It’s getting hot y’all, and it’s time to find some fun, easy ways to keep you and your pup cooled off and staying healthy. Here are 5 DIY summer treats that are sure to make everyone happy! What’s your favorite treat? Lots of people dip into the cold stuff when the summer heat makes us long for cooler temperatures. If you like ice cream, your dog will, too. But don’t just scoop it out of the freezer and into his bowl! Ice cream for humans may contain additives and sugar that can make your pal really sick—or worse. Dogs can …

The summer has arrived and brought warm temperatures with it. While you’re out enjoying the beaches and hiking trails with your best friend, make sure that you’re both staying nourished and hydrated.  Here are some treats that both you and your pup can enjoy! Melon Berry Froyo Bones This simple, mouthwatering recipe is brimming with vitamins, antioxidants, and sweet flavor. Imagine a yummy, berry popsicle with the tangy addition of frozen yogurt. Ingredients: An ice tray (you can find custom molds on Amazon) 2 cups watermelon 1/4th cup of water Equal parts blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries (about 2 each)  1 …

Man’s Best Friend:  Why Socializing Your New Puppy is So Important, and When and How to Get Started        From the first moment that man and dog befriended one another until today, that relationship has long moved beyond that of man and pet—our dogs are now undeniably beloved members of the family.  Worldwide there are at least 900 million canis lupis familiaris (dogs) and at least 80 million of them live in America alone.  Approximately 48% of all American families include at least one canine member today. Socialization of Your Puppy Behavioral issues such as fear, avoidance, and even aggression are …

We’re all aware that our feline counterparts are highly intelligent, and highly strange beings. Cats have shown us that they’re smarter than dogs, and they’ve got their own agenda. Somehow, they’re still full of mystery. Here are some things you didn’t know about your cat! Chirping As A Hunting Technique Felines are able to vocalize over 100 sounds, several of those sounds appear in the form of a chirp. While it is not entirely clear why our cats imitate the noises of rodents and birds, the current belief is that chirping is both a way to initiate play, but more …

A cat is a very intelligent, curious, and playful animal, and when she is bored, she will keep herself entertained, frequently with destructive behaviors such as destroying furniture with her claws.  Providing Fluffy with constructive and stimulating activities not only helps to avoid this behavior, but it also keeps her healthy and happy as well.  With a little bit of patience and creativity, providing her with activities and toys can be fun and affordable for both of you, and can promote bonding time for you as well.  Empty cardboard boxes and shopping bags left on the floor are instant entertainment, …

You’re munching down on a delicious, juicy mixed fruit bowl. Your best friend walks over, staring at you with those adorable, pleading eyes. You hesitate for a moment, unsure of whether or not it’s safe to share your snack with him. Well, here’s some good news! Your dog can easily ingest many of the same fruits and vegetables that you and I enjoy. Instead of buying expensive (or questionably cheap) treats from the pet store, try some of these natural, healthy options that you’ve already got stored in the pantry. I Like to Eat, Eat, Eat, Apples & Bananas! Both …

Becoming a best friend and protector to your new bundle of joy is an exciting role that many canines are proud to take on. On the other hand, some dogs aren’t into the whole baby thing at first, and others just aren’t really sure how to respond to the little tyke. Help your pup and your family ease into the process of getting to know each other with some pre-baby preparation. Establishing New Boundaries Before your newborn comes home, your dog needs time to adjust to the new environment. While you may not have taken notice or been bothered by …

Are you finding yourself wondering if you bought a cow instead of a dog? If so, you’re not alone in this dilemma. Many dog owners find themselves scratching their heads and wondering why their beloved pooch is dining on the backyard grass. You may be asking yourself if this is normal behavior and if it’s good for him. So, let’s dig a little deeper into this doggy behavior.  It’s more common than you might think, so you don’t really have to be concerned about them eating grass. Pica, the disorder that is characterized by eating non-food things, could indicate a …

Are cuddles–or worse conference calls!–often interrupted by your best pal’s snores? If so, you’re probably wondering if this is normal and why it’s happening.   When nasal passages are blocked, airways become constricted and snoring occurs. Dogs snore for a variety of reasons. Below are some of the most common ones to help you understand what might be happening with your buddy’s breathing and ways to help them breathe clearer. Breed-Related Snoring Some breeds are more prone to snoring based on their anatomy. Breeds with short noses, like English bulldogs, French bulldogs, pugs, boxers, and Pekingese, often suffer from chronic snoring …

This may seem like an easy question to answer, but it’s not always cut and dry.  Daily walks are great for you and your dog – you both get some needed exercise and get out in the fresh air. It’s great for their happiness and mental and physical health and provides the stimulation they need to keep any potential bad habits at bay. Like human kids, dogs can tend to get bored, and a bored dog can be a destructive dog.  So, what are the factors that you need to consider when taking your dog out for walks? Age is …