If you’re thinking about bringing a new dog into your home, selecting the right breed is crucial for the health and happiness of both you and your new pet. Every dog breed is unique in terms of energy level, size, and personality — all of which can impact how well they fit into your lifestyle. To ensure that you find a furry friend who will be compatible with your lifestyle and make a great addition to your family, we have some tips to help you select the right dog breed for you whether you’re a registered dog breeder or a first time fur parent.
Consider Your Living Situation
The first step in choosing the right pup is considering your living situation. Are you living in an apartment or house? Do you have a large yard or only a small balcony? Will you be able to provide enough exercise and activity for a high-energy pup? Do you have a pet door? These are important questions to answer before selecting a breed since different dogs require different amounts of space and exercise depending on their size and energy level.
For example, if you live in an apartment or condo with limited space, you may want to choose a smaller breed such as a Chihuahua or Shih Tzu that doesn’t need as much room to run around. On the other hand, if you have plenty of property, then bigger breeds such as Labradors or German Shepherds may be a good choice if you’re the type who spends most of their time in the great outdoors. Certain breeds will lend themselves well to specific types of jobs — herding dogs will work well with livestock, while guard dogs will be able to defend your property from wild animals or intruders. Think about what you need your dog to do in their day-to-day life, and choose accordingly.
How Much Time Do You Have?
Another important factor to consider when choosing the right dog breed is how much time and energy you can devote to taking care of them each day. Some breeds require more attention than others; for instance, herding breeds like Australian Shepherds or Border Collies need plenty of exercise, stimulation and training to stay happy and healthy.
If you don’t have much free time for walks or long play sessions with your dog each day, these types of breeds may not be ideal choices for your lifestyle. Instead, low-maintenance breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or the French Bulldog may be better options since they require less active care than other breeds but still offer plenty of love and companionship.
Think About Your Personality
When selecting the ideal canine companion for yourself or your family members, it’s also important to think about everyone’s personalities. Different breeds exhibit different temperaments; some pups are more laid back while others are more energetic and outgoing. If someone in your household tends towards shyness or introversion then selecting a more mellow dog breed like a Maltese might be best since they tend to be calmer than other breeds and won’t overwhelm anyone with their boisterous behaviour.
On the other hand, if you enjoy being active outdoors, then choosing an outgoing breed like an Australian Cattle Dog which needs plenty of physical activity could be your ticket to even greater adventures.
Research Breeds Thoroughly
Finally, when deciding which dog is perfect for your family, it’s essential that you do thorough research on various breeds before making any kind of commitment to purchase a puppy. It’s a good idea to read up on some of the characteristics of dogs, such as size, temperament, health issues, coat type, shedding habits, energy level and training needs. With this knowledge, you can make an informed decision about which one will truly fit into your life best.
There are many online resources available where you can learn more about specific breeds. You may also opt to join community sites and forums where people share stories from their own experiences owning particular dogs. This research should help give insight into whether certain pups would thrive in your unique home environment.
Final Words
Choosing the right dog breed doesn’t have to be an overwhelming process — by following these simple tips it can actually become quite enjoyable! Remember that every pup is unique, so take some time getting familiar with individual personalities before committing to any particular one.
Lastly, don’t forget that no matter what kind of pooch comes into your life, love, patience, commitment, understanding, and lots of belly rubs go a long way towards helping create lasting bonds between humans and our canine friends. Good luck on finding the perfect four-legged companion to accompany you throughout your life!
Imagine a hectic day in which you attend back-to-back classes, your teacher complains about your performance, and you are stressed about an unfinished project. But when you come home to your apartment and open the door, your dog charges toward you, thrilled and greeting you with barks and kisses.
You will forget all the problems in the world!
Owning a dog can make your life exciting and more colorful. But it won’t always be smiles and snuggles. Having a dog is a lot like having a baby. They need constant care and attention.
Hence adding pet ownership to an already chaotic college routine is a decision you must make carefully. Even though you can seek help with your assignments from a professional do my homework service for students, there is still a lot of responsibility for you to manage.
This article will help you make the best decision and give you essential tips for caring for your furry friend while in college.
Why Get a Dog?
Excellent Companions
Dogs are amiable and amazing companions. We all have watched with teary eyes those videos of how loving and caring dogs are. When you have a dog, you can be assured you will never be bored because your pet is always there to play.
Dogs are the friendliest of all pets and they shower you with unconditional love. Whether you take your dog on car rides or hang out at the local park, your furry friend will keep you occupied and smiling. Besides, your dog will always listen to your rants about life, and being with them will vaporize all your worries.
Improved Social Life
Meeting new people can be challenging when you don’t know what to talk about. Since dogs are a great conversation topic and people love talking about pets, you can easily break the ice with others.
You may connect with other dog owners on campus, discuss your pets, and get to know each other. Having pets makes you similar to them, so you are more likely to make several new friends. Having dogs also encourages you to go out of your room, explore your neighborhood, and meet new people.
Motivation to Exercise
Students may not have enough time or desire to engage in sports. But your new dog will need daily walks for its well-being. So, you will have to go outside with your pet friend and do some exercise regularly — a mutually beneficial activity.
Since it is necessary, your dog will push you to walk even when you are tired and don’t feel like going out. It helps you be active and stay in shape.
Enhanced Mental Health
Nothing will make you happier than coming home after a long and tiring day and seeing your dog who is excited you are back.
Numerous studies have proven that dogs help you reduce stress and fight anxiety. They make you smile, improve your mood, and help you relax. And when your dog makes funny faces, chases leaves, or asks for your attention, you may laugh your heart out.
All of these ultimately strengthen your mental health and improve your academic performance.
Things to Consider Before Getting a Dog
Expenses
All the above benefits come at a price because owning a dog can put a dent in your savings.
The initial expense includes buying a bed, collar, leash, and litter box (if necessary), whereas recurring costs involve food, toys, grooming, vet charges, and other dog supplies.
According to the ASPCA, a medium-sized dog, like a German Shepherd, may cost around $670 USD per year. Depending on your dog’s size and breed, the average lifetime cost of owning a dog can vary between $15,000 to $50,000 USD.
Since you also have to consider your monthly expenses and tuition fees, you must analyze your financial situation before deciding to get a dog.
Required Care and Attention
Keeping a dog requires a huge time commitment. From taking it on walks, feeding, and training for good behavior to making vet appointments, you will have to care for your dog like a baby.
If your days are packed with classes, homework, assignments, exams, and projects, you may struggle to find time for your dog.
Since the average life of a dog is 10-13 years, owning a dog means signing up for a commitment to care for them for at least the next ten years.
Limits
Since having a dog is a great time commitment, you won’t have much time for yourself. And you can’t leave it alone for long periods because it also needs a lot of care.
This restricts your freedom. You can’t go out all night, have long travel breaks, or always spend time with friends after class because your dog is waiting for you at home.
How to Keep a Dog in College?
If you have a favorable financial situation, have enough time to care for your pet, and are willing to compromise your social life a little, you are ready to own a dog. It will be your best friend and make your life memorable. So here are some tips to help you care for a dog in college:
1. Buy all the necessary things, like food, a leash, toys, a grooming kit, and everything your furry friend needs. Also, ensure your roommate, if you have one, is dog-friendly and your apartment allows keeping pets.
2. Develop a routine that accommodates you and your dog. You need to set aside time for playing, grooming, feeding, and walking your dog.
3. Dogs need regular activity to be physically and mentally healthy. Try to walk your dog for 15-45 minutes every day.
4. Ask a friend or pet sitter to take care of your dog when you attend classes or leave for an extended period.
5. Be attentive to the dog’s needs and find reliable medical help to take good care of it. Make vet appointments every year to have regular checks.
6. If you occasionally forget to feed your dog, you can purchase an automated pet food dispenser to ensure your puppy is fed properly.
7. Be good friends with your dog. You can free up at least 15 minutes every day for playtime.
To Sum Up
Getting a dog will probably be the best decision of your life. But it can also wreak havoc on your schedule and grades if you fail to manage things properly. Hence, you should consider the above points before making this important decision.
Service dogs: little helpers that make the lives of people with disabilities so much easier thanks to the special skills they were taught to do since they were puppies. And even though service dog handlers can understand the tasks and reasons why their pets are allowed everywhere, for ordinary citizens, it may not be as easy to understand why these dogs are in the pet-free restaurant sitting under the table right now.
That’s why, to demonstrate an animal’s special status, service dog owners prefer using special accessories to notify everyone that the dog is currently working and shouldn’t be disturbed in any way. The most popular item almost everyone buys is a service dog vest. What sorts of things do you need to know about them, and is it possible to buy service dog vests online? Let’s find it out together in the article…
The Main Purpose of Service Vests for Dogs
A lot of new service dog owners underestimate the power of service dog accessories, such as vests, special collars, or even service dog ID tags. Below we are going to mention a few reasons why you should consider these things in the first place:
Recognition. Unique service dog supplies are usually bright-colored so that they can catch the eye of practically everyone around you. In this way, people are alerted that a person with a service animal just entered the room, so they are less likely to disturb you and your dog, as well as have fewer questions about why the animal is allowed to be in the public place (if it’s a cafe, cinema, or any other usually pet-free establishment).
Safety. Walking with a service dog in public can be stressful for an animal because of all the unwanted attention from strangers. So a service dog harness may be an excellent way to inform people around you about the animal’s duties and the fact that it shouldn’t be petted, talked to, or bothered in any other way.
Discipline. You shouldn’t forget that a service dog is also a pet, so a vest can create an association with work for them. So when the item is on, the dog will be serious, concentrated, and on alert; and after the harness is off, he or she can be an active and happy puppy, free to run around and play with other dogs.
How to Choose the Right Vest Size for My Dog?
The best thing about this product is that plenty of types of service dog vests are available on the market, so it’s not hard to pick the best option for your four-legged friend. Usually they vary in size, color, form, and design; it’s possible to select an option with or without writing (for instance, it can say “service animal” on its back), add embroidery on it, etc. One’s imagination is the only limit!
The most important thing to consider when choosing a harness is to pick the right size, as a dog will spend the majority of its time wearing the item. There are a few ways you can do it:
Measure the girth of the animal. If it’s too tight around its neck, it may lead to trouble breathing or swallowing, and you definitely don’t want that for your pet. Regarding collars, two fingers should fit between the dog’s neck and the product to not cause any discomfort.
Take the measurements around the middle. This measurement is needed to know which service dog vests (small, medium, or large) will work best for your pet. Sometimes you may also be asked about the animal’s weight.
Measure the dog’s height. Usually this is done from the paws to the tip of the head. Not all companies ask for it, but sometimes it is better to have all the numbers written down to pick the option that suits best.
It’s okay if you are not sure how to do this on your own; we believe a good shop will surely help you with everything to pick the best vest variation for your furry friend.
To Sum Up: Are Service Dog Vests Important?
Among all service dog accessories, vests are among the most popular and helpful out there. They are useful for numerous reasons: alerting people about an individual with a disability is the main one. These products are available in different sizes and colors, so it’s quite easy to pick the design to your liking. And of course, the most important thing is for a harness to be comfortable for the dog, as it’s going to spend most of the time wearing it. Hopefully this article has helped you understand more about this essential accessory!
You can find more information about useful service dog accessories on the MyServiceAnimal blog article here.
If your dog has Cushing’s disease, an overproduction of cortisol (cortisone) in the animal’s body, it is essential to refine his or her diet immediately. Your dog’s dietary needs are going to change and it’s important to review what’s good and what’s not.
This is a great way to improve their quality of life and keep the symptoms at bay.
Here is a look at the main types of foods that are recommended for feeding your dog with Cushing’s disease (digestible protein is key), and why it’s important to look into this right away. As always, make sure to consult with your veterinarian prior to introducing new foods to your pup.
Digestible Proteins
Some Seafood
When it comes to cutting back on specific foods, it’s important to pay attention to the details. With seafood, try and avoid overly fatty fish and opt for high protein, healthy fats like salmon.
You will want to look to avoid specific seafood more than others, including sardines. The reason has to do with the makeup of this meat and how it will impact your dog’s digestive system.
Lean Beef and Organs
When you are looking at completing a diet plan for your dog, it’s best to include digestible proteins, and lean beef as well as organs are a good choice to help your dog with Cushing’s reach their protein needs.
Other good options include venison and bison. These are similar to other types of red meat that are available to give to your dog. While most people are not going to be giving venison to their dogs regularly, you may still want to consider this and keep the option open in your list of good proteins.
Just like venison, bison is another good lean beef protein source for dogs with Cushing’s disease. Both bison and venison are much rarer forms of meat on their own but can be found in dog foods, which is why they are important to mention.
Pork on the other hand is a type of meat you should try to avoid. This is because it tends to be higher in fat and sodium than other types of meat like chicken and beef.
Carbohydrates with Fiber
It is highly recommended to try and cut out any refined carbohydrates because they tend to have a detrimental affect on insulin and cortisol levels. But it still may be OK to feed your dog healthy grains, and you may want to make sure they are getting fiber with the foods they are eating.
Vitamins & Supplements
Just like with humans, dogs can benefit from additional supplements to help support their diet. This is even more important for a dog that has Cushing’s. Some of the most common herbs and remedies for dogs to help treat Cushing’s naturally include:
There are of course more supplements, and so rather than trying to get your dog to take these individually, it could be better to opt for a liquid or capsule that contains many of the ingredients mentioned above.
Final Thoughts
As you begin putting together a comprehensive diet plan for your dog, it’s important to keep these foods in mind.
You should try to keep your dog’s diet fairly strict if they suffer from Cushing’s disease, but it’s understandable and can be quite difficult in the earlier stages getting them to switch to foods they may not be used to.
Remember, diet is still one of the best ways to ensure their symptoms are kept in control; it can lead a healthier life. When it comes to elements that you can control, this is one that you will want to get on top of right away as a dog owner.
Take the time to look through the foods available for your dog, make sure they are safe, and remember, this means no more tossing table scraps in their direction and fine-tuning what they are eating on a daily basis.
Do you travel quite often and have you always had to make arrangements for someone to take care of your dog while you are away? While I am sure that you have people in your life willing to help out with this, I am also sure that those people won’t be able to help out every single time you call. Plus, maybe sometimes you would much rather prefer to take your dog with you.
If you’re thinking of living a nomadic lifestyle, then there is absolutely no way that you would want to leave your pet behind when you start this particular adventure. You will most likely decide that your dog is coming with you wherever you go. If you’re planning on taking your dog on a plane, then you might want to learn more about how all of that works, and which types of rules you would have to follow in the process.
Regardless of the modes of transportation that you will use, one thing is absolutely for sure: You should think about getting some of the kinds of products that can help traveling dog owners keep their pets calmer and more relaxed while traveling, as well as increase the safety level of their animals and their comfort in general. I am sure that you have already heard of the possibility of buying travel dog products.
You might, however, not be completely certain as to why you might need products like these. Some people assume that this is simply a waste of money, and they start their trips without these essentials. At some point, though, they realize that they should have bought at least one product that could have made the traveling experience more enjoyable both for them and for the animal.
Why Get Travel Dog Products?
How do you like the idea of starting a trip and then regretting the decision to not purchase certain helpful products? You probably do not really like the sound of that, which is why I am now going to tell you a bit more about why you should get some of those dog traveling products. This way, you will understand the purpose of these products much better, and you can figure out if you actually need them, which I am pretty sure that you will.
Well, first of all, as I have already hinted at above, these types of products will make the entire traveling experience much safer. You definitely don’t want anything bad to happen to your pet. Since you are on unknown terrain, it would be a great idea for you to be absolutely sure that you can control your pooch perfectly on walks. There are products that can help you out with that, as well as goods that can generally increase the safety of your canine in cars, planes, or other transportation means.
So safety is reason number one, but there is definitely one more thing that leads most people toward purchasing these kinds of travel products. These Travel Dog Products will improve your traveling experience by making sure that your pet is always completely comfortable and happy, in which case the animal won’t become overly anxious and ruin the entire trip. Don’t forget to pack a nice bed for your pet, among other things, as that will definitely increase their level of comfort.
Which Ones To Buy?
Now that you have a much clearer idea of why you should buy these dog traveling products, chances are that you are quite interested in figuring out which ones to get. Well, the best thing to do here is to find a great shop, check out the selection of their goods, and then decide which ones you want to buy, while always keeping your pet’s safety and comfort in mind. This will lead you towards purchasing some rather necessary products.
For instance, you’ll most likely get a first aid kit for doggies, and you will probably want to buy a food carrier and a travel bowl. Those are the essentials, but you should certainly also think of getting a multi-purpose leash, a car safety harness if you’re traveling by car, as well as a harness that provides you with greater control during walks. Additionally, you can consider buying some doggie clothes to make your pet even more comfortable, but that will depend on the weather.
Choosing the Right Dog Breed for Your Lifestyle
/1 Comment/in Articles & News | Pet Food, Health, Dog Blog /by DogPerDayIf you’re thinking about bringing a new dog into your home, selecting the right breed is crucial for the health and happiness of both you and your new pet. Every dog breed is unique in terms of energy level, size, and personality — all of which can impact how well they fit into your lifestyle. To ensure that you find a furry friend who will be compatible with your lifestyle and make a great addition to your family, we have some tips to help you select the right dog breed for you whether you’re a registered dog breeder or a first time fur parent.
Consider Your Living Situation
The first step in choosing the right pup is considering your living situation. Are you living in an apartment or house? Do you have a large yard or only a small balcony? Will you be able to provide enough exercise and activity for a high-energy pup? Do you have a pet door? These are important questions to answer before selecting a breed since different dogs require different amounts of space and exercise depending on their size and energy level.
For example, if you live in an apartment or condo with limited space, you may want to choose a smaller breed such as a Chihuahua or Shih Tzu that doesn’t need as much room to run around. On the other hand, if you have plenty of property, then bigger breeds such as Labradors or German Shepherds may be a good choice if you’re the type who spends most of their time in the great outdoors. Certain breeds will lend themselves well to specific types of jobs — herding dogs will work well with livestock, while guard dogs will be able to defend your property from wild animals or intruders. Think about what you need your dog to do in their day-to-day life, and choose accordingly.
How Much Time Do You Have?
Another important factor to consider when choosing the right dog breed is how much time and energy you can devote to taking care of them each day. Some breeds require more attention than others; for instance, herding breeds like Australian Shepherds or Border Collies need plenty of exercise, stimulation and training to stay happy and healthy.
If you don’t have much free time for walks or long play sessions with your dog each day, these types of breeds may not be ideal choices for your lifestyle. Instead, low-maintenance breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or the French Bulldog may be better options since they require less active care than other breeds but still offer plenty of love and companionship.
Think About Your Personality
When selecting the ideal canine companion for yourself or your family members, it’s also important to think about everyone’s personalities. Different breeds exhibit different temperaments; some pups are more laid back while others are more energetic and outgoing. If someone in your household tends towards shyness or introversion then selecting a more mellow dog breed like a Maltese might be best since they tend to be calmer than other breeds and won’t overwhelm anyone with their boisterous behaviour.
On the other hand, if you enjoy being active outdoors, then choosing an outgoing breed like an Australian Cattle Dog which needs plenty of physical activity could be your ticket to even greater adventures.
Research Breeds Thoroughly
Finally, when deciding which dog is perfect for your family, it’s essential that you do thorough research on various breeds before making any kind of commitment to purchase a puppy. It’s a good idea to read up on some of the characteristics of dogs, such as size, temperament, health issues, coat type, shedding habits, energy level and training needs. With this knowledge, you can make an informed decision about which one will truly fit into your life best.
There are many online resources available where you can learn more about specific breeds. You may also opt to join community sites and forums where people share stories from their own experiences owning particular dogs. This research should help give insight into whether certain pups would thrive in your unique home environment.
Final Words
Choosing the right dog breed doesn’t have to be an overwhelming process — by following these simple tips it can actually become quite enjoyable! Remember that every pup is unique, so take some time getting familiar with individual personalities before committing to any particular one.
Lastly, don’t forget that no matter what kind of pooch comes into your life, love, patience, commitment, understanding, and lots of belly rubs go a long way towards helping create lasting bonds between humans and our canine friends. Good luck on finding the perfect four-legged companion to accompany you throughout your life!
Owning a Dog as a Student: What to Expect
/0 Comments/in Dog Blog /by DogPerDayImagine a hectic day in which you attend back-to-back classes, your teacher complains about your performance, and you are stressed about an unfinished project. But when you come home to your apartment and open the door, your dog charges toward you, thrilled and greeting you with barks and kisses.
You will forget all the problems in the world!
Owning a dog can make your life exciting and more colorful. But it won’t always be smiles and snuggles. Having a dog is a lot like having a baby. They need constant care and attention.
Hence adding pet ownership to an already chaotic college routine is a decision you must make carefully. Even though you can seek help with your assignments from a professional do my homework service for students, there is still a lot of responsibility for you to manage.
This article will help you make the best decision and give you essential tips for caring for your furry friend while in college.
Why Get a Dog?
Excellent Companions
Dogs are amiable and amazing companions. We all have watched with teary eyes those videos of how loving and caring dogs are. When you have a dog, you can be assured you will never be bored because your pet is always there to play.
Dogs are the friendliest of all pets and they shower you with unconditional love. Whether you take your dog on car rides or hang out at the local park, your furry friend will keep you occupied and smiling. Besides, your dog will always listen to your rants about life, and being with them will vaporize all your worries.
Improved Social Life
Meeting new people can be challenging when you don’t know what to talk about. Since dogs are a great conversation topic and people love talking about pets, you can easily break the ice with others.
You may connect with other dog owners on campus, discuss your pets, and get to know each other. Having pets makes you similar to them, so you are more likely to make several new friends. Having dogs also encourages you to go out of your room, explore your neighborhood, and meet new people.
Motivation to Exercise
Students may not have enough time or desire to engage in sports. But your new dog will need daily walks for its well-being. So, you will have to go outside with your pet friend and do some exercise regularly — a mutually beneficial activity.
Since it is necessary, your dog will push you to walk even when you are tired and don’t feel like going out. It helps you be active and stay in shape.
Enhanced Mental Health
Nothing will make you happier than coming home after a long and tiring day and seeing your dog who is excited you are back.
Numerous studies have proven that dogs help you reduce stress and fight anxiety. They make you smile, improve your mood, and help you relax. And when your dog makes funny faces, chases leaves, or asks for your attention, you may laugh your heart out.
All of these ultimately strengthen your mental health and improve your academic performance.
Things to Consider Before Getting a Dog
Expenses
All the above benefits come at a price because owning a dog can put a dent in your savings.
The initial expense includes buying a bed, collar, leash, and litter box (if necessary), whereas recurring costs involve food, toys, grooming, vet charges, and other dog supplies.
According to the ASPCA, a medium-sized dog, like a German Shepherd, may cost around $670 USD per year. Depending on your dog’s size and breed, the average lifetime cost of owning a dog can vary between $15,000 to $50,000 USD.
Since you also have to consider your monthly expenses and tuition fees, you must analyze your financial situation before deciding to get a dog.
Required Care and Attention
Keeping a dog requires a huge time commitment. From taking it on walks, feeding, and training for good behavior to making vet appointments, you will have to care for your dog like a baby.
If your days are packed with classes, homework, assignments, exams, and projects, you may struggle to find time for your dog.
Since the average life of a dog is 10-13 years, owning a dog means signing up for a commitment to care for them for at least the next ten years.
Limits
Since having a dog is a great time commitment, you won’t have much time for yourself. And you can’t leave it alone for long periods because it also needs a lot of care.
This restricts your freedom. You can’t go out all night, have long travel breaks, or always spend time with friends after class because your dog is waiting for you at home.
How to Keep a Dog in College?
If you have a favorable financial situation, have enough time to care for your pet, and are willing to compromise your social life a little, you are ready to own a dog. It will be your best friend and make your life memorable. So here are some tips to help you care for a dog in college:
1. Buy all the necessary things, like food, a leash, toys, a grooming kit, and everything your furry friend needs. Also, ensure your roommate, if you have one, is dog-friendly and your apartment allows keeping pets.
2. Develop a routine that accommodates you and your dog. You need to set aside time for playing, grooming, feeding, and walking your dog.
3. Dogs need regular activity to be physically and mentally healthy. Try to walk your dog for 15-45 minutes every day.
4. Ask a friend or pet sitter to take care of your dog when you attend classes or leave for an extended period.
5. Be attentive to the dog’s needs and find reliable medical help to take good care of it. Make vet appointments every year to have regular checks.
6. If you occasionally forget to feed your dog, you can purchase an automated pet food dispenser to ensure your puppy is fed properly.
7. Be good friends with your dog. You can free up at least 15 minutes every day for playtime.
To Sum Up
Getting a dog will probably be the best decision of your life. But it can also wreak havoc on your schedule and grades if you fail to manage things properly. Hence, you should consider the above points before making this important decision.
All You Need to Know About Service Dog Vests
/0 Comments/in Articles & News | Pet Food, Health, Dog Blog /by DogPerDayService dogs: little helpers that make the lives of people with disabilities so much easier thanks to the special skills they were taught to do since they were puppies. And even though service dog handlers can understand the tasks and reasons why their pets are allowed everywhere, for ordinary citizens, it may not be as easy to understand why these dogs are in the pet-free restaurant sitting under the table right now.
That’s why, to demonstrate an animal’s special status, service dog owners prefer using special accessories to notify everyone that the dog is currently working and shouldn’t be disturbed in any way. The most popular item almost everyone buys is a service dog vest. What sorts of things do you need to know about them, and is it possible to buy service dog vests online? Let’s find it out together in the article…
The Main Purpose of Service Vests for Dogs
A lot of new service dog owners underestimate the power of service dog accessories, such as vests, special collars, or even service dog ID tags. Below we are going to mention a few reasons why you should consider these things in the first place:
Recognition. Unique service dog supplies are usually bright-colored so that they can catch the eye of practically everyone around you. In this way, people are alerted that a person with a service animal just entered the room, so they are less likely to disturb you and your dog, as well as have fewer questions about why the animal is allowed to be in the public place (if it’s a cafe, cinema, or any other usually pet-free establishment).
Safety. Walking with a service dog in public can be stressful for an animal because of all the unwanted attention from strangers. So a service dog harness may be an excellent way to inform people around you about the animal’s duties and the fact that it shouldn’t be petted, talked to, or bothered in any other way.
Discipline. You shouldn’t forget that a service dog is also a pet, so a vest can create an association with work for them. So when the item is on, the dog will be serious, concentrated, and on alert; and after the harness is off, he or she can be an active and happy puppy, free to run around and play with other dogs.
How to Choose the Right Vest Size for My Dog?
The best thing about this product is that plenty of types of service dog vests are available on the market, so it’s not hard to pick the best option for your four-legged friend. Usually they vary in size, color, form, and design; it’s possible to select an option with or without writing (for instance, it can say “service animal” on its back), add embroidery on it, etc. One’s imagination is the only limit!
The most important thing to consider when choosing a harness is to pick the right size, as a dog will spend the majority of its time wearing the item. There are a few ways you can do it:
Measure the girth of the animal. If it’s too tight around its neck, it may lead to trouble breathing or swallowing, and you definitely don’t want that for your pet. Regarding collars, two fingers should fit between the dog’s neck and the product to not cause any discomfort.
Take the measurements around the middle. This measurement is needed to know which service dog vests (small, medium, or large) will work best for your pet. Sometimes you may also be asked about the animal’s weight.
Measure the dog’s height. Usually this is done from the paws to the tip of the head. Not all companies ask for it, but sometimes it is better to have all the numbers written down to pick the option that suits best.
It’s okay if you are not sure how to do this on your own; we believe a good shop will surely help you with everything to pick the best vest variation for your furry friend.
To Sum Up: Are Service Dog Vests Important?
Among all service dog accessories, vests are among the most popular and helpful out there. They are useful for numerous reasons: alerting people about an individual with a disability is the main one. These products are available in different sizes and colors, so it’s quite easy to pick the design to your liking. And of course, the most important thing is for a harness to be comfortable for the dog, as it’s going to spend most of the time wearing it. Hopefully this article has helped you understand more about this essential accessory!
You can find more information about useful service dog accessories on the MyServiceAnimal blog article here.
Written By Daniel Butler
Dieting and Food Tips for Dogs With Cushing’s Disease
/0 Comments/in Dog Blog /by DogPerDayIf your dog has Cushing’s disease, an overproduction of cortisol (cortisone) in the animal’s body, it is essential to refine his or her diet immediately. Your dog’s dietary needs are going to change and it’s important to review what’s good and what’s not.
This is a great way to improve their quality of life and keep the symptoms at bay.
Here is a look at the main types of foods that are recommended for feeding your dog with Cushing’s disease (digestible protein is key), and why it’s important to look into this right away. As always, make sure to consult with your veterinarian prior to introducing new foods to your pup.
Digestible Proteins
Some Seafood
When it comes to cutting back on specific foods, it’s important to pay attention to the details. With seafood, try and avoid overly fatty fish and opt for high protein, healthy fats like salmon.
You will want to look to avoid specific seafood more than others, including sardines. The reason has to do with the makeup of this meat and how it will impact your dog’s digestive system.
Lean Beef and Organs
When you are looking at completing a diet plan for your dog, it’s best to include digestible proteins, and lean beef as well as organs are a good choice to help your dog with Cushing’s reach their protein needs.
Other good options include venison and bison. These are similar to other types of red meat that are available to give to your dog. While most people are not going to be giving venison to their dogs regularly, you may still want to consider this and keep the option open in your list of good proteins.
Just like venison, bison is another good lean beef protein source for dogs with Cushing’s disease. Both bison and venison are much rarer forms of meat on their own but can be found in dog foods, which is why they are important to mention.
Pork on the other hand is a type of meat you should try to avoid. This is because it tends to be higher in fat and sodium than other types of meat like chicken and beef.
Carbohydrates with Fiber
It is highly recommended to try and cut out any refined carbohydrates because they tend to have a detrimental affect on insulin and cortisol levels. But it still may be OK to feed your dog healthy grains, and you may want to make sure they are getting fiber with the foods they are eating.
Vitamins & Supplements
Just like with humans, dogs can benefit from additional supplements to help support their diet. This is even more important for a dog that has Cushing’s. Some of the most common herbs and remedies for dogs to help treat Cushing’s naturally include:
— Dandelion
— Turmeric
— Cleavers
— Burdock
— Ashwagandha
— Ginkgo Biloba
There are of course more supplements, and so rather than trying to get your dog to take these individually, it could be better to opt for a liquid or capsule that contains many of the ingredients mentioned above.
Final Thoughts
As you begin putting together a comprehensive diet plan for your dog, it’s important to keep these foods in mind.
You should try to keep your dog’s diet fairly strict if they suffer from Cushing’s disease, but it’s understandable and can be quite difficult in the earlier stages getting them to switch to foods they may not be used to.
Remember, diet is still one of the best ways to ensure their symptoms are kept in control; it can lead a healthier life. When it comes to elements that you can control, this is one that you will want to get on top of right away as a dog owner.
Take the time to look through the foods available for your dog, make sure they are safe, and remember, this means no more tossing table scraps in their direction and fine-tuning what they are eating on a daily basis.
Essential Traveling Dog Owners Products: Which Ones To Buy?
/0 Comments/in Dog Blog /by DogPerDayDo you travel quite often and have you always had to make arrangements for someone to take care of your dog while you are away? While I am sure that you have people in your life willing to help out with this, I am also sure that those people won’t be able to help out every single time you call. Plus, maybe sometimes you would much rather prefer to take your dog with you.
If you’re thinking of living a nomadic lifestyle, then there is absolutely no way that you would want to leave your pet behind when you start this particular adventure. You will most likely decide that your dog is coming with you wherever you go. If you’re planning on taking your dog on a plane, then you might want to learn more about how all of that works, and which types of rules you would have to follow in the process.
Regardless of the modes of transportation that you will use, one thing is absolutely for sure: You should think about getting some of the kinds of products that can help traveling dog owners keep their pets calmer and more relaxed while traveling, as well as increase the safety level of their animals and their comfort in general. I am sure that you have already heard of the possibility of buying travel dog products.
You might, however, not be completely certain as to why you might need products like these. Some people assume that this is simply a waste of money, and they start their trips without these essentials. At some point, though, they realize that they should have bought at least one product that could have made the traveling experience more enjoyable both for them and for the animal.
Why Get Travel Dog Products?
How do you like the idea of starting a trip and then regretting the decision to not purchase certain helpful products? You probably do not really like the sound of that, which is why I am now going to tell you a bit more about why you should get some of those dog traveling products. This way, you will understand the purpose of these products much better, and you can figure out if you actually need them, which I am pretty sure that you will.
Well, first of all, as I have already hinted at above, these types of products will make the entire traveling experience much safer. You definitely don’t want anything bad to happen to your pet. Since you are on unknown terrain, it would be a great idea for you to be absolutely sure that you can control your pooch perfectly on walks. There are products that can help you out with that, as well as goods that can generally increase the safety of your canine in cars, planes, or other transportation means.
So safety is reason number one, but there is definitely one more thing that leads most people toward purchasing these kinds of travel products. These Travel Dog Products will improve your traveling experience by making sure that your pet is always completely comfortable and happy, in which case the animal won’t become overly anxious and ruin the entire trip. Don’t forget to pack a nice bed for your pet, among other things, as that will definitely increase their level of comfort.
Which Ones To Buy?
Now that you have a much clearer idea of why you should buy these dog traveling products, chances are that you are quite interested in figuring out which ones to get. Well, the best thing to do here is to find a great shop, check out the selection of their goods, and then decide which ones you want to buy, while always keeping your pet’s safety and comfort in mind. This will lead you towards purchasing some rather necessary products.
For instance, you’ll most likely get a first aid kit for doggies, and you will probably want to buy a food carrier and a travel bowl. Those are the essentials, but you should certainly also think of getting a multi-purpose leash, a car safety harness if you’re traveling by car, as well as a harness that provides you with greater control during walks. Additionally, you can consider buying some doggie clothes to make your pet even more comfortable, but that will depend on the weather.