Archive for November, 2009

How to Cope with Pet Allergies

Tuesday, November 24th, 2009

Whether you already have a pet or are thinking about owning one, these tips help pet owners fight off their allergies!

-Make sure you keep your pet out of your bedroom, most importantly off of your bed. The last thing you want is to be kept up at night due to fur that your pup must have left behind in your bed during his afternoon nap.

-Bathing your pet frequently is an essential part of keeping allergies to a minimum. Try giving your pet a bath once a week to eliminate build up of any dander on their skin and fur.

-Just as it is important to bathe your pet, it is also important to frequently wash your hands to eliminate the remains of any allergens.

-Wash your pet’s bedding once a week; remember they appreciate a clean bed too! This will get rid of any allergen build up as well.

-In more severe allergy cases you can also remove your carpet and opt for tile or wood floors instead. These are easier to keep clean and allergens will have to find a new place to hide.

-If you have been hesitant to get a pet due to your allergies check out this list of hypoallergenic dog breeds!

Thanksgiving Hazards: Tips for Avoiding Potential Risks for Your Dog!

Thursday, November 19th, 2009

It’s only 1 week away…THANKSGIVING! But before you start celebrating make sure to read the tips below to ensure that your dog will have a safe, happy holiday too.

-If you are planning on having people over, be sure that your pet does not become anxious due to the commotion and large amounts of people. Also, guests may be inclined to feed your dog table scraps when they are confronted with cute puppy eyes. While they think it seems harmless, table scraps are actually not healthy for pets and may cause upset stomachs. Leave your pet in a safe, secure room with their favorite toy and assign a family member to check on them frequently. It is always wise to take your pet on an extra long walk before guests arrive.

-Decorations are festive but can be potential hazards for our furry friends. Keep lit candles and potpourri out of reach. Potpourri oils are toxic and lit candles can be deadly if brushed up against.

-Along with the Thanksgiving comes yummy food, but some foods are not so safe for pups. Macadamia Nuts, Chocolate, Raisins, and Grapes are all toxic to dogs. It’s important that bowls filled with these goodies are kept out of reach. Also resist giving your pets any turkey. If they ingest a bone it could cause severe intestinal damage. Instead feed them their own special Thanksgiving Treat! Try DOGSWELL®’s delicious MELLOW MUT® Chicken Breast Treats to keep them quiet and occupied. This is a perfect thing to feed them during chaotic holidays!

Have a Great Thanksgiving!

Pet Food Safety News

Monday, November 16th, 2009

Do you wash your hands before and after you feed your pet? I bet the answer is sometimes. As careful as we are, we sometimes forget that these rules apply to our furry friends too.

Remember that it is important to wash your hands before and after feeding your pet, just as you would before your own dinner. Pets can be exposed to salmonella and bacteria from foods you might have previously handled, like raw chicken or fruits and veggies with pesticides.

And it should go without saying, but please, wash your hands after you act as a human pooper scooper.

For other great information check out – http://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/types/petfood/