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Five Essential Summer Dog Safety Tips to Know

Summer is here! It’s definitely time to get out and enjoy some fun in the sun with your furry friends. Pet safety is a top priority no matter what season, and we have some summer dog safety tips that can benefit any pet owner. Read on to learn how to keep your best friend safe this summer season.

Keep your pup’s paws protected

As the temperatures rise, the pavement, sidewalks, and terrain can become incredibly hot. Consider keeping your pup’s paws protected with booties or dog shoes. In addition, dog shoes can help prevent a paw pad injury or help provide extra support on the hiking trails. Indeed, these beneficial summer dog safety tips can help improve health and happiness of our furry friends!

Pack the pet first aid kit

When you are traveling with pets, the unexpected can occur at any time. To keep your pet protected, if you plan to do any hiking or camping this season, consider packing the pet first aid. Likewise, a pet first aid kit has a number of pet care items that can come in handy when you are on the trails. It certainly is just one of the summer dog safety tips that is beneficial for all pet owners.

Stay hydrated

Heatstroke and dehydration is a common condition among pets throughout the summer months. For example, “we see four times as many claims related to heat stroke in the summer (June, July, and August) compared to the rest of the year,” states Trupanion data analyst Malia Prescott. It is incredibly important to make sure your pup is getting enough water. Consider keeping a portable water bottle with you while you outside with your pets. Further, make sure to take breaks and rest in a cool environment. And if you have any concerns, please reach out to your veterinarian with any questions.

Consider inside interactive play

If the temperature is too warm out, consider interacting with your pet indoors. For instance, an afternoon of interactive play and pet enrichment with your furry friends can provide mental, physical, and emotional stimulation. That way you’ll have peace of mind knowing they can play freely without worry of over-heating.

Summer dog safety tips: essential for the entire family

Whether you are a new pet owner or a seasoned pro, summer dog safety tips can be beneficial to incorporate into life with your pets. While you are out enjoying everything summer has to offer, consider proper pet hydration, pet care items, and inside interactive play for your dog’s health and happiness.

About Trupanion
Trupanion is a leader in medical insurance for cats and dogs throughout the United States and Canada. For almost two decades, Trupanion has given pet owners peace of mind so they can focus on their pet’s recovery, not financial stress. Trupanion is committed to providing pet owners with the highest value in pet medical insurance with unlimited payouts for the life of their pets. For more information, please visit trupanion.com.

Should You Be Sleeping with Your Dog?

Angela MarcusLifestyle,

People sleep with their pets at night for many reasons – they can provide comfort, ease anxiety and give extra warmth throughout the night. Previous advice has warned of the risks of sleeping with your dog, stating poor behavior in your dog and possible illness for you and your pet, as the two main reasons to ban this practice in your home. However, recent research by the Mayo Clinic Proceedings found there were particular benefits to allowing your dog on the bed for nighttime snuggles. So, should you be sleeping with your dog at night?

Below we take a look at the pros and cons of letting your dog sleep with you.

Definite benefits of co-sleeping with your dog

People have been sleeping with their dogs for millennia. One example is the Aboriginal Australians who slept with their dogs or dingoes (an Australian canine) for warmth and protection from evil spirits. While we may be less concerned with evil spirits these days, dogs still provide night time comfort for their humans.

Sleeping with your dog at night increases the amount of time you get to spend with them each day. If you’re away from your dog throughout the day working, maximizing the time you spend with them at night can strengthen the bond you share.

Dogs are lighter sleepers than their human friends and remain alert to sounds even in slumber. Knowing that you have their ears to alert you to night time disturbances can provide additional comfort and help you to relax and enjoy a deeper sleep.

The companionship and unconditional love dogs give to their owners is one of the many benefits of pet ownership. Positive human-animal interaction (such as co-sleeping) has been proven to reduce stress, fear and anxiety for people and increase the brain’s oxytocin levels. Dogs are perfect bed warmers making them ideal companions for colder nights. As long as you and your canine friend are healthy and don’t disturb each other’s sleep, allowing them on your bed, or at least in your room, is a perfectly healthy and beneficial thing to do.

It’s not just about you either; dogs generally enjoy sharing their owner’s beds. As they use their sense of smell to interpret the world around them, being close to objects that smell like their human – or their actual human – is comforting and pleasing.

The drawbacks of having your dog sleep with you.

While there are definite benefits of sleeping with your dog, there can also be a downside. Pet hair, night time accidents, disrupted sleep and difficulty reaching the bed for smaller or older animals are all legitimate concerns when deciding if you should allow your canine pal to sleep with you.

If you are prone to allergies, allowing your dog to sleep with you may trigger health problems. If this is the case, consider having them sleep in their own bed, away from your sleeping space. Just like us, dogs dream, snore and move in their sleep. Light sleepers may find that having their dog on the bed at night disturbs their sleep. If their movement at night affects your sleep quality, try moving them onto their own bed in your room so they can still be close.

Even the cleanest and best-trained dogs can have accidents. Dog pee on your bed smells and while not toxic, can stick around a long time if not cleaned properly. Older dogs can be more prone to night time incontinence and younger dogs may still be in ‘potty-training’. If your dog is likely to pee in their sleep and you’d rather not have to regularly clean it from your mattress, letting them sleep with you should be out.

Finally, smaller and older dogs may find it difficult to reach your bed. You’ll need to consider their safety at night if sleeping with them as they could damage joints, bones, or muscles if they fall.

There are many benefits to sleeping with your dog and most pet owners would agree that these far outweigh any drawbacks that may be experienced. If you enjoy sleeping with your dog, or would like to give it a try, the chances are your dog will love it too and there is no real reason not to.

Image by pexels

Five Cat Care Tips to Consider

Angela MarcusWhisker Wednesday,

Whether you have a kitten or a senior cat, becoming a new cat owner comes with a lot of responsibility. Certainly, a guide of cat care tips can be beneficial despite breed, gender, or the age of your feline friend. Naturally, we all want our cats to be happy and healthy. In honor of Adopt a Shelter Cat Month, consider these essential cat care tips for the health of your cat for years to come.

Five cat care tips essential for every pet owner

As your new cat transitions into your home, consider the following five cat care tips for the health of your feline friend:

1. Hydration

With temperatures starting to rise, it is important that your cat gets plenty of water throughout the day. Naturally, keeping your cat hydrated is critical for their health and well-being. Consider keeping a journal and note your cat’s daily water intake, so you can keep your veterinarian informed. Without a doubt, this is a cat care tip that is beneficial to all furry friends alike!

2. Grooming

Keeping your feline friend on a proper grooming regimen can help with bigger issues down the road. For instance, your cat will self-groom, which could result in hairballs if they aren’t being groomed regularly. Further, these hairballs could get stuck and potentially result in an obstruction or the need for surgery. Consider keeping your cat’s coat and nails groomed to avoid unnecessary medical treatment.

3. Enrichment toys

Interactive play and enrichment can provide your cat with hours of fun and stimulation. In addition, enrichment toys provide mental, physical, and emotional stimulation which can benefit your feline friend. Consider providing a versatile selection of cat toys, like cat trees, puzzles, and toy mice – around your home. Certainly, any way to spend more quality time with your furry friend is a plus!

4. Exercise

Exercise is an important factor in pet wellness, for all pets. Obviously, cats are no exception! Consider keeping your cat active, and allowing them space to roam and play freely. For example, place toys throughout your home at various heights and levels, so your feline friend has the opportunity to stay active. Also, by keeping your cat at a proper weight, they may have fewer medical issues in the future.

Protect from unexpected injuries and illnesses

Cats of all shapes, ages, and sizes are playful and unpredictable. Undoubtedly, you want to keep your pet happy and healthy as they grow. Essentially, there is no way to fully prepare for life’s unexpected moments. If you are exploring your options, consider checking out Trupanion‘s medical insurance for pets and see if it is a right fit for your cat’s lifetime journey.

Cat care tips: for a happy and healthy feline friend

These cat care tips can provide the path to an enriched, healthy, and happy best friend. By taking the chance to stay active, check in with your veterinarian, and protect your cat for their lifetime, you can experience adventures with your feline friend for the future.

Rehoming a Dog: A “How To” Guide

Angela MarcusGuardian FAQs,

Rehoming a dog is on no one’s bucket list of things they want or expect to do. But if circumstances make it unavoidable, look to Get Your Pet for help. Start with this “How To” guide to rehoming a dog we created to help you make the process as smooth and successful as possible.

Preparation is Key — Things to Do Before Rehoming a Dog

Before rehoming a dog, make sure they are set up for success. See that your dog has been to the vet recently and is healthy. Have their vet records on hand, as they will make the transition easier. Spay or neuter your dog before rehoming them. This will eliminate the possibility of them creating unwanted litters, reduce undesirable behaviors such as mounting, and even possibly prevent cancer later in life. Be sure to give them a bath or have them groomed so they look their best for potential adopters!

When Rehoming a Dog, Put Your Dog’s Best Paw Forward

Rehoming a dog quickly starts with having high-quality photos in the dog’s published profile. You don’t need a professional camera for this; just make sure your pictures have good lighting, aren’t blurry, and that they showcase your pet well. Try a variety of “poses” – one facing the camera, one of them engaged in their favorite activity, one that shows off their personality. DO NOT show your dog in a cage, behind a fence or wearing a heavy chain. If possible, add a video to your dog’s profile. A video allows adopters to see your pet in action and get an idea for how they behave around people. We have even more photo-taking tips and tricks and even more tips for making your pet into a video star!

Make Your Pet Stand Out

Get specific about your pet in the “Story” section of the profile. Tell adopters something that goes beyond the hard facts of their weight or age. For example, the profile might say that Sparky gets along with cats. But, does Sparky secretly seek out feline snuggles? Information about your dog’s personality and funny traits will pique potential adopters’ interest much more than a rehash of their vital statistics. What qualities does your dog have that would make you want to bring them into your family, if you could?

Spread the Word that You’re Rehoming a Dog

When rehoming a dog, you will need to make sure the dog is seen by as many people as possible.

Create a digital adoption advertisement to expose your pet to as many interested adopters as possible. Post on a website like ours, getyourpet.com, and others, like Rehome. Post on social media sites like Facebook.
Talk to your family and friends. Tell everyone who will listen that your dog needs to be rehomed – you never know who may be interested!
Post flyers in your community. At petbond.com, you can combine your pet’s photo and profile into a flyer by following the simple instructions. Be sure to add your contact information. Post the flyers at your veterinarian’s office, grocery stores, libraries, churches, and gyms.
Contact local no-kill shelters and rescues. Surrendering your pet to a shelter should be your last resort but calling/emailing a local shelter to see their intake availability well before you need to find your pet a home will allow you to plan ahead. Ask if they schedule intake appointments and book one on the very last day you must rehome your dog, just in case. Here is a list of local rescues/shelters.

Lastly, respond quickly to interested adopters. This sounds obvious, but if a potential adopter doesn’t hear back from you promptly, there’s a good chance they will move on to the next pet in need.

Already found an adopter? Here are more tips and all the questions to ask them!

Need specifics on what to do next? Learn how to rehome a dog or cat step by step.

Pet Poison Prevention: Five Safety Tips for New Pet Owners

Angela MarcusGuest Bloggers,

Cats and dogs are curious creatures, always exploring, and sometimes getting into things they shouldn’t. Certainly, there is no need to fuss over a little mess. However, you do need to pay attention: some common, seemingly harmless items can pose a grave risk for your furry friends. In honor of National Poison Prevention Month, follow our tips for pet poison prevention.

Pet poison prevention: know the dangers

Certainly, half the battle is knowing what a pet poison is. Common foods such as chocolate, mushrooms, grapes, raisins, onions and garlic are dangerous for your furry friend to ingest. So is Xylitol, a chemical commonly found in chewing gum. Additionally, household items like antifreeze and rat poison can cause severe issues. Even household plants can be a dangerous pet poison, especially lilies. And, needless to say, keep your prescription drugs (as well as recreational marijuana and alcohol) away from your pet, too.

Some toxins are more dangerous than others, but better to be safe than sorry. Find a full list of poisonous household items here.

Pet poison prevention: keep it out of reach

Now that you know what household pet poison risks are, take a good look around your home with fresh eyes. In particular, what potential toxins do you have lying around? Really think about it from your pet’s perspective and puppy proof away.

Certainly, identify safe ways to secure dangerous foods and medicines. Likewise, find alternatives to dangerous household plants, noxious cleaners or pest deterrents. Also, don’t forget about purses or bags. We keep lots of goodies in them that could cause problems. Think of it as a small-scale tidying project.

Pet poison prevention: know the signs of toxicity

Of course, mistakes happen. Pets get into garbage, get ahold of a child’s snack or find some way to get into trouble. If you are worried your furry family member has ingested a pet poison, identify the poison. Also, know what signs to look for, so that you can clearly communicate with medical professionals. Take your pet to the veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately if you see any of the following signs:

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Excess drool
Loss of appetite
Blood in vomit or cough
Pale gums
Heart racing
Lethargy or inability to move
Excess thirst or urination
Decreased urination
Black or tar-like stool
Yellowing of the gums
Abnormal behavior

Pet poison prevention: keep emergency contact information readily available

If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, take them to your local clinic immediately. Unfortunately, emergencies happen when we are least prepared. So do yourself and anyone who is watching your pet a favor and create an emergency list. Keep it on clear display. Some items to include:

Name, location and contact information of your family veterinarian.
Name, location and contact information of nearest emergency veterinary clinic.
The 24/7 animal poison control center contact: 855-764-7661
If you have medical insurance for your pet, make sure you include the contact information and policy number.

Pet poison prevention: talk to your veterinary professionals

The saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. Certainly, when it comes to pets and toxicity nothing could be truer. Talk to your trusted veterinarian. Make sure you are aware of breed-specific concerns and your veterinarian’s recommendations for preventing toxicity. Additionally, make sure you are up to date on your pet’s medical insurance. Treating emergency pet toxicity can get costly, and you don’t want to make an emotional decision based on finances.

Corgi Breed Info: Personality, Appearance, And More

Angela MarcusDogs,

The Corgi breed is quickly becoming highly popular, thanks to the internet. But, simply being adorable doesn’t mean they are the right match for everyone. Keep reading to learn if the Corgi breed would be a good dog for you.

Corgi Personality

Corgis are very well known for their happy and loving nature, making them perfect for families. They thrive on attention and want to be involved in everything you do. Originally bred for herding cattle, Corgis still have the working dog spirit of their ancestors. Due to their high spirits, Corgis are often independent and strong-willed. Some corgis can even seem bossy unless they have proper training.

Types of Corgi

There are two types of corgis: the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. According to Cuteness.com, Cardigan Welsh Corgis date back as far as 1200 B.C. In Cardiganshire, Wales, farmers used Corgis to herd and drive cattle. Pembroke Welsh Corgis originated in France in 1107. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi breed has a heavier build and smaller ears than the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. Both breeds of Corgi have similar good natures and lovable personalities!

Training the Corgi Breed

Corgis need training. They are intelligent dogs and very capable of learning. But they have fiercely independent personalities, which can make training frustrating. Like most dogs, the Corgi breed responds positively to treats and praise. It’s most important to be consistent so that your Corgi won’t think bad behaviors are acceptable. Corgis love to learn, so don’t stop at basic obedience commands. Constructive energy outlets, such as training, will keep them from from becoming bored and turning to destructive behaviors.

Common Health Issues with Corgis

Like Queen Elizabeth’s beloved pets, most Corgis will live long and healthy lives. However, the Corgi breed does have their own set of health issues. Corgis are prone to developing hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and degenerative myelopathy. Responsible corgi owners can prevent these problems by managing diet and promoting exercise. As your Corgi ages, limit activities like jumping from furniture and stairs.

Grooming Corgis

Grooming your Corgi is an extremely easy process. Corgis have a naturally short, fluffy coat. Frequent washings aren’t necessary unless they get dirty outdoors. However, the Corgi breed is known for its excessive shedding. They typically shed their undercoat once a year, usually in the spring. Grooming with a pin brush will help cut down on the amount of hair floating around your home.

Interested in adopting a dog or cat? Visit getyourpet.com to start searching pets for adoption near you.

What You Need to Know About Medical Insurance for Cats

Angela MarcusCats,

To make sure your feline friend always has access to the best health care possible, medical insurance for cats is the way to make sure all unexpected illnesses and accidents are covered.

While it may be said cats have nine lives, as their loving caretakers, we want to make sure each of their lives are as happy and healthy as possible. As a responsible pet owner, this means annual checkups with a trusted veterinarian, an optimal diet, regular grooming, lots of enrichment and exercise to keep them cunning and stealth like kittens.

Learn more about the importance of medical insurance for cats and why you need it for your feline friends.

So, what is medical insurance for cats?

When your cat or kitten gets sick or injured, the last thing you want to think about is the veterinary bill. Essentially, the best medical insurance for cats helps protect you from that financial burden and makes sure you can focus on getting the best care possible. Whether your cat encounters a minor incident, like a snagged claw or stumble down the cat tree, eats something they shouldn’t or develops a serious medical condition like kidney disease or cancer, Trupanion is there to cover 90% of all eligible healthcare expenses.

In a world of advanced veterinary care, the best coverage gives you the financial ability to care for your family member, and we can do that.

What does medical insurance for cats cover?

Every pet insurance company is different, but here is an example of what is covered through Trupanion medical insurance for pets.

Illness & injuries
Hereditary and congenital conditions
Diagnostic tests
Surgeries
Hospital stays
Medications
Veterinary supplements
Prosthetic devices & carts

When to consider medical insurance for cats

There is a reason people are cautionary about curiosity and cats. Trupanion offers medical insurance for cats from birth, to make sure your feline family member is covered at the earliest possible time. That way, if any issues that arise early they will be covered for the lifetime of your pet. Essentially, starting young will ensure your pet gets the most possible support when illness or injuries arise. Certainly, few things are as dangerous or as stealth as a curious kitten.

Fortunately, it isn’t too late to insure your mature cat. If you have an older kitty or are adopting, medical insurance for cats is still an option for you. Pet insurance is there to give you peace of mind, that no matter what, your cat will always have access to the best medical care available.

Best Dog Breeds For People With An Active Lifestyle

Angela MarcusDogs,

The only thing that can make a beautiful day outside even more fun is sharing it with a furry friend. While most dogs will happily tag along on any outing, certain breeds make particularly adventurous partners! These playful pups are the best dog breeds for people with an active lifestyle.

Australian Shepherds

These dogs are perfect for those of us with an active lifestyle! Aussies are incredibly intelligent, playful, and active dogs that require tons of exercise. As a herding dog, Australian Shepherds perform tasks such as tending to livestock, protecting children, and competing especially well. Whether you’re a farmer, caretaker, or a cowboy at heart, the Aussie will make the perfect addition to your home. Read more about Australian Shepherds here.

Siberian Huskies

Huskies aren’t just sled dogs. They’re also awesome family pets! With their naturally friendly personalities, Siberian Huskies get along with just about any living thing. These dogs are also perfect for hiking and camping trips in chilly weather conditions. And, according to the American Kennel Club, Huskies lack a strong doggy smell. Overall, their beautiful coats, loving personalities, and sporty nature make Huskies an ideal breed for people with an active lifestyle.

Russell Terrier

What the Russell Terrier lacks in size they make up for in endless energy. These little dogs need room to run, plenty of walks, and lots of play time. Your Russell Terrier will always happily accompany you on walks and bike rides. Furthermore, this breed makes the perfect playmate for restless children. If you’re always on the go, this may be the best breed for you.

Border Collie

Border Collies are one of the best dog breeds for people with an active lifestyle! Not only are they great with kids and brilliant, they also love playing sports. Your Border Collie will never turn down a game of fetch or Frisbee. They’re always up for a challenge. If you keep them mentally and physically stimulated, Border Collies prove to be some of the best canine companions!

Labrador Retriever

The Lab, America’s number one breed, is a fantastic friend for an adventure seeker. This dog is athletic, loves swimming, and has a great temperament. In addition to being incredible athletes, Labs are great with those who are handicapped. This dog charms everyone they meet and is a great breed for people with an active lifestyle.

Want to adopt a dog or cat? Visit getyourpet.com to browse adoptable pets near you.

Taking The Perfect Pet Picture: 5 Tips & Tricks

Angela MarcusGuardian FAQs,

Taking the perfect pet picture is part of putting their best paw forward. A great photograph of your pet will increase the number of potential adopters, which, in turn, betters their chance of adoption. To help you, we are listing some of our best tips for snapping the perfect picture.

1. Have Fun With It

Making your photo session fun will produce more winning pictures. For example, try taking shots of your pet playing with their favorite toy, snuggling on the couch, or running outside. These shots will perfectly capture their personality. You’ll be able to take the perfect pet picture while they have a great time!

2. Lights, Camera, Action

Lighting is your best friend for taking the perfect picture of your pet. If your pet has dark fur, backlighting will transform them into a shapeless blob. Instead, try aiming the lighting either in front of your pet or to the side of them. For lighter colored pets, too much light will make your photos look washed out. As a result, your pet will be hard to see. So, always use natural light, if possible. Flash will certainly cause red-eyes in pictures, and it runs the risk of startling your pet!

3. Keep Your Focus

Pets love to wiggle around, which makes taking the perfect picture a difficult task. Avoid shaking the camera by holding your breath while you take the photo. Additionally, try resting your elbows on a stable surface such as a table or a fence post. If you’re taking a picture of your pet while they are running, follow them with your camera or choose burst mode. This helps to create a blurred background while keeping your pet the focus of the shot!

4. Get On Their Level

Changing your perspective can help you capture the perfect pet picture. Try using distractions like treats, whistles, and squeaky toys. You will be able to get great detail in your picture and will keep their attention focused on you. Meeting your pet on their level will let you capture adorable pictures of their face up close and personal!

5. Edit Before Posting

The post-processing of photos can make a huge difference in your pet’s profile. Adjusting brightness and contrast can make a picture look more professional without requiring much work. However, make sure you aren’t going overboard. While filters can look cute and fun, they can detract from your adorable pet.

If you need some inspiration to get you started, check out Tula the Dog Photographer’s work! She is well known for capturing amazing pictures from a dog’s perspective.

Want more tips and tricks for taking the perfect picture of your pet? Try reading Top 10 Tips for Getting Your Pet Camera-Ready!

Ways To Show Your Pet You Love Them: 6 Sweet Ideas

Angela MarcusDogs,

February is officially here, and love is in the air! This month, give your furry valentine the affection they deserve! Here are 6 ways to show your pet you love them:

1. Understand Them

Working toward understanding your pet and communicating with them will help you learn how to really shower your pet with love! Consider body language, sounds, and behavior to show your valentine all the ways you love them. Your pet will appreciate your understanding, and will be sure to reward you with tail wagging or purrs, and cuddles!

2. Praise Them

Nope, you’re not crazy for talking to your fur-baby in a high-pitched voice! In fact, recent studies have proven that dogs can understand what we say and how we say it. Similarly, cats respond to intonation. So go ahead and tell your dog that he’s a “good boy,” and let your cat know that she’s “just the sweetest.” After all, it’s true!

3. Give Them Treats

They say that the quickest way to the heart is through the stomach – and animals are no exception! Show your pet you love them by purchasing your pet some yummy new dog biscuits, or get even more adventurous by preparing a homemade, pet-friendly cake. There are plenty of creative online recipes to try– but make sure that they are safe for your furry friend!

4. Challenge Them

A great way to show your pet you love them is to exercise their minds. Animals need mental stimulation, and they may go for the throw pillows if they get too bored! So, teach your dog a new trick, or buy your cat a puzzling new toy. Your pets will love strengthening their minds, and you’ll love the happiness it brings them!

5. Spend Quality Time Together

Some pets require loads of attention, while others seek alone time. However, most pets are happy just to be by your side. Show your pet how much they mean to you by taking a break from your phone and spending quality time together. This can be in the form of a long walk, extended play time, or cuddling together on the couch to binge-watch your favorite TV show. Your pet will appreciate your undivided attention!

6. Pet Them

Finally, show your pet you love them through physical touch! Cuddling with pets has health benefits for both animals and humans. For example, petting your dog or cat releases good hormones, reduces anxiety and can be very relaxing for both of you. However, it is essential to keep in mind that animals can react negatively to certain kinds of touch, such as rubbing around the face or belly. Find a safe way to show your pet some physical affection that you’ll both enjoy!

Want to adopt a dog or cat? Visit getyourpet.com to browse adoptable pets near you.