Tag: dogs

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Keeping Your Dog Healthy

From nutrition to exercise, you’d be surprised to know that dogs require very similar maintenance to humans in order to stay healthy. Looking to get a dog, or just want to make sure your buddy is being taken care? Here are some good tips for ensuring Fido’s health:

  1. Find the proper food. Your pet’s diet is so important. Even if you cannot afford the most expensive dog food on the market, try to check out the ingredients on the bag or do some research online before you buy. Processed foods are not good for anyone, even animals!
  2. Regular check-ups. It’s good to get your dog adjusted to their vet early in life, because they should be spending a good amount of time there! From keeping up-to-date on shots to flea medicine, make sure you’re seeing the pet doctor as often as you should be.
  3. Keep them active. Doing this, in turn, will also keep you active. Soit’s a win-win! Take your pup on walks around the neighborhood, or even throw the ball to them in the backyard if they like to play. This is especially important for high-energy breeds.
  4. Did you know dogs need vitamins and minerals too? Salmon oil does wonders for their fur and skin quality. You can also give them probiotics and antioxidants to help fight off sickness and stomach issues!

Being a responsible pet owner is important, and I hope you can use some of these tips to keep your dog happy and healthy for life!

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No Dogs Allowed? Alternative Pets

A lot of times people get hung up on the misconception that only cats, dogs  and gerbils can be pets. If you’re looking to go against the status quo, I have some top alternative picks for you!

1.       Fancy rats

Turns out rats aren’t just for causing a ruckus or helping with science experiments! Fancy rats are domesticated brown rats that are super smart and affectionate. Due to its intellect, you can teach this fuzzy friend how to do some pretty cool tricks – like hang out on your shoulder or ride along in your bag!

2.      Hedgehogs

Hedgies are adorable, playful quilled friends. These little guys are known to become very attached to their owners if they are socialized with often. Thought to be quiet creatures, these tiny buddies are known to grunt, snort and purr when exploring their environments.

3.      Skunks

Once their glands are removed, you can stop holding your nose. Be careful, though: A number of states have these fuzzy guys listed as illegal to keep as pets. Contrary to popular belief, skunks require a ton of attention and are likely to turn into “lap skunks” to ensure they are getting the attention they deserve. These highly intelligent creatures can also be potty-trained in multiple ways. You can train them to go outside, use a puppy pad or even a litter box.  

4.      Bearded Dragons

Beardies are great reptiles for beginners. Each one has a unique personality all its own. They typically enjoy being handled; however, if your bearded friend ever starts getting aggressive, be sure to get a pair of garden gloves and continue interacting with it to correct the negative behavior. Once a bond has been formed, they are likely to use their endearing wave to greet you!

5.      Tarantula

I know, I know. Spider. Scary. Biting. But these guys are very cool, unique pets! They are low maintenance, but they do need their cages cleaned occasionally. These fuzzy eight-legged pals are also odorless. Biting is a concern, but most don’t bite and oftentimes medical attention isn’t necessary when bitten. Plus, they can show signs of affection and comfort! When they shoot webs in your presence, which means they are comfortable with you (which, in turn, probably means they won’t bite you).