8 Signs That Indicate Food Allergies in Dogs
Pets

8 Signs That Indicate Food Allergies in Dogs

Food allergy in dogs is not very common, and it is sometimes confused with food intolerance or food sensitivity. Food intolerance, which happens more often, is a cumulative response to a particular food that triggers it. In contrast, the allergic reaction is an immune response with severe or moderate symptoms, and there could be rapid reactions. Watch out for abnormal signs, even if mild, and record the diet and symptoms so that you can arrive at an early solution. It is often the manifestation of many signs that leads the vet to suspect food allergy and prescribe an elimination diet to diagnose the allergen. Telltale signs of food allergy A classic example of food allergy is an anaphylactic shock which happens as soon as your dog comes into contact with the allergen. This is a severe reaction, as the antigen triggers an immediate response, and life-threatening symptoms are seen. The airways could get constricted, and you will see breathing difficulties. It can affect multiple organs. Fortunately, this emergency response of the immune system is rare. Other signs of the shock are vomiting, diarrhea, pale gums, cold limbs, seizures, and coma. Less severe but still serious signs of food allergy are gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and appetite loss.
Read More
Top-Rated Pet-Friendly Resorts in the U.S.
Pets

Top-Rated Pet-Friendly Resorts in the U.S.

There are a lot of families in the US who have pets. Hence, when it comes to traveling and staying at resorts or hotels, it is only natural that they look out for pet-friendly resorts. Here are some great options for resorts all around the US, if you are looking to travel and enjoy your vacation with your pet: The Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch-Avon, Colorado This grand resort is situated in Beaver Creek Mountain and exudes nothing but Rocky Mountain luxury – not just for you but also for your pet. Your pet is welcomed here at this fabulous resort and is treated as good as their human companions are. This resort features an elaborate room service exclusively for your pet and even features an in-room massage for your pet if they is in the mood for one. It comes as no surprise that your pet gets their very own comfy bed. But that is not all your pet on arrival at the resort will be greeted personally by the resident canine ambassador, a St.Bernard called “Bachelor.” Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino-Lake Tahoe, California Lake Tahoe is a place that offers so many adventures that both you and your pet can enjoy together.
Read More
5 Beautiful Houseplants That are Toxic for Cats
Pets

5 Beautiful Houseplants That are Toxic for Cats

Some of the most beautiful houseplants that can transform your home with its graceful presence are easy to grow in pots and beds. But many among them have been listed as mildly or severely toxic to cats. Some of them are not safe for children and any pet animal. Cats are more prone to toxicity as they are specialist carnivores and lack certain liver enzymes, which makes it difficult for them to recover. Listing five of those beauties, which have to be avoided because of their toxicity: Azalea Azaleas belong to the rhododendron family and are grown as houseplants indoors or out in the garden. They have hundreds of varieties and are grown all over the US. With white, purple, pink, red, and yellow flowers, they are a great way of decorating and brightening your home. But all the types of azalea and all parts of the plant are considered moderately toxic to cats. When ingested, your cat suffers from excessive drooling, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness. In huge quantities, the symptoms can be severe, leading to cardiac failure. Begonia Often used in flowerbeds and huge pots, these are known for their large, colorful flowers. However, the alluring presence of Begonia in your house is toxic to your cat even if consumed in small quantities.
Read More
4 Tips to Get Rid of Dog Ticks and Fleas Fast
Pets

4 Tips to Get Rid of Dog Ticks and Fleas Fast

The fastest way to get rid of fleas and ticks is to follow up with preventive measures once you have taken steps to eliminate them from your dog and home. Employ a multi-pronged approach for removing fleas and ticks in a fast and effective manner. Take care of your dog’s food, home environment, cleanliness of its hair and skin, and the treatment to get rid of fleas and ticks. Once the infestation is gone, take care to prevent them. Break the flea cycle Interrupting the life cycle of the flea is the best and fastest approach to control fleas. In the lifetime of 18-28 days, fleas exist on your dog and in your home in different stages, as eggs, larvae, and adults. Taking measures to kill the adult fleas does not solve the problem as they represent only 5 %, whereas the eggs make up 50% of the flea infestation in a home. Control measures have to be implemented throughout the life cycle period to get rid of fleas. Use flea and tick control products Flea and tick control chemicals can get rid of them faster. Choose those pesticides that are low on toxicity and are approved by US EPA and FDA.
Read More
Essential Oils That Are Toxic for Dogs
Pets

Essential Oils That Are Toxic for Dogs

Essential oils have become a huge part of our lives, and it’s no wonder that all pet owners want to try them out on their furry friends. It is said that essential oils are all-natural, but that does not mean that they are safe for dogs. Essential oils can prove to be risky to dogs when not used properly, and certain essential oils are toxic to dogs. Citrus oils Essential oils have a very strong and potent smell that can be soothing to us but can be irritating to dogs. Citrus oils can bring about a wave of unpleasant symptoms in dogs. On inhaling citrus essential oils, your dog may vomit, experience lethargy, or even go through seizures. Pine oil The smell of pine for us humans may serve to be a reminder of winter months, but that is unfortunately not the case when it comes to pups. Pine oil tends to irritate both the skin and the stomach of your furry friend. Diarrhea and vomit are the common symptoms and reactions that dogs have toward pine oil. However, in some cases, they can be some very dangerous reactions such as liver damage and central nervous system damage. Hence, pine is one essential oil that you need to keep away from your dog.
Read More
Tips for Feeding a Cat With Diabetes Mellitus
Pets

Tips for Feeding a Cat With Diabetes Mellitus

Most people are surprised when they first hear that cats can also succumb to diabetes. It is not a death sentence for a cat, and with gentle care and following the right things to do while feeding your cat, you can help your cat cope with this disease. Feline diabetes resembles Type 2 Diabetes in humans. Obesity is quoted as one of the main reasons that cats get diabetes. Hence, keeping an eye on what your cat eats is very important for your feline friend’s well-being. Refer below to take a look at the things that you, as a cat owner, will need to follow when it comes to feeding your cat with diabetes mellitus: Watch the type of food that you feed your cat A protein-rich diet is necessary for your cat, as cats are by nature meat-hunters. The bodies of cats also cannot handle breaking down carbohydrates, and this statement is especially true if your cat is diabetic. According to specialists, the ideal diet for a cat with diabetes mellitus includes foods that are rich in protein and low in carbohydrates. Most of the canned cat food available in the market is rich in protein; however, the dry cat food products are loaded with carbohydrates.
Read More
The Most Popular Cat Treat Brands
Pets

The Most Popular Cat Treat Brands

Any time you get to spend with your cat is fun, exciting, and relaxing. But treat time is extra special. It is when you get the opportunity to connect with her, encourage her for good behavior, or reward her for learning a new trick, or merely spoil her for being an adorable kitty. Cat treats need not be just fillers in between her regular meals. They can be nutritious and delicious, too, especially if you choose these nibbles for your feline friends from the brands mentioned below. These are three of the most popular cat treat brands now. Blue Buffalo You are not the only people who consider cats as family. The Blue Buffalo company does too. They take the pet food business seriously and are committed to not adding chick or other poultry by-products, artificial flavors and preservatives, corn, wheat, or soy in any of their cat treats. These irresistibly tasty meat treats from the popular Blue Buffalo brand are made with superior quality ingredients and are available in a variety of mouthwatering flavors. Also, these are made in both crispy and soft, moist, chewy textures suitable for felines of all ages. The appetizing grain-free cat treats contribute only 1.5 calories per treat, unlike other brands of cat treats that provide a minimum of two calories per treat.
Read More
Top Homemade Dog Food Recipes
Pets

Top Homemade Dog Food Recipes

As a dog owner, there is nothing better you can do for your furry friend than make homemade meals for your pup; homemade meals will ensure that your dog is getting all the nutrients that he/she needs to stay healthy and active throughout the day. Some recipes are very easy and simple to make that you can try out for your canine friend. 1. Scooby’s stew Ingredients: 1 ½ cups of brown rice 2 carrots, shredded 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 zucchini, shredded 3 pounds ground turkey ½ cup of peas 3 cups baby spinach Directions: Place all the above-mentioned ingredients in a slow cooker. Ensure that the ground turkey is completely covered with the vegetables. Cook for 5 hours in the slow cooker. Once cooked, you can store the stew in the fridge for up to three days. You can also mix in some bone broth powder into the stew before you cook it. 2. Meatballs Ingredients: 10 pounds ground beef 3 slices of bread, cubed 2 cups of oat bran 4 eggs 3 cups of pumpkin puree Some salt 4 carrots, boiled and mashed Flour Kale leaves, chopped finely Directions: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Place all the ingredients (above) in a bowl and mix them all.
Read More
3 Top-Rated Pet-Friendly Hotels in America
Pets

3 Top-Rated Pet-Friendly Hotels in America

If you love to travel and like to take along your pets too, then here you will find three top-rated pet-friendly hotels across America. More and more independent hotels, chain hotels, and cottage-style hotels are opening up to the idea of families with pets. While some offer to have your pets for free, others charge a fee to board them. Some hotels indeed go the extra mile to make sure both you and your pets have a blast of a holiday together away from home.    The Langham, Chicago • The Langham, Chicago, is open to you and your pets. However, call ahead to confirm the availability of pet-friendly rooms.  • All well-mannered and disease-free cats and dogs are welcome in this luxurious, British-style hotel in the heart of Chicago.  • Whether you are in the city for business or pleasure, this award-winning 5-star hoinnjjhgjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjtel is located conveniently within a short distance from the business district, the retail shopping centers, some major attractions, and a river walk that could be an exciting outdoor attraction for your pet.  • Up to two pets, each weighing 35 pounds or less, are allowed to stay along with.  • Your pets can stay unattended and untethered in the room while you are doing other things, but remember, your room will not be serviced.
Read More
Common Household Items to Control Fleas
Pets

Common Household Items to Control Fleas

None of us wants to see our furry best friends irritated by pesky fleas. When a dog or cat gets fleas their skin can become itchy, inflamed from flea bites. A pet will naturally nip and scratch at the area causing bloody scabs and possibly infection. To prevent fleas, or get rid of an infestation, there are some natural flea remedies for cats and dogs: 1. Dish soap If you opt for dish soap to banish fleas, seek out a gentle formula, like Dawn. Dish soap used on pets should be as close to pH neutral as possible so it doesn’t irritate sensitive pet skin. Squirt about ten drops of dish soap into a sink or bucket and massage the soapy water into the fur, then rinse very well. Leaving soap residue behind can further irritate a pet’s skin. You’ll need a fine toothed comb to comb through fur and get rid of any remaining dead fleas and flea eggs. 2. Baking soda Baking soda mixed with salt dehydrates fleas, their eggs, larvae, and pupae in the home, especially the carpets. To use, make sure your pet is away from the home for at least 24 hours. Spread a mixture of baking soda and salt throughout the house, on the furniture, throw rugs, pet beds and blankets, and bedding.
Read More