Choosing Premium Dog Food

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Pet domestication is one of the most critical aspects of society that we have developed over the years. Many people think it all stopped when these animals just followed our commands and requests throughout their lifespan. However, the way we treat them now will also influence future generations, as this type of evolution takes centuries. We never had dogs running around with us before; for example, the process of domestication aided us to have it.

When it comes to canine health, there are still many facets of it that people get confused about all the time. It seems that our familiarity with dogs has been confused with expertise, as with many others around us as you may read here: https://www.thesprucepets.com/biggest-dog-myths-1117469. Some have even stated that they already know what they are doing without consulting experts. It is usually the case for people who think they cannot afford to have their beloved animal to the vet.

Cheaper or Better?
Please do not get us wrong; veterinarian costs these days are getting more expensive. Many aspects factor into the increase. It is a trend that we cannot escape since the foundation of the free market. Everything else involved in the process is getting pricier, as the tools and medicines are used.

It is also not easy to deal with creatures that may not be able to understand us correctly. For this reason, there is some premium when it comes to this particular service.

On the other hand, it is also crucial to know what to do even without a doctor’s help. These people are not going to be there all the time so mastering some skills is the key. As we have mentioned before, choosing the best dog food for your furry pal is both an art and a science. Many things can go wrong or right with one’s choice for sustenance. Dogs live a different life than us, even if they stay with us most of the time.

Most people who are just starting to have a pet at home would have some misconceptions regarding their food choices. In some countries, they tend to feed their animals with the same things as their owners. The rule goes: whatever is on the table will be provided from the family to the dogs. However, many animal experts believe that it is harmful to the fur babies in the long run. Depending on the food type or group, it may even harm them in the end.

Premium pet food has been rising in demand due to these claims. These products are considered “premium” for various reasons, as Hungry Bark super-premium dog food may tell us. It may be because of the ingredients, processing, brand, health benefits, or a combination of them. It has been this way for a long time, even with other products like those meant for us humans. However, are all of them made in the same way, or are there still nuances between them?

It is essential to choose your dog’s right choice as their digestive tract is not the same as ours—dogs process food differently than we do since it is needed for their physical prowess. For one, it is crucial for their growth and development, in the long run, so you might want to start early. Below are some aspects that you want to read more about before deciding on anything.

The Aspects for Choice

Age
First, the canine’s age will be one of the primary considerations for food choice. It is something that most manufacturers of this particular product would tell their customers. Some options are meant for puppies as they need more nutrients to grow older. Once they mature to full adults, the diet also changes as well as their metabolism. As they reach old age, some food groups would be more helpful for them in the long run.

Size
Another aspect that you need to look into is their size, as it will dictate their diet. We all know that if you are more significant, you also tend to eat more. It is even more apparent with dogs since you can already see it happening without thinking too positively about it. If you have a German Shepherd or Malamute, expect some spikes in dietary needs as they grow bigger. On the other hand, you do not need to worry too much about the smaller ones like Chihuahuas, but they still eat a lot.

Reaction on Food
Meanwhile, this aspect readily depends on the dog and the way they have been brought up. It can also be their taste since these animals do have differing personalities. Some may prefer kibble, while others prefer dry options. Always take note of their eating habits as it will be pervasive even later on in life. You can try and let them get used to the ones you give, but it might take time to catch up and even fail at times.

Activity Level
Lastly, you need to take into consideration the amount of energy that they expend in a day. You do not have to use mathematics for this as observation will suffice. Most dogs tend to run around and play all day, especially while they are still puppies. As they grow, it will lessen to more focused activities depending on how you train them. Meanwhile, some dogs have more physically demanding responsibilities, so they need to eat more.

Ingredients Do Matter
Once you have already considered these aspects, it is time to look into the products themselves. As we have mentioned before, not all of them are created equal when compared to each other. Both wet and dry dog food does have advantages, but they are interchangeable most of the time. It will always come to personal preferences, but the ingredients are the ones that matter the most.

First off, you need to take a look at the contents. One of the indications of well-made pet food is the presence of natural ingredients. If you can find organic options, then it would be the better choice. However, most of them are relatively rare for now, even if there are sightings in typical grocery stores. Meanwhile, there are some specific ingredients that you need to find in their lists that you can check here.

Meat is an integral part of the natural canine diet. It gives them the nutrients they need to survive, like proteins and taurine. However, several pieces of research suggest it might be possible for them to go full vegan. There are already products that claim it on their packaging, and they are trying to go to the mainstream. If you are looking for the standard options, though, it would be best to look for a meat source in the ingredients.

The name of the content should be clear enough for anyone to understand. For example, if there is meat in the product, it should be appropriately labeled. If it says something generic like animal parts, then you might want to ask more questions about it.

What kind of animal are they using for this product? What are the elements that they have mixed in their contents? Some products tend to combine many other animal products in their pet food, but they should be named like beef heart, chicken liver, and others.

Additionally, it would be best if you looked into the carbs in the prepared food source. It is usually mixed in because dogs are omnivores, and they can live off plants, too. The same rule applies to meat; it should be labeled clearly by the manufacturer. The ingredient list should say what kind of carbohydrates they are putting in, like wheat and barley. Some low-quality products tend to use vague terms like coarse meal, and you might want to avoid it.

Most of these dog food products are supposed to be safe for consumption, as long as they have passed the US FDA regulations. It means that it does not have anything that is supposed to be dangerous to the canine species like chocolate, onions, and caffeine. However, it still pays to read the list and search for the terms that might not be clear for you. In this way, you can make sure of their health and well-being.

Make Your Own
On the other hand, you can try and make food for your beloved canine. It is something that most people do these days since the world has been plunged into pandemic mode. Going to the market or grocery feels more of a chore since you have to do a lot of preparation before going out. You need to have a mask on and use alcohol as much as possible. Social distancing has also led to lesser people in these areas, so you might end up lining for a long time.

In this instance, it is essential to know that any food you are going to offer your dog should be cooked. It includes the meat, as modern domesticated animals tend to have a weaker digestive system than their wilder counterparts. A wolf can eat raw meat because they need it to survive but feeding one to a domesticated dog can lead to digestive issues. Also, we have mentioned that there are inherently dangerous food items, so watch out for them.

Being a dog owner might not be as simple as it seems, but there are so many reasons why it is a popular way of life. For one, having another animal with you is already proven to be therapeutic, given the circumstances. Dogs were inherently bred to be human’s constant companions, and we cannot see it changing anytime soon. For this reason, you need to feed them properly so that they can perform well even in the direst of situations.

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Human Foods You Should Not Feed Dogs

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We all want the best for our dogs. We give them a lot of love, take them for plenty of walks and pick them up the best gear from retailers like furry friends gear. However, you shouldn’t always give your pets exactly what they want. This is especially true when it comes to food.

It is not common for a dog to beg at the table for a taste of your food. While many people will succumb to the cuteness and/or whining, you need to be careful. Some human food is fine for dogs to eat, but others can be incredibly problematic.

In an effort to keep your dog healthy, this article is going to go over some human foods that you need to be sure that you never feed to dogs.

Caffeine
While millions of people all over the world consume caffeine daily for its many benefits, don’t let your dog have any. This goes for coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks or anything else that could contain caffeine. The reason your dog should avoid caffeine is that they contain some substances that are known as methylxanthines which are found in cacao seeds.

When this substance is ingested by your dog, it can lead to vomiting, excessive thirst, and an abnormal heart rhythm. They can also lead to extreme hyperactivity, seizures and even death in some serious cases. So be sure to keep all of your chocolate well out of the reach of your furry friend. While all chocolate is bad, the darker that chocolate is, the more dangerous it is.

Gum and Candy
While gum and candy can be a tasty treat once in a while, they are other food items you should never give to your dog. This is because many of them contain Xylitol, a sweetener. This substance is fine for humans, but the same can’t be said for dogs. This is because it can trigger insulin release, which can dramatically lower the blood sugar of your dog.

Unfortunately, this has the potential to lead to liver failure. Some signs that your dog may have ingested Xylitol or another toxic ingredient include vomiting, a loss of coordination and generally being inactive or slow. Xylitol is also found in many other products including toothpaste, some baked goods and even some vitamin supplements.

Onions and Garlic
While a staple in many of the dishes we prepare, onions and garlic should never be fed to your pet. Not only can they lead to irritation, but they can also kill the red blood cells of the body. If the dosage is high enough, this could lead to anemia. This goes for if they are raw, cooked, dehydrated or even powdered. All parts of the onion have the potential to be toxic, as well.

The cause of this is a toxin called N-propyl disulfide. This prevents red blood cells from being able to carry oxygen, which eventually leads to them being destroyed. If your dog is vomiting, exhibiting signs of weakness or having trouble breathing and having a reddish tint in urine, could be signs of toxicity due to onions.

We hope this article has been able to help you learn some of the foods that you should avoid feeding to your dogs. Of course, these are far from the only foods that could potentially harm your pets, so be sure to be careful when feeding them any human food.

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What Is A Doodle? Different Types Of Doodles Explained

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A doodle is the name given to a dog that is mixed between a poodle and another breed and they are becoming increasingly popular and commonly sought after in the canine world. Besides their sweet appearance and cute name combinations, the appeal for many owners is their low maintenance coat that doesn’t shed, great for those who suffer from allergies.

While a Labradoodle tends to be the most well-known, there are now many other variations with a total of 37 known doodle breeds! This includes Goldendoodles, Schnoodles, Double Doodles, and many more. While there are many different types of doodle dogs, they aren’t all the same. The size, energy level, and temperament can vary from dog to dog and so it is important to understand the personality traits and requirements of each type of doodle. On the whole, doodles are known as affectionate dogs that thrive on human company.

Before contemplating which doodle is right for you, extensive research is necessary to ensure that the demands of the dog are catered to. If you are uncertain in regards to the different types of doodles, below we have included explanations to give you an insight.

If you were interested in getting a doodle for your home, it is possible to check out some doodle adoption services in your local area.

Labradoodles
Labradoodles are known as one of the most common types of doodles. A Labradoodle is created when a labrador is crossed with a standard or miniature poodle. With affectionate but sociable personalities they display impeccable calmness in their temperament and are renowned for their intelligence. In fact, their temperament has gained them a reputation as excellent family dogs.

Goldendoodles
Just like Labradoodles, Goldendoodles are extremely popular and they possess qualities that are found in both breeds used to create them. They have easy going and friendly personalities similar to the temperament of a golden retriever, and the intelligence of a poodle. Goldendoodles are also known for their athleticism. While they will not hesitate to join you for a nap on the sofa, they love being active.

Schnoodles
A Schnoodle is a hybrid of a Schnauzer and a poodle and while their appearance may be considered unique, this certainly hasn’t hindered their increase in popularity. Their appearance can vary significantly as both parent breeds come in different sizes. While poodles can be categorized as toy, miniature and large, Schnauzers come in miniature, standard, and giant variations. Schnoodles have gained a reputation as sociable dogs that love affection.

Aussiedoodles
Aussiedoodles are known for their patience and calmness and have inherited some favorable qualities from each of their parents. As a mixture between an Australian Shepherd and a poodle, they display energetic and affectionate qualities that make them a great addition to family homes.

Sheepadoodle
A Sheepadoodle is a mix of an Old English SheepDog and a Poodle. While their loving and smart temperaments make them a great option for single-person households, their energetic and playful character traits make them excellent family dogs too. They are praised for their obedience and loving personalities which are displayed through their affection towards their owners.

Double doodle
A Double Doodle is a hybrid of three breeds and is a cross between a Goldendoodle and a Labradoodle. Their genes identify three different dog breeds; a poodle, a golden retriever, and a labrador. For this reason, the personality of a Double Doodle displays traits that are displayed through each of the breeds. They are known as calm, patient, and intelligent dogs that take to training practices well.

Huskydoodle
While a husky doodle may not be the most common type of doodle dog, they are developing in popularity. As a mixture of a Siberian husky and a poodle, they have the coat of a poodle and the markings of a husky and are one of the larger types of doodles. Known for their sociable personalities and energetic characters, they are an excellent choice for active owners.

Whoodle
A Whoodle is a type of doodle that has been created by mixing a soft coated wheaten terrier and a poodle. Although Whoodle is their most commonly known name, they can also be referred to as Wheatendoodles and Sweatendoodles. Whoodles are known to be very friendly dogs that love human company. They often display affection and are also playful and intelligent.

Bernedoodles
The Bernedoodle is a mixture of a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle and comes in toy and miniature variations. Although they are said to display stubborn personality traits, on the whole, they love affection and human interaction and are a great option for those with families.

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6 Unique Gifts for Your Beloved Pet

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With the holiday season approaching, it is time to start thinking about gifts to give to our loved ones. This, of course, also includes our pets, which are important members of the family. It can be difficult to come up with new ideas for gifts for our pets that they do not already have. Luckily, we have rounded up six unique gifts that you can wrap up for your pet to open on a special occasion. You are sure to love them as well!

Anxiety-Relieving Toy
There are many stressors in everyday life that your pet has to deal with. This could include fireworks, separation from you, or other pets in the neighbourhood. It would be nice to gift your pet a toy to help calm them when anxiety hits. These toys usually come in the form of a stuffed animal that is self-warming. The gentle heat can soothe your pet as they snuggle with it. The toy also mimics the constant thumping of a heartbeat. This also works as a form of relief, as the pet has the sensation of a living thing holding and comforting them.

Custom Portrait
Even if your pet does not recognize when it hangs on the wall, you will be able to admire it. Ordering a customized portrait of your pet is the ultimate gift, as it displays the unwavering love that you and your pet share. Many online businesses offer pet artwork as a service, ilovepaws.com being one of them. Since it is customizable, you can choose the sizes, colours, and art style that you want. On average, it will take a little over a month to receive your pet portrait, depending on which provider you choose to go with.

Pet Sofa
Pets spend much of their day hearing where they can’t go. This is a good opportunity to provide them with an area that is completely theirs. Purchasing a pet sofa will give your pet a comfortable place to nap while remaining close to you. There are many different styles and sizes that you can choose from so that you know your pet will fit and it will match your home. Include a small pillow and blanket on the sofa so that they will be warm and cosy.

Dog Carrier
Do you have a little dog who loves to travel around with you but gets tired on walks? A pet carrier bag is a great gift because it allows your dog to do what they love best, being near you. You can get custom carriers with the dog’s name embroidered on it, so they can travel in style. Many carriers have a weight limit, so be sure that your dog will not exceed that. Also, make sure not to go into any establishments that have a no pet policy, even if your animal is safely stowed away in their carrier bag.

Dog Shower
Bathing a dog can be something of an ordeal for both pets and humans. Something that may make that chore easier is a dog shower system. This includes an attachment shower head that is much lower down than the regular one. This is less traumatic for the dog, as they do not need to sit under a huge wall of cascading water every time they come in for a wash. The dog shower head also has a rubber end so that the dog does not hurt their head by bumping into it by accident. Many models will come with removable bristles that can give your dog a deep clean.

Pet Camera
While you are away at work, it can be tempting to check in on your pet and see how they are doing. This is also beneficial for the pet because many cameras come with microphones and treat dispensers. Your pet will feel comfortable by hearing the sound of your voice. They will also appreciate all the treats you send their way, especially if they reward good behaviour. Many cameras can easily be set up through Wi-Fi, so you can take a quick peek at your pet during your lunch break.

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What To Get Your Dog For Christmas This Year?

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When the holiday season comes around, it only makes sense to want to treat the ones we love. While we usually think about doting on our friends and family, it’s also important to remember the furry friends we love so much.

Our dogs are the best companions all year long, so why not treat them during Christmas? This year, give your doggie one of these dog-friendly gift ideas.

Personalized Dog Bowl
For the dog who already has everything, a personalized dog bowl makes a great gift not only for Fido but also for dog owners. A personalized ceramic bowl is sturdy enough to last years, and it also ensures your dog has a little part of the house that’s just for them.

Whether you personalize your dog’s bowl with their name, a favourite symbol, or a colour that matches your home design, they’re sure to look forward to using it. You can make a bowl yourself or purchase one online.

Speciality Dog Cookies
If your dog is like most other furry friends, he loves getting special treats. While your usual picks from the pet store are nice for every day, your pooch deserves something extra special for the holidays.

This Christmas cookie box is just what every good boy deserves! Whether you’re hoping to start a new training plan or just gift your dog something they’re sure to go wild over, these dog cookies are the best choice.

Pet Bandana
Another festive idea is to gift your dog some fun accessories. While it’s true this is a gift the owner will likely appreciate more than the dog, it’s still all in good fun.

Pet bandanas come in all shapes, sizes, and colours, and they’re the best way to get Fido in the holiday spirit. Make sure you choose the right size for your dog and their breed, and they’re ready to celebrate the holidays in style. Better yet, bring these bandanas with you on your holiday trip to make sure they’re easy to spot.

Dog Puzzle Game
Last but not least, challenge your dog to a game they’re not soon to forget. If your poochy always grows bored of existing toys, a challenge puzzle will put their brains (and noses!) to the test.

These dog-friendly puzzles encourage pets to use their sense of smell to find their favorite treats. Not only will your pet love being rewarded for their cleverness, but this will keep them entertained for hours!

Treat Your Dog This Holiday Season
No matter what type of dog you have, make sure he feels special this holiday season. From keeping your dog occupied during holiday feasts to including them in family fun, these gift ideas above are perfect for every situation.

Your dog is sure to love you even more with these gifts under the tree! Let the holiday festivities begin for everyone, furry friends and all. Dogs deserve a bit of holiday fun as well, and this fun comes in all shapes and sizes.

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Dog Friendly UK Holidays

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With the wealth of scenic coastal walks, beautiful National Parks and long sandy beaches to visit in the UK, it seems a shame to leave the family dog behind when you go on holiday! With kennelling costs typically starting from £10 per day, dog friendly accommodation can also be a very cost effective holiday option for you and your four legged friend. Many holiday cottages, apartments and holiday parks will happily accept dogs at a small additional charge so the whole family can easily enjoy a coast or country break in the UK – search our excellent range of accommodation to find your perfect place today.

Peaceful country walks with your dog
Enjoy exploring some of the UK’s best countryside with your dog including the rolling Cotswolds Hills, the stunning Lakeland scenery of the Lake District or the rugged expanses of the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors. Wales is also an excellent base for a dog-friendly holiday with great walks available in Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia National Park or head to Scotland to explore the beautiful Scottish Islands on a pet friendly holiday. Dogs even travel for free on Caledonian MacBrayne ferry services which sail to twenty four destinations off the West Coast of Scotland.

For a real ‘back to nature’ holiday, why not book a log cabin on a peaceful forest? Stay in a choice of beautiful rural locations throughout the UK to be close to the countryside walks with many farms offering pet friendly accommodation or onsite kennelling facilities. Please see individual property information regarding any restrictions on walks with dogs when staying on a working farm.

Head to the coast for a relaxing holiday
If you are planning a holiday to the British coast, the South West of England is home to some of the best dog friendly cottages by the sea including Weymouth Beach in Dorset, Crantock Beach near Newquay (Voted Best British Beach by BBC Coast 2013!) and Daymer Bay close to Polzeath in Cornwall. If you are visiting the South East of England, the beaches of Brighton, West Wittering near Chichester and Botany Bay near Broadstairs all provide plenty of space of your dog to run around. It’s always best to check dogs are welcome before you book though as some beaches restrict areas where dogs can go over the peak summertime of May to September.

You could also enjoy walks along the 630 mile South West Coastal path with your dog which passes through pretty towns including the harbour town of Poole in Dorset and the family seaside resort of Minehead in Somerset. Alternatively, stay in a cosy cottage or welcoming B&B along the Pembrokeshire coastal path in South Wales for easy access 186 miles of scenic walks and over fifty wonderful beaches.

City breaks
Plenty of the budget chain hotels will also accept pets for a small fee which is ideal if you are planning a city break and wish to take your dog. Alternatively, search our accommodation for pet friendly holiday apartments throughout the UK which can be found in many of the Country’s top city break destinations and will often accept a small dog for an additional charge. There are also plenty of B&Bs in the UK ideal for a dog friendly holiday and some allow dogs to stay for free and provide extras including bowls, treats and their own bed.

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A Dog’s Support: 7 Types of Walking Aid Accessories for Dogs

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Paralysis in dogs is a severe problem which could be caused by many reasons, such as spinal injury, genetic disorders, injuries caused by accidents, and many more. For many pet owners, it is a huge heartbreak seeing their pets not able to walk again.

The legs of the dog’s body are the most affected area, and the burden of not being able to walk again is most likely traumatizing for every dog. Therefore, several walking aid accessories were invented to assist those dogs that are unfortunately unable to walk again.

These walking aid accessories will give these dogs the feeling of becoming independent again. Now, if you’re up to know more about a few of these accessories, take a read.

Full Support Wheelchair
When we talk about accessories for walking aids, there are many wheelchair options for dogs that will surely help to keep their balance to walk again. One of these accessories is the full dog wheelchair that comfortably supports your dog and does not put pressure on the shoulders or front legs.

To remain active and retain their movement, dogs need a device with full-body support. Hence, a wheelchair with four wheels will be helpful in supporting the front and back weight of your dog. You can also adjust its tightness, making it easier to use than traditional wheelchairs for pets.

Rear Wheelchair
Unlike the full support wheelchair that offers full-body assistance to dogs, this rear wheelchair only offers assistance for dogs with lower back or rear leg problems. The rear wheelchair is positioned at the back of the dog’s body, where two wheels support the dog’s rear. It gives aid by enabling your dog to stand straight and get the workout they needed.

Using this type of wheelchair will help dogs who can’t still lift their rear or back legs. Also, keep in mind that there are different types of wheelchairs for dogs with different specifications and use. It’s always a good thing when you know what type of accessories best fit your dog’s needs.

Body-Covered Lift Harness
A lifting harness is a sling that attaches a long handle throughout your dog’s body. It is crafted to enable you to raise your dog while entirely holding the chest and stomach. This accessory will give you a way to assist your movement-limited dog just by softly lifting on the handle. It will help the dogs move around without them feeling the heaviness of their body.

The padding is quilted from the braces to the entire structure of the harness to provide proper stability. However, note that some lift harnesses are made entirely of lightweight materials. Still, a few have hardened handles, and other parts might be appropriate to lift a heavier dog. Therefore, when picking a suitable lift harness size, consider your dog’s weight.

Lift Rear Harness
There are times when your dog can’t always rely on the comfort provided by an entire body-covered lift harness. That’s why the lift rear harness was created solely to help dogs with back issues. This harness is designed to secure only the back legs of your dog. By doing this, their walking difficulties can gradually improve.

The exterior part of the harness is made from sturdy fabric. For optimum comfort, the interior is filled with lightweight fleece. Since it will be placed at the dog’s back, it would still allow the dog to urinate or excrete when wearing the collar. It is very convenient and isn’t troublesome to use.

Scooter
Unfortunately, if your beloved dogs have lost two of their back legs and the front legs are the only ones functioning, the best walking aid accessories that can support them are scooters. For comfort and longevity, the scooter base is filled with cell foam padding. It is made out of a light and comfortable coat that lines the dog’s chest and neck sections.

The dog will be sitting on the scooter, and with the help of the scooter’s rollerballs, the dog can comfortably glide in any direction with a continuous smooth motion since it was designed for quick movement. However, rollerballs are not too helpful with outdoor activities. That’s why it’s only decent for indoor walking exercise.

Amputee Leg Ring Cover
An amputee leg ring cover is used with wheelchairs, so dogs with leg disabilities can use their wheels properly. This can help improve the dog’s comfort while being bound to the wheelchair. By covering the leg ring, this will make your pet more relaxed while moving around.

Usually, it is composed of lightweight material because it will serve as the cover of the legs. Since it’s made of soft materials, it can be easily cleaned and dried, which can be a good thing. Lastly, bear in mind that leg ring covers come in various sizes to make sure it fits different dog sizes.

Leg Braces
If dogs are in a bad state, such as having an injury, these dog leg braces offer protection and stability. It helps to alleviate joint pain and swelling and help them walk more steadily. It is a compression brace made of materials that provide comfort and protection to the dog’s legs without compromising flexibility.

It also helps dogs recover from trauma and any joint problems and can be used as a prevention method for aged dogs that are more at risk of injury. Note that when one of the dog’s legs is injured, the other leg will eventually follow suit since the disability can create an imbalance that can affect the dog’s movements. Therefore, leg braces are vital during this time to lessen the dog’s burden when walking.

Takeaway
Dogs are valuable companions of every pet owner. Therefore, when they need additional support, do not hesitate to give them appropriate assistance, especially in walking problems.

Regardless of any leg problems like arthritis, fatigue, joint injury, damage caused by accidents, or struggling to walk because of age, you should know how to take care of your dog and provide them the care they need. Walking aid accessories are made to give them comfort and help them recover their sense of being independent.

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Turn your pet green!

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We are a nation of pet lovers, it’s true. According to the RSPCA just shy of half of us have one, yet the impact of pet ownership upon our environment can rack up if we don’t take care.

They’re good for our physical and mental health, they’ve been invaluable companions to us during lockdown and… they’re responsible for a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions caused by animal agriculture. So, as we all take steps to reduce our carbon footprint and live greener lives, let’s not forget to look to our pets’ contribution.

The good news is that there are choices we can make to mitigate our pet’s impact on the planet, including carefully selecting their pet food.

When planning how you and your pet can make less of an environmental impact, why not consider the following?

  1. Use biodegradable bags to pick up after your pets and consider investing in a pet poo wormery – these are a great way to recycle waste into useful garden compost.
  2. Choose chemical-free shampoos to wash your pets. Chemical options can pollute rivers and oceans and poison animals.
  3. Try making your own dog toys and avoid plastic or electronic options.
  4. Instead of driving to a location to walk your pet, find a walk closer to home to cut down on petrol use and emissions.

This year, pet food brand Vet’s Kitchen is moving to 100% recyclable packaging. The changes will be made over a two-year period and will cover the entire product range, beginning with dry dog food in October 2020. The Vet’s Kitchen brand, which is dedicated to transforming the health of the nation’s pets through diet and nutrition, have decided to prioritise meeting environmental goals such as these, ahead of many larger pet food companies. To date, they have reduced their plastic use by over a quarter (27%) on some lines and by 17% across the range.

The move comes as part of a re-branding strategy, as Vet’s Kitchen upgrade both their packaging and website design, as well introducing a number of new recipes and pack formats. It is hoped that by actively displaying the OPRL (on-package recycling label) will prompt customers to dispose of packaging responsibly through recycling.

“The Vet’s Kitchen brand is synonymous with high-quality pet food which delivers real health benefits. We take great care to select the best possible ingredients; (with an emphasis on natural, nutritious and local,) and a move to greener packaging solution was an integral part of our rebrand strategy,” says head of marketing, Jilly Whibberley.

Vet’s Kitchen believes that nutrition is fundamentally linked to health and well-being and the lives of the nation’s pets could be improved through diet. It is the only food brand with its own in-house veterinary practice based in Swindon, known as Vet’s Klinic. Their natural products are produced using this ‘Vet Know-how’ and are specifically tailored to meet the dietary needs of cats and dogs, including treating many of the common ailments faced by pets.

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It’s Selfie Time – Best Ideas For Taking Awesome Photos of You and Your Furry Friend

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What better way to celebrate the special bond you share with a pet than with some fun selfies? Whether you’re hitting the park for a rousing game of catch or just relaxing on a rainy Sunday, taking selfies with your dog can help you create lasting memories.

Unfortunately, it can be challenging to encourage your pet to work their angles and strike a pose. Here are some of the best ideas for taking photos of you and your furry friend.

Lock in Your Lighting
Finding the right lighting is the difference between a good picture and a great picture. If possible, opt for even, natural lighting for your photo. Avoid using the flash, as this can be shocking and damaging to your dog’s eyes.

If you’re in a dim room or plan on moving around, lock in your lighting. On an iPhone or Android, you can lock the AE/AF feature by tapping and holding the area where you want the camera to focus. This won’t make your photos blurry but will keep the lighting the same as you move around.

Zoom Out and Crop
We all love the up-close selfies of people with their dogs. However, it can be difficult to get the perfect snapshot when zooming in. Leave your camera zoomed out instead and crop as needed.

Taking zoomed out photos also gives you more room to edit and transform your images into something else. You can visit Instapainting and have your favorite animal selfie turned into an oil paint portrait or use editing software to replace the background.

Use Burst Mode
Burst mode will be your (second) best friend when taking a selfie with your dog. By snapping multiple shots, you’re more likely to get one where you both look great. Using burst mode also prevents you from having to check your pictures and reposition yourselves after every failed photo.

Choose the Right Timing
Keep your dog’s feelings in mind when trying to get a selfie. Try to avoid snapping photos when you know they’re hungry or itching to get out the door for their daily walk. Plan your selfie schedule around their existence, rather than the other way around.

Move Around Them
Learning how to move around your dog is a must for capturing the perfect selfie— especially if you have a large breed. It’s not as easy to get your dog into a position for the right shot as it is to position yourself.

If you maneuver your pet into a pose for a picture, check to ensure they’re comfortable before proceeding. Remember to give them lots of love and pats for their cooperation.

Use Sound Effects and Props
One of the challenges many pet owners face when trying to get photos of their pet is getting them to look at the camera. Fortunately, there are a lot of creative options for capturing your pet’s attention during selfie time.

One way to get your pet looking in the right direction is with sound effects. There are apps and features you can use on your phone to play dogs barking, cats meowing, and birds chirping.

Another way to get great pet selfies is to use treats and snacks attached to your phone. Get a phone attachment that holds a treat or toy to keep your pet’s attention for the photo. Remember to reward them with the treat or toy after your session is done!

Practice Makes Perfect
Practice makes perfect when it comes to taking selfies with your furry friend. The more you do it, the quicker the process will become. With some time and patience, you’ll be able to capture amazing selfies with your pet!

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These Tips will Help you to Bring Home your Very First Rescue Dog

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There are thousands of dogs out there who require a forever home. If you’re looking to bring home a puppy then why not think about adopting instead? Find out everything you need to know, right here.

What to Expect
There really are so many reasons why pets end up in animal shelters. Usually it comes down to the personal circumstances of the owners, as opposed to it being the dog’s fault. It may be that you end up moving house, changing jobs, undergo a divorce or even have a new baby. Dog-ownership can be challenging to say the least and this is why so many people end up taking their dog to a rescue centre. Sometimes when you go to a shelter, you will soon find that they have so many family-friendly breeds as well as puppies. They also have adult dogs too. It’s vital that you research as many breeds as you can in advance, as this could help you to highlight some of the characteristics that your dog might have.

Choosing the Right Dog
It’s highly recommended that you try and choose a dog with your head as opposed to your heart. It’s very easy for you to fall in love with an animal right away but at the end of the day, you’ll want to stay somewhat detached if you can so that you can keep in mind what you’re in store for. If you want to save yourself some heartache, then don’t choose a dog that does not suit your lifestyle. The staff who work at an animal shelter, or a rescue centre will have so much experience in helping you to choose the right dog, but at the same time it helps to have an open mind. You might have a shortlist of all of the potential dogs you want, but at the same time, you need to make sure that you are open to bringing a dog home that wasn’t what you had in mind to begin with, but is right for your home. Your dog should have no health issues when they come to you, but sometimes they can develop conditions soon after leaving the shelter. Read more here about diseases such as kennel cough, as this can be very common in dogs that are young.

Behavioural Issues
Some rescue dogs will have behavioural issues that you need to address with patience and consistent training. It may be that your dog has aggression towards other dogs or even people. You will need to make sure that you are tough in your training because it is more than possible for you to curb these issues in no time. At the end of the day, most dogs will have a backstory. It may be that your dog was taken away from the mother too soon and that they like to snuggle. On the flip side, it may be that they have not been socialised enough at that crucial age.

Getting your Home Ready
Before you even think about rehoming a dog, you need to have a check done by the staff who work at the animal charity. They will have so much practical advice which will help you to ensure a smooth transition from start to finish. You have to remember that some dogs are happy to sleep in a crate too, so you need to make sure that you are comfortable having something like this in your home if you want to try and keep your rescue as comfortable as possible at all times. It’s also helpful to have everything you need before you pick up your dog, such as grooming tools or puppy toys.

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