Bully sticks are a popular snack option that many pet parents give their dogs. These are single-ingredient treats or dog chews made from high-protein beef muscle, the pizzle of a bull. However, many concerns are associated with bully sticks, which has been worrisome for many and caused their popularity to decline. Pet parents need to understand the dangers of bully sticks and how they can be safely given to one’s pets. Dangers of bully sticks 1. Bacterial contamination One of the biggest risks associated with bully sticks comes from bacterial contamination, leading to upset stomachs, vomiting, and diarrhea.  This  can be quite disconcerting for dog parents. This worry has been more prevalent since 2018, when the FDA recalled thousands of bully sticks due to salmonella concerns. Other dangerous bacteria that have also been found on bully sticks include  Clostridium difficile, Staphylococcus aureus  (MRSA), and  Escherichia coli . Let’s  break this down a little. Most bully sticks are minimally processed,  “ all-natural ”  products.  This  means  that harmful  bacteria continue to thrive on them, which can make their way to the  pet’s  insides. Processes such as irradiation, baking, and the use of chemicals generally help get rid of these bacteria. However, the appeal of bully sticks, by and large, is their naturality, which does not leave room for any such processing.

Finding the right dog food can be tricky because many brands and varieties are on the market. New pet owners might need extra help sifting through the options and picking the most suitable one. A good way to simplify the process is to learn about the popular types of dog food, such as kibble or dry food, canned food, and semi-moist food. Knowing the types can help individuals make well-informed decisions. Kibble or dry food Dry food is popular for being economical. Many people pick this type for their pets when on a budget. Dry dog food also has a longer storage time. One can use the same pack for several months without keeping it in the refrigerator. Another advantage of buying dry dog food is that it is healthy for a dog’s teeth. Chewing the crunchy kibble lowers the risk of tartar buildup and keeps their teeth strong. Since there are many options for dry dog food, it is important to check the list of ingredients. One must pick a brand that uses wholesome and nutritious ingredients that do not put the dog’s health at risk. One can know which ingredients the package uses by reading the label printed on it.

Pet parents do everything it takes to ensure their dog is in good shape. They play with them, engage them in various fun exercises, prepare nutritious meals to boost their strength, and do so much more. But one thing many struggle with is the constant attacks by ticks and fleas. Although certain pet collars help control infestations caused by these parasites, they must be used correctly for the best outcome. Getting a poor fit Any collar for pet dogs, including a flea and tick collar, must fit properly. If it is too tight, it may cause skin irritation, hurt the dog, and even leave it gasping for air. On the other hand, a loose collar may fall off or have no contact with the pet’s skin, which is necessary to repel pests and insects. If unsure whether the size is right, pet parents must check if two fingers can pass between the collar and the dog’s neck. Of course, some collars are adjustable, so if the dog’s neck is thin or broad, one could easily adjust the fastener. That way, the collar will sit as tight as possible without causing inconvenience. Everything should be fine if the pet’s neck is 35 cm in volume and the collar is adjustable up to 40 cm.

Our cats are more like family to us than mere pets. We love them, and they make us as happy as human children make their parents. No matter what people say, they’re undoubtedly the best! But all this said, caring for a cat is a big responsibility. You can feed your feline friend from your plate, but be cautious because some human foods are unhealthy for cats. Below, we’ve listed seven safe options to consider. Fish This is an easy one. You might know how much Garfield loves tuna, and your little kitty will be no different. Salmon, crab, tuna, and herring are fish you can eat and share with your pet. Fish have healthy omega-3 fatty acids, an essential nutrient for keeping cats healthy. Omega-3s are all the more important if your kitten is growing. But always ensure fish is well-cooked and not excessively seasoned. Uncooked fish has pathogens that affect you and can also be dangerous to cats. Oatmeal A lesser-discussed human food that’s cat-safe is oatmeal. This pasty food, a rich source of energy and vitamin B, could be a good breakfast option for you and your pet cat. But though oatmeal is ideal to start the day, not all felines like it.

Pet parents leave no stone unturned to ensure their pet’s good health. Purchasing premium pet foods, pet-proofing the home, and taking their pets for vet visits are just some of the measures pet parents take to keep their pets healthy. Nutrition is one of the most essential aspects determining a dog’s general well-being. In addition to specific dog foods available on the market, certain human foods can also provide dogs with the required nourishment: Chicken Most dogs will surely enjoy a simple yet satisfying meal of boiled chicken and rice. Boiled chicken can serve as an excellent low-fat meal for dogs, providing them with their daily dose of protein and helping with muscle and bone health. However, eating chicken in its raw form is not advisable, as it can increase the risk of salmonella and other bacterial infections. It is also best to avoid adding spices and salt to the chicken meal, as these can result in digestive issues like diarrhea and vomiting. Plain boiled chicken, preferably with some boiled rice, is the best bet for a sumptuous meal for one’s pooch. Eggs Eggs are rich sources of protein, fatty acids, and vitamins A, B2, and B12, making them a healthy breakfast option for dogs.

Humans tend to rely on verbal modes when communicating with each other. On the other hand, dogs communicate primarily via body language and secondarily through vocalizations. While having a dog whisperer would take the guesswork out of the situation, understanding inter-species communication is not as straightforward. Therefore, when deciphering what is being communicated, you must observe the entire dog (tail carriage/motion, facial expressions, body position, etc.) and the situation or context. Looking for non-verbal cues: Since dogs cannot vocalize their feelings, they may use the following non-verbal cues for our benefit: Tail Tail wagging is the most obvious sign to observe. However, it may not always mean the dog is happy, friendly, or excited. Remember to look for other cues to understand their mood. Here are some general tail motions that can help decipher how your dog is feeling: A curled tail could be a relaxation, confidence, or dominance stance. A straight, stiff tail generally signals that the dog is focused on an activity or tracking something. A tucked or lowered tail is a sign of fear or submission. Ears Isn’t it adorable watching a dog’s ears perk up? Their ears are also an important part of communication! Perky ears are generally a sign of interest and focus, while floppy ears are a sign of submission.

A dog’s physical well-being is every dog parent’s ultimate objective. Today, with increasing awareness of pet care and nutrition, a wide range of dog foods that perfectly balance taste and nutrition are available in the market. Understanding a dog’s nutritional needs that cater to them effectively can help dog owners facilitate their pooches’ overall health. In addition, one should also be aware of certain products that can cause toxicity to dogs. Some of them are: Chocolate Chocolate comprises theobromine, a toxic substance that can cause several adverse reactions in dogs, including internal bleeding, hyperactivity, seizures, tremors, and sometimes even a stroke. Even a small portion of chocolate can prove toxic, so it should be avoided. Raisins and grapes All grapes – including cooked, seedless, peeled, and dried – can increase a dog’s risk of developing kidney or renal failure. Even consuming one grape can cause severe toxicity among dogs, though studies have failed to determine the exact substance in grapes that causes this toxicity. Dairy Dairy items may not be directly harmful or toxic to dogs. However, some dogs are lactose intolerant and cannot process the sugar found in dairy products. Milk and its by-products, such as cheese, yogurt, or ice cream, can cause diarrhea and other related problems in such dogs.

Cat parents know the struggle of keeping a litter box clean and cleaning tracked litter throughout the house. This is why many choose to toilet-train their pets to remove the need for a litter box completely. By training one’s pet to do their business in a toilet, cat parents create a safe and hygienic solution for their pet. That said, toilet training should be done gradually, taking about six weeks. Here are a few tips to toilet train one’s cat: 1. Purchasing the right litter tray The first tip to toilet-training a feline is to purchase the right litter tray. The idea of purchasing the right litter tray is to make cats comfortable with doing their business at a designated place. Gradually, parents can reinforce their behavior and train them to use the toilet. Most cats prefer two trays. Getting the right litter trays can make or break the experience for cats when they need to go. For example, if the walls of the tray are very high, then the cat will not be able to climb into it easily. Cat parents should also purchase litter boxes with enough room for a cat to move around and find a comfortable “spot” inside.  Those who have just adopted or rescued a pet should avoid purchasing litter boxes with doors or steps.

Just like humans, dogs also start to experience joint pain when they reach a certain age. In some cases, certain specific ailments could lead to early joint pain. Poor lifestyle habits and food choices may also cause joint pain. Recognizing the discomfort in pets and seeking veterinary help as soon as possible is vital. While prompt medical treatment helps, a few home remedies and lifestyle changes with the treatment plan are also advised. Here’s what can be done: 1. Giving pets wholesome meals Some specific foods have nutrients known to help build stronger joints. Here are some important nutrients and properties that food sources must possess to reduce joint pain: Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids Studies suggest chronic low-grade inflammation is one of the biggest reasons for joint conditions like arthritis in dogs. Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help young pups remain in good shape for a long time and help older dogs manage their joint pain well. Using fish oil as a supplement is recommended to help with this issue. However, green-lipped mussels are another source of omega. Foods rich in protein They are the building blocks of the muscles. While joint health is related to bone, it is also essential to focus on the muscles and soft tissues surrounding the bones.

Our canine companions are more than just pets; they’re cherished members of our families. Ensuring their health and happiness is paramount, and food is a crucial aspect of their well-being. Homemade treats offer a personalized touch, allowing us to cater to our furry friends’ specific tastes and nutritional needs. Including natural ingredients like fresh fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains ensures that dogs not only savor the flavor but also reap the nutritional benefits. Here are a few homemade dog treat recipes that are delicious and wholesome: 1. Peanut butter and banana bites Pet parents can pamper their furry children with these delectable peanut butter and banana bites. This delightful treat combines the rich, nutty flavor of natural peanut butter with the natural sweetness of a ripe banana. Not only do these treats taste amazing, but they also pack a punch in terms of nutrition. Bananas are a great source of potassium, essential for maintaining proper heart function in dogs. Additionally, natural peanut butter provides a healthy dose of protein and healthy fats. Whole wheat flour offers a good fiber source, promoting healthy digestion. These treats are simple and sure to become a staple. 2. Sweet potato chews For a treat that’s both tasty and healthy, look no further than these sweet potato chews.