Category: Pet

Remedies for Cat Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary tract infections in cats are characterized by increased frequency of urination, difficulty in urination, soreness in the bladder, and occasionally the presence of blood in the urine. They will typically avoid urinating in the litter box at all costs. A cat with a UTI prefers smooth surfaces like the floor, bathtub, or shower enclosure.

There is no cause to be worried if your cat develops a urinary tract infection (UTI). Here are home remedies for your cat’s UTI and the symptoms. These remedies have the potential to alleviate the pain associated with a UTI, as well as to lessen or get rid of the infection altogether. 

What Are Urinary Tract Infections in Cats?

Cats rarely suffer from urinary tract infections (also known as UTIs). Only 1% to 3% of cats exhibiting symptoms of urinary tract infection may develop a disease.

It is essential to differentiate urinary tract infections (UTIs) from other diseases, such as crystals in the urine because UTIs can seem like a wide variety of other medical issues. Your vet can identify the difference with basic testing.

Bacteria typically cause cats’ urinary tract infections. Urinary tract infections caused by bacteria in cats are typically not difficult to cure, and medicine is usually effective against these infections. Chronic infections that don’t respond to treatment may require extra testing to determine why your cat is prone to UTIs.

Symptoms of a Cat UTI

Even though a urinary infection in cats is a potentially life-threatening problem, the good news is that there are several warning signs that are simple to recognize.

The following is a list of the most typical symptoms that a cat may exhibit if they are suffering from a urinary disorder:

  • Frequent litterbox use
  • Minimal urination
  • Howling when urinating
  • Genital licking
  • Blood in the urine
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Urinating outside the litterbox
  • Frequent or prolonged urination

Causes of UTI

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are especially common in kitties and are usually caused by numerous bacteria species.

Other factors that may contribute to the development of a urinary tract infection (UTI) include an injury to the urethra, urine retention, stress, and problems with the spinal cord.

But remember, some viruses and some pre-existing health conditions also lead to UTIs in cats.

Remedies for a Cat UTI

There are a number of remedies for a cat UTI that are helpful in treating the infection. Rather than attacking the difficulty with antibiotics, which can lead to undesired side effects, it is recommended that medications not be used.

Juniper Berry

The juniper berry is a type of herb that assists the kidneys in more efficiently eliminating waste and toxins from the bloodstream. This can stimulate urine production, cleaning your cat’s system and removing harmful bacteria from the urinary tract.

This herb reduces inflammation, which helps ease your cat’s UTI pain. Juniper berry can fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria and fungi, helping to cure your cat’s UTI.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a natural treatment for a number of conditions, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), that are rather frequent in cats. However, excessive dosages might be dangerous, so limit the intake.

Apple cider’s acidity can help prevent bacteria in your cat’s urinary tract. This reduces and eliminates UTIs in cats.

Before administering it to your cat, dilute the apple cider vinegar with water. Apple cider vinegar should never be given to cats in its pure form.

A few drops in their water daily should be sufficient for little cats weighing less than four pounds. Cats weighing more than six pounds can have as much as one-half of a teaspoon daily. Medium-sized cats should get 1/4 teaspoon every day.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin

Glucosamine and chondroitin are two supplements used for managing arthritis joint discomfort; however, they can also be used to lessen the symptoms of a feline urinary tract infection (UTI). Glucosamine has the potential to assist in the replacement of a substance found in the lining of the bladder wall in cats. Chondroitin helps avoid the breakdown of this compound.

Two supplements can repair the bladder wall and reduce microbial infection. This alleviates inflammation as well as the other symptoms of a UTI. You should give your cat 100 milligrams of glucosamine and 50 milligrams of chondroitin for every ten pounds the cat weighs.

Bone Broth

In addition to managing the pH level and strengthening the bladder wall, it is essential to keep your cat adequately hydrated when treating a cat UTI. This will assist in cleaning out the bladder and preventing the buildup of potentially dangerous bacteria.

You can hydrate your cat with bone broth. Bone broth hydrates and includes nutrients and minerals that fight illness. Bone broth’s amino acids, glycine and arginine, decrease inflammation.

Marshmallow Root

Marshmallow roots can destroy germs, reduce inflammation, and strengthen the bladder lining to fight a UTI. It serves as a diuretic to enhance urine flow and clean the bladder.

According to research, marshmallow root’s mucilage can soothe membranes and support the bladder lining.

Cranberries

According to studies, cranberry juice can treat UTIs. It stops bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract. Bacteria can’t produce an infection if they can’t attach to the urinary tract.

Unfortunately, the high sugar content of cranberry juice makes it unsuitable for felines. However, there are other possibilities. A few drops of cranberry concentrate have less sugar than cranberry juice.

Parsley leaf

Parsley leaf is a powerful diuretic that can facilitate urine elimination. In addition to their high nutritional value, parsley leaves possess antibacterial properties, making them an excellent choice for treating urinary tract infections.

Uva Ursi

The leaf of the uva ursi plant is one of the most potent natural astringents that can be found. Holistic vets utilize it to fight UTI-causing bacteria. It can prevent bleeding and bring down the inflammatory response caused by these illnesses.

Medically formulated commercial cat food (Best Option)

If you do not have time or access to the above-mentioned remedies for feline UTI treatment, then the best solution is to offer your kitty some medically formulated cat food specially made to cure feline UTI infections. You can find all the best possible options such as non prescription cat food for urinary crystals easily online.

Are Some Cats Predisposed to UTIs?

Older female cats and cats with diabetes mellitus get UTIs more often. Cats with bladder stones are susceptible to repeated UTIs, highlighting the significance of a full diagnosis anytime there are urinary tract indications. Bladder stones must be eliminated or broken to restore bladder health. 

Common Animal Misconceptions

Humans are curious and imaginative, so they make up their own theories and ideas when they can’t explain nature’s mysteries. Even though such hypotheses are generally false, they still fascinate people and become myths and tales. There are many misconceptions regarding the animal kingdom due to its unusual creatures and strange behaviors. 

Let’s take a look at some of the most common misconceptions:

  • Ostriches Bury Their Heads in the Sand

The photographs of ostriches with their heads buried in the sand that you can find on the internet are not what they appear to be. Ostriches do not hide from potential danger by burying their heads in the sand. Instead, they will either flee away or flop down on the ground and flatten their heads to fit in with the various types of vegetation in their environments. However, ostriches use their beaks to help dig holes when making their nests and hiding their eggs in those nests. After that, they will turn the eggs multiple times throughout the day. It would be difficult for an ostrich to keep its head down since it couldn’t breathe.

  • Rabbits Lay Eggs

Rabbits are placental mammals which sleep on comfy bedding, meaning their embryos spend an average of 31 days developing inside their mothers’ uteri before they are born. Since eggs are historical symbols of rebirth, this egg-laying mythology is presumably based on the rabbit’s prodigious fertility. Heres a refresher on do rabbits lay eggs.

  • Goldfish Has 3-Second Memories

The imaginative human thinks a goldfish’s weak memory makes every swim around its bowl a new experience, but the truth is quite the contrary. Studies suggest goldfish can store memories as old as three months, do complicated activities, and expect meals. They may have the same level of intelligence as birds and even some animals.

  • Penguins Are Monogamous and Mate for Life

Penguins aren’t monogamous, contrary to assumption. During the breeding season, 85% of Emperor Penguins and 71% of King Penguins switch partners. And although they appear to be monogamous, as shown by the DNA of their offspring, Gentoo penguins, along with one-third of female Humboldt penguins, are unfaithful to their partners, according to a study of 19 of these birds.

  • You Can Charm a Snake With Music

You’ve seen movies featuring a man playing a lengthy instrument to lure a snake out of a basket. This so-called “snake charmer” is not only extremely risky but also requires some element of magic to succeed. Since snakes lack ears, they are completely unable to hear the music; yet, they are sensitive to the vibrations caused by it. The snake is made to feel threatened by the performer, so the snake charmer hypnotizes the animal by waving the instrument around in front of it. This causes the snake to become agitated. Therefore, it is impossible to charm a snake with music, and we do not advise anyone to attempt to seduce a snake in any way.

  • Earthworm, Cut In Half, Becomes Two

You may have imagined that when an earthworm is cut in half, two new earthworms regenerate from each piece, but this is not true. If an earthworm is severed, the section that still contains its head can regenerate the rest of the body, but the portion of the earthworm that was cut off without its head would die. On the other hand, planarian flatworms can create a whole individual from as little as a sliver of a parent organism.

  • Vultures Stalk Living Animals

It’s a common misconception that vultures will prey on living creatures even though they know they will die soon. All they need is a good set of senses, which enables them to locate their food, which in their case is often already-dead animals. There have been reports of turkey vultures congregating around leaking gas pipelines that contain compounds that smell like rotting organic stuff. Vultures also recognize where animals are most likely to die, such as areas with low rainfall, and they go there specifically to find dead items to eat.

  • Camels Store Water in Their Humps

It’s a common misunderstanding that camels keep water in the humps on their backs. Camels store fat in their humps, which provides them with a source of energy. The humps have enough food for three weeks’ worth of consumption inside of them. In addition, this function helps maintain a healthy internal temperature.

However, it is a fact that camels can go for extended periods without needing to drink much water. This water is taken in by their bloodstream, kidneys, and intestines, where it is then stored and digested.

  • Bats Are Blind

Bats can be spotted on Zoo sites if you know when and how to look. Several bat kinds are native to Virginia, and Zoo workers are captivated by them, so we debunked this myth. Bats do not have poor eyesight. They can see as well as humans, but at night they utilize echolocation to find food and land. Bats, like many other creatures, are nocturnal, which means that they like to sleep during the day and go hunting at night.

  • Bears Hibernate

 We learn that bears find a den each fall to hibernate during the winter. For an animal to enter a state of hibernation, its internal temperature must be lowered to a point comparable to that of the surrounding environment. During the winter, bears engage in torpor, which involves inactivity and a temporary decrease in body temperature. Even while ‘hibernating,’ a bear may still defend itself against predators from the outside world, so take extra precautions.

  • Bulls Get Mad When They See the Color Red

Matadors traditionally use a red cape in bullfights to signal the bull to charge. You might assume bulls dislike red, right? No, not quite like that. Cattle are dichromats, meaning their eyes have only two color receptors at any time. Because of this, the red cape does not appear to the bull in the same striking manner as it does to us. More likely, it’s agitated by the matador’s activities, driving it to charge.

  • All Turtles Use Their Shells to Hide When They Feel Threatened

This statement is mainly true; however, there is one point that is not accurate. Most tortoises and turtles may withdraw their heads, tails, and feet within their shells when frightened or to avoid predators.  The carapace and plastron protect turtles and tortoises’ internal organs. All turtles are tortoises, but not all tortoises are turtles.

Dog Treats Canister: What’s Their Purpose

Owning a pet comes with a lot of responsibility. Not only do you have to make sure your furry friend gets enough exercise and proper nutrition, but you also need to provide them with toys and treats that keep them happy and healthy. One great way to do this is by using a dog treats canister. These containers make it easy to store and dispense treats, making it the perfect way to reward your pup for a job well done. 

Here’s a look at the different uses and benefits of dog-treat canisters. We’ll also provide some tips on how to store your dog’s treats. So whether you’re looking to teach your pets some new tricks or just want to make sure their snacks are kept fresh, read on for all you need to know about a dog treats canister.

A Convenient Way to Store Dog Treats

Most quality pet containers such as a dog treat canister ceramic is strong and durable, but also lightweight and easy to carry around. They have a tight-fitting lid that helps keep the treats fresh and a wide opening at the top that allows you to easily put in or remove the treats. The lid shuts firmly so that your dog cannot get into them without your help. The canisters are made of durable plastic with a handle on the side that makes them easy to carry around when full.

The small size is ideal for storing individual packets of treats, while the large size is perfect for storing larger bags. The containers can also be used to store other items like kibble or cat food if you have pets who eat that kind of food too.

Keep You Dog Treat Fresh and Healthy

Dog treats are a special part of your dog’s daily diet, so it is important that you can keep them fresh and healthy. If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to keep your dog’s food fresh and dry, then consider purchasing metal or plastic dog treat container.

Some of the canisters come with locking lids so that you can keep them closed at all times. Some even come with a spoon that allows your pet to scoop out their favorite treats without any trouble at all. When looking for a good place to get the best pet treat container, consider visiting https://bitchnewyork.com/collections/dog-treat-jars.

Save Room for Storing Items

Treat containers for dogs are one way of keeping your pet’s treats organized and safe from harm. These containers come in different shapes, sizes, colors, and designs. Some of them even come with lids that open up so you can see what is inside without having to open the entire container. You can keep them in an area where they are easily accessible when your dog needs them but at the same time, you need to make sure that they won’t get into something that is toxic or harmful to them.

Easy to Decorate and Personalize

Dog treat canisters don’t have to be boring and plain – they can be decorated with your favorite colors, patterns, and images. Personalized dog treats canisters are easy to decorate and personalize. You can choose from a variety of different designs, including Christmas trees, snowmen, and more. If you want something more unique, you can even upload a picture of your pet or child onto the canister. This makes it even more special.

Can Be Used For Training

Training your dog is always a top priority for responsible pet owners, and one way to reinforce good behavior is by using treats as a reward. The best dog treat canisters have a number of features that make them more effective when it comes to training your dog. They can be used at home or on the go, and they provide your dog with a source of food that is always available. This helps to keep him busy, which is especially important when you are trying to train him to do something new.

Dog Equipment and Supplies Checklist for New Dog Owners

There’s something very comforting and loving about having a dog be a part of your family. While bringing a new pet into your home can be a lot of fun, it can also be a little stressful. 

If you’re planning on welcoming a new dog into your family, and you want to do so as effectively as possible, keep on reading for our must-have list of dog equipment.

Collars and Leashes

A good quality collar and leash are two of the most important items on the list.

The collar should be comfortable for the dog to wear and sturdy enough to hold up to daily wear and tear. The leash should be the proper length for the dog and also be made of durable material.

Collars like martingale leashes combine collar and leash into one. An article on a martingale leash said that this works best for dogs that usually chase other dogs, are not being walked, are pullers, or dogs suffering from ADHD.

Crate or Kennel

Crates are dogs’ safe place where they can go to relax and feel secure.

The crate or kennel should be large enough for dogs to stand up or turn around in, but not too big. It should be made of strong material that will not collapse if the dog bumps into it or jumps on it.

It should have a soft and comfortable bed or mattress inside for the dog to lie on. The crate or kennel should be placed in a safe, quiet place in the home.

Bowls for Food and Water

When choosing a bowl, make sure it’s the right size for your dog and is made of durable material.

You may also want to get a separate bowl for water and one for food, or choose a bowl that has dividers to keep the two separate. You’ll also want to make sure the bowl is easy to clean.

Toys

Your puppy must have different and interesting toys to play with, if not, they might chew on your belongings. Chew toys also help keep your dog’s teeth clean while they exercise their jaws. They also provide mental stimulation for your fur baby.

Dog Equipment for Grooming

Quality dog supplies like shampoo, conditioner, and de-shedding tools are essential. You will also need a brush, comb, and nail clippers.

This also includes items for cleaning, such as a vacuum cleaner, steam mop, paper towels, and waste bags. It is also important to have the proper shampoo, conditioner, and grooming tools, such as a brush and comb. 

Proper Preparation

These are some essential items every new dog owner should have on hand. Proper preparation also includes research.

New dog owners should take the time to learn about their dog’s breed and specific needs. As a new dog owner, it is important to be prepared with the proper dog equipment and supplies. 

By taking the time to properly prepare, new dog owners can set their furry friends up for success and provide them with a loving, forever home.

For more information on what it takes to raise a new happy, healthy pooch, take a minute to check out the rest of our blog.

5 Toys for Destructive Chewers

Chewing on toys and bones is important for a dog. Not only can it help relieve mild anxiety, frustration, or stress, but it can also help keep your pup’s jaws strong and teeth clean. Chewing is a great outlet for extra energy as it can keep them focused and release endorphins which can increase the sense of well-being and pleasure.

However, if your dog chews through toys like they are nothing, it can make it more difficult to ensure they have this outlet. And while you may want the right toys for your tough chewer, the wrong type won’t last long and can even be dangerous to your dog. That’s why it’s important to find special dog toys built for destructive chewers.

Here are a few of our top picks and some tips for finding the best toy for your canine pal:

Top Recommended Toys for Tough Chewers

The ideal material that will stand up to your dog’s tough teeth will be durable, but not dangerous. While no toys will be 100% destroy-proof, some toys are made to last longer than others, such as those made from rubber.

Generally, look for toys like chew rings, heavy duty toy balls, and chew bones. These different products offer a range of stimulation and entertainment, as well as physical and mental exercise. And, they are designed to withstand tough teeth.

A few of the top toys to check out for your pup include:

  1. West Paw Zogoflex Hurley Tough Dog Bone: Not only are these toys made in the U.S.A. and easy to clean, but they are also 100% damage free guarantee. So, if your dog does destroy the Hurley, you’ll get a new one sent to you. These dogs are great for chewing and playing fetch, even in water since they float. However, they aren’t hard enough to damage your dog’s teeth.

  2. Kong: Just about KONG products are designed for chewers, including the KONG Extreme Rubber Ball, Classic KONG, KONG Extreme Goodie Bone, and KONG Flyer. They are tough and durable, made out of natural, non-toxic rubber that is soft on your dog’s teeth but made to withstand chewing. These toys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes and are easy to clean. Plus, they are reasonably priced. Some KONGs can even be stuffed with treats or peanut butter for extra stimulation.

  3. Goughnuts: Checkout the Original, MaXX, or Buster for a toy that’s tough but fun to play with. Plus, it has a built-in safety net – in the MaXX 50 ring, the outer later is black and the inner layer is red. As long as you don’t see the red, the toy is safe to play with. If you do see red, send it back for a free replacement. These toys are thick, heavy, and durable, but they are gentle on teeth.

  4. Reinforced plush toys: If your dog likes plush toys but is ripping out the stuffing within seconds, try a plush that doesn’t have stuffing and may be reinforced with tougher material to stand up to your pup’s teeth. Squeakers can also help keep your dog’s interest, and if they do destroy the toy, clean-up is quick and easy. Try this Squeaky Wild Forest Raccoon or Speedy Fox from RexiPets.

  5. Nylabone or Benebone: If you want to give your dog an actual bone to chew, your best options would be Nylabone or Benebone chews. Be sure to choose one that’s for your dog’s correct weight and only let them chew while supervised, because pieces can break off and be swallowed. However, these brands design their toys out of a durable nylon material that most dogs enjoy chewing. Grooves and shapes can be perfect for your dog to hold and clean their teeth, and yummy flavors can make the bones even more fun to chew.

Tips for Finding the Best Toy for Your Destructive Chewer

Shopping for the best toy for your dog can be tricky, especially if they seem to destroy everything you buy. While starting with the recommended toys above, there are a few other tips to follow to find the best for your pet:

  • Choose one for your dog’s weight. Not all chews are made the same. Many toys are marketed as “suitable for dogs that weigh up to XX lbs.” Make sure you don’t buy toys that are made for small dogs if yours is 80 lbs., or vice versa. Not only will it likely be destroyed quickly, but it can also be dangerous.

  • Choose hard toys with caution. Really hard chew toys, like antlers, bones, and hooves, are great in moderation and long-lasting. However, these chews can chip, fracture, or break your dog’s teeth, or they can splinter and cut your dog’s tongue and gums. Swallowed pieces can cause internal issues. If you buy your dog a hard toy, be sure to supervise the chewing and only let them chew a little bit at a time. Also, inspect the toy prior to your dog chewing it.

  • Shop for durable materials. Rubber is probably the material that’s firm enough to stand up to serious chewing but has enough give that it won’t hurt your pet’s teeth or mouth. It is also easy to clean, and many rubber toys float if your dog likes to play in the water.

  • Check the “chewing style” on the packaging. Many toys will list on the packaging what type of chewing style that toy is made for. If your dog is an aggressive chewer, look for “power chew” or “extreme chewing style.” Depending on how much of a destructive chewer your dog is, you may also be able to consider “strong chewing style.” Choosing the best style will not only help your toys last longer but can also help keep your dog safe.

Top 5 Traits of a Well-trained Dog

According to data collected by the American Veterinary Medical Association, over 76,000,000 households in the U.S. have dogs. If you’re one of the millions of families who own a dog, you understand the importance of having a well-trained dog. 

If you aren’t sure how your pup measures up, this guide will describe some of the traits your dog should have. Keep reading to learn what they are. 

1. Your Dog Remains Focused 

A well-trained dog can stay focused on specific tasks. This is a dog who can take on a variety of responsibilities in any kind of setting without getting distracted.

This type of training is most often seen in a service dog. Service dogs are trained to help complete tasks that are difficult for their owners. 

2. Your Dog Doesn’t Struggle With Separation Anxiety

Another trait of a well-trained dog is one without separation anxiety. If you’ve ever done any pet sitting, you know some dogs struggle with breaking away from their family. 

You might notice separation anxiety with your dog. Even something as simple as going into another room sends your dog into a panic. 

Dogs who start getting training at an early age understand that their humans aren’t abandoning them and will do fine if left alone for some time. 

3. Your Dog Listens to Your Commands 

Another trait of a well-trained canine companion is following commands. If you only have to tell your dog once to come before he does, you have a well-trained and behaved pup. 

A well-trained dog learns and can remember all kinds of commands easily. This is usually the case with dogs who start training as puppies. Your dog should know how to sit and stay with simple hand gestures. 

4. Your Dog Adapts Well to Change 

Most dogs, especially as they start to age, have a hard time adapting to change. A well-trained pup will be able to manage any changes to his or her environment without becoming stressed or lethargic. 

Their ability to focus is what allows them to learn how to manage their owner’s needs in every new environment. 

5. Your Dog Does Well on a Leash

One of the most common problems dog owners face is leash pulling. An excited puppy will pull on their leash as they try to explore new scents as they walk. 

Dogs who started their training as puppies will let their owners guide them and will never try to walk far ahead of them. If your dog is struggling with pulling or any other behavioral issue, you might want to consider dog training. You can learn more about it and book a session right away.  

Work to Develop These Traits of a Well-Trained Dog

These are the top traits every well-trained dog should have. If your dog is struggling in any of these areas, you should consider training. 

Check out some of our other pet blogs if you found useful information in this one. 

What you shouldn’t forget when travelling with your pet

Lots of people own pets now and this sees a variety of animals play a key role in family life – from dogs to cats, gerbils, chinchillas and more. Whilst many of us would make arrangements for our pets to be looked after when we went on holiday in the past, lots of people now choose to travel with them instead. This is not only great fun for you but also means your pet can experience the excitement of travelling too.

Before you head off though, you must prepare properly for the trip. But what are the key things to remember when travelling with a pet?

Take out pet insurance for the trip

One thing you should definitely not forget when travelling with your pet is insurance. It is therefore crucial to find the best deals around from trusted brands like Petsure before you head off. But why is this so important?

In simple terms, it gives you total peace of mind that your pet can get the care they need, should they have an accident or fall ill while away. In addition, it gives you financial cover against the cost of any treatment that could be needed. If you already have a policy, remember to double check what is covered under it and that it applies to travelling to other locations/countries.

Take a pet carrier along
However you plan to travel, pet carriers are a necessity and make the whole journey more manageable. If you plan to fly, they are also something which airlines will insist on. Even if you are planning a road trip in your own vehicle, housing your dog or cat in a carrier keeps it calm and stops it interfering with your driving. For other pets like hamsters, it is worth remembering to take them along in their cage for best results.

Supplies for cleaning up messes

When travelling with your pet, remembering some supplies to clean up after it is wise. If you plan to take your pet dog away with you for example, it is advisable to pack dog bags so you can pick up after it when on the move. It can also be worth remembering some baby wipes for cleaning up other messes and some dry anti-bacterial handwash for you to use whilst travelling.

Food and drink

When travelling with your pet, it is also crucial to remember food and drink for them. This is especially true if you have a long journey ahead of you in a confined space (such as a car). Fresh water is obviously essential and there are travel water dispensers out there now which are perfect for situations like this. If you will be travelling via bus, train or plane, you should be able to find free fresh water for pets at most airports, train stations and bus terminals. It is also a good tip to keep some treats handy, so that pets do not get too hungry on your journey.

Get organised when travelling with pets

Whatever pet you plan to travel with, it is critical to get organised and remember to pack all the essentials you need. This will not only make the journey more enjoyable for you but also ensure your pet remains happy and healthy. If you need a few tips on the most important things to remember, the above should help.

Do Dogs Smile?

That’s an interesting question. And one many dog lovers wonder about. 

Eyes filled with joy, excited tail-wagging, and two beautiful pearly eyes that look brighter when you approach them. Suddenly, the weariness from the stressful day at work vanishes, and happiness washes over you. 

And all of this, thanks to the smile of your doggy, your best friend. 

But do dogs actually smile? 

And if they do smile, does their smiling mean the same to them as it means to us, humans? Let’s find out! 

Do Dogs Perceive Emotions?

Before answering whether dogs smile or not, we better understand their emotions. 

A few years ago, the idea that dogs share similar feelings and emotions with humans was something laughed about. 

But, it’s true. Dogs do have feelings. 

MRI technology shows that parts of dogs’ brains are similar to humans, meaning they experience feelings. 

According to scientific research, dogs increase their oxytocin levels when people pet them. Oxytocin produces similar sensations in both humans and dogs, suggesting they experience attachment to and affection from their owners. 

Simply put, dogs feel and experience emotions and show them through their body language. 

So, Do Dogs Smile?

In reality, dogs don’t smile as people do. The secret to understanding how a dog smiles is to pay close attention to the body language that comes with the smile. 

If your dog is baring their teeth aggressively, be careful and stay put. It could look like a smile, but if a smile is accompanied by raised neck or back fur, growling, and a stiff posture, your dog is angry. 

Animal behaviourists see a dog’s smile as an adaptive facial expression. Dogs appear to use smiling as an expression of emotion and as a social skill. When humans see a dog smile, they reward the gesture with petting, treats, or laughs. So, dogs quickly learn that if they continue to smile, there will be a positive reaction from their two-legged friends. 

The Body Language of Dogs

When a dog smiles, it relaxes its facial muscles and posture. When expressing joy or happiness for one another, dogs use their whole body to show it. And, as smiling is “contagious” in the human world, when a dog smiles, the person will likely smile back, reinforcing the body language. 

What’s more, there’s also the canine phenomenon of neoteny that may explain smiling. Neoteny is essentially the preservation of puppy behaviour into a dog’s adulthood. 

Greeting behaviours like licking, smiling, tail wagging, jumping, and even barking are adaptive behaviours in dogs when they’re young. The positive reinforcement they receive from humans during this part of their life means dogs will sustain their puppy behaviours even when they’re adults. 

Who wouldn’t smile in the face of a smiling puppy, right?

Conclusion

It’s official: dogs smile! Especially when they’re excited and happy. They will also wag their tails, perhaps do a happy dance, and relax their eyes when someone they know is approaching. Generally, though, you shouldn’t interpret your dog’s language and feelings based on facial expressions. You should factor in your dog’s whole body language before understanding how they feel. 

If something’s certain, it’s important to respect and honour the connection between humans and dogs. Each dog is complex and different. It’s an individual being with its own emotions, experiences, intelligence, and personality. 

Are you looking for content about dogs, cats, or any other animal? An accredited content writing agency can develop content for any niche, including pets. 

Pet products that feel like they’re from the future

Over the last couple of months, you may have had to find new and exciting ways to keep your furry friends entertained, especially if you have returned back to the office after working from home for two years. This has led to lots of fun and innovative pet products that have been released, from tech tracking collars and microchip feeders to health trackers and video games designed especially for your doggy companions.

Here are a few of our favourite pet products that (almost!) seem like they’re from the future!

GoPro Fetch

Ever wondered what your dog gets up to when they’re exploring off lead or wandering around in the garden? Now you can find out with GoPro’s Fetch Harness Lead.

• The harness can be strapped to the back and chest for different camera angles.
• It’s washable and comfortable for your pets.
• Simply put your dog in the harness, take them for a walk and watch the interesting footage when you’re home.
• It’s waterproof too so great for typical British weather!

Subscription boxes

What’s better than receiving lots of treats, toys and supplies for your dog straight to your door every week?

Subscription boxes for pets from Wild Thought online pet shop have become extremely popular and are expected to grow even bigger in the future.

• They are a hassle-free, convenient way to get treats for your dogs.
• They include items like chews, toys and treats to keep them entertained for hours.
• They’re designed with your pet’s health and happiness in mind.
• All products featured in these particular boxes are natural, healthy and eco-friendly.
• They can often be tweaked to suit your dog’s breed, age, dietary requirements and individual likes. This way, you can make sure that they love what they get every single time!

Interactive smart toys

Just like humans, dogs need to keep their minds active in order to stay healthy. It’s expected that interactive smart toys, like challenging puzzles, will continue to prove popular over the coming years, with online platforms like Amazon and eBay already stocking thousands of products.

• These types of toys provide mental stimulation, self-entertainment, stress relief and encourage slower eating habits. They’re also great for keeping them out of trouble when you are busy or out of the house for short periods of time!
• There are lots of options available, including sensory toys, treat dispensers, vessel toys and many more.
• There are versions out there that can help with behavioural problems like fast eating, aggressive chewing and over-excitement.

We hope that this article gives you some new ideas to help keep your pet entertained both now and in the future. If you need further advice on how to deal with boredom, this article from Woodgreen Animal Charity may help.

Good luck and let us know if you have any more suggestions to try!

The Best Ways to Make Your Home Pet Safe

In the US, around 85 million families have some sort of pet, which is two-thirds of the population! Having a furry companion is an excellent way to enrich your life. Plus, you can rescue furry creatures in need too.

Do you feel like you’re ready to add another member to your household? Then you need to make some preparations before you bring Fido home. Otherwise, they can get into trouble!

Keep reading for ways you can make your home pet safe before you introduce your new furry friends.

Store Away Toxic Substances

Pets are like babies; they’ll get into anything and everything! And when they do, they’ll want to taste whatever they find.

It’s vital that you store away all toxic substances, like medications and cleaners. Even if they’re not at ground level, you should lock these items away. You never know if your pet will jump up to where they’re not supposed to be!

Consider installing latches on your cabinets as well. Get trash cans with lids too, so they can’t get into these containers.

Remove Toxic Plants

Houseplants can really brighten up a place, but some aren’t great for pet safety. While looking at munchkin cats for adoption, you should also research all the plants you have.

You should give away those that are toxic to pets. If you can’t bear to part with your plants, at least put them high up where they’re impossible to reach. While you’re at it, place your fragile items out of reach as well.

Have the Right Flooring

If possible, ensure you have hardwood floors or tiles in your home.

In general, fabric flooring (such as carpet and rugs) is bad. Your energetic pets might trip on these things.

Also, they trap hair, bacteria, and biological waste from puppy accidents. This isn’t great for people with pet allergies, so do yourself a favor and breathe easier and clean up faster with non-fabric flooring.

Avoid Light-Colored Upholstery

Light-colored upholstery will stain easily, and when you have pets, your furniture will get ruined!

Keep your furniture looking newer for longer by going for darker colors. If you can’t afford to replace things, then at least get a dark-colored throw to protect your upholstery.

Make Your Yard Pet Friendly

Your pet won’t want to be cooped up all the time, so you need to make your yard fun and safe.

Ensure your fence is at an appropriate height and there are no loose boards. Remove toxic plants or consider installing an enclosure so you can confine your furry friends to a safe area.

Make the terrain safe by leveling it. Then add plenty of enrichment toys!

Ensure Your Home’s Pet Safe

Bringing home new pets is a huge responsibility. So take some time to ensure your home is as pet safe as possible. This will save you a lot of trouble and heartbreak!

Now you have a pet-friendly home, but there’s so much more to do to make your new pets feel comfortable. Read the rest of our blog page for more information!

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