Tag: pet safety

How to Travel with a Dog Internationally

Posted on March 28, 2024 - 2:50 pm by
A beagle sitting on a bed next to an open suitcase filled with clothes.

It’s decided. You’re packing your bags and heading overseas. Whether it’s for a few weeks, a few months or forever, there’s a lot you need to do to prepare for international travel. And that includes deciding on how your furry friend fits into your travel plans. If you’re a pet parent whose dog goes wherever you go, you may be used to vacationing with your pet. But an overseas trip may have you wondering if your dog can travel internationally with you. The short answer is: it depends.

It depends on where you’re traveling to and what their pet entry requirements are. It depends on your dog’s health and whether they’re healthy enough to travel internationally. It depends on how long you’re staying there.

There’s a lot to think about when planning international pet travel, so we’ve compiled a few tips and resources to help you out. Most international travel involves flying, so we’re going to focus on traveling by plane, but a lot of this information will also apply to other forms of transportation.

Your Dog Can’t Head to the Airport Just Yet

Taking your dog out of the country can’t be a spur-of-the-moment decision. Flying with a dog internationally requires a lot of research, specific paperwork and health checks. All of this preparation can take a while, so make sure you start the process months before you intend to travel.

First, Is Your Dog Healthy Enough for International Travel?

Flying internationally can be stressful for people, so imagine what it’s like for your dog when they have no idea why their world’s been turned upside down. Even dogs who are well-seasoned road trippers may find flying stressful. So before you get too far into planning, talk to your veterinarian about whether your dog is healthy enough to fly or travel in general. Your vet may recommend leaving your dog at home if they have an underlying medical condition that could be exacerbated by stress or flying at high altitudes.

This is a good time to make sure all of your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date. As you’ll read later in this article, your dog will probably need a health certificate that confirms they are up-to-date with their vaccinations (as well as other health checks). You should also talk to your vet about where you are traveling to and if they recommend other vaccines or medications for that location.

If you’re used to giving your dog anti-anxiety medication when you travel by car, this may not be possible while flying. Giving dogs sedatives or tranquilizers is typically not recommended for plane travel as the medication effects can be unpredictable at high altitudes and could induce respiratory (breathing) or cardiovascular (heart) issues. Calming wraps or anxiety vests may also not be permitted by the airline.

Second, Research Your Destination Country

The country or countries you’re traveling to will have their own specific entry requirements for dogs. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has a list of current pet travel health requirements for specific countries.

You will need to check that your dog’s breed is not banned in your destination country. Additionally, some countries don’t allow dogs to enter if they are traveling from a destination that has a higher risk of rabies. Your dog may need blood tests to check for rabies or other infectious diseases. For some countries, your dog will need to be microchipped with a specific type of microchip, so your dog may need a second microchip to meet that requirement.

When traveling overseas with a dog, you should be aware that some countries have quarantine requirements — even if you complete all of the required paperwork and health checks. So if you’re only going to be there for 10 days and they have a 10-day quarantine period, it doesn’t make sense for you to bring your dog. Restrictions could also apply to layovers in a different country to your final destination, so check their pet travel requirements, too.

Some countries may not be as pet-friendly as the U.S. You should check that there are dog-friendly hotels, stores, restaurants, etc., in the places you will be visiting. Remember to also check whether dog-friendly transportation is available, particularly public transport.

If you read about getting your dog a “pet passport,” this typically means the collection of documents needed for your dog to enter a foreign country — they’re not actually going to get a passport with a cute photo. However, the paperwork issued by veterinarians in a European Union member state is called an EU Pet Passport (these can’t be obtained in the U.S.).

Does Your Dog Need a Health Certificate?

Many countries require you to have an international health certificate for your dog, which was issued by a USDA accredited veterinarian and endorsed by APHIS. Health certificates typically need to be issued within a specific time frame before you travel, so check what that timeline is for the country you’re visiting. Other requirements often requested by foreign countries include blood tests, vaccinations, microchips and permits.

There are also regulations about bringing your dog back into the U.S.— even if your dog was originally from the U.S. To import a dog into the U.S., there are Centers for Disease Control (CDC) requirements and USDA APHIS requirements. There could also be requirements from other agencies or U.S. states or territories. It is your responsibility to check what those requirements are.

Can Service Dogs or Emotional Support Animals Travel Internationally?

Service Dog Registration of America provides information on flying with registered service dogs. You should check with the airline on their policy about traveling with a service animal or emotional support animal.

Can You Take a Dog on an International Flight?

You will need to check that the airline you want to fly with accepts dogs and whether they have any restrictions on which dog breeds they allow. For example, brachycephalic breeds — smushed-faced dogs like pugs, French bulldogs, boxers and Boston terriers — may not be allowed to fly, especially in the cargo hold. Brachycephalic dogs can have trouble breathing under normal conditions and so generally don’t make good air travelers.

Tips on Booking a Flight When Traveling Abroad with a Dog

You should book your flight as soon as possible because the airline may have restrictions on how many pets can be on one flight. If possible, choose a direct flight to limit the amount of time your dog is in their carrier. Multiple flights or layovers could add to your dog’s stress.

If you have a small dog, they may be able to accompany you in the cabin if they’re in an airline-approved carrier. Typically, the carrier must be able to fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. Larger dogs on international flights will need to travel in the cargo bay. Keep in mind that the airline may have weather restrictions that prevent dogs from traveling in the cargo bay during extreme temperatures.

Airlines typically have specific requirements for dog crates or carriers, so be sure to look those up for your specific airline. If you are switching airlines or flying with partner airlines, make sure you know about those airline pet policies, too.

Preparing Your Dog for Air Travel

Once you ensure you have the pet carrier that the airline requires, let your dog become acclimated to it before they fly. You could put them in the carrier and take them for rides in the car to fun places like the dog park or a pet store. That way going into the carrier won’t be another new or scary experience for them at the airport.

When the day arrives, it’s a good idea to run off some of your dog’s energy before you leave, to help them relax and ride along more comfortably. Check with the airline if they have restrictions on giving your dog food and or water before your flight. If they don’t, you can ask your vet.

Before you leave your home, make sure you double and triple check that the latch on the carrier is secure so you aren’t chasing your dog around the airport and they don’t get loose on the plane. If the airline allows it, you could include a chew toy in the carrier so that your dog has something to keep them occupied, and chewing can help with pressure buildup in their ears.

As you can see, there is a lot of preparation needed if you’re thinking about traveling abroad with a dog. If you’re only going for a short trip, it may be better to leave your dog with a friend or family member, a pet sitter or a boarding kennel. You can always take them to a dog-friendly vacation destination in the U.S. for your next vacation. If you do take your dog with you overseas, remember to strictly follow the requirements of the countries you’re visiting — and that includes the requirements to bring your dog back into the U.S. It is your responsibility to know what those requirements are. Bon voyage!

A Taste of the Wild Guide to Vacationing with Your Pet

Posted on September 15, 2022 - 6:30 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Pets have never been a bigger part of the family. So it only makes sense to include yours on the family vacation, even if you’re traveling internationally. Before you go, we’ve compiled some tips to help keep everyone safe when traveling with pets.

Consult Your Veterinarian

Your pet should be healthy enough for travel and current on his or her vaccinations. Share your vacation destination with your veterinarian so they can determine how to protect your pet from potential risks in that region. When you’re escaping the snowdrifts for the beaches, it’s easy to forget about flea, tick and heartworm preventives, so make sure you bring the right parasite protection.

Update Your Pet’s Identification

No matter how careful you are, pets can escape and get lost in unfamiliar locations. That’s why your pet should have an updated ID tag on his or her collar, including the address of your destination and your cell phone number.

If your pet dashes out without their collar, a microchip provides a backup. Veterinary clinics, shelters and animal control centers can scan your pet and find out how to reach you. Before departure, make sure your microchip company has your current contact information, including where you can be reached during vacation. There are even GPS devices with apps that enable you to track your pet’s location from your smartphone.

Make Your Pet At Home In a Carrier

Whether you’ll travel by plane, train or car, it’s best to have your pet in a well-ventilated carrier. The carrier should be roomy enough to allow your pet to stand, turn around and lie down. Always provide a litter pan for cats and fresh water for all.

If your pet isn’t accustomed to being in a carrier, introduce it to them at home, several weeks before your departure. Pad the bottom with their favorite blanket and place treats or toys inside so they associate positive things with it. Leave the door open so they can explore inside, then try closing the door for short periods, gradually extending the time the door is closed.

Traveling by Plane

Most airlines make traveling with your pet relatively painless. Airline staff can be very accommodating to animals on most flights. Obviously, additional restrictions apply when flying with pets, but it’s not nearly as difficult as you may fear.

For flights within the United States, you’ll need a health certificate from your veterinarian within 10 days of departure that verifies your pet is healthy and current on vaccinations. International travel means additional paperwork and some countries require a quarantine period for disease control, so it’s important to determine what’s required well before you leave. Certain high-risk countries may have additional requirements, so be thorough in your research.

Although small dogs and cats may accompany you in the cabin in an approved carrier, larger pets generally travel in the cargo hold. During warmer months, try to schedule flights in the morning or evening when the temperatures are cooler. In winter, book flights in the middle of the day. Because tranquilizers can slow your pet’s breathing, they’re typically not recommended.

Traveling by Car

Inside the car, your pet’s carrier should be secure so they don’t distract the driver or become airborne in the event of an accident. The carrier should be anchored down so it doesn’t shift with the movement of the car.

Although dogs may ride in a seat if they wear a harness that fastens to a seat belt, avoid the passenger seat, because pets can be seriously injured if the airbag deploys. Regardless of how cute it may be, never let your dog ride with his or her head out the window while the car is moving. And never leave your pet in the car unattended.

If your pet isn’t used to riding in a car, make a few trial runs in the weeks before your trip. Place your pet in the carrier, drive around the block and then reward your pet with praise or treats. Gradually extend the length of the drive, ending somewhere fun, like a dog park.

Locate Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Before you go, find pet-friendly hotels along the way. Some may have limitations in terms of pet breeds and sizes, while others may offer special services like dog walking while you’re out for dinner. It’s best to know before you go.

Bring the Right Stuff

Things to pack include:

  • Your pet’s regular diet
  • Food and water bowls
  • Bottled water
  • Regular medications
  • Flea, tick and heartworm preventives
  • Cat litter pan, litter and scoop
  • Dog waste bags
  • Leash and collar
  • Bedding
  • Grooming supplies
  • Life vests for dogs
  • Sunblock for pets prone to sunburn
  • Current veterinary contact information
  • Contact information for clinics en route and at your destination
  • Proof of current vaccination status
  • Pet first aid kit

Consider a Pet Staycation

While it may be fun to have your pet accompany you on vacation, travel can be stressful, especially for cats and elderly pets. If your pet’s health or temperament could make travel a challenge, consider a pet staycation. Many boarding facilities offer group playtime, swimming and other activities. And if your pet can’t stay with a friend or relative, it’s possible to hire a pet sitter to care for your pet in the comfort of your home. With the right planning, a little R&R can do you both some good.

Your Pet Can Benefit From a Vacation, Too!

A small dog sitting out on a porch on its owner’s lap.

Unplugging from work and heading out on vacation can boost your happiness, decrease burnout and improve your overall mental and physical well-being. But did you know that your dog can benefit from a vacation as well? It’s true! Traveling with pets can help both dogs and cats emotionally, physically and spiritually. Here’s how!

READ MORE ABOUT HOW VACATION BENEFITS DOGS AND CATS

Tips for Camping with Your Dog

A dog sitting with its owner next to a campfire.

There’s nothing better than the great outdoors. Well, unless you include your pet when you decide to sleep under those shining stars. Here are 13 tips for getting outdoors with your dogs and having fun while keeping everyone safe.

READ MORE ABOUT CAMPING WITH YOUR DOG

Dos and Don’ts of Winter Pet Vacations

A white dog sitting in a suitcase on top of folded clothes.

Vacations aren’t just for summer. Sometimes you want to load up your pet’s crate into the car and escape the snow. Whether your final destination with your furry family member is a sandy beach or a snow-covered slope, we’ll tell you how to deal with your pet’s air travel or whatever else you need to know to get dogs from here to there. Here are tips for getting out of town for a winter pet vacation.

READ MORE ABOUT WINTER PET VACATIONS

Puppy-Proof Your Summer Vacation

A Welsh corgi chasing an orange ball along the beach.

Summer vacation with an adult dog is typically smooth sailing for experienced pet parents. But add a puppy to the mix, and suddenly you can be in rough waters. Traveling with a puppy can be quite different than traveling with a fully grown, fully trained dog, so here are some things to think about before you em-bark on your vacation.

READ MORE ABOUT TAKING YOUR PUP ON VACAY

Getting Away but Taking Some Home with You

A black and white dog being secured in the backseat of a car.

It can be complicated to take your dogs or cats on vacation with you, but it’s far from impossible. And with some pre-trip prep, the good far outweighs the difficult, and everyone benefits.

A new puppy text graphic showing a white, tan and black puppy lying in the grass.

Dog Boarding: How to Find the Best Dog Hotels

Posted on September 8, 2022 - 2:30 pm by
Checklist of Items to Ask Pet Boarder Infographic

You’ve booked the flight. You’ve requested the time off. And now you’re daydreaming of mai tais while relaxing on the beach. But wait … there’s one more step before jetting off: determining who will take care of your dog while you’re away. If you don’t have a trusted friend, family member or pet sitter to look after your furry friend, and traveling with your dog isn’t an option, consider a pet boarding facility.

What Is Dog Boarding?

Boarding your dog during your vacation could be a plus for them, especially if they suffer from separation anxiety, need to be socialized with fellow dogs or don’t travel well. Think of it like dropping a kid off at summer camp — boarding can be an exciting retreat for your dog.

Some pet boarding places are free-range, offering wide open spaces for the dogs to roam around. Some specialize in only cats or only dogs. Some even offer single-room accommodations with introverted pets in mind. It’s all about choosing the right boarding setup for your dog.

Evaluate Your Dog’s Boarding Needs

When choosing a dog boarding option, the first step is to evaluate your dog’s needs. The following questionnaire is a good starting point for pet owners.

  1. Does your dog do well with other dogs?
    1. Yes
    2. No, but it’s just because they need to socialize more with other dogs.
    3. No, absolutely not. They do not mix or mingle well.
  2. Are your dog’s vaccination records up-to-date?
    1. Yes
    2. No
  3. Has your dog ever been boarded overnight before?
    1. Yes
    2. No
  4. In addition to your pet’s stay, are you looking for behavioral training or grooming services? Some places also provide these while you’re out.
    1. Yes
    2. No
  5. Does your dog require special care (i.e., medicines, specialized diet, exercise, etc.)?
    1. Yes
    2. No

Diving into question number 3 for a moment: If your dog has never been boarded, it could be beneficial for them to experience overnight boarding at least once before your big trip. This will help your dog get a taste of what boarding entails and it gives you a sample of the pet care they’ll receive while you’re away from home. They may even make some new friends!

How Can Pet Parents Find Good Dog Hotels?

Now that you better understand what you’re looking for in a boarding facility, let’s move on to finding great options in your area. In addition to good ol’ Google, your local veterinary clinic or pet groomer could be great resources for recommendations. Be sure to express what you’re looking for in your conversations with trusted sources or in the Google search bar. And lastly, take time to read the reviews — don’t just search “best dog boarding places near me” and go with the first one that pops up.

Dog Boarding Pointers to Consider

After you’ve compiled a list of boarding facilities, grab a pen and paper to jot down notes, then give each one a call. You’ll want to discuss:

  • Immunization requirements
  • Daily and weekly prices
  • If they have veterinary care on call
  • How often cages are cleaned
  • Care for special needs animals, if applicable
    • Inquire about extra charges associated with caring for special needs dogs
  • Touring the facility prior to making a decision

Touring Pet Boarding Facilities

When touring a facility, pay attention to the cleanliness of the cages and the friendliness of the staff to give you an understanding of how their operation runs.

Signs of Bad Dog Boarding Facilities

If you’re touring a dog boarding facility, some red flags to look for include:

  • Sick animals mingling with others
  • Animals in cages not big enough for them to move around
  • Cats and dogs placed in the same area (co-pet boarding should include separate rooms for cats and dogs to avoid unnecessary anxiety for the animals)
  • Poor ventilation in the boarding unit
  • No on-call veterinarian
  • No immunization requirements

Boarding services who work with an on-call veterinarian add an extra layer of comfort — in case an emergency arises while you’re away from home, you can rest assured knowing your dog will receive the pet care they need right away.

You’ll want to choose a boarding facility that takes immunizations seriously. You do not want your dog to be mingling with potentially sick or unvaccinated animals for obvious reasons. Many facilities require immunizations for bordetella, rabies, distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus and/or parainfluenza.

Compile the information you gather via phone and during the tour to assist you in making the decision that fits your pet. Employees at boarding facilities should want you to feel comfortable in your decision just as much as you do. Ask questions along the way and trust your gut. You know what your dog needs best.

All Aboard! It’s Time to Board

You’ve got your questions answered and your list has been narrowed down. How are you feeling? Ready to book the perfect boarding facility for your dog’s home away from home?

When it comes time to take your dog to the boarding facility, be sure to pack their favorite toys, food, treats and any necessary medicine. You’ve picked the right place and you can see your dog enjoying their stay — now you catch up on some needed R&R. Your dog is already giving this plan two paws up!

How to Become a Professional Dog Sitter

Posted on June 30, 2022 - 2:30 pm by
Taste of the Wild

As more people are going back to work, traveling for work or going on vacations again, someone needs to watch their dogs so they aren’t alone—and lonely. If you love animals and are looking for a way to earn some extra moolah, dog sitting could be your calling.

But most pet owners won’t let just anyone care for their four-legged children. Here’s how to become an “official” dog sitter.

The first step in your new business venture should be a pet-sitting course. By adding this certification to your resume, you add an extra layer of credibility and trust to your business. Courses typically walk you through a pet’s dietary needs, first aid and sometimes even disaster planning, so you’re prepared for anything that comes your way. Udemy, Pet Sitters International, and the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters are just a few organizations with courses to explore.

Next, you’ll want to map out your business game plan. Here’s a checklist to keep you moving in the right direction!

1. Create a list of services you provide.

The basics include:

  • Providing clean food and water
  • Walking and playing with the dog
  • Cleaning up pet messes
  • Administering pet medications if necessary
    • Note: Be sure to ask the pet owner for proper instructions prior to their departure. If you have concerns or questions after receiving instructions, be transparent with the pet owner so their dog receives the best possible care.

2. Jot down qualifications and past pet-sitting experiences. Whether you’ve been watching friends’ pets for years or you have experience with special-needs animals, it’s relevant to your potential customers.

3. Map out how much you want to charge. The average rate for a pet sitter is between $12.50 and $17.25 an hour. When outlining your prices, be sure to factor in the number of animals you’ll be caring for and if you offer overnight care as an option.

4. Market your professional dog-sitting business. After completing steps 1–3, you’re ready to create a website for marketing your critter care. A website provides potential customers with an outline of your business, your contact information and a way to book everything with ease. You can create your own website for free or for a small monthly fee on sites like WordPress, Blogger, Wix or Squarespace.

5. Make reviews prominent. When creating your website, leave an area where customers can leave reviews. Also, engaging with those who leave reviews is a great way to continue building relationships. Even if it’s a simple, “Thank you!”

6. Create a profile on pet sitting websites. By uploading your information, these dog sitter seeking individuals will know how to reach out and request your care. Rover, Sittercity and Petsitter are popular choices to get you started.

7. Stand out with your own business cards. You never know who you’ll run into out and about. When someone says they could use a dog sitter, provide them with a business card to check out your services and book a pet sitting session.

8. Be prepared to pencil in those upcoming pet-sitting adventures. Purchase a planner or calendar to keep all your appointments straight. It’s key to any successful business to stay organized and on top of things.

9. Schedule a visit with the owner and their pet. You’ll want to meet with the owner to make sure you gather all the dog’s info, such as feeding schedule, medicine, special instructions, and so forth. In the process, this will help the pet get to know you alongside someone they already trust.

10. Bonus tip! Consider joining a pet sitting organization to boost your reliability and add to your networking opportunities. Two well-known organizations are Pet Sitters International and the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters.

Finished with the list? It’s time for your #DogSitterSummer!

Planes, Trains and Adventuring with Your Pet

Posted on June 16, 2022 - 1:40 pm by
Taste of the Wild

You and your pet have vacations on the brain.

Do you travel by train? Do you travel by plane? Goodness gracious, great Danes.

There are many decisions to be made, and taking your pet via air or rail can complicate matters. But not to worry! According to American Pet Products Association, approximately 37 percent of animal owners travel with their pets each year, and many of those opt for planes and trains. It can be done, and here are some best practices for doing it.

What to do before deciding how to travel

The first thing you should do is visit with your veterinarian to make sure your pet has the greenlight to travel. Evaluating their health can also help you navigate which mode of transportation would be best. For example, older pets who can travel, but may need extra care, might find it less stressful to ride on a train rather than a plane.

You might find that train travel in general can be less stressful for both you and your pet. Often, traveling via train can be cheaper and your pet can sit on your lap, opposed to under your seat or in the cargo compartment.

However, if your pet is fit for traveling and you’re strapped for time, a plane could be your best option. There are pros and cons with each that you will need to weigh carefully depending on your specific pet. Do your research!

Traveling can be stressful on a pet, especially if you’re both not prepared for your adventure. So, let’s get you set for your upcoming vacation. No matter which mode of transportation you choose, use our checklist of tips for the best air or rail experience possible.

An interior graphic detailing tips for traveling by plane or by train with your pet.

Buckle up for a fun adventure, no matter how you travel. You and your furry friend are about to make memories that will last a lifetime. Happy tails …er… we mean trails!

RELATED POST: Vacation with Your Best Friend

RELATED POST: Hit the Road to These Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations

Pet Diet Mistakes: 8 No-Nos When Feeding Your Pet

Posted on April 2, 2020 - 3:00 pm by
Taste of the Wild

For pets and their owners, the universal language of love is often spoken with food. A scrambled egg on top of kibble. A bite of your turkey sandwich. These are all ways we tell our pets we love them. And our pets dance on the kitchen floor to show us their love in return.

Harmless fun, right? Well, not always. See if you’re making any of these pet feeding mistakes.

The bottomless bowl. Most pets aren’t known for having self-control. If you leave food out all day, every day, it can lead to overweight pets, although cats are better at self-regulating than dogs. Pets will often eat out of boredom, even if they’re not really hungry. And it’s not just a matter of growing too fat for their collars — obesity can lead to diabetes, joint damage, heart disease and other health problems in pets.

The homemade diet. It sounds so wholesome, doesn’t it? But unless it’s been formulated by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist, a home-cooked diet can lack the right balance of protein, energy, vitamins and minerals for your pet. And pets with special nutritional needs, such as pregnant or nursing animals, puppies or kittens can develop serious health problems if they’re not fed a nutritionally balanced diet for their life stage.

The vegetarian diet. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they need dietary meat to live. Dogs are able to produce certain amino acids such as taurine and arginine, some of the building blocks of protein, and therefore can be healthy with a meat-free diet. Cats, however, lack the enzymes to do so and need a meat source in their diets to obtain these required nutrients. That said, cats shouldn’t be fed a diet of meat alone. They also need carbohydrates and other nutritional ingredients for a balanced diet.

The dairy fallacy. Everyone knows cats love nothing better than to lick a bowl of cream, right? Not exactly. Most cats are lactose intolerant and dairy products can actually lead to vomiting and diarrhea.

The “I can’t resist those brown eyes” diet. Who can blame you? But feeding your pet table scraps and treats throughout the day can lead to digestive problems, weight gain and begging, which started the cycle in the first place. Remember: what’s on your plate isn’t always safe for your pet. Foods like grapes, raisins, chocolate and onions can be toxic for pets. If you really want to give human food as treats, opt for safe, low-calorie options such as raw apples or carrots. Treats should also account for no more than 10 percent of pet’s total daily calorie intake so you can make sure they get the full nutrition from their regular food.

The real-bone treat. Real bones from the butcher can harbor bacteria such as Salmonella that can sicken pets and people. Bones are also often harder than your dog’s teeth, and chewing on them can result in tooth fractures. Splintered bones, if swallowed, can cause damage to the digestive system that requires emergency surgery.

The follow-the-label diet. Just like people, adult pets have different activity and metabolism levels. That’s why the feeding recommendations on food packages could be too much, or too little, for some pets. It’s best to consult your veterinarian about the right food and amount for your pet. You can also check out the Pet Nutrition Alliance calorie calculator to determine exact calorie counts for your pets. Then, watch for changes in your pet’s body condition score so you can tell if your dog or cat needs to back away from the food bowl.

The single bowl approach. Having multiple pets share one food bowl is asking for trouble. Some pets may be food aggressive, resulting in that pet hogging all the food while the other one is forced into a hunger strike. Plus, changes in appetite can be a sign of a health problem, so it’s important for you to know just how much each of your pets is eating.

If you have any questions about your pet’s diet, always ask your veterinarian. They can help determine the right food — and the right amount — to keep your pet healthy and happy.

Pet Poison Safety Tips: Is Your Home Really Poison-Proof?

Posted on March 12, 2020 - 3:00 pm by
A small white dog sitting behind grapes, chocolate and other common foods that may be poisonous to your pet.

Pets have a way of getting into things they shouldn’t. The chocolate bar that fell between the sofa cushions. The bottle of aspirin you left on the kitchen table. Or that slug bait on the garage floor. Since next week is Poison Prevention Week, we thought everyone could use a few safety tips on how to poison-proof your house.

Here are some of the top toxins that pets can typically find around the house:

  • Houseplants — While households with cats should avoid many types of lilies, other plants, such as sago palms and dieffenbachia, can be problematic for pets, too. But don’t worry if you’re really into houseplants. There are plenty that are generally safe for pets. These include spider plants, Boston ferns, African violets, Christmas cacti, Swedish ivy, lipstick plants, moth orchids and some succulents such as Haworthia, Peperomia and burro’s tail.
  • Human over-the-counter medications — Drug toxicity is a top claim at Nationwide Pet Insurance because people intentionally give their pets medications intended for humans. Just because some over-the-counter drugs like pain relievers, cold medications and herbal supplements don’t need a prescription doesn’t mean they’re OK for pets. Play it safe: Never give your dog or cat a human medication unless you have been directed to do so by your veterinarian.
  • Human and pet prescription medications — Think you have trouble getting into those child-proof bottles? Some pets can make quick work of them, getting into potentially dangerous drugs like ADHD medications, antidepressants, and heart medications. Some prescription medications for pets often contain meat flavoring, which may entice pets to down a month’s worth of doses at once.
  • People food — You’re probably well aware that some foods, such as grapes, chocolate and onions, can be dangerous for pets. But never forget that a determined pet can knock over the garbage and swallow chicken bones, coffee grounds, wrappers, moldy food and items that may be toxic, lead to pancreatitis, or require emergency surgery to remove them.
  • All things that require batteries — Most dog owners have probably had to replace a TV remote or two. But leaving any battery-operated devices, such as toys and smartphones, lying around can lead to a trip to the emergency clinic with your pet. And power cords, while not toxic, can lead to electric shock or worse if your pet chews on them. Keep all these items out of your pet’s reach.
  • Medical or recreational marijuana — Today’s marijuana often contains significantly more THC than in years past. Dogs and cats can become poisoned by exposure to marijuana smoke as well as eating pot plants or cookies, brownies or candies made with this ingredient.

That’s just a short list of what your dog or cat might find in your house.  Want more details? Here’s a room-by-room checklist of possible pet toxins.

Of course, if you suspect that your pet may have gotten into a toxin, call your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 immediately.

11 Spring Pet Safety Tips You Need to Know

Posted on March 5, 2020 - 4:00 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Depending on where you live, the tulips and daffodils may already be pushing up from the earth. You might spot robins feathering nests or a canopy of green buds unfurling overhead, and soon you’ll sleep with the windows cranked open. Ever notice how spring has a way of making the world feel fresh-scrubbed and alive?

No doubt, your pet is as eager to spend time outside as you are. But before you venture out, there are some things you should do to make sure your pet is safe and healthy this season. Here’s a checklist to help you on your way:

  • Initiate heartworm prevention — If your pet isn’t already on year-round heartworm prevention, now’s the time to make sure your dog or cat is protected. The parasite is transmitted by mosquitos, and infection is potentially fatal. Mosquitos can sneak indoors, so even indoor-only cats are at risk. (In one study, approximately one-third of the indoor-only cats tested were positive for heartworm infection.) Treatment can be risky and expensive for dogs, and there’s no effective treatment for cats. So prevention is the best approach.
  • Banish fleas and ticks — As the temperature rises, these freeloading parasites start actively looking for picnic spots on your pets. Fleas can make pets itch and twitch, and some pets are so allergic to flea saliva that a single bite can cause severe reactions. Once they’re in your house, fleas can be extremely difficult to eliminate. And ticks can cause serious tick-borne diseases. Ask your veterinarian to recommend an effective flea and tick preventive for your pets.
  • Double-check your pet’s identification tags — As the weather warms and more time is spent outdoors, there are more opportunities for pets to make a break for freedom. Make sure your pet’s ID tags are legible and contain all your current contact information. If your pet is microchipped, call the microchip company to make sure they have your most current contact information on file.
  • Watch for thawing ice — That same lake your dog raced across when the ice was two feet thick is becoming less safe by the minute. Keep pets on a leash and off the lakes, ponds and streams where they could break through thinning ice.
  • Retire that winter coat — Many pets start shedding their winter coats about now. Time to bring out your best inner groomer and help your dog or cat unload all that extra fur. If your pet has matted hair, let the professional groomers get the tangles out. A little brushing now can save a lot of time digging hair out of the vacuum cleaner later.
  • Freshen up pet beds and bowls — There’s nothing like sleeping in sheets that have just air-dried on the line outdoors. Chances are, your pet can appreciate fresh bedding, too. Now’s the time to wash those pet beds, bowls, toys and sweaters.
  • Make sure vaccines are current — Whether your dog is hobnobbing with other pups at the dog park or your cat is sunning itself on the outdoor catio, exposure to other pets can put them at risk for infectious diseases. Play it safe and update any vaccines that may have expired.
  • Prepare for allergy season — Does your dog scratch itself raw when the pollen swirls in the air? Check with your veterinarian to make sure you have allergy medications at the ready.
  • Clean up the yard — Pick up last autumn’s sticks and acorns that your pet could chew or swallow, and clear away leaf litter where ticks like to hide. Check your gardening supplies to make sure any lawn fertilizers, mulch or pest control products that may be toxic are out of your pet’s reach.
  • Bring the calm before (and during) the storms — If your dog becomes unglued when the thunder rolls, talk to your veterinarian about medications that can help ease your dog’s fears. Setting up a “safe room” away from doors and windows where your dog can curl up with his or her favorite toys may also help.
  • Ease into exercise — Has your pet been as much of a couch potato as you have over the winter? Then start outdoor exercise slowly and gradually build up the intensity as your pet’s muscles and endurance get stronger.

An interior graphic detailing a safety checklist of spring pet safety tips.

Now that you and your pet are prepared for spring, let the outdoor frisbee tournament begin. The sun is shining, so there’s no time to waste: your best friend is waiting to play outside with you.