AJ'S Waggin' Train

01/05/2025

𝕁𝕒𝕟𝕦𝕒𝕣𝕪 𝕚𝕤 ℕ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕒𝕝 𝕋𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕟 𝕐𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝔻𝕠𝕘 𝕄𝕠𝕟𝕥𝕙

Dog training is an important part of responsible pet ownership. It helps to ensure that your pet is safe, happy, and well-behaved. Dog training can also help to prevent problem behaviors, such as aggression and destruction. It can also help to improve the bond between you and your pet and create a more enjoyable environment for both of you.

It isn’t just puppies who can benefit from training! Dogs of all ages are capable of learning new behaviors or skills. Many dog owners think that after a puppy reaches a certain age you can’t break their bad habits or teach them new skills, which simply isn’t true. You just need to take the time to train them and have patience during the process.

𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐃𝐨𝐠 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈𝐬 𝐒𝐨 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭
When you invest the time to train your new dog now, you’re doing both of you a great service. Not only will your pup’s ability to do things like sit and lay down on command be impressive to others, but their willingness to listen to you can potentially be lifesaving in an emergency. If they’re about to eat something harmful, for example, the “drop it” and “come” commands can prevent harm. In a more drastic scenario, being able to call your dog in the event of a fire and have them come to you right away can lead you both swiftly out of danger.

Of course, pet safety is just one benefit of training your dog. Successful dog training instills an important sense of trust between you and your pal. This strengthens your bond and general happiness in one another’s presence. It’s also worth noting that dog training helps keep your pet’s brain active and alert.

𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈𝐬 𝐁𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠
Training your dog is not only beneficial; it’s also a lot of fun. Dogs thrive on mental stimulation. They love the chance to learn and practice something new. Training your dog will help you develop a deeper bond with each other, and you will have a better understanding of how your dog learns. Research has even shown that dogs will develop a more trusting relationship with their dog parents through shared activities, like learning new skills.

𝐓𝐨 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
When you teach your dog how to respond in certain social situations, your dog will find more enjoyment out of these experiences. If you show your dog new experiences by bringing them to different environments like the park or friend’s house, then you are helping them build their confidence and they will learn how they should behave in similar situations.

These experiences will also provide your dog with physical and mental stimulation, which will help decrease the chance of them displaying unwanted behaviors like anxiousness or excessive barking when they are in a new environment.

𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐬 𝐃𝐨𝐠𝐬 𝐈𝐧 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬
Though most people who get a dog do so with the best intentions, those who wind up surrendering their new pets to the shelter often do so because they just can’t cope with their dog’s behavioral issues.

Maybe the dog is hyperactive, yappy, or destructive. Perhaps they’re fearful, shy, lashing out, or behaving aggressively. Most often, it’s not because they’re bad dogs. It’s because they don’t have the tools they need to know how to behave appropriately.

Inexperienced pet parents might try temporary fixes that only make problems more severe, like isolation from the house and family, yelling, shock collars, or worse. By the time these dogs end up in a shelter, they’re confused and ill-equipped for life in a home.

January’s the perfect month to remind pet parents, new and experienced, to take the time to train their furry friends. With consistency, well-timed praise and rewards, a level head, lots of practice, and the guidance of an experienced dog-training professional, you and your pooch will learn and grow all year long. Time spent training is time spent bonding, making priceless memories, and building a strong relationship between you and your dog. Isn’t that what having a dog is all about?

Be sure to join AJ'S Waggin' Train Tips on Training if you'd like to receive more tips about training, safety, health, and more.

01/04/2025

𝐀 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐩 𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐚𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐨𝐨𝐧.

12/25/2024

12/01/2024

𝔻𝕖𝕔𝕖𝕞𝕓𝕖𝕣 𝕚𝕤 ℕ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕒𝕝 𝕊𝕒𝕗𝕖 𝕋𝕠𝕪𝕤 & 𝔾𝕚𝕗𝕥𝕤 𝕄𝕠𝕟𝕥𝕙

As the holiday season approaches, it’s not just the two-legged members of the family who deserve a little extra joy and attention. December marks National Safe Toys and Gifts Month for our beloved four-legged companions. It’s an opportunity to enhance their playtime with toys that are not just entertaining, but most importantly, safe.

Remember, for dogs, toys are not a luxury, but a necessity.
Toys are important to your dog’s well-being. Toys help fight boredom when you must leave your dog at home and provide comfort when they’re feeling nervous. Toys can even help prevent your dog from developing certain problem behaviors.
With an abundance of toys and treats on the market, there are plenty of products to be wary of. when it comes to your pets and it’s crucial to make informed choices to prevent accidents and ensure our pets’ happiness. Here’s a little guidance on choosing gifts for your dog that are both fun and safe.

𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐝
Your dog’s breed and size should be the first consideration when choosing toys. Miniature breeds will enjoy smaller toys, while large breeds gravitate towards bigger toys. Mouth size is significant when selecting toys, as you don’t want to introduce tiny toys to breeds with larger mouths, which could become a choking hazard. In addition, breeds with larger teeth tend to be more destructive with toys, so look for tough, durable toys that won’t easily tear apart — exposing stuffing and squeakers they could potentially ingest.

𝐀𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐝 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬
Staying on the topic of choking hazards, small parts on the outside of toys can also pose a threat to your dog.
𝐀𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐝 𝐭𝐨𝐲𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐝𝐨𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐟𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠:
• Beads
• Buttons
• Plastic eyes
• Bells
• Other embellishments that your dog can easily bite off and potentially swallow.

In addition to being a choking hazard, those small parts can lead to intestinal blockages.

𝐋𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐱 𝐓𝐨𝐲𝐬
Latex is a commonly used material in dog toys, but dogs can have an allergic reaction to it just as humans can. A latex allergy results in a skin rash that can blister and lead to hair loss in dogs. Be sure to check the labels on dog toys you’re considering and avoid anything that consists of latex. This is a “better safe than sorry” scenario, as an allergic reaction in your dog can leave them feeling very ill and uncomfortable when you want them to enjoy the holiday.

𝐓𝐨𝐲𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐏𝐡𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞
A compound found in vinyl, Phthalate emits a heavy smell typical of vinyl products fresh out of their packaging. The heavier the scent, the more Phthalates are present in the product, making it that much more dangerous. This compound can be deadly to dogs and other pets in the home, leading to issues with their kidneys, liver, and more. When dogs play with a vinyl toy with Phthalate, they breathe in the fumes and get it into their mouths, where it eventually makes its way to their bloodstream. Over time, this can lead to significant medical issues as it builds up in their bodies.

𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐁𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐲
Marrow bones are widely available in butcher shops and grocery stores, and they’re inexpensive and long-lasting — making them the go-to bone option for many dog owners. However, they come with a certain level of risk with the fatty marrow found in the center of the bone causing pancreatitis in some dogs. If you choose to give your dog the gift of marrow bones this holiday season, scoop out the center before giving it to them. In addition, be sure to give them only raw marrow bones, as cooking bones makes them more fragile and likely to splinter. Finally, be aware that chewing on any bone may cause fractures in your dog’s teeth. Always monitor your dog when chewing on any bone.

𝐑𝐚𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐝𝐞
Rawhide is another dog bone widely available but very much discouraged by veterinarians. If your dog only chews on rawhide bones and does not ingest them, they are relatively safe — but it’s nearly impossible to monitor their activity with rawhide to ensure this is the case. When swallowed, rawhide absorbs water in their system and swells inside the stomach, growing to a size that makes it nearly impossible to pass through their intestines. Surgery then becomes the only option to remove the rawhide. In addition, rawhides that come from outside of the USA often contain toxic chemicals i.e. sodium sulfide, but if it’s U.S. made, it likely contains fewer chemicals. Pressed rawhide chews are far safer if you’ve been giving your dog rawhide bones and don’t want to deprive them entirely of the treat they’ve come to love, but my suggestion is just avoid giving them to your dog if at all possible.

While toys are critical for providing your dog with exercise, mental stimulation, and entertainment, careful selection and research are essential to ensure your toy selections don’t do more harm than good. Avoid the types of toys above, and your upcoming holiday season shouldn’t warrant any trips to the emergency veterinarian. If your dog swallows something they're not supposed to or is showing signs of distress, seek emergency care right away.

***Check out my article “Dangers of Rawhide and Safe Alternatives” located in the files section of AJ'S Waggin' Train Tips on Training group page to learn more.

11/27/2024

𝔻𝕠𝕘𝕘𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕊𝕒𝕗𝕖 ℍ𝕠𝕝𝕚𝕕𝕒𝕪𝕤

With the holiday season approaching, for us this means family, fun, and celebrations. But for your beloved canine this can mean stress and added risk. There are many changes happening in your home during the holiday season. Visitors, decorations, big special meals, wrapped gifts, and don’t forget the Christmas tree. I would like to share with you some tricks, tips, and rules to help keep your fur baby(s) happy and safe during the holiday season.

𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬
The holidays are a busy time, with more traffic and activity in your home than usual. If increased activity and/or strangers tend to make your dog nervous, be sure to set up a quiet place for them to retreat. Make sure this quiet place has food, water, a nice warm bed, and other items that your dog might enjoy and would help keep them calm. If you’re hosting holiday parties, it may be best for them to have a quiet room to relax in away form all the noise and people. Playing soft music for them could also help in keeping them calm.

When hosting visitors, keep a leash and collar or harness securely on your dog. Make sure that they have ID tags showing your phone number. Also please be sure to have your dogs microchipped. Dogs can bolt out the door in a heartbeat and be gone. Keeping an exercise pen set up at the door so that you can open the door, but your dog can’t escape.

𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 𝙏𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙨 & 𝘿𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨
Tinsel, strings, yarn, and other items with long strands (i.e., popcorn and cranberries) can be tempting to your pets. Avoid the use of these items where pets can get to them.

Tethering your tree to the ceiling with a plan hook and a thin wire is a great safety measure to add that can assist in avoiding the possibility of your tree falling over. Curious pups like to climb with those overly excited wagging tails will appreciate not having the tree falling on them. Also monitor and prevent ingestion of pine needles and water under the tree. Tree water could contain fertilizer and bacteria.

Hanging bells on the lower branches to help alert you that your pet is exploring the tree. Place your special breakable ornaments high up at the tops of the tree or even think about just keeping them in storage the years you’ll have young dogs around your home. An exercise pen around the tree is also a great idea to help remove the temptation for your dogs.

𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐜 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬
The skinny cords on Christmas tree lights are not well insulated and easy for a puppy to chew into. Electrocution can result, so safety is paramount. Keep the cords covered so pets stay safe. Also, consider keeping the lower branches of the tree free from lights. If you catch your dog chewing on a cord, unplug the cord immediately and move it out of their reach.

𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬
Traditional holiday plants like mistletoe and holly are toxic to dogs. Yew, the evergreen many people have in their landscaping is extremely toxic. As a safety measure, avoid bringing clippings into your home to use as garland unless you can identify the variety. Poinsettias are not toxic, but any plant ingestions can lead to oral irritation, vomiting and/or diarrhea.

𝐓𝐨𝐱𝐢𝐜 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐝𝐬
Several common holiday foods that humans can safely eat are unsafe for dogs. These include chocolate, raisins and grapes, Macadamia nuts, and sugarless products containing xylitol. Avoid putting food-containing gifts under the tree, wrapped, or unwrapped, when your dogs will be in the room unsupervised. Alcohol innocently set on a low table, or the floor can be quickly raided by a pet, leading to serious consequences.

Gifts under the tree occasionally include meats and cheeses. Too much fat from these can be dangerous. Bones and fats from ham, turkey, and other meats can cause pancreatitis or intestinal blockages. Mesh wrappers and leg holders on meats can also smell tempting but cause bowel obstructions. If you’ve got a dog who gets into trash cans, be sure to empty them when they’re full of food.

𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬
Human medications should always be assumed to be toxic to dogs. This is the case for prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Your guests may not be aware that your dog could get into their medication and be harmed so it's best to mention to them to keep it secured.

𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐞𝐬 & 𝐎𝐢𝐥𝐬
Dogs can easily tip candles over or venture too close to the flames. Even potpourri oils are dangerous when licked from the source or off their coats. Place these high or avoid altogether. Consider using plug-in room scent products as an alternative.

𝐋𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
The holidays are a busy time. Remember that your dog or cat prefers regular mealtimes, walks as well as your love and attention. Take the time to give her much-needed playtime. Try to maintain your normal schedule and routine as much as possible to help ease the stress and anxiety changes can have on pets.

Don't forget to join AJ'S Waggin' Train Tips on Training for additional tips on training, safety, and more.

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11/01/2024

ℕ𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕞𝕓𝕖𝕣 𝕚𝕤 ℕ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕒𝕝 𝕊𝕖𝕟𝕚𝕠𝕣 ℙ𝕖𝕥 𝕄𝕠𝕟𝕥𝕙

November is National Senior Pet Month, and after a long life well-lived offering you so much love, loyalty and companionship, your older pet certainly deserves a month in its honor. It can be tricky knowing the right way to care for your senior pet as they age and adapting to your senior pets’ changing health needs. As our pets continue to live longer and more research is gathered around pets and aging, the more important it is to make sure we’re giving them the best care for their needs. Not sure how to celebrate this important month? Try a few of these suggestions.

𝐕𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞:
Senior pets deserve red-carpet treatment with regular vet check-ups. These visits can help detect age-related issues like arthritis, organ failure, or dental diseases early. Consider bi-annual check-ups instead of annual ones to closely monitor their health.

Senior Bloodwork is imperative to catching health issues early (and to monitor organ function) that may not be visible/caught during a routine physical exam.

While age is not a disease, there are certain health conditions that affect our senior pets more often than younger ones. Many of these are chronic conditions that should not be ignored just because a pet is older.

Here are a few of the health conditions that are common in old age:
• Arthritis
• Cancer
• Lumps and Bumps
• Dental Disease
• Heart Disease
• Kidney & Liver Disease
• Canine Cognitive Dysfunction
• Neurologic Conditions

While some of these conditions can be easily treated, others will need lifelong management and frequent follow-ups with your veterinarian. It is important to note that certain changes in your pet are not just due to old age. Many of these conditions cause pain, urinary and stool accidents in the home, loss of appetite, nausea, coughing, lethargy, and diarrhea.

𝐃𝐢𝐞𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐍𝐮𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
Senior pets often need diets tailored to their changing nutritional needs. Look for senior-specific pet food that is easier to digest and supports joint health, with lower calories to prevent weight gain.

𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐢𝐬𝐞:
Seniors may not be sprinters, but they still love a good stroll! Obesity can lead to various health problems in senior pets. Maintaining a gentle exercise routine is essential. Short, leisurely walks for dogs can keep their joints moving without causing strain. Cats can be encouraged to play gently to keep them active and engaged.

𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡:
Cognitive function can decline in senior pets. Keep their minds active with interactive toys and simple training exercises. This mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity. Specific toys for seniors will aid their mental health and fight boredom.

𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐞:
As pets age, their ability to move around comfortably can decrease. Orthopedic pet beds can provide extra support for aching joints. Ensure their living space is easily accessible, with additional help like ramps for pets with trouble jumping or climbing stairs. Senior dogs suffering from arthritis greatly benefit from making sure the floors in the home are not slippery. If you have carpet- wonderful! If you have hardwood floors or any other type of slick surface, try to lay down as many rugs as you can so your dog always has a non-slick surface to step on. Pay attention to your dog’s toenails. Since your dog isn’t out walking around as much, it is common for their toenails to grow very long, and even curl around into their paw pads. You will need to cut them more often, or have a groomer cut them for you.

𝐃𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞:
Oral health issues are common in older pets and can lead to other health problems. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are vital. Use dental chews or brush their teeth at home to maintain oral hygiene.

𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧:
As your senior pet begins to show mental or physical changes with age, you should talk with your vet ahead of time to know what to expect with continued aging, and how to know if they have a good quality of life. This will vary for every individual pet. It will depend on their health conditions, their ability to get around, and their mental state. This will also depend on your ability and capability to care for them. For instance, it is very difficult for some people to provide adequate nursing care to a 100-pound dog that can’t get around on their own, not to mention the safety considerations for the pet owner’s own health or physical condition. There are many different factors to consider when discussing quality of life for your pets, so if your vet hasn’t already brought it up with you, start the conversation now so you can have time to prepare for when the time comes to discuss end of life care as well.

𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠:
Pay close attention to any changes in your pet’s behavior, appetite, weight, or mobility. Early detection of problems often leads to more effective management.

Caring for a senior pet requires patience, understanding, and a bit of adjustment, but these years can be some of the most rewarding times with your pet. Cherish each moment and provide them with the love and comfort they deserve in their twilight years.

Be sure to join AJ'S Waggin' Train Tips on Training on Training if you'd like to receive more tips on training, safety, health, and more.

10/05/2024

🐾🎃🐾ℍ𝕒𝕝𝕝𝕠𝕨𝕖𝕖𝕟 ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕝𝕝𝕖𝕟𝕘𝕖🐾🎃🐾

Here's a fun game board for you to download and play with your fur baby to help celebrate the Halloween season!!!

Be sure to join AJ'S Waggin' Train Tips on Training for more!!!

10/01/2024

𝕆𝕔𝕥𝕠𝕓𝕖𝕣 𝕚𝕤 ℕ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕒𝕝 ℙ𝕖𝕥 𝕎𝕖𝕝𝕝𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕤 𝕄𝕠𝕟𝕥𝕙

Pets are beloved companions for so many people. From dogs and cats to guinea pigs and ferrets and so many more species, humans have brought animals into their homes for hundreds and even thousands of years. Animal companions give so much to humans, and part of our responsibility to them is helping them stay healthy. October is National Pet Wellness Month, and there are many ways to focus on your furry or feathered friends' well-being.

𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐄𝐱𝐚𝐦𝐬
As humans, we’re able to take care of ourselves and communicate to doctors when we’re feeling unwell. Unfortunately, our pets can’t tell us when they’re not feeling well, so they must rely on us to ensure they stay healthy.
Also, pets age more quickly than we do, which means changes in their health can occur and escalate very quickly. The best way you to keep your pets healthy and free from illness is to make routine wellness appointments. Routine veterinary care can spot potential health problems and manage them early. Your vet is your partner in keeping your pet healthy. These visits will help your veterinarian:
• Keep your pets’ health and wellness on the right track.
• Diagnose and treat any illnesses.
• Administer species-specific vaccinations for disease prevention and protection.
• Address potentially threatening health issues before they become a big problem.

𝐃𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡
Dental hygiene is just as important for pets as it is for humans. Without regular dental care, your pets are at risk of developing periodontal disease. This ailment can lead to pain, tooth loss and internal organ damage if left untreated. Luckily, proper dental care can add years to your pets’ lives! Additionally, consider the following:
• Routine dental exams help vets find and treat dental issues before they become irreversible.
• At-home dental care consists of routine brushing. You can also complement brushing with a special diet, water additives or sealants.

𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫 𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐝
An important part of helping your animal friends stay healthy is by offering quality food. Learn to read labels. Avoid foods with added colors, which are only for the benefits of humans. Animals cannot detect colors, and they inject your pet's diet with unnecessary and potentially harmful chemicals. Do not let expensive labels deceive you, because some foods considered high quality contain added colors and fillers. Make it your business to understand the healthiest diet for your particular animal companions. Do this for love, just as you feed your human family well.

𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐚 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝐖𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭
Just like humans, with the wrong type of diet and lack of physical movement, animals can gain weight. It’s estimated that more than half of the dogs and cats in America are overweight or obese. Overweight pets are more subject to health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, liver problems, digestive issues, heat intolerance, and other health complications. There are specific ways you can help make sure that your pets stay in a healthy weight range, including:
• Feeding them a diet with wholesome ingredients and balanced nutrition tailored to their age group.
• Giving them treats sparingly; treats are full of excess calories and fat.
• Don't feed them table scraps.
• Make getting adequate exercise fun.
• Don't overfeed.

𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐈𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐬
Protect your animal friends by learning and thinking about common household items that can poison pets. Items that seem ordinary to you but that are harmful to pets include:
• Plants
• Medications
• Chemicals
• Human Food
• Cleaners
Keep medicines and chemicals put away out of reach. Avoid feeding your animal companions human food. Switch to all-natural cleaners, which are safer for you as well as your pets. They are better for the planet as well.

𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬
Pets help you prioritize. If you’re constantly rushing around without any time to breathe; 𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐏!!! Make time to be with your animal friends, play with them, be silly with them, or just sit quietly with them listening to the world around. Time spent together helps not only them, but you too!!! They’ll know that they’re loved free from boredom and feeling neglected. Your life will also become so much richer and more meaningful!!

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09/05/2024

𝕋𝕠𝕡 𝟙𝟘 𝕋𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕋𝕚𝕡𝕤
#1
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09/04/2024

𝕋𝕠𝕡 𝟙𝟘 𝕋𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕋𝕚𝕡𝕤
#2
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09/02/2024

𝕊𝕖𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕞𝕓𝕖𝕣 𝕚𝕤 ℝ𝕖𝕤𝕡𝕠𝕟𝕤𝕚𝕓𝕝𝕖 𝔻𝕠𝕘 𝕆𝕨𝕟𝕖𝕣𝕤𝕙𝕚𝕡 𝕄𝕠𝕟𝕥𝕙

As the leaves change colors and the cool breeze signals the arrival of fall, September brings us an extra-special reason to celebrate—Responsible Dog Ownership Month. This dedicated month serves as a timely reminder to all dog parents about the essential aspects of caring for our loyal and loving companions. Responsible dog ownership goes beyond providing food, water, and shelter. It is a commitment to the physical, emotional, and social needs of our canine companions. During this month (and every month), let’s reflect on the responsibilities we hold as pet parents and acknowledge the joy and fulfillment our furry friends bring to our lives.

𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬
A major aspect of responsible dog ownership is prioritizing the health and wellness of our pets. Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care are essential to keeping our dogs in top shape. Responsible Dog Ownership Month encourages us to schedule that long-overdue vet appointment and ensure our pets are up to date on all necessary vaccinations and screenings.

𝐍𝐮𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐢𝐬𝐞
A well-balanced diet and regular exercise are the building blocks of a healthy and happy dog. As responsible pet parents, we should pay attention to our dog’s nutritional needs and ensure they receive the right diet for their age, size, and breed. Additionally, regular exercise not only helps maintain their physical health but also keeps them mentally stimulated and emotionally content.

𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
Well-behaved and socially adept dogs enhance the bond between pet, parent, and other pups and parents. Responsible Dog Ownership Month encourages us to invest time and effort in training our dogs, teaching them basic skills and good manners. Socializing our dogs from an early age helps them develop confidence, reduces anxiety, and ensures they become friendly and approachable members of society.

𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬
It goes without saying: Keeping our dogs safe is the number-one priority. Responsible dog parents understand the importance of proper identification, such as microchipping, and using a sturdy collar with identification tags. Additionally, securing our pets on a leash during walks and in public spaces helps prevent accidents and potential conflicts with other animals.

𝐁𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐬
Being a responsible dog owner isn't just about your dog's day-to-day needs. It's also important to prepare for their needs in case of an emergency.
Put together a dog first aid kit to keep in your home and your car, so you're prepared for any potential medical emergency. It's also important to keep your veterinarian's number handy, as well as the number of local emergency vets.
In addition to a first aid kit, you'll also want to have a plan in place in case of a natural disaster. If for any reason you need to evacuate your home, make sure you know of a dog-friendly hotel you can stay in with your pup or identify an emergency caretaker.

𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
Dogs are social creatures and thrive on human interaction. Responsible Dog Ownership Month is an ideal time to evaluate how much time and attention we devote to our pets. Spending quality time with them, engaging in playtime, and simply being present for cuddles and affection are essential for their emotional wellbeing.
As dedicated dog parents, it is our duty to provide them with the best care and attention possible. This month serves as a gentle reminder to assess our efforts and make improvements where needed to ensure our dogs lead fulfilling lives. By prioritizing their health, safety, and emotional needs, we can strengthen the bond between pet and parent and create a happier and healthier canine community.

𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐚 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐨𝐠 𝐎𝐰𝐧𝐞𝐫?
Being a dog owner isn't always easy, but it's one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. This September, take time to think about and celebrate all the ways that you're making a difference in your dog's life by being a responsible dog owner. It's also a great opportunity to consider what you can do to make your dog's life even better.

08/29/2024

𝕋𝕠𝕡 𝟙𝟘 𝕋𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕋𝕚𝕡𝕤
#3
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08/29/2024

𝕋𝕠𝕡 𝟙𝟘 𝕋𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕋𝕚𝕡𝕤
#4
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08/22/2024

𝕋𝕠𝕡 𝟙𝟘 𝕋𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕋𝕚𝕡𝕤
#5
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