to ensure their environment remains neat. This means regular poo pickups so you can enjoy spending time outdoors without making a mess for other people in your community.

But if you look closer, collecting dog waste isn’t just in pursuit of keeping a spotless backyard. It’s not just a matter of personal preference. There are various factors that make picking up after your pet an actual necessity.

Here are five reasons why:

#1: Adherence to the Law

Community laws ensure all kinds of mischief, including those left behind by our precious fur babies, are kept off the streets. Dog owners must diligently do their duty and pick up after their pups. Keeping your area and tracks clean and pleasant is not just a common courtesy—it’s the responsible thing to do. 

By doing the bare minimum, you protect nature, wildlife, and your community. Adhering to these regulations will also save you from potential embarrassment or legal fines nobody wants to pay. We can all become better stewards of nature with simple actions like these.

#2: Not a Sufficient Replacement for Fertilizers

Contrary to what many may think, the adage “everything naturally returns to the Earth” does not apply to pet waste. Dog feces isn’t a natural fertilizer at all. 

Unlike cow manure, the nitrogen found in dog poop can rapidly deplete soil nutrition and produce noxious smells. Beyond that, bacteria and parasites can linger and contaminate other crops or water sources if they remain in the environment for long periods. This is why you must bag and throw your pet’s poop in the bin where it belongs.

#3: Disease Control

Keep your neighbors safe by picking up after your pet’s business. Unpleasant odors aside, pet poop can contain parasites that could harm other pets and people within your community! 

Unless we take proper precautionary measures to discard pet waste correctly, dangerous microorganisms like E. coli and salmonella can spread rapidly to our soil and water systems, bringing severe health consequences to nearby households.

#4: Nuisance

Nobody wants to experience the unpleasant shock of stepping barefoot into a pile of puppy poop. Much like a slowly-spreading oil slick, pet waste can wreak havoc on even the cleanest shoes, clothing, and sidewalks. 

Given that not everyone is equally keen on handling a pet’s poop, any pet parent’s most considerate course of action is to act out of duty and fulfill their responsibilities. Not only does cleaning up after your pet maintain order in any community, but it also helps you avoid disapproving stares and murmurs from your neighbors.

#5: Drawing Unwelcome Visitors

Uncollected pet waste can act like a bright beacon that attracts wild critters such as skunks, rodents, and raccoons. These unwanted guests are drawn by the scent of dog dirt, which could mean a wild night for the community if they decide to stay.

It might seem like something to laugh off, but these mischievous pests can cause significant damage to your home and other structures if not addressed as soon as possible. A few minutes for pet cleanup goes a long way in avoiding dangerous animals and keeping your home safe.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Cleaning Your Dog’s Poop

Being a responsible pet parent means going the extra mile to ensure your furry friend is in optimal health. That means rolling up those sleeves, putting in some hard work, and getting your hands dirty. 

Some dog owners don’t know the best way to go about picking up after their pets, so here are some key pointers for keeping a pup’s messes in check:

Do: Use Biodegradable Poop Bags

Plastic grocery bags seem like the most convenient option. Still, it doesn’t help our environment with all the other plastic going into landfills.

Carrying biodegradable baggies that can minimize pollution and protect the environment is a safer alternative. Even better, they can properly contain pet waste appropriately when you dispose of them. With an environmentally-friendly option at your fingertips, there’s no need to worry about making a mess or polluting the environment!

Don’t: Throw Waste in a Storm Drain

Storm drains work to whisk away excess water when it rains. Sadly, these same systems can become polluted when pet owners fail to dispose of their dogs’ waste properly, leading to contamination of surrounding areas and much harm to everyone nearby.

Throw your pet’s waste in a garbage can or dumpster. This small act helps preserve the cleanliness of local waterways and avoid getting an entire community sick.

Do: Use a Poop Scooper

The ideal requirement for effective cleanup is to have a reliable poop scooper in your arsenal. Dog poops vary in size depending on their breed and age. Thus, it’s essential to have a tool that can handle small and large piles while providing excellent hygiene and as little mess as possible.

Moreover, having one of these scoopers comes in handy when taking a casual walk with your beloved dog. It allows convenient cleaning in one step without letting go of their leash.

Don’t: Flush It Down Your Toilet

Our drainage systems are a critical life force for utility and environmental purposes. It is a highly connected network of complex ecosystems that run underground, feed, water, and recycle our water sustainably and across households. 

As dog owners, we should not let our laziness cause the flow of dog poops into these vital habitats. Disregarding this simple duty is a giant disservice to our community. 

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A Dog Parent’s Guide to Changing Dog Food

You noticed your dog recently refuses to eat their food, and you're worried. You've already replaced their old food bowl with something more attention-grabbing. Still, there seems to be no positive change in their eating habits. Perhaps changing dog food is your next step.

Whether it’s because of a medical issue, age, or just a general disinterest in the food, pet parents must handle changes in their dog’s diet with great care and caution. We’re here to help! This guide will teach you the ropes in changing dog food and how to switch your dog’s diet safely.

Let’s begin by learning why a dog food transition is a natural and common occurrence in any dog’s life.

When to Change Your Dog’s Food

Switch it up. Switching dog food doesn’t just happen because your little furry friend is sick of their current set of meals. In fact, experts advise dog owners to change their pet’s food every three months routinely. Doing so gives their diet variety and prevents food allergies from developing. 

Eating certain types of food for a long time may cause a dog’s body to gradually identify specific ingredients as harmful, leading to allergic reactions. Besides avoiding allergies, rotating their diet can also ensure your dog receives the necessary nutrients.

You must prepare for dietary transitions if:

• Your dog refuses to eat and shows disinterest in their current food.
• Your puppy is growing up to be an adult, or your adult dog is becoming a senior dog.
• Your veterinarian recommends doing so to manage chronic medical conditions (obesity, osteoarthritis, diabetes, etc.)
• Your pet develops food allergies to their food.
• Your dog exhibits gastrointestinal problems and other adverse reactions to their current diet.
• It’s been a while since your dog has eaten something new.

To new pet owners, food transitions might seem simple and quick. However, abruptly switching dog foods the next day won’t help your dog change their eating habits effectively and safely. 

You must gradually change your dog’s current food to a new set of meals. Doing so prevents your pet from developing several gastrointestinal issues, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and problems with their appetite.

How to Switch Dog Food Effectively

The duration of the food change will vary depending on your dog’s gut health and sensitivity. Some dogs can transition to new diets quickly and smoothly, while others experience several issues before successfully transitioning.

For dogs with few dietary issues, it is highly recommended that their owners conduct dietary transitions within a 7 to 10-day period. On the other hand, a three- to four-week period is advisable for more sensitive dogs. 

In general, owners must slowly introduce the new food to their dogs daily, adding slightly bigger portions each day. 

Here is a simple schedule to guide you and give an example of how gradual food transitions must go.

Day	Meal Portions	Week
Day 1-3	25% new dog food, 75% current dog food	Week 1
Day 4-6	50% new, 50% current	Week 2
Day 7-9	75% new, 25% current	Week 3
Day 10	100% new food	Week 4

Reactions to Sudden Dog Food Change

As always, not every transition will go smoothly. Sometimes, it can be small and harmless hurdles, like your dog refusing to eat their new food. However, it can quickly become serious and lead to more severe intestinal issues if not treated promptly or if your dog has underlying conditions.

To help you out, here are a few diet-change side effects that may occur during your dog’s transition period and how you can manage them.

Diarrhea

Abrupt food transitions will not give the good bacteria in your pet’s intestines enough time to adapt to the change, causing mild diarrhea. When this issue occurs, give your dog a bland diet and probiotics to help them recover.

Gassiness

Switching dog foods is often accompanied by poor digestion due to their system’s unfamiliarity with the new diet, leading to excessive flatulence. Gassiness is normal during transitions and will slowly disappear throughout the transition period.

Vomiting

Sudden transitions can also lead to your dog vomiting several times, depending on how much they’ve eaten. This issue occurs due to the dog’s intestines' inability to adapt and adjust well to the new diet. 

Instead of giving them food, give them water and let their stomach recover for a while. Try giving them the new dog food again after a few hours. If the vomiting continues, bring your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

Lack of appetite 

Nausea and the above-mentioned gastrointestinal problems can result in your dog having a lack of appetite. Similar to how you’d address vomiting, ensure your dog gets enough water and let their appetite rest for a few hours before re-introducing the new food.

It’s worth noting that while these side effects may seem mild, they can lead to more harmful medical problems if left untreated. If these symptoms persist for the next few days, you must visit the veterinarian immediately and have your dog checked.

Choosing the Right Dog Foods and Treats

We’ve discussed when and how to transition your dog’s diet effectively and safely. Now, it’s time to learn what to include in your dog’s new diet. 

Your dog must generally receive sufficient amounts of essential nutrients, such as proteins, vitamins, minerals, and water. Regularly changing their food allows them to get these nutrients adequately.

Reading food labels and ingredients is crucial to ensure their bodies get enough nourishment from their food. In addition, you also have to make sure the food and treats follow the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines. 

Changing Dog Food Due to Age

Switching dog food because of age is a little more complicated. As you may know, the amount of certain nutrients a dog needs will vary depending on their age. For example, a puppy will need more protein and fat than senior dogs, and so on.

During these food transitions, you can’t hastily change your dog’s food without adequately evaluating the dietary needs of each life stage.

Puppy to Adult Dog Food

Once your puppy turns a year old, they have successfully reached adulthood. If an adult dog continues to eat puppy or all-life-stage food, they may develop specific health issues, like obesity.

Before switching from puppy food to adult dog food, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the dietary needs and habits of adult dogs. Unlike puppies, who may eat thrice a day, adult dogs typically only eat twice daily. 

While a puppy will need more proteins and fats, an adult dog’s diet must have more carbohydrates and fibers. Check the nutrition list and label of the adult dog food to ensure they receive these nutrients. 

Adult to Senior Dog Food

When your dog turns eight years old, they become a mature or senior dog. Like the puppy to adult dog food transition, you must first learn the nutritional needs of senior dogs before going through with the switch.

Senior dogs must generally have lower calorie intake to avoid issues such as obesity, kidney diseases, and cancer. However, many older dogs might need more calories to sustain their body. Nevertheless, it’s best to consult your veterinarian about your senior dog’s diet. 

Similar to the previous life stage, you must check dog food labels to ensure they match your pet's nutritional needs. Keeping your pup's food brand consistent throughout their life stages will also help.

Tired of Worrying Over Your Dog’s Food?

Feeding your dog isn’t as simple as counting to ten. Besides knowing the nutritional needs and habits, you must also learn how to safely and effectively transition them from one diet to another. Hopefully, the tips above will help you understand how to change your dog’s food.

Being a pet owner can introduce you to a world of unending happiness and love. But it can also cause a great deal of tension and anxiety. Does the mere thought of creating a dietary plan for your pet exhaust and intimidate you? Try Perfect Petzzz! 

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Peace Over Chaos: How to Deal With Anxiety Over a Sick Pet

A human-animal bond is like no other; it's a relationship full of unconditional love, mutual understanding, and lasting memories. So when an illness or health crisis occurs, our beloved pets can send us into a frantic loop of emotions. 

From fear to guilt, sadness to anger, the overwhelming stress of not knowing how to support them while in pain tugs at all sides. Pressure can quickly consume your thoughts as you contemplate their wellness, grapple with potential vet costs, and fear a worst-case scenario.

In such challenging times, we are here to tell you this: These feelings are valid and understandable, given the situation. After all, no one wants to imagine their furry companion in pain and discomfort. 

This blog post will look at ways to cope with the fear and panic of having an ailing animal friend. Read on as we share helpful tips on dealing with the practical and emotional realities of caring for a sick family member. 

5 Ways a Pet’s Illness Impacts Our Mental Health

Furry friends can bring tremendous joy and comfort to our lives. They offer relief, support, and the opportunity to develop a sincere and special connection. Their presence is often enough to boost our morale or get rid of our everyday worries.

As such, it’s no surprise that chronic or terminal illnesses in our pets can take a toll on our mental health. The fear of something being wrong and the subsequent emotional rollercoasters can exhaust our minds and manifest physically.

Experiencing a surge of emotions when seeing our precious pet in pain is a familiar situation. Guilt, sadness, and helplessness are only some of the extreme emotions pet owners feel. These thoughts often stem from several reasons, such as:

#1: Self-Blame

When our furry buddy falls ill, we feel an overwhelming responsibility as pet caregivers. Emotions might take over, and our minds may be clouded with “what ifs,” making it hard to handle the situation rationally.

Even when the problems we come up against seem minor, it cannot be easy to process what’s happening deeply. We get bogged down in guilt for not being able to solve our loved ones’ issues and become immobile with anxiety. In times of difficulty, we can’t practice self-compassion and find the balance between giving love and staying grounded.

#2: Excessive Worrying

It’s heartbreaking when an illness throws a family member off-balance—and the feeling of caregiver burden can take hold quickly. We obsessively research the cause of their sickness to find a cure, look up signs and symptoms, and continuously check in on them as they recover. 

Worrying that this may lead to further health complications can also weigh heavily on minds, mainly when they are already an elderly family member. Even with the best care available, old age can make our pets very vulnerable—this is a fact that all pet owners know too well.

#3: Loneliness and Isolation

No one likes the thought of their favorite dog or cat battling sickness. But it is a reality that many of us will face at some point.

It can be easy for loneliness and isolation to take hold, especially when their pet has to stay in the hospital or have long periods away from home for treatment. Pet parents may struggle more with their emotional struggles due to disruption in their everyday routines, separation from their pets, and feelings of isolation. 

#4: Stress Over Finances

It’s not uncommon for owners of sick pets to be flooded with financial problems. Veterinary appointments and treatments often leave them with expensive bills that they find difficult to pay. Cost-effective solutions can be inaccessible in emergencies, adding to the already-present stress of dealing with a pet’s health. 

But limited resources and finances don’t mean it’s impossible to provide treatment. You can seek inexpensive alternatives that deliver the same level of service. You can also consider researching means of assistance, exploring payment plans, and speaking with professionals about financial considerations as your first steps.

#5: Losing Sleep

Knowing the full extent of how weak, fragile, and vulnerable pets are can leave owners sleepless. This often makes it difficult for pet owners to rest or carry out small day-to-day tasks without being preoccupied with thoughts of their pet’s health. 

Every hour can seem like an eternity as they wait for signs that their furry friend is doing better. Understandably, many of these concerned individuals stay up late at night. They are double-checking symptoms and researching medical solutions in the hopes that their pet will recover to their former selves.

Dealing with Anxiety and Stress Over a Sick Pet

Caring for a sick pet can be a draining experience for any pet owner. You are often left feeling swamped, alone in your struggles, and questioning whether or not you could have done more to prevent this situation from happening.

Nevertheless, the power of unconditional love and care for these furry companions gets you through hard times like these. You'll soon find that your dedication to caring for your sick pet can make you an even better pet caregiver.

Nurturing them with warmth, companionship, and tenderness during this state of discomfort will help in their recovery. That said, how can you help a pet heal while taking care of yourself?

#1: Feel The Pain

More and more research shows how pets have exceptional abilities to enrich lives and unlock a world of happiness. From reducing strain levels in their owners to improving heart health—their presence is far more than just loyal friends.

Unfortunately, according to the Veterinary Record, having a chronically ill pet has the opposite effect. Such pain and misery in an animal companion may lead to increased worry and even depression in their human counterparts. At times like these, there is no better medicine than acceptance. Allow yourself to fully experience and process the emotions while giving your pet the best-quality care possible.

#2: Raise Your Concerns to the Veterinarian

If you're faced with tough decisions about your pet's health, talking to an expert like your pet’s veterinarian can be incredibly helpful. They can provide medical advice unique to your pet's circumstances and help you figure out how to best care for them—covering everything from preventive health care to palliative care. 

Access to a veterinarian's specialized expertise is like having an extra set of hands on deck; it can provide inner peace and alleviate tensions concerning your pet. Not only that, but they could also point you toward helpful resources such as support groups or helplines tailored for pet owners.

#3: Practice Self-Care

In a time of uncertainty, giving yourself the care you deserve is important. Making sure your well-being is in check will help put everything into perspective—so why not take some much-needed rest? 

Make time for leisure activities such as sleeping soundly, reading a book, or having short but meaningful breaks during the day. These small moments can replenish both the body and mind. Incorporating regular exercise and nutritious meals into your weekly routine will also help keep you healthy while managing the stress that comes with a furry friend that’s unwell.

#4: Create a Support System

Remember that there are those around you who understand and care about your welfare, so prioritize taking solace with them. Open yourself up to them for love. Use their support to help make your tight spot more manageable.

Building a good relationship with a therapist who can handle your emotional pain can also help. Through intimate conversations, your therapist will open up new avenues for healing, offering reassuring advice that brings a quiet mind in times of distress.

And finally… 

The Purr-Fect Way to Boost Morale During Trying Times

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Pet Poison Helpline: Toxic Household Items to Check Off Your List

Our furry friends are born for adventures. They enjoy exploring the world with their inquisitive noses. Their curiosity pushes them to consume almost anything they stumble upon. It's a beautiful sight to witness at home, but it also raises serious concerns that might lead you to dial a pet poison helpline.

Pet Poison Awareness Month is coming this March. Let's help your furry buddy march into a poison-free home by pet-proofing your household!

Some household items may appear harmless, but they can potentially poison your pet. It's every pet owner's worst nightmare, but the good news is that it's entirely avoidable! You can start by organizing your things at home.

Pet Poison Control: A List of Household Items to Keep Away from Your Pet's Reach

Pet hotlines receive thousands of phone calls every year about potentially poisoned pets. What's more, most situations are caused by something safe for humans but not pets! This is enough reason to educate yourself on preventing such a situation.

Here are common pet poisons at home to keep away from your furry friend's sight, according to the ASPCA animal poison control.

File Name: pet poison helpline poisoned.jpg

Alt tag: pet poison helpline poisoned - side view of gray cat sitting beside various cleaning products

Human Foods

Make human food inaccessible to your furry buddy. Never leave leftover food lying around the household. It will also help if you don't leave pantry doors or trash cans open and don't feed your pet table scraps. 

We are referring to the following (but not limited to) prohibited foods:

• Chocolate (the most widely-known trigger)
• Alcoholic beverages
• Coffee beans
• Raisins
• Garlic, onions, and chives
• Grapes and avocado
• Xylitol
• Salt
• Candies and gums
• Yeast dough
• Macadamia nuts
• Spoiled or moldy foods

Houseplants

Houseplants are beautiful, can positively impact mood levels, and improve air quality. However, some of them also pose risks, especially when ingested. Consumption of any plant substance may cause vomiting and gastrointestinal upset in most animals. Like us, our lovely pet companions also need protection from certain plants due to their poisonous nature.

Here's a preview of which plants to avoid:

• Azalea
• Lilies
• Sago Palm
• Aloe
• Tulips
• Snake plant
• Blackjack Pine

The ASPCA animal poison control currently has a list of 1028 plants that can potentially harm your pet.

Cleaning Products

Chemicals in most household cleaning products are poisonous to all pets. So store these items away from your pet’s reach or consider switching to non-toxic alternatives:

• Bleach
• Antifreeze
• Carpet shampoo and fresheners
• Fabric softener sheets
• Essential oils
• Grout sealers
• Tablet toilet cleaners
• Vinegar and water solution
• Febreze
• Scented litter

Pet and Human Medications

A 2020 ASPCA report showed that over-the-counter medication is the most common cause of pet poisoning calls. This refers to both human and pet medications, so you must put them out of your furry pal's reach. Cosmetics are another related cause. 

Ensure not to leave a trace of them unattended on the counter, accessible cupboard, or an open bag.

Here's what to avoid:

• Petroleum jelly
• Aspirin and baby aspirin
• Ibuprofen and Naproxen
• Kaopectate and Pepto Bismol
• Decongestants like Pseudoephedrine
• Adderall
• Bar soap
• Facial wash
• Topical ointments and creams
• Grape seed extract
• Avon Skin So Soft
• Breath fresheners
• Sorbitol

Pest Control Products

Avoid using pest control products on your pet, especially when they're not made specifically for them. A mosquito repellent is one example. It contains DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide), which may cause neurological issues in dogs and cats.

Insecticides and baits (rodents, slugs, and snails) also harm your pet when ingested. They may cause blood clotting diseases, kidney failure, brain swelling, and severe seizures or tumors. Always ask your vet for an appropriate pest control product for your pet.

Other Poisonous Household Items

Below are other household items to watch out for to avoid pet poison.

• Cigarettes, nicotine patches, and other tobacco products that contain nicotine - May cause seizures, low blood pressure, vomiting, depression, respiratory failure, elevated heart rate, or something more fatal.
• Fertilizers - Some garden products contain pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides, increasing the risk of pet poisoning. Large ingestions of these may cause severe health issues for your pet.
• Chemical spills in the garage - Don't let accidental chemical spills stay in your garage. Always ensure the area's clean or keep your pet away from it when contaminated.
• Ice melt - When taking your furry friend outdoors during the winter season, always wipe off their paws afterward to remove all the ice melt salt off them. Otherwise, this may result in poisoning.

How to Recognize Signs of Pet Poisoning

Preventing pet poisoning also means being able to recognize the symptoms. Doing so will help you know when to reach out to a pet poison helpline or vet for immediate help. 

Remember the following signs of a potential poison threat in your pet.

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea with bright red or dark black blood present in the stool
• Excessive drooling
• Appetite loss
• Lethargy, hyperactivity, or any behavioral changes
• Pale gums
• Bleeding or bruising in areas with little to no hair (e.g., ear flaps, urine, inside the groins, gums, etc.)
• Tremors or seizures
• Collapsing
• Unusual green or corn-like material in their stool

If you notice these symptoms, seek assistance from your vet or a pet poison helpline right away.

Pet Poison Awareness Month: Beware of Common Pet Poisons

Pets are curious creatures, so they are constantly exposed to various objects and substances, some of which may be hazardous. Accidental spills, dropped food scraps, or even pretty flower petals or leaves scattered can spell disaster. 

Before it happens, give your pet a safe space to fulfill their curiosity without running into potential toxins. Start by pet-proofing your household. Keep certain foods, cleaning and pest control products, houseplants, and other substances out of your pet's reach. When worse comes to worst, seek help from a pet poison helpline or a nearby animal poison control center.

Most importantly, remember that pet health and safety are year-round concerns. This awareness month is an excellent reminder to pet-proof your home, but you should do it regularly. Here's to a lovely and toxic-free household!

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Dog Tales & Puppy Adventures: Why Does My Dog Chase His Tail?

A dog parent has probably seen their little furry friend spin and chase its own tail several times. It’s akin to watching a baby become confused and surprised when they see their reflection in the mirror. It’s adorable, endearing, and downright silly. But if this behavior increases alarmingly, could your pet be experiencing an underlying medical issue? 

A dog’s tail-chasing is mostly a harmless canine quirk, but how can we tell if it will escalate into something more serious? Let’s discover why a dog chases their tail and learn how we can deal with this odd behavior. 

Tales of Tail-Chasing: Why Do Dogs Chase Their Tails?

Dogs are known for being too playful and having too much energy. Your little pup could be barking at an inanimate object for a moment and spin like an uncontrollable yoyo in pursuit of its tail the next. 

Several reasons cause a dog to chase their tail: playfulness, curiosity, attention, stress or anxiety, or an underlying mental health issue. 

Form of Play

As mentioned, some dogs can’t spend a second sitting on their hind legs. They have so much physical energy that they just can’t help but jump on their paws and initiate some form of play. That’s where tail-chasing comes in. 

Most of the time, dogs chase their tail to battle boredom or release pent-up energy. If your pet doesn’t get much physical exercise or activity, they will likely chase their tails to let loose and have a little fun. 

Curiosity

During their first few months, babies start making grasping motions with their hands and putting their toes in their mouths. They do so to discover and become aware of their bodies. The same thing goes for dogs. 

Besides having a lot of energy, puppies are likely to chase their tails because they are getting to know their bodies. And since they are still unfamiliar with their bodies, puppies cannot comprehend that tails are part of their bodies, seeing them instead as fascinating toys.

Looking for Attention

Dogs chasing their tails will naturally elicit laughter and amusement from the people around them. These positive reactions might reinforce and encourage your pets to repeat the behavior. Dogs are astonishingly similar to humans, aren’t they? 

Your pet might increasingly spin and chase its tail to get attention, turning tail-chasing from a mere form of play to attention-seeking behavior. Whether you laugh at your dog chasing their tail or reprimand them for their quirk, your pet will likely continue doing the behavior because they love the response. 

Sign of Stress or Anxiety

When your dog begins repetitively chasing their tail, they might be experiencing stress or anxiety. According to pet experts, dogs may engage in repetitive behaviors when feeling nervous because these actions can comfort or relieve their uneasiness. 

Dogs may develop anxiety because of the following:

• Separation from their owner and abandonment
• Loud noises
• Being around other aggressive pets or people
• New environments
• Overwhelming visual stimuli
• Prior traumatic experiences
• Abuse or neglect from owner

Tail-chasing might be a coping compulsion for some dogs. It’s best to immediately bring your pet to a veterinarian if you suspect they are experiencing these fears.

Symptom of a Mental Health Issue

While the behavior is relatively common in dogs, obsessively chasing their tails may stem from a more grave medical condition. If your dog continuously chases their tail for no apparent reason, your pet may have developed canine compulsive disorder (CCD). 

Like OCD in humans, dogs can repeat normal behaviors, such as licking, barking, drinking water, pacing, spinning, and tail-chasing, to the point where these actions hinder and interfere with their normal activities. 

CCD may develop because of genetic reasons. Certain breeds are more prone to contract the disorder and develop CCD differently. For example, German Shepherds are likely to develop compulsive tail chasing, while Doberman Pinschers may engage in repetitive sucking. 

The disorder may also stem from a lack of mental and physical activity, increased mental distress or anxiety, frustration, or insufficient attention from the dog owner. 

In addition, tail-chasing may also indicate mental deterioration. Older dogs may have compulsive behavior like tail chasing because their mental health and bodily awareness are declining. 

Bite Off More Than You Can Chew: The Case of Tail-Chewing

A dog chasing their tail is one thing; a dog chewing on it is another. Tail biting and chewing is another common dog behavior that initially seems harmless but may indicate several underlying problems. 

Dogs may chew on their tails because of the following:

1. Allergies: Your puppy may bite on their tail to reduce and relieve the itch of an allergic reaction. Allergies can result from exposure to pollen, spores, fallen skin cells, or changes in your dog’s food. 
2. Injury and pain: Nipping on their tail may indicate injury or pain in the area. Your pet might have injured their tail, putting their spine at risk. Biting tails may provide relief and comfort from the pain.
3. Fleas: Your dog’s tail area may also be infected by fleas, ticks, and other bugs if they keep biting it. Your pet may chew on their tail to relieve the itch due to the infestation.  
4. Parasites: Tail-biting may also indicate intestinal parasites. Other symptoms include weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and worms exiting their anal area. 

Managing Your Pet’s Tail-Chasing Adventures

This quirky dog behavior may become bothersome after a while. Here are some measures you can take to manage your dog’s tail-chasing and chewing behaviors. 

1. Distract your dog. The best and fastest way to stop your pet from chasing their tail is to catch their attention with a toy or food. 
2. Spend more time with your pet. Play catch with your little pup, visit a park, or take them out for a simple walk—these seemingly mundane yet fun activities would do them good. 
3. Visit the veterinarian if the symptoms signify an underlying medical condition. Getting your dog checked will help solve any physical or mental issues promptly and prevent them from worsening.

Final Thoughts

A dog chasing their tail may seem like an amusing and silly quirk at first, but when it develops into a repetitive and obsessive behavior, it might be a sign of unresolved underlying physical or mental health issues. As a dog owner, you must keenly observe and notice the signs before it’s too late. 

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