"I have a tail-wagging time at All About Paws!"

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As any cat owner knows, our feline friends can be notoriously picky about all kinds of habits, especially their water intake. While it might seem like a minor concern, ensuring that your cat stays properly hydrated is crucial for their overall health and well-being. So, how can you encourage your finicky feline to drink more water? Here are a few tips and tricks to help keep your cat hydrated and healthy: 1. Provide Fresh Water: Cats prefer to drink fresh, clean water. Make sure to change their water bowl daily and clean it regularly to prevent any buildup of bacteria, dust, or debris. This seems like a silly point to make, but taking the simple step to switch out water each day can have an effect on your cat’s interest in their water dish! 2. Consider the Bowl: Some cats are particular about the type of water bowl they drink from. Experiment with different materials, sizes, and shapes to see what your cat prefers. Some cats even enjoy drinking from running water, so investing in a cat fountain could be beneficial, so that you don’t need to keep your tap running all day! 3. Location, Location, Location: The placement of your cat's water bowl can make a difference. Ensure that water bowls are placed away from litter boxes and feeding areas, as cats instinctively avoid drinking water near their food or waste. 4. Try Different Water Sources: Cats may be more inclined to drink from certain sources over others. Consider offering filtered water or even low-sodium chicken or tuna broth as a treat to encourage hydration. 5. Wet Food Diet: Incorporating wet food into your cat's diet can increase their overall water intake, believe it or not! Wet food contains a higher moisture content than dry kibble, providing additional hydration. 6. Interactive Play: Engage your cat in interactive play sessions to stimulate their thirst. Running, jumping, and playing can make your cat feel more inclined to drink water afterward. 7. Regular Vet Check-Ups: Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for monitoring your cat's health, including their hydration levels. Your vet can provide valuable insights and recommendations tailored to your cat's specific needs. Remember, every cat is unique, so it may take some trial and error to find the right combination of methods to encourage your cat to drink more water. However, prioritizing hydration is essential for maintaining your cat's overall health and longevity. By implementing these tips and tricks, you can help ensure that your beloved feline friend stays happy, healthy, and well-hydrated for years to come. After all, a hydrated cat is a happy cat! Source: Tips and Tricks to Get Your Cat to Drink More Water – Clinical Nutrition Service at Cummings School (tufts.edu)

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When is the last time that you collected your dog’s bowl along with your family’s dishes after dinner? Were you aware of the fact that dog bowls are ranked as the 4th most germ-filled location within a household according to the National Sanitation Foundation? Eating from an unwashed dog bowl day after day can increase the risk of your dog becoming sick from the bacteria that is building up over time. Bacteria such as salmonella and E. Coli have been found on dog food and water bowls and can have an effect on your health as well. Not only can an unclean bowl risk infection but can also lead to skin irritation around your dog’s mouth and face. The best and most preferred way of washing your dog’s bowls would be to put them in the dishwasher just as you would your regular dishes. The high heat during wash cycles is best for killing any bacteria that may be residing in the bowl. Handwashing can be another method used to clean your pup’s bowls; however it is not as effective as a dishwasher. It is also best to use a separate sponge or rag for these bowls that will not be used on your household dishes in order to prevent the risk cross contamination. Be mindful of the type of bowl your dog eats from. Ceramic and plastic bowls tend to be more porous and can be harder to clean. A great alternative is switching to a stainless-steel bowl. If you have a mat underneath your dog’s bowl, make sure to clean that regularly as well. Washing your dog’s bowl daily is the best decision to keep both your pup and your family safe from harmful bacteria that is easy to avoid. ‍ Sources: https://be.chewy.com/clean-dog-bowls-right-way

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Many dogs can suffer from anxiety in a variety of ways, and it can be sad to watch your dog go through it. You may feel helpless in situations where your dog is showing signs of stress, but there are many are ways for you to give them comfort. These are just a few ways to help calm your dog when they show signs of being anxious. Exercise and movement Just like getting up and taking a walk can help to calm your nerves and lessen your anxiety, the same goes for your dog. If you see that your pup is starting to experience anxious behaviors, get them moving as soon as possible. It is also beneficial to exert a lot of their energy before you leave to help combat separation anxiety. Safe Space Create a space in your home that can be a safe space for your dog, where they feel comfortable getting away when they are feeling stressed. Making a space such as their crate feel safe to your pup will also significantly reduce separation anxiety when you leave your home. Physical touch When your dog is feeling stressed, physical touch from someone they love and trust can significantly alleviate anxiety. Petting, hugging, and snuggling your dog can help to distract them from the fear they may be feeling, as well as help them feel safer. Toys Toys are a great tool to use in times of anxiety with your dog, as they are a great way to redirect your dog’s mind. Toys can help in a variety of ways, from toys with calming aspects of sensory textures and sounds, to toys that will distract by stimulating a different part of their brain with a puzzle. ‍ If your dog’s anxiety becomes extreme or too frequent, reach out to your vet for what steps you can take. When your dog is showing signs of stress, take a deep breath, and know that they will be able to sense your calmness. ‍ Sources: https://www.hgtv.com/lifestyle/family/pets/how-to-calm-an-anxious-dog

Even in winter weather, it is important to get your dog outside and moving if you have the ability to do so. Taking walks in the winter can affect your pup differently than in milder temperatures and weather, so here are a few things to keep in mind for your winter strolls. Minimize time outside While it is important to get your walk in, you may want to cut down the time you spend outside dependent on the freezing temperatures. Instead, opt for multiple walks that are short but sweet, instead of prolonged exposure to the cold. Moisturize paws Winter dryness has its effects on all of us, including your pup. Dog’s paws can get dried out in cold weather, especially when they are frequently going outside or on walks. Dry paws can lead to roughness and cracks, and in worse cases can even split. Coconut oil is an effective and safe option for hydrating the pads of paws. It is non-toxic and is also filled with healthy fats and vitamins if your dog decides to lick it right off their paws. Watch your dog’s actions When dogs have reached their limit in the snow or cold, they will do their best to let you know. This can absolutely vary depending on your dog, but may include barking/whining, pulling back towards your house, shivering, or lifting/licking their paws excessively. Be aware of these signs when you are out with them, and do not leave them alone outside for prolonged periods of time with no means of shelter. It is important to continue to get outside and get moving with your dog during the winter months, but it is also important to do it in the safest way possible! There are many dogs with heavy coats who were built for winter weather, but many who were not. You know your dog best, so take your winter walks with these tips in mind, but always do what is best for your pup. Bundle up and enjoy! ‍ Sources: https://vetsoftherockies.com/education/cats-and-dogs-in-winter-common-cold-weather-pet-illnesses/