Preventing the spread of parasites and diseases

Pet waste is a breeding ground for parasites and bacteria that can be harmful to both pets and humans. When pet waste is left in the yard, it can attract flies and other insects that can carry diseases and parasites like hookworms, roundworms, and giardia. These parasites can infect your pet when they ingest the contaminated soil or water, leading to serious health problems.

Avoiding accidental ingestion

Pets are curious creatures and may be tempted to eat their own or other animals' waste. This can lead to serious health problems like stomach infections and diarrhea. In addition, pet waste can contain harmful chemicals from medications and flea treatments, which can be toxic if ingested.

Reducing odor and pests

Pet waste can produce a strong odor and attract pests like rats, flies, and other rodents. This not only makes your yard unpleasant to be in but also increases the risk of disease transmission. Cleaning up pet waste regularly helps to reduce the odor and prevent pests from being attracted to the area.

Maintaining a healthy lawn

Pet waste can damage your lawn and cause brown spots, as it contains high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. If left on the grass for too long, it can also attract bacteria and fungi that can cause disease and decay. Regularly cleaning up pet waste helps to maintain a healthy and beautiful lawn. Making sure your lawn gets enough regular water can also help mitigate the risks of pet waste.

Waste Free Solutions

Keeping your yard clean is essential for your pet's health and well-being. It helps to prevent the spread of parasites and diseases, reduces odor and pests, and maintains a healthy lawn. So, make sure to clean up after your pet regularly and dispose of the waste properly. By doing so, you'll be providing your furry friend with a clean and safe environment to enjoy.

If picking up pet waste is a chore you would rather skip, you can hire a professional pooper scooper company to make sure your yard is waste free and safe for your family and your pets.

Environmental Considerations

Keeping your yard clean is also an environmentally responsible thing to do. When pet waste is left on the ground, it can be washed into storm drains and eventually end up in local waterways. This can lead to water pollution and harm aquatic life. By properly disposing of pet waste, you're helping to protect the environment and the local ecosystem.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, by keeping your yard clean, you're not only protecting your pet's health but also doing your part in being a responsible and caring pet owner. It's important to remember that pet waste can be harmful to both animals and humans, and by cleaning up after your pet, you're reducing the risk of disease transmission and keeping your yard safe and pleasant for everyone to enjoy. So, take the time to regularly clean up after your pet, or consider hiring a professional pooper scooper company to help you with this important task. By doing so, you'll be ensuring that your furry friend has a healthy and happy life, while also being environmentally responsible.

Don't be fooled by the term "pocket" in its name, as it is an energetic and fiercely loyal dog. For those who are asking, what is a Pocket Bully, it is a miniature version of the beloved American Bullies. It is a cross between an American Bully and a Patterdale Terrier. It is four to eight inches smaller than its purebred counterparts, but it is also a robust grower, as it can grow up to 16 inches tall.

Although most major kennel clubs don't recognize Pocket Bullies, which require pure lineage, these dogs are part of the American Bully Kennel Club. While some would call their face sinister, these Pocket Bullies are playful, loving, and have a nurturing and protective quality that makes them good companions. However, these dogs require a lot of care, especially regarding their grooming and diet. They have certain nutritional needs that must be provided properly. They need a lot of lean protein, fiber, and fat. You must also look for the best wet food for Pocket Bullies to augment their nutrition to ensure they don’t become obese. Although balancing their nutrition can be arduous for some, the payback of love and loyalty coming from these dogs would be more than worth it. 

Here are some things you must consider when selecting the best food for Pocket Bullies.

Protein content 

While Pocket Bullies are smaller than your typical American Bully, they have a compact and lean body type that needs a lot of protein. Pocket Bullies need to bulk up within the first few months of their lives, so you must look for food containing at least 30% protein. If you're looking for premium dog food, the first three ingredients should be meat to ensure that the product has enough protein for your buddies.

Fat content

A healthy Pocket Bully needs a fat-rich diet because he needs the energy and nutrients to ensure that he grows and develops properly. A high-fat content dog food will allow the dog to break down the proteins and other nutrients he needs with relative ease. You must ensure that your dog receives enough proteins and fats in his diet, so he grows normally and avoids health problems.

Carbohydrate content

Another thing that you must look for when choosing your premium dog food is carbohydrate content. Carbohydrates supply energy for your pets, and as Pocket Bullies are rather an energetic breed, you must ensure that they receive enough carbs to fuel their day.

Vitamin content 

One of the more overlooked nutritional aspects that a Pocket Bully needs are vitamins. When scanning the ingredient list on your premium dog food label, you must also zero in on the vitamin content. At the very least, dog food must contain vitamins A and E. Vitamin E is necessary for the immune system, while vitamin A ensures that your dog has great skin and hair.

Minerals

You must also look for calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium, and chloride in the ingredients list because the minerals help keep your dog in tip-top condition.

Endnote

Feeding your Pocket Bully can be a chore because you must look into their nutritional needs. However, the loyalty and love they reciprocate are more than worth it.

Source: Melissa Sue/Shutterstock.com

1. Leashes and collars. If you have a gently used set lying around, it might be a good idea to consider donating it. If it hasn’t gotten any use in a while, it might be time to give it to a local pet shelter or to a thrift store. Leashes and collars can seem like a dime a dozen, but a quality dog collar and leash set can last for multiple dogs’ lifetimes. It’s the perfect item to give to the local thrift store or animal shelter! As pets grow, they’ll need different sized collars and leashes. When your pet outgrows their current collar and leash set, then you can donate them instead!

2. Food or treats. If you have unopened cans or bags of food, then they make for great donations! Shelters are always in need of more food and treats for the pets they take care of, and they typically struggle to afford it along with all the other costs they have. If your bag of food is opened but practically still full, make sure you call the shelter beforehand to make sure they accept it. Some shelters will, others won’t for health and safety purposes. Either way, extra food or treats that your pet no longer eats can make for a great donation item!

3. Toys. Some toys can be donated. If you haven’t taken them out of the box yet, or if your pet sniffed it and walked away, you should be able to donate the toy instead of having to throw it away. Of course, if your pet has used the toy often and practically destroyed it, then you might not be able to donate it. In fact, you should probably toss that one instead of trying to sell it or give it away. A good way to tell whether or not your pet’s toy is still at the level that it needs to be given away is whether or not it has teeth marks on it. If there are teeth marks, then you should definitely reconsider trying to give it away. No teeth marks? Then you might be able to take it to a local shelter.

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4. Pet beds. Does your pet have a bed they no longer use? Give it a good wash, rinse and spin in the washing machine and then take it to your local animal shelter! They’ll love having another pet bed for the animals in their care. You can easily send it along with a blanket to make the bed even more comfortable. Considering shelters aren’t all that friendly or comfortable, having pet beds can really help to make the animals there feel more safe and secure in their kennels or create a zone they can go to and get away from all the rest of the chaos.

5. Food and water bowls. Many shelters run short on food and water bowls. They make for great donation items! It’s best to give stainless steel, as it’s more durable and also doesn’t hold onto bacteria as much as dishes of other materials, such as plastic or ceramic. Stainless steel bowls will only need to be washed and sanitized every few days, whereas ceramic bowls will need to be cleaned every day. This will make daily management easier for animal shelter staff!

6. Blank pet tags. Even in a shelter, pets need tags. A set of blank silicone pet tags can be really helpful for shelter staff to use with the animals they have at the facility! This way, they can make sure every animal is identified, along with their medical needs. If you tell a company you’re purchasing from that you’re donating the tags to a shelter, they may give you a code to use so that you can get the pet tags engraved for free later or whenever the shelter needs to get it done.

Source: Happy Monkey/Shutterstock.com

7. Prescriptions. Do you have unused pet prescriptions in your home? If they aren’t expired, check to see if the local shelter will consider accepting your extra prescriptions in the event they need to use them for any of their animals in their shelter. While many work closely with local vets to ensure all the animals in their care are taken care of, some general and common prescriptions can be helpful to have on hand in case they run out or experience a shortage.

Things to Avoid Donating

Here are some of the pet items you should reconsider donating:

• Pet clothes: Pet clothes aren’t really something you should donate. While some shelters might host specific donation drives for Halloween or Christmas costumes for the animals, some pet clothes can pose a safety risk for pets, so it’s best to avoid donating them to a shelter.
• Homemade treats: While you might think it’s a sweet gesture to send a jar of homemade treats to your local shelter, this isn't a great idea. Animals can have allergies, too, and homemade treats could make some pets sick. Plus, it helps to reduce any concerns of cross contamination or any other issues that might arise from scratch baking. If you want to donate treats, visit your local pet store and purchase a jar to take to the shelter. You can always call them and ask directly what type of treats they like to stock!

The Bottom Line

There are lots of fun things you can donate to your local animal shelter. No matter what, they’ll be excited just to have an extra set of donations to use.

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Often people can't take their furry friends with them on vacations if only because there aren’t reputable hotels that allow them to keep their dogs by their side. Looking for reliable hotels is as difficult as one may expect; however, when you have the help of this article, you will pick from the best dog-friendly hotels in California. 

Dog-Friendly Travel Hotels 

Not being able to invite your dog and make memories with them only because there aren’t any dog-friendly hotels will likely make you upset, understandably so. Enjoying a vacation at a scenic destination is an ideal getaway, but when you can’t involve your four-legged friend in these adventures, you won’t be able to immerse in the travel and its delights. 

While finding notable pet-friendly (especially dogs) hotels may be challenging, you can rest easy knowing we have just the right list prepared for you. Keep in mind that while some of these hotels are more favored, this list doesn't have a ranking. You can choose any of the mentioned hotels; you will go right with all of them. 

Kimpton Shorebreak Resort 

Kimpton Shorebreak Resort has a beachfront and surfer-style appeal, making it a desirable destination for most people in the coastal area. Most people let out their inner wildness and free side in this resort. The building has a spiritual and calm vibe because of the cozy fireplaces, the openness of the patio, and the chic dining area. The restaurants are spacious and airy, giving a pleasurable eating experience as well. 

The highlight of this resort is that you are allowed to bring two dogs, not one, but two. They should be around 75 lbs each. Additionally, there are no fees charged for their stay.   

Hilton Union Square 

Hilton Union Square is likely the most popular and public favorite dog hotel in California. One of the reasons for that may be its location; it is situated in the middle of famous tourist attractions. Another reason may be the nearby dog-friendly parks; seeing as the hotel is only two blocks from Union Square, it is perfect for dog owners to enjoy a stroll in the park with their furry friends. 

With the many facilities in the hotel (i.e., health club, pool, room service, restaurants, etc.), the most important one is that it allows dogs to roam freely and have an enjoyable time. You can take two dogs at a time, and with Romingo, you won’t have to pay any fees. Without Romingo, you will need to pay 50$ for each dog. 

Marina Del Rey 

Marina Del Rey is perfect for those who love the beach vibe. The sunny land, the picturesque sky, and the sparkling waterfront; all these elements make a hotel near the beach the ideal place to travel. And usually, beach hotels don’t allow room for pets, especially dogs.  

This is why Marina Del Ray is a very desirable hotel in Los Angeles, California. It offers a tranquil coastal experience that you can enjoy with your four-legged furry friend. Additionally, this hotel is near Venice Beach, where you enjoy a quiet stroll with your dog. Furthermore, if you reserve a booking through Romingo, you won't have to pay the 50$ fees that come with the typical booking. You can expect a stay that will be relaxing and rejuvenating for your pet as well as you. 

Mar Monte

Mar Monte hotel is incredible at welcoming furry friends that tag along with you. They accommodate your dog's needs better than most hotels on the market. Many people have reviewed and said how well they took care of their dogs.  

Mar Monte has various spaces that are dog-friendly; restaurants, boutiques, and bars. This is to ensure your furry friend can tag along with you wherever you go. While there is a 75$ fee, with Romingo, you won’t have to pay any additional charges. You can take two of your dogs with you to Mar Monte.  

Manchester Grand Hyatt 

Because of its location, Manchester Grand Hyatt is a favorable hotel in California. Many people find the nearby green space appealing; admittedly, it’s perfect for your dogs since you can have a leisurely walk with them anytime.  

Additionally, you can take advantage of this hotel if you book with Romingo; otherwise, there are specific restrictions that you will have to follow. For instance, you can only bring two dogs with a combined weight of 75 lbs. Plus, you will have to pay a 100$ fee if you don't reserve the booking through Romingo. 

Final Thoughts 

Here are five of the most popular and accommodating hotels that are top in our list of dog-friendly travel hotels. If you are looking for reputable hotels and discounted prices, click here to browse through them. 

Many people fear personal protection dogs, assuming they are harmful and violent; this is a common misconception, but it couldn't be farther from the truth. They are bred and trained to provide security and guard their owners. Most can be taught to attack commands as well. However, most people prefer for their home protection dogs to be less aggressive, which is why they are trained to disable the intruder.

In today's world, it has become essential for big house owners (or those who live in relatively dangerous areas) to acquire a personal protection dog. They significantly improve the security of a household; tenfold.

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Why You Should Get a Personal Protection Dog: Benefits of a Protection Dog

If you have ever felt unsafe or even intimidated in your home, you should consider getting a protection dog. The most convincing reason can be that you shouldn’t have to feel insecure in your space. But it is understandable for people to feel reluctant to get a personal protection dog.

This hesitance typically stems from many misconceptions, and rumors spread about them. They are considered vicious, savage, and uncontrollable creatures. While they are intense, strong, and mighty, they aren’t cruel. In fact, they are the opposite.

Often people mistake protection dogs to guard dogs, which is where the most misunderstandings form. The main difference between the two is that guard dogs are meant to protect property by any means necessary, and protection dogs are trained to look after a family. While they are both remarkable in their own right, protection dogs are comparatively friendlier. Learn more about https://scottsk9.com/.

Safer For Children

First and foremost, most people do not get a personal protection dog because they don't think it is safe for their children. Let us erase this misunderstanding straight away; a protection dog is perfectly safe for your children. It won’t harm them in any way because they are trained to do the exact opposite.

Protection dogs are taught to protect the children, and they are taught to look after the ones that can’t protect themselves. Their training allows them to properly attend to the children’s security without risking them.

In fact, once you get a personal dog from a reputable source, you will notice that nothing can protect your kid better than these furry four-legged friends.

Security for Your Home

As much as personal protection dogs are famous for their family protection instincts, they are also extremely reliable in looking after your home. If you get your dog from a notable company, you will see how they have a keen sense about them, and they are trained to disable any unwanted visitor that comes.

Many officials and important figures get these dogs to protect their families. And they all leave reviews explaining how helpful those dogs have been and how they sleep better at night because of the dog’s presence.

Protection dogs have keen senses and sharp canines, ready to attack anyone who poses a threat. If you ask specifically, you can get a dog that can also attack commands.

Better Weapon against Intruders

Protection dogs are a better weapon than any assault rifle on the market. They are faster, more efficient, and overall better guards than a gun or a dagger. Imagine you have a burglar in your house: if you reach for your weapon, it will take time and training for you to aim accurately, or else you won’t be able to disable the intruder properly.

However, if you have a personal protection dog, you can rest easy knowing that they will take care of the situation and effectively disarm the intruder. They will prevent any damage or injury you may face from such an unfortunate accident.

It can Also Be Pets

This depends on the breed of your protection dog. Some breeds are more hostile and therefore take time to open up (emotionally) to a family. However, they will be comparatively friendlier if you have a Belgian Shepherd.

Since protection dogs are trained to care for and look after a family rather than assets and property, like guard dogs, they are more adept at making an emotional connection with family members. In some cases, these dogs take a quick liking to the youngsters of the house, toddlers, and kids of young age.

In fact, once a protection dog is emotionally attached to a family, they are known to become fiercer in its job of protecting them from harm. They are readily available for action while maintaining a bond with the members.

Final Thoughts

With so many dangerous situations lurking around the corner, you should consider investing in a personal protection dog. They are different from guard dogs because they solely provide protection for your family. They can be an excellent addition to your family, and you can sleep more peacefully knowing they are looking after you at night.

For special and skilled protection dogs, contact us at Scott’s K9. We have trained our dogs above the average police and military-grade.

Never leave them in a parked car.

You should never, ever leave your dog in a parked car — even with the windows cracked and the air conditioning running, even if you’re just running inside really quick to grab collagen chews for dogs. Your car traps hot air due to the greenhouse effect, and the temperature will rapidly rise past the external temperature. According to figures from ASPCA, on an 85-degree day, your car’s interior temperature can reach 102 degrees within just 10 minutes — and it can get up to 120 degrees within just 30 minutes. These temperatures are hot enough to cause organ damage or even kill your beloved pet outright, so either leave them at home or take them into the store with you — no exceptions.

Know the signs of dehydration.

Dogs can suffer from dehydration just like humans, but the warning signs present a little differently. When dogs are dehydrated, they become lethargic and depressed, and you will also notice sunken eyes, dry mouth, and a loss of skin elasticity. If they are dehydrated, make clean cool water easy to reach and try to entice them to drink by adding some ice chips or chicken broth to it. If they won’t drink, you may need to take them to the vet for an IV drip.

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Watch out for heat stroke.

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body cannot cool itself down. Signs of heat stroke in dogs include rapid breathing, excessive or thickened saliva, fatigue, depression, muscle tremors, staggering, and a raised body temperature above the normal baseline of 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Immediately move your dog inside and wrap them in cool, wet towels, concentrating on the underarm, belly, and groin areas. Running a fan may also help speed up your cooling efforts. Do this until your dog’s body temperature comes down to 103 degrees Fahrenheit and call your vet to see what other steps you need to take.

Understand how the heat affects them.

Certain dogs are more susceptible to heat than others. Brachycephalic breeds that have a flat head and shorter nasal passages have difficulty cooling themselves off through panting. Younger, older and/or overweight dogs are also more susceptible to overheating, as are dogs with certain medical conditions. If your dog falls into any of these vulnerable groups, be extra vigilant about keeping them cool as the summer heat ramps up.

Source: Jne Valokuvaus / Shutterstock.com

Limit time outside on hot days.

On hot days, keep your dog inside the house and only exercise them during the cooler hours of the early morning or late evening. Asphalt and pavement can get hot enough to burn your dog’s feet, so if it’s too hot for you to walk around barefoot, then confine them to the grass to avoid hurting their feet. You can also try putting non-slip booties on their feet, but not every dog likes wearing shoes, so this may not be an option for you. Always carry water and a portable dog water bottle with you so they don’t become dehydrated.

Help them stay cool inside and out.

Dogs don’t sweat, so they need different methods to keep them cool than humans do. Always make sure that they have plenty of cool and clean drinking water, and if you have a yard, you can provide a kiddie pool with a shallow layer of water for them to cool off in. If the kiddie pool isn’t an option, they may enjoy lying on a wet towel or a frozen ice pack to cool off. If your yard doesn’t have enough shade, then put up a puppy tent or a canopy to create a cool spot where they can lie on the grass. Your dog might also enjoy homemade frozen treats. Just make sure the ingredients are dog-safe before giving it to them! Don’t shave their coats, which can cause them to become sunburned and actually remove some of their natural insulation that protects them from temperature changes.

Source: Jaromir Chalabala / Shutterstock.com

Don’t leave them unsupervised around water.

Many dogs love to cool off by going for a swim, but this doesn’t mean that they can be left unattended at the lake, pool, or pond. Always keep an eye on your dog and call them out of the water before they can become exhausted. We recommend putting your dog in a canine life vest to help protect them from accidental drowning. Try to stop them from drinking too much water, which can contain germs, chemicals, and other compounds that irritate their stomach. When you get home, rinse them off and clean out their paws, and give them a bath if necessary. Reward them with a bully stick for dogs afterward.

Keep them away from potential toxins.

Sunscreen and bug spray designed for humans may be beneficial for you, but they are toxic to animals, so keep them away from your dogs. Many lawn and garden chemicals, including insecticides and rodenticides, are also harmful to pets, so they need to be locked up out of their reach. Keep your dog away from lawns, gardens, and other treated areas to avoid contamination. You should also be cautious at barbecues, picnics, festivals, and other events that may serve food and drinks that could be potentially harmful to your dog. Instead, bring along their own food and natural dog treats so they can still eat safely, or feed them before you leave.

We hope this guide helped you feel more prepared for taking care of your dog in the hotter summer months. And remember — Don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet if you think your dog is dehydrated or has suffered a heat stroke!

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Pet parents everywhere will love these hacks to make their lives easier. These hacks have you covered, from tips on reducing time spent on pet care to advice on finding the best dog supplies around. So read on and be prepared to be amazed. Without further ado, here are fifteen helpful pet parenting hacks:

1) Stop Shopping in Stores – Time to Go Online!

If you’re still running to the pet store every time your dog needs a new toy or bag of food, you’re wasting valuable time. Instead, buy everything you need for your pet online. This will save you time, and you’ll also get access to better deals and a more comprehensive selection of products. Quick tips for shopping online:

• Buy from trusted retailers.
• Do your research.
• Read reviews.
• Don’t impulse buy.
• Seek out discounts and coupon codes.

2) Get Your Pet Their Own Instagram Account

This is a great way to keep friends and family updated on your pet’s life, and it’s also a fun way to document their growth and personality. Who doesn’t love seeing cute dog and cat photos all day? Who knows? If you get enough followers, your pet may be the next big influencer out there! Move over, Nala. We’re coming for you! Only another four million, four hundred thousand followers to get first.

3) Set Up an Auto-Delivery Schedule for Pet Supplies

No more forgetting to buy dog food! You can now set up an auto-delivery schedule for pet supplies, so you’ll always have everything you need on hand. This hack is handy for busy pet parents who might not have time to run to the store every week. In addition, it works exceptionally well for supplements like salmon oil for dogs, which might need to be replenished more or less often depending on container size and the portion size your dog needs.

4) Make Your Own DIY Dog Toys

You don’t have to spend a fortune on store-bought dog toys. Instead, get creative and make your own! There are tons of great DIY tutorials online. Be sure you’re using non-toxic, pet-safe materials that won’t pose a choking hazard.

5) Keep Your Dog Entertained with an Interactive Toy

An interactive toy is a great way to keep your dog occupied when you’re busy or away from home. These toys keep dogs mentally and physically stimulated, and they can be used as a training tool as well. Some of the best interactive toys include:

• Puzzle toys
• Treat-dispensing toys
• Snuffle mats

Source: Jus_Ol/Shutterstock.com

6) Get a Doggy Doorbell

This is a must-have for any pet parent! A doggy doorbell will save you so much time and energy, and it’s a great way to potty train your puppy. The way it works is simple: you teach your dog to ring the doorbell when they need to go outside. No more accidents in the house!

7) Save Money on Pet Supplies with a Subscription Box

A subscription box is a great way to get discounts on all sorts of pet supplies. Plus, it’s a fun way to try new products and surprise your dog or cat with new toys and treats each month.

8) Use Lint Rollers to Help Remove Ticks

Of course, you should speak to your vet about flea and tick prevention, but in the meantime, lint rollers can be used to help remove them from your dog’s fur. Simply roll the lint roller over your dog’s fur after time spent outside, and the tick will stick to the roller.

9) Invest in a Slow Feeder Bowl

If your dog is a fast eater, investing in a slow feeder bowl can help prevent them from gulping down their food too quickly. This can help reduce the risk of bloat, a serious medical condition that can be fatal for dogs.

10) Brush Your Pet Outside

Whenever the weather allows, take your pet outdoors for a brushing session. This hack is beneficial in the spring and summer when shedding season is in full swing. It will help reduce the amount of hair in your home, and it’s also a great way to bond with your pet. And do it after their walk, so they’re calmer and ready for some coat maintenance.

Source: Agnes Kantaruk/Shutterstock.com

11) Get a Self-Cleaning Litter Box

If you have a cat, this hack is for you! A self-cleaning litter box will save you so much time and energy, and it’s a great way to keep your cat’s litter box clean. Just be sure the model you’re buying has good reviews and that it’s the right size for your cat.

12) Invest in a Good Pet Hair Vacuum

If you have a dog or cat, chances are you’re constantly dealing with pet hair. A good pet hair vacuum can help reduce the amount of hair in your home, and it’s a must-have for anyone with allergies. Look for vacuums with strong suction and use HEPA filters to trap pet hair and allergens.

13) Join a Pet Parenting Group

No matter what stage of pet parenting you’re in, there’s always something to learn. And what better way to learn than from other pet parents? There are tons of online groups dedicated to helping pet parents with everything from training tips to product recommendations. You’ll get great advice while making some new friends who understand exactly what you’re going through. And, let’s be honest, making friends as an adult is pretty tough. So this hack is a win-win!

14) Get Your Pet Microchipped

A microchip is a great way to ensure that your dopetg can be returned to you if they ever get lost. And it’s an affordable way to peace of mind for any pet parent. Speak to your vet about getting your pet microchipped, and register their chip with the local and national databases.

15) Keep a Pet First Aid Kit on Hand

Accidents happen, and it’s always better to be prepared. Keep a pet first aid kit in your home and car, and make sure you know how to use it. Some of the items you should include are:

• Gauze and cotton balls
• Non-stick bandages
• Adhesive tape
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Pet-safe antibiotic spray
• Digital thermometer
• Tweezers
• Magnifying glass
• Eyedropper or syringe

Life’s Better with Pets

Life is indeed better with pets. But it doesn’t mean that it has to be more complicated. Follow these helpful pet parenting hacks, and you’ll be able to spend more time doing the things you love with your pet by your side.

Always had a cat and now you’ve brought home a dog or vice versa?  And, you’re wondering how you can help your dog and cat become friends?

Both species are known to be at each other’s throats most of the time. And, that’s not surprising either because a cat sees a dog as a threat, while a dog usually views a cat as a rival for its owner’s attention.

But through all the growls, snarls, hisses, and yaps, your tabby and tyke can be trained to live peacefully together and develop a tolerance for each other even if they never become the best of friends.

Here are practical tips on how to introduce a cat to a dog and how to get a cat and dog to bond.

Can Cats and Dogs Become Friends?

Have you googled “How to know if a dog and cat will get along?” You probably got mixed results. 

It can be hard to predict how animals will react to each other. Your house cat may become curious about a new puppy. Your beloved dog may welcome a new kitten and treat it gently. On the other hand, it may take considerable time for the dog to accept a cat as a family member.

Tips to Help Your Dog and Cat Like Each Other

Enrol Them in Obedience Training

If questions like “how do I socialize my dog and cat” are on top of your mind, then the first step should be to invest in obedience training for your dog. A well-behaved dog that can control its impulses will get along better with a cat.

Your dog’s instinct to chase prey is quite strong, so you need to manage this as soon as possible. Otherwise, an untrained dog will end up pursuing your cat relentlessly.

If your cat fails to recognize this as a game, it will feel stressed whenever it sees your dog. Your cat might even decide to fight back, which can lead to both of them getting injured.

Make sure you teach your dog to heed commands like “Stop.” With the proper training, your pet dog will understand that it needs to leave your cat alone.

Let Them Interact in Your Presence

The initial interaction between your dog and cat should happen under your supervision. This is crucial in the first few weeks after you have introduced a new pet to your household. If left to their own devices, there are higher chances of a cat and a dog hurting each other.

Schedule a common playtime for your feline and canine pets. Both animals should be willing to play and in a good mood.

During the first couple of weeks, you can also try feeding your cat and dog at the same time. Since their focus will be on eating, they are less likely to get into a tussle.

Don’t expect instant rapport between a cat and a dog. If you observe any discomfort, frustration, or hostility, separate them and try again another day.

Be Patient

So how do you get a dog that hates cats to like them? As with any form of animal training or socialization, the secret is to give it time.

If you're lucky, your dog and your cat may become friends during their first meeting. However, this rarely happens. It’s going to take time for your dog to adapt to your cat and vice versa.

That’s why you’ll need tons of patience and perseverance. Brace yourself for a lot of snarling and hissing whenever your pets meet. As much as possible, don’t force them to stay together as this can be traumatic for both, not to forget stressful for you.

As a safety precaution, leash both animals during their initial encounters. Remove the restraints only if they become tolerant of each other.

Desensitize Them

If you’re thinking, “How do I get my cat and dog to be friends,” here’s another tip. Desensitization allows your pets to get used to each other faster. The idea is to reduce your dog’s impulsive reaction to your cat’s presence.

Many dogs tend to get over-excited on seeing a cat for the first time. This can make your cat uneasy, thus spoiling the chances of a potential friendship.

So, what’s the best way to familiarize your dog with your cat’s presence?

Try using a baby gate. This low barrier separates your dog and cat while still allowing them to see or sniff each other through the bars.

With continuous exposure, your pets will soon become familiar with each other.

Give a Cat Its Territory Before It Meets Your Dog

As you learn how you can help your dog and cat become friends, pay close attention to the latter. Cats may feel cornered when they interact with loud, aggressive dogs. Since felines tend to be smaller, dogs often start treating them like prey.

To avoid this, ensure that your feline companion has its own territory, one that your dog cannot access. This “safe space” could be on top of the refrigerator or a bookshelf.

When you bring home a new pet, keep your existing pet in a separate room. Do this until the newcomer becomes safe and relaxed in its new home.

Keep Their Food and Toys Separate

Previously, we recommended feeding your dog and cat together in the first few weeks. But once they become familiar with each other, try keeping their feeding areas and utensils separate.

This way, you can prevent them from competing over food and also getting into each other’s food. While this can be difficult in a multi-pet household, it’s not impossible either.

Raised surfaces that your dog cannot access are ideal for feeding the kitty and you can move your dog’s meals to a closed-off area in the house.

This also applies to their treats and toys. Store your dog’s favorite chew toys away from your cat’s playthings. 

How Long Does It Take for Cats and Dogs to Become Friends?

There is no exact answer to the question, “How long does it take for a dog and cat to get used to each other?” Some cats and dogs take to each other immediately. In other cases, it might take a few weeks or even months.

It also depends on the breed. Some dog breeds such as the beagle have friendly personalities and are known to get along with kids and other pets faster than the rest.

Don’t lose hope. With a bit of strategy and a lot of coaxing, your pets can become the best of pals and if not, at least get to a place where they can stand the sight of each other. 

Final Thoughts

So how can you help your dog and cat become friends? By helping them overcome their instinctive need to protect themselves and their territory using the tips and tricks mentioned above. While there’s no guarantee that all of these methods will work, it definitely won’t hurt to try them out.

Keep in mind that this process takes time and close