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There are several enjoyable ways to give your dog the exercise he needs.Combine his walks with a few obedience exercises and finish with a game. But take his fitness level into account. Many dogs are so enthusiastic that they keep on running when they’re already tired, which isn’t healthy for them. Chasing a ball may not be the best form of activity for your dog. Playing hide and seek, a quieter game, may be a good alternative to avoid overstressing his joints. If you suspect that your dog has muscle or joint problems, talk to your veterinarian first.If you like exercising, you can go for runs or long walks together. Often, unpaved routes are preferable because they may be easier on your dog’s joints. If you still prefer walking or running on hard ground, train your dog to walk along the shoulder. Your dog is smaller than you are, so less visible from the road. At night, have your dog wear a reflective safety vest or object.Many dogs love to swim, which can be a great way for them to cool off in the hot summer months. After some simple investigating, you may discover some local dog beaches where you can go, or perhaps there’s a swimming pool for dogs in your area. One note of caution: don’t let your dog swim in stagnant water, in case of blue-green algae, which is toxic for dogs. The same holds true for your dog’s water bowl: change the water every day!Guidelines for all games and exercise: Don’t overdo it; exercise in moderation Gradually develop your dog’s physical fitness level Afterwards, give him a moderate amount of cool, fresh drinking water Consistent daily exercise is better than intensive “weekend warrior” exercise If you have a dog, support his joint health with Flexadin® Plus. Give your pet these great-tasting chews.

Planning a summer vacation with pets is exciting! Follow these tips to properly prepare you and your pet for your vacationHitting the Road?If you are taking a road trip with your pet, don’t forget to take a trial run first. Bring your pet with you around town to see how they respond in different situations. Make sure you have options to ensure your pet is safely secured within your vehicle. For smaller dogs and cats, always have them secured in a carrier. For larger dogs, a crate in the back of the car that is secured is preferable. Pet seat belts or restraints are also an option.Depending on the length of your trip, plan out stops so that your pet has ample opportunities to use the restroom and stretch their legs. Some rest stops and larger gas stations even have doggy play areas! Don’t forget to allow pets to hydrate while traveling – and if traveling during regular meal times, make sure they are able to eat.Lastly, consider car temperatures! Never leave your pet unattended in a warm car. Temperatures inside a parked car can reach 20-30 degrees higher than outside, and can quickly become deadly for a pet.Flying high?Flying with a pet is more popular than ever. Some airlines are even doing more to accommodate pets, but there are still a few things to keep in mind if you are taking off with your pet in tow.First, always make sure your pet is in good health before flying. If your pet is very young or old, or has a particularly fragile medical condition, it may be best to leave them at home.Second, do your research first regarding airline fees and policies – you might be surprised at how quickly they can add up. Some airlines charge extra for bringing pets and others will consider your pet carrier as a “checked bag.” Take a close look at your airlines’ pet policies.If you are heading out of country, pay close attention to laws regarding vaccinations and medical records needed prior to bringing your pet. Some countries (and Hawaii) even require quarantine periods.If you are taking your pet across state or international borders, a health certificate may be required. Do your research in advance.Some valuable resources to help you with your individual travel circumstances include: www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/Traveling-with-Your-Pet-FAQs.aspx www.aphis.usda.gov (Go to “travel with a pet” and select from various options related to your travel scenario) Keep your pet safe – no matter how you are traveling Ensure your pet’s ID tags are current and that your pet is micro chipped with updated contact information Consult with your veterinarian about your plans If your pet gets nervous while traveling, consider a calming supplement to ease their worries Bring your pet’s favorite toys or blanket as a familiar reminder of home Ensuring your pet’s well-being while on summer vacation can help make this trip the best one yet. As always, if you have questions, talk to your veterinarian.

Keep their diet the same: Many boarding facilities will offer food as part of your pet’s stay. However, changing up your pet’s diet can suddenly wreak havoc on their digestive system. In addition to the nerves they are already feeling by being in a new place, surrounded by strange roommates (and noises!), changing their diet can equal disaster. Consider bringing your pet’s own food with specific directions for the clinic regarding how much to administer and what time of day. Bring your pet’s medical records: If you are boarding at a facility that is not your pet’s regular veterinary clinic, make sure to bring copies of their medical records. Most boarding facilities require certain shots in order to board and without proof, won’t let your pet stay. Additionally, giving the staff an idea of any recent medical issues will allow them to provide better care. If your pet is on any medication, don’t forget to pack it with dosing instructions. Check out the facility first (or better yet, do a test run): If this is your first time boarding your pet (or first time at this particular facility), make sure you check it out thoroughly before dropping your pet off. Some facilities have different sizes of kennels/catteries which are best gauged in person. Many facilities will also offer separate spaces for cats, away from the loud barking and noises of dogs. If you can, do a test run for one night to see how your pet does in a new environment. It’s important to check out the facility as much as possible so you can make the best decision possible regarding your pet’s care. Ask about optional services to make your pets stay more fun… Some clinics or boarding facilities will offer additional play time or walks to make your pet’s stay more fun. It’s also becoming more common to find facilities with group play areas and/or “swimming pools” for dogs who love water. With pet activity trackers becoming more popular, you can even monitor your pet’s activity level while you’re away to ensure they are still exercising and staying active. Incorporating activities into your pet’s stay will not only keep them active while you’re away, but can also help the time go by faster! .…or less stressful: Additionally, many clinics are offering calming supplements to pets who have a hard time being away from home. These types of supplements, like Zylkene®, can help your pet through what can be a challenging time for them. Ask your veterinarian for more information about these types of supplemental options. Bring some small comforts from home: Bringing your dog’s bed, toys and treats, can help reinforce the feelings of being at home and help make their stay more pleasant. The same goes for cats – ask if the facility will allow you to bring your cat’s litter box, especially if your cat is picky (which most cats are!) Having things with them that smell like or remind them of home is a great way to keep them more relaxed. Book early and check their hours: If you find a clinic or facility that you are comfortable with, make sure you book your pet’s stay early and confirm as your trip gets closer. Many boarding facilities get booked up, particularly during the holiday season and summer. Knowing their open/closed hours is also important – are they open on Sunday’s? If not, and that’s the day you return, you might have to pay for an extra night. Ask about their emergency policy: If something happens to your pet during their stay, what is the emergency plan? If they are a clinic, do they offer off-hours emergency services? If not, where do they take animals who become sick or injured and how do they determine your comfort level regarding your pet’s care? Its information you will hopefully not have to use, but if you do, are better off knowing in advance. Make sure your pet is outfitted with updated identification: In the rare event that your pet does require professional care or is able to get free, make sure your pet has an updated collar with ID tags and contact information. Additionally, micro-chipping your pet can help drastically speed up the location process. Check referrals and talk to your veterinarian first: It’s always a good idea to check a facility’s referrals before booking. This can help you make the best decision for your pet. If you are still unsure about where to go or how to help your pet cope with staying away from home, ask your veterinarian for their recommendations. Check out our Boarding Packing Checklist.

Behavioral issues are thought to affect at least 90 percent of dog and cats. In the U.S. alone, that means nearly 60 million dogs and 68 million cats are experiencing a regular, negative reaction to something that is causing them anxiety or stress.Similar to stress and anxiety in humans, the causes and effects can vary greatly. And for pets, the issue can be literally life or death: behavioral issues are the #1 cause of euthanasia in pets. If pet parents know what to look for, they can work with their veterinarian to treat behavioral issues before they escalate.What is the stress ladder?The “stress ladder” is a term given to a scale that measures signs or symptoms of pet behavioral issues. Less severe reactions (such as yawning) fall towards the bottom of the ladder, while more serious reactions (such as aggression or biting) rate near the top of the ladder.Here are some examples of common signs of behavioral issues and where they would typically fall on the stress ladder: In most cases of extreme behavioral issues, there are many small signals that were likely missed along the way. The stress ladder scale is a simple guide to help you identify your pet's stress signals so you can intervene and help them before they move up the ladder.Remember: all animals are different, so the way they react under stress can vary greatly.Recognizing your pet is experiencing stress and anxietyWhen trying to understand your pet's behavioral issues, it's important to keep in mind that even seemingly minor symptoms can, over time, take a major toll on your pet’s health. If your pet is exhibiting signs of stress, the best thing you can do is talk with your veterinarian about strategies and treatments to bring them back to baseline. The higher up the stress ladder your pet is when you recognize there is a problem, the more challenging it will be to bring them back to baseline.At lower rungs of the ladder, simply taking your pet to their "safe space," comforting them, or providing a calming nutraceutical may be enough to get them back to baseline. At higher rungs of the ladder, your veterinarian may recommend medication and/or visiting a board certified behaviorist to get to the bottom of the issue. A great resource for finding a board certified behaviorist near you can be found here.Understanding your pet's behavior can be challenging, but it's also an integral part of their overall wellness. The stress ladder is a helpful tool to understanding how small changes in your pet's behavior can snowball into a much bigger, and more dangerous problem over time. When vising your vet, don't hesitate to bring up any questions or concerns you might have regarding your pet's behavior!

Help your veterinarian get the full picture of your pet’s health — and that includes supplements! Here are five tips to discussing supplements with your veterinary provider. Bring a list of all supplements to your appointment. You can even bring the supplement packages themselves to give practitioners an opportunity to read the label if they aren’t familiar with the specific brand. Check the product, amount, and delivery. Your veterinarian will help you identify if the product is proven to work, which can help you save money and find the most effective product for your pet. Your veterinarian will confirm the product is compatible with other products, ensure a safe dose is being administered, and double-check that the supplement is being given according to label directions. Ensure manufacturers are reputable. Your veterinarian can help you verify the supplements are from reputable manufacturers. You can also check sites like the National Animal Supplement Council to confirm the manufacturer is listed. Don’t forget the boring stuff. Opening the door for a supplement discussion can include tried-and-true measures for improving joint health such as: weight management, diet, exercise, and other products. Proven products like undenatured type II collagen supplements can support normal joint function. The key is to always check with your veterinarian first!

Obesity is a complex issue with influences of both genetics and environmental factors. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention estimates that 54% of the pets in the United States are overweight or obese. Why does this matter? Pets that are overweight or obese are at risk for several health issues, including joint problems. Obesity is ultimately caused by consuming more calories than needed. The excess calories are then stored as fat. Hormones and chemicals related to inflammation are released from this fat, causing excess stress on joints. Cartoon cats with a fancy for pasta are not aspirational for our pets. Just like people, a weight loss journey is never all that simple and easy. However, in the end will lead to a more enjoyable life for your companion.How Do I Know If My Pet is Overweight?One of the first steps to evaluating a pet that is overweight or obese is a thorough physical examination and laboratory tests. Your veterinarian will help you determine your pet’s Body Condition Score (BCS) which evaluates body fat by observation and palpation. There is a 5-point scoring system and a 9-point scoring system. For most pets a body condition score of 3 on a 5-point system and 5 on a 9-point system is a good goal.Some physical signs of obesity on your pet maybe displayed as the following: Dogs: Ribs are difficult to feel and there is a thick layer of fat. When viewed from above the waist is not defined. From the side, the stomach hangs. Cats: Ribs are difficult to feel and there is a thick layer of fat. The lower spine cannot be clearly seen and the waist is not clearly defined. Tips for Weight ManagementBelow are some ways to help make your pet’s weight management more beneficial and easier for the both of you: Weight loss foods high in protein will help encourage weight loss and a lean body while those high in fiber will keep your pet feeling full while consuming fewer calories. Be sure to calculate treats within your pet’s diet plan, save 10% for treats. Some good options are: low calorie treats and certain fruits and vegetables. Supplements may also be used to simultaneously reward your pet and promote healthier joints (Examples: Flexadin Advanced, Flexadin Plus, etc.) Incorporating an exercise plan is important to help your pet lose weight and help reduce joint discomfort. Walking is always a convenient and inexpensive way to exercise. Duration, frequency and intensity can all be adjusted based on the individual pet’s needs. Typically a pet needs to eat 20% to 30% fewer calories than it would need to maintain weight. Monitor weight loss. Weigh your pet every week or so and write down the number. If weight loss stops, reevaluate what you’re doing. Underwater treadmill walking has also been successful for many obese cats and dogs that have a difficult time walking on their own. (Check for availability in your area.) Don’t expect a rapid drop in weight, but slow and steady weight loss. Pets will gradually lose weight overtime with the slowest being in cats. Feeding a weight loss food, using supplements to maintain healthy joints, and exercising several times a week are all key parts to a good weight management program. However, the most important step each pet owner needs to take is recognizing that there is a problem and to take action. We sometimes use excuses of “she’s just fluffy” or “he’s big boned” but honesty is needed to recognize positive changes that will better the quality of your pet’s life. It isn’t easy but helping your pet lose weight and maintaining an ideal weight will make them feel better in the long run.

When was the last time you took a good look inside your pet’s mouth? On average, more than 80% of dogs will develop a significant oral health issue, such as infected gums or loose teeth. Periodontal disease is the most common health problem diagnosed in cats.Prevention and treatment of your pet’s oral issues are important for the overall health of your dog or cat. Here are some tips to keep your pet's teeth healthy:Tooth-Friendly Treats: Gnawing on certain treats and bones can actually help scrape away plaque and dirt on pets’ teeth (plus, it’s fun and tasty for your pet!) Be sure to consult with your veterinarian about chews and treats for your dog or cat. There are choices based on size of your pet and their oral health history Brush it Off: Like us, dogs and cats need their teeth brushed regularly. Make sure to use toothpaste specifically formulated for pets (do not use human toothpaste which requires rinsing/spitting out). Vetoquinol’s great-tasting, no-rinse toothpaste comes with a special finger brush and pet-friendly tooth brush in the Enzadent Complete Toothbrush Kit. Ease into Oral Health: If your dog or cat is not amenable to tooth brushing right away, although is open to you touching their mouth, start by getting them used to oral cleaning with a piece of gauze wrapped around your finger. Use it to wipe teeth and gums. Once they are used to that, begin to introduce actual teeth brushing with a pet-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste. Watch this instructional video: How To Brush Your Dog's Teeth Annual Checkup: Set up your pet’s annual dental check up at the same time you schedule your own. Routine annual checkups and preventative care can actually help prevent more serious issues that can be expensive to treat later on. Fear of the Dentist: If your dog or cat has a general fear of vet trips or dental checkups, consider Zylkene, a natural, non-sedating, calming supplement that can help dogs and cats cope with stressful situations. Start them on it about 4-5 days before the vet/dental visit. The Nose Knows: Bad breath in your pet is often a sign of an underlying oral health issue, such as an infection - pay attention to that smell. It can also be a symptom of broader health problems. If your dog starts developing bad breath, particularly if you are cleaning his teeth regularly, speak to your vet.

Here are 8 signs that your dog may have joint issues.

Here are 8 signs that your cat may have joint issues.

When we bring a new puppy home, our instincts tell us to protect that puppy and keep him or her absolutely safe. But it is also important that we expose our puppies to everyday experiences as much as possible, especially in the first three months of their life. During this time period, puppies are the most receptive to learning, which will have an impact on their personality. The benefits of socializing your puppy far outweigh the time it takes. Often times, puppies who aren't socialized sufficiently can be aggressive and overly fearful of people or their environment.Puppies are typically adopted around 8 weeks of age. Every puppy is a bit different when it comes to their psychological and behavioral well-being, and some are going to be further along in their exposure and socialization. When you bring your puppy home, focus on these areas of socialization to help them become happy, healthy dogs:Exposure To Other Pets:Controlled exposure to other dogs, cats, pocket pets, birds, and others is helpful for puppies to learn how to act around other animals.Handling:Touching, looking in ears, examining the mouth, handling feet, nail trimming, bathing, leashing/harnessing/wrapping, restraining (with positive reinforcement), playing with toys, and brushing teeth are all good things to get your puppy used to during this critical learning period.Environment/Outside World:Exposing your puppy to doors, crates, cars, street drains, different surfaces, clothes, blankets, beds or various things outside is essential to get them used to everyday objects.Sounds:To get your puppy used to sounds, and to avoid a negative reaction to noises such as fireworks or thunderstorms, work to give your puppy positive reinforcement with these sounds. A useful trick is to introduce recorded sounds of thunder or fireworks from sound CD's, starting with a low volume and working up to a realistically loud volume. Be sure to provide positive reinforcement such as petting, treats or your puppy's favorite toy. In addition, car horns, trains and other loud noises can be introduced.The Veterinarian:Preparing for the veterinary visit is just as important as the veterinary visit. Take frequent trips to visit your veterinarian with your puppy and make it a positive experience for both of you. Hanging out in the clinic lobby for 10-15 minutes and interacting positively with people and other animals (in a controlled manner) will help alleviate fear and anxiety with veterinary visits in the future. They key is to make the experience positive with no poking or prodding involved.People:Meeting new people on a daily basis is recommended. This can occur at home or while out and about. Providing a positive experience with treats during these encounters is encouraged. Don't forget about socializing with people in uniform and children.In addition to socialization, it is important to work with puppies in a training atmosphere. Positive reinforcement is essential with this training. Find a reputable training class or trainer where positive reinforcement is used to keep puppies feeling happy and safe. The goal is to give the puppy good feelings about environments, people, and commands, typically reinforced by giving them food.You can also do this on your own, and there are many resources to help you out in this process. These sessions should be relatively short, around 3-5 minutes at a time with a lot of play and positivity. Remember to use good judgement with all of these interactions when it comes to your puppy's health. It is recommended to keep up with your puppy's vaccine schedule and avoid areas where unvaccinated dogs roam or areas/classes that aren't well controlled when it comes to vaccines and deworming.In summary, the key to well-being is exposing your puppy to as much as possible early in life, while ensuring a safe environment. You will find that this exposure will pay off and provide you with a companion that is comfortable with their surroundings.

If you’re traveling for the holidays, there’s a good chance that “boarding your pet” is on the long to-do list you’re working your way through. And if you’re feeling stressed about it, chances are your pet is, too. But boarding doesn’t have to be stressful! With just a little forethought, you can board your pets and be confident that they’ll enjoy the holidays just as much as you do. Just follow these steps to help your whole family have a happy holiday.First, check out the facility before you board. If you can, ask your veterinarian what boarding facility they recommend – but whether you’re going with that recommendation or another place, it’s a good idea to get a look at the kennels and catteries beforehand. In fact, if you can, do a one-night trial run just to see how your pet is feeling the next day.While you’re there, ask about optional services available for your pet. This may mean more walks for your dog, more playtime for your cats, group play, or even the ability to monitor your pet’s activity while you’re away. More to do means more fun, and that means less stress for you and for them.And if your pets get homesick, be sure to pack small comforts from home. These can be as simple as favorite toys, treats, or blankets. Having something that feels and smells like home will help them relax until it’s time for you to come pick them up.Speaking of comforts from home, it can be helpful to pack their usual food. Boarding places will offer their own food, but if you want to give your pets some continuity (and avoid any gastrointestinal distress), bring the food they’re used to with specific instructions for the staff on how to feed them.Finally, make sure their products are in order. That means making sure all products are filled and you have enough to last the duration of the stay (and a few days after). It can also mean helping your pets thrive during the holidays with a behavioral supplement like Zylkene®. Zylkene® can help your cat or dog handle new situations and new people on an even keel – without altering their behavior or making them drowsy.And if you do try out new supplements like Zylkene®, consult with your veterinarian prior to (and after, if needed) boarding. That will give you time to adjust dosage so you and your pet get the results you need.With these tips, we hope that you and your pets won’t just survive the holiday seaon, but thrive in it. We wish you AND your pets a Happy Holidays!

With the holidays comes a change in schedules, the entertaining of guests, and perhaps most of all: a change in diet. Not only will there be more food, there will be more kinds of food, in some cases food that your pets won’t encounter at any other time of year.Naturally, not all foods are created equal, and your pets won’t process some foods as well as humans do. Here’s a handy guide on foods to avoid and foods you can let your pets indulge in alongside you.HOLIDAY DIET DON’TS:GARLIC AND ONIONS. Garlic and onions can cause gastric upset in your pet and could even result in anemia. You probably aren’t going to feed your pets these foods directly, but check ingredients (especially sausage!) before you let your dog or cat have something you suspect may contain either.RAISINS AND GRAPES. Even a small amount of these foods can cause kidney failure or worse. Keep fruit plates, raisin bread, and other holiday staples well out of reach of your pets.COOKED BONES. Who doesn’t love giving a dog a bone? Just be careful not to give your dog cooked bones, which become fragile and brittle. Fragments of bone can break off and get lodged in your dog’s intestines or throat. Stick to toys for your cats.CHOCOLATE. It’s no secret that chocolate is bad for dogs, but did you know it’s just as toxic for cats? The holiday season sees a lot more chocolate coming into the house than usual. Chocolate is extremely toxic to dogs and cats alike, so keep any and all chocolate far away.HOLIDAY DIET DO’S:WHITE MEAT TURKEY is hearty, healthy, and a delicious treat for your favorite pet. Just cut away the skin and excess fat before you feed them.BANANAS and APPLES make a flavorful and colorful fruit addition to your pet’s holiday meal.Likewise, CARROTS round out the vegetable selections you can use to delight your dog or cat.Finally, PUMPKIN PUREE. Pets love it when you mix this in with their usual meal! Just make sure you serve plain pumpkin and NOT pumpkin pie filling, because in large quantities nutmeg can cause stomach pains and hallucinations.As always, if you have any questions, talk to your veterinarian about what is and isn’t safe for your pet to eat. And if you see your dog or cat displaying tremors, abdominal discomfort, increased thirst or seizures, see your veterinarian immediately. Just be mindful of who’s eating what, and you AND your pets should have a happy holiday season!

The holidays are here and everything is in its place. Well, almost. Chances are in the massive to-do checklist you’ve built yourself you overlooked a simple necessity that can make the holidays more pleasant for you and your guests: bathing your pets.Maybe your cats and dogs love baths or maybe they don’t. Either way, giving them a proper bath can not only make them feel (and smell) better, it can keep their skin healthy and give you a chance to discover any abnormalities you should pay more attention to. Even cats who groom themselves can benefit from a good wash. As always, if you do discover any abnormalities (infections, smelly areas, redness or drying) you should consult your veterinarian.Here’s how to bathe your pet in time for the holidays! First, have the right shampoo for the job, which means no human shampoo! If your cat or dog has normal skin (absent itchiness, scaliness, dry patches or greasiness) we recommend a gentle shampoo for normal skin. If you plan on bathing your pet more than once a month, a soap free shampoo (such as Vetoquinol® Aloe and Oatmeal Shampoo) is recommended to clean your pet’s skin without removing their natural skin oils. If your pet has abnormal skin, consult your veterinarian on what type of shampoo is best for them. Second, choose the right location for the job. Make sure both you and your pet can be comfortable while you bathe them. Having treats on hand (such as Vetoquinol® Pill Wraps) can help with their comfort level and yours, and of course, wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet. Be sure to help your pet feel secure by placing a towel or rubber lining down to create a nonskid surface for your pet to stand on. You don’t want them slipping and sliding around while you’re bathing them!Then, use lukewarm water to wet the coat and skin. No one likes water that’s too cold or too hot, especially your pets. If they have less cause for alarm or discomfort, the process will go smoother for both of you.Rub the shampoo in to clean the skin, and if you’re using medicated shampoo, wear rubber gloves in case your own skin has a reaction to the medication. Some shampoos may be easier to apply if you dilute it in a second bottle first, so check the shampoo instructions before you begin. If you have a shampoo that requires setting for 5-10 minutes before rinsing, distract your pet with a short walk or other activity.Rinse! If your dog or cat needs extra moisture on their skin, you may want to consider a leave-in conditioner (such as Vetoquinol® Aloe and Oatmeal Conditioner).After the bath, brush your pet’s coat to confirm you’ve removed all the shampoo. Chances are they’ll enjoy this, too, which will keep them calm and happy. Then dry them with a towel (and give them a little massage), and brush them out one more time. This way, they’ll have a shiny coat free of tangles and knots.We hope these tips will help you give your pet a bath they’ll love. Happy Holidays!

Halloween is a fun time for humans and can be a challenging time for pets. Trick-or-treaters ringing the doorbell all evening, enticing chocolate goodies lying around, even costumes have some drawbacks for our four-legged family members. Consider the following halloween tips to keep them safe and happy.Costume Cautions While they make for adorable social media posts, most dogs are not fans of wearing costumes. Take a cue from your pet and avoid costumes if they display signs of stress during dress up. Opt for a Halloween-themed leash or fun bandana around the collar instead. If your pet does wear a costume, use Halloween costumes that are made for pets. Beware of any tags, tabs, strings or laces that can be chewed on or that could become a tripping hazard. Your pets may get upset if YOU are dressed in costume, particularly with masks or face makeup that make it difficult for them to recognize you. If your dog or cat seems upset by halloween costumes, it’s best to keep them separated from the Halloween celebration in a comfortable area of your home with fresh water and comfy bedding. Safety Concerns Update your pets ID tags. Consider putting your dog or cat in a secure room away from the front door to help prevent them from darting outside into the night. Play it safe and keep pets indoors and/or supervised outdoors during this season. Candy CautionsKeep candy out of reach of pets and in secure containers. Sugary candy along with candy wrappers can be harmful on the digestive system and chocolate can be toxic. Stock up on extra dog and cat treats so you can give them their own Halloween treats. If your dog does ingest Halloween candy, particularly chocolate, call your veterinarian.Symptoms to look out for include: Vomiting Diarrhea Blood or mucous in the stool Not able to get comfortable when resting Pacing Straining to vomit Refusing food Overall weakness If the Halloween season has presented challenges for your pets in the past, consider giving your dog or cat a drug-free calming supplement like Zylkene®. Zylkene helps dogs and cats relax and cope with challenging situations — without making them drowsy. Start giving the capsules to your pet a week or so before Halloween to help them adjust. Ask for Zylkene by name at your local veterinary clinic or online at Chewy.com or Healthy Pets.Please note: If your pet’s behavior changes suddenly in any way, call your veterinarian. He or she can rule out any underlying medical issues as well as make additional recommendations.

A Wild LifeImagine the daily routine of a cat that lives in the wild. What do you imagine this cat is doing all day? A typical day in the wild is spent hunting for food, marking one’s territory, defending that territory, hiding from predators, grooming and resting. All of these activities take a lot of physical and mental energy - cats need rest to stay sharp.A Life of Ease?Compare the daily routine of a cat in the wild to that of a typical domesticated indoor cat and you will find significant differences. In an indoor environment, a cat may be fed 2 or 3 times per day, or have access to its food at all times, rather than having to hunt for 10-20 small meals per day in the wild. Cats may have access to one or several litter boxes in the home where their owner would like them to use the bathroom. There are typically no significant predators, except for the overzealous canine housemate, who is likely more of an annoyance than anything else. Competition for resources is minimal, especially if there are only one or two cats in the household. With all of these differences, we might think that the indoor cat has all of its basic needs fulfilled.This cat has plenty of food and water, a roof over its head, areas to use the bathroom and rest. What about all of the mental and physical stimulation that cats require? This consistent engagement and stimulation is commonly missing from the indoor cat’s life and it can be a significant cause of a terrible condition: “Boring Life Syndrome”. While the name of this syndrome is made up, the concern is real. The lack of engagement in the daily lives of indoor cats can lead to any number of problems, such as over-grooming, chewing inappropriate items and over-eating.Resources and EnrichmentTo provide a truly enriching environment for our indoor cats, we must think about how to provide resources and activities that mimic what they would naturally do in the wild. If we can do this well, then we will have the best of both worlds; the safety and consistency of an indoor environment and the engagement and fulfillment of the outdoor environment.Enrichment doesn’t have to be intimidating. Here are 6 simple tips you can implement today: Food: Offer multiple small meals per day, rather than 1 or 2 large meals. Hide these meals around the house or place small amounts of food in a puzzle feeder to encourage activity while fulfilling the primal urge to hunt. Playtime It is important to incorporate small sessions of play into your feline friend’s day. Try something that they can chase, and then grab ahold of and sink their teeth into at the end of the activity. This will mimic hunting in the wild while burning calories and increasing mental engagement. Each cat is different, “play” around with what toys your cat enjoys the most and mix it up over time. Litter boxes: Provide enough litter boxes! A basic rule of thumb is “n + 1”. If you have 1 cat, you should have at least 2 litter boxes in your home. If you have 3 cats, you should have a minimum of 4 litter boxes in your home. Ideally, a litter box should be located on each level of your home for easy access. This becomes particularly important if you have a geriatric cat. Clean your litter boxes daily! We want our cats to use the same litter box each and every time in our home. Our best bet for consistent success is to provide enough litter boxes and keep those boxes as clean as possible. Scratching: Scratching is a normal cat behavior. It helps cats mark their territory, both visually and via pheromones that are left behind on the objects they scratch. Scratching is also a great way for cats to stretch their muscles by reaching well up onto a vertical surface such as a tree trunk to leave their mark. Offer multiple scratching posts in different areas of the house. One of the best locations may be near their favorite sleeping area, as they can reach up onto the post and have a good stretch after their nap Offer both vertical and horizontal oriented scratching posts. Pay attention to which type of orientation and which surface textures your cat prefers the most. Places to take a “cat nap”: When it is time to rest, cats like to have a place that is comfortable and safe. You may find that some of your cat’s favorite areas to nap are under the bed or on the back of the couch with some sunshine warming their body. You can create ideal resting places by providing a comfortable spot in a quiet, undisturbed area of your house. Room with a view: Elevated perches are ideal areas for your cat to catch a view of the world around him or her. For some cats, these elevated perches may also be one of their favorite spots to hunker down and catch a few Z’s. To recap, there are two basic concepts to remember when providing an optimal environment for our feline friends. Provide all the basic resources that your cat needs to be healthy Keep your cat actively engaged throughout their daily routine with enriching activities. Cats enrich our lives – let’s enrich theirs!

While we may think of most of our pets as having a relatively stress-free life, challenging situations can introduce short-term or long-term stress into the lives of our furry friends. Much like their human counterparts, some pets will rebound from this stress easier than others. Regardless of your pet’s stress level, there are things you can do to help transform your home into a “low-stress” environment. Thankfully, our indoor pets already have their basic needs well cared for. Therefore, we need to turn our focus towards improving other areas of their daily lives.Make a planOne of the most important things that we can do is evaluate what a new pet will need before you bring them into the home. Ask yourself: how much activity will this pet need? How will they get along with other pets in the home? What type of ongoing care will they need?With these questions in mind, we can prepare an environment to meet their needs. This will greatly reduce any stress and lead to the easiest transition into your home. Keep them engagedOf course, we need to provide food, water, and shelter. Beyond that, it is important to ensure that they are active and engaged in their daily lives. For a dog, this might include daily walks or runs, playing fetch in the backyard, and incorporating some favorite toys to play with inside.For cats, it is especially important not to overlook their level of activity and engagement. Using puzzle feeders or hiding food around the house will help mimic hunting behavior and is far more engaging than simply putting their food in a bowl twice a day. Providing scratching posts and elevated perches can provide additional resources for their daily routine.This doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive, either. You can start with cutting some entrance & exit holes in cardboard boxes. You can build a small “feline housing complex” if you feel creative and have enough boxes from online shopping! Add some basic homemade toys or inexpensive options from the store. Play around with different options and learn what your cat prefers. Don’t forget to continue trying new things over time, just to keep playtime interesting. The odds are these inexpensive resources will provide hours or days of entertainment and engagement for your feline companion.Be proactive with known stressorsIt’s always good to be prepared. If you know certain situations will stress your pet, start early and build a positive association with the situation. Common stressful situations might include traveling in the car, going to the veterinarian, getting a toenail trim, getting groomed, a new baby in the house, holiday parties, or being left alone during the work day. If these things are not proactively planned for, they are more likely to develop into a problem. Imagine a situation where a family wants to get a new puppy. They want this puppy to be able to come with them on their family vacations, camping trips, holiday visits, and other family activities.If the puppy is used to only being in the car for stressful reasons – such as trips to the vet for shots and toenail trims – they will come to associate negative feelings with any car trip, regardless of destination.Instead, try to make car trips fun. From the very first car trip home, bring treats and interact with the pet throughout the drive. If the family is able, they’ll take time to bring the puppy into the car just to get loved on in the driveway and eventually work up to short drives. The key is to focus on making this time in the car a positive experience. We do not want to push too hard, too fast if they are fearful or nervous in these situations. Take it slow!And if they need a little extra help, Zylkene® can help keep their pet on an even keel while it learns to deal with new situations.Over time, that puppy will learn to be comfortable in the car, and even enjoy the ride. That’s good news for you, your family, your pet’s health, and your trips to the vet.Easier to prevent than curePositive associations, like with the car rides mentioned above, have a greater chance of being successful if you start early and in small doses. Zylkene® can help smooth out the bumps in these training periods by helping your pets relax, without drowsiness. Creating positive associations proactively can go a long way toward preventing negative feelings about common life occurrences. As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.Simple tips for creating a low-stress environment at home and beyond: Provide for their most basic needs. Provide additional resources to keep them engaged and active. Be proactive in creating positive associations to situations that will occur repeatedly in their life. If there is a particular problem for your pet that is related to fear, anxiety, or stress, talk with your veterinarian. They can help you develop a plan tailored to your pet and their behavioral issue. Resources: Your veterinarian! A board certified Veterinary Behaviorist. To locate one near you, go to: https://www.dacvb.org/ For useful information on how to help animals thrive in their home environments, go to: www.indoorpet.osu.edu For videos, articles, blogs, etc. on how to recognize signs of stress in your pet, how to read canine and feline body language, etc., go to: www.fearfreehappyhomes.com

Taking care of your pet’s teeth is important in keeping your pet healthy: this is how to do it.Like you, your pet needs daily dental care. Just as children are taught to brush their teeth from a very young age it is important to establish a teeth-cleaning routine with your pet. Brushing your pet’s teeth is not impossible and is even easier if started early as puppy or kitten!How To Brush Your Pet's TeethRemember, any new habit is better accepted if integrated little by little. Start dental care as young as possible. Here are three easy steps for brushing your pet’s teeth. Start by placing a small amount of toothpaste for dogs and cats on the end of your finger, then rub your pet’s teeth and gums. After they are used to the taste of toothpaste you can start using a toothbrush or finger toothbrush… You will know right away whether or not your he or she is enjoying it! Start brushing the teeth at the back of the mouth, then gently approach the front teeth, using small circular movements.

It’s that time of year where people frequently resolve to make positive changes in their lifestyle. It’s easy to overlook that our behavior can sometimes affect our dog’s health, too. Unlike us, our canine companions can’t initiate a new exercise routine without our help. Some dogs even suffer from behavioral problems as a result of lack of activity and may result in destructive behavior. This year, consider a simple yet greatly beneficial resolution: to walk with your dog! For the same reasons regular exercise benefits our cardiovascular, respiratory, and skeletal systems (as well as our emotional state), dogs benefit as well. Walking is an easy and inexpensive weight loss program and can help build and maintain muscle strength – in both you and your dog. Here are a few tips on starting a walking plan with your pet that will help you achieve the best outcome while minimizing the chance for injury: Start Slow. Just as if a human who decided to take up running should not perform a 5K on their very first run, your dog also could overexert themselves resulting in injury. If it’s been awhile since you or your dog have participated in an exercise routine, aim to walk for a certain amount of time or set up short distance milestones to build upon. Tracking devices such as a canine pedometer can be useful to monitor progress and also act as a fun motivational tool. A reasonable goal is to complete thirty minutes of walking daily. However, if this is too much, start with a pace and frequency that is realistic for you and gradually increase the goal each week. Dress accordingly. The month of January can mean frigid temperatures in some areas. Some small and petite breeds or breeds with short coats may benefit from jackets. It can also mean that salt is on sidewalks and roads. Keep in mind that salt is very irritating to canine paw pads and is best avoided (or consider placing snow booties on each foot prior to the walk). In some cases, rinsing your dog’s feet upon return may be necessary. Also remember that leash walks are safest for your dog, as off leash exercise can lead to injury via traffic or dog fights. Finally, if you are walking in the dark, try to incorporate reflective clothing so you and your dog are easily seen. Consistency is key. The best way to incorporate a new habit is to stay consistent. Some people prefer morning walks as a positive and peaceful way to start their day. Other people prefer evening walks with their dog to decompress after a busy day. Whichever you prefer, stick to your preplanned time of day and duration. Your dog will also appreciate this as most dogs prefer an established routine. Maintain optimum joint health. Some dogs benefit from joint supplements if they have previously suffered an orthopedic injury and/or are predisposed to developing joint problems. Joint supplements such as those containing UC-II®, a patented form of undenatured collagen that uniquely targets inflammation via the immune system, or more traditional supplements with glucosamine and chondroitin, may help keep your dog’s joints healthy. As always, consult your veterinarian before starting any new exercise routine or supplements. See you – and your dog – out there!