Ready to De-Stress Bath Time for Your Dog?

Bird Flu Virus Found in Monarch Raw Pet Food

Yet another warning has been issued about a raw pet food brand because of the bird flu virus infecting cats. Monarch Raw Pet Food, which is sold at farmers markets in California, should not be fed to cats, according to a statement by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.

Rescue Dog Goes on Tour with Pink to Find Forever Home

We often hear about musicians and artists making an impact through financial donations or participating in charitable events. But a new heartwarming story of a dog’s search for his forever home has been capturing the hearts of animal lovers everywhere. Graham Cracker was found by a young girl in the woods of Vilonia, Arkansas, with his mother and littermates. She had been sneaking food to the stray mama dog, trying to do what she could to help. After her mother found out about the dogs, she contacted a rescue team to find them and get the pups to safety. This was when their journey led the pups to The Bond Between, a non-profit rescue organization in Minnesota. But for Graham Cracker, this was just the beginning! On October 17th, an announcement on Instagram revealed that Graham Cracker had found a loving but very unique foster parent. After seeing the young pup’s adorable photos, Grammy-winner Pink invited the pup, who appears to be a Labrador Retriever mix, to join her and her family on tour. She went on to announce the decision to her fans during her St. Paul, MN show:“We rescued a puppy from this awesome organization called The Bond Between. His name is Graham Cracker. He’s currently peeing all over my dressing room,” Pink stated while seated at her piano on stage. “We’re actually – I haven’t told anybody this yet, but we’re gonna foster him for the tour, and he’s gonna go on this big carnival adventure with us.”

Is a Rat or a Mouse the Best Pet for My Family?

Are you thinking of adding a small animal to the family? Congratulations! Rodents and other small, furry friends are often overlooked in a pet industry that focuses on cats and dogs – but they can be amazing companions!Now that you’ve decided to welcome a new pet into the home, it’s time to determine what pet is the right fit for your household. For some, this is easy. If you have fallen in love with a specific pet, you likely already have your mind made up. If you haven’t decided, we’re here to help.Two pets that are often lumped together (mistakenly) are rats and mice. While both are intelligent, social, and surprisingly clean animals, there are some significant differences.Keep reading to learn more about owning a rat or a mouse as a pet, including a comparison of key factors like lifespan, personality, and care requirements. By the end, you’ll have the information needed to confidently choose the perfect pet for your family.Is a Rodent Right for You?Before digging into the details of these two adorable options, the first question you need to consider is whether any rodent is the right pet for you. While dogs and cats are the most popular pets, rodents have been gaining popularity.These pocket-sized pets are generally more affordable to care for and require smaller living spaces, although this could vary depending on which rodent you choose. Many rodents are surprisingly social, allowing you to enjoy that human/animal bond while still making it easy to keep “their space” to a contained area in your home. If you are worried about the struggle of pet fur or muddy paw prints everywhere, that may be a huge win!However, not all aspects of rodent care are considered benefits. For those with young children, handling a rodent may lead to trouble, including injuries to the rodent from being mishandled or to your child if the rodent feels unsafe, causing them to bite.Finding a veterinarian who specializes in exotic animals and can provide your new rodent with the care they require can be challenging. I recommend contacting local veterinarians and veterinary hospitals to make sure that you have someone available in your community who can provide the care your pet may need.Small animals have a shorter lifespan, allowing you to experience the joy of sharing your life with a pet without a long-term commitment. Unfortunately, that does mean dealing with the grief of losing a pet much sooner.Ultimately, the decision of whether a rodent is the right pet for you and your family will depend on your lifestyle, individual circumstances, and personal preferences. If, after reading all this, you still believe that a rodent is the perfect choice, it’s time to consider your options… Rats vs Mice: A Closer Look There are many different rodents to consider when searching for your ideal pet, but two often-confused pets are rats and mice. While these furry friends do have a lot in common, there are also many differences that set them apart. Here are a few essential factors to consider when deciding on the best choice for your household:Average LifespanAs already mentioned, rodents, in general, do have shorter lifespans than the average dog or cat. However, there is also a difference between rats and mice. Most domesticated rats live approximately 2-4 years, but some live considerably longer than twice that. According to the Guinness World Records, the oldest rat (named Rodney) lived to be seven years and four months old. Domesticated mice have a slightly shorter lifespan of approximately 1-3 years. This, too, can vary considerably. Guinness World Records lists the record holder of the world’s oldest mouse as a San Diego mouse named Patrick Stewart, who lived 9 years and 180 days. But this shouldn’t be considered normal, as Patrick Steward lived over 2 years longer than the former world record holder, Fritzy.Ideal HabitatBoth rats and mice can live a long, happy life with a cage as their primary habitat, assuming the cage provides enough space. Many of the cages you will find on pet store shelves are not actually adequate for a rodent’s needs. This includes not only cages for rats and mice but also cages available for rabbits, guinea pigs, and even hamsters. It’s a common problem in the pet industry across all small animals.The exact measurements of the ideal habitat for a mouse or rat will vary slightly from expert to expert. However, a general rule of thumb is that the minimum cage size for a mouse is 18 inches long x 12 inches wide x 12 inches high. For each additional mouse, add ½ square foot to the total floor area. You must also pay close attention to the width of the cage bars, as mice are skilled at slipping through even the smallest spaces.The space required to keep a rat is larger, which may need to be factored into your decision. The recommended minimum cage size for a single rat is 20 inches long x 14 inches wide x 24 inches high. You should add one square food to the floor area for each additional rat.Both species need plenty of tunnels, tubes, branches, and hideaways. They are prey animals, always needing to be alert and stay safe in the wild. While it’s true that no one is hunting your new pet in their cage, you still need to provide them with several hiding spaces to feel safe and secure. These structures also offer much-needed mental enrichment.Rats and mice also need items they can chew on, like mineral blocks or wooden structures, to keep their teeth from becoming overgrown.Many of the cheaper and more commonly used wood shavings for bedding are unsafe for your rodent. Improperly dried pine shavings and cedar expose them to toxic dust and odors that can lead to severe or life-threatening upper respiratory infections. They have very sensitive respiratory systems, making them highly susceptible to issues. Both rats and mice will thrive with an absorbent, chemical-free soft paper bedding like Kaytee Clean & Cozy White Paper Bedding. You can also mix in some aspen shavings to make tunneling easier. The bedding should be at least 6 inches thick across the bottom of their habitat.

Why Crufts and Westminster Will Never See a Dog Named Rover

Ever wonder how those pure-bred dogs got their lofty names?

Dog Skittish Around Loud Noise? Sound Cancelling Headgear Works!

Daylight Savings Time. Does Your Pet Notice the Difference?

New research suggests he'll take his cue from you.

Spring Cleaning Tips for Pet Parents

Spring is a season of renewal, so it’s the perfect time to do some cleaning around the house to freshen things up, get rid of things you no longer need, and make space for new things. But if you share your home with pets, it’s important to take a few steps to ensure their well-being while you do your spring cleaning. Check out the information below to see how spring cleaning could potentially have adverse effects on pets, and what you can do to keep everyone happy.

Environmental Enrichment for Pet Birds

Environmental enrichment is important for all pets, from dogs and cats to rodents and birds. When it comes to your feathered companions, you can keep them happy, entertained, healthy, and stress-free by providing a safe environment, toys, yummy foods, and physical and mental stimulation. To help you get started, here are a few tips you can implement to make your bird’s home even better.

Are The New Pet Dryer Boxes Right for Your Pet?

(photo credit: Dorottya Mathe / shutterstock.com)It looks like a toaster oven crossed with a microwave. And while I wouldn’t suggest defrosting your frozen dinner in one, it does a pretty nifty job of drying smaller pets quickly and relatively stress-free. What it is, is a drying box and they’re being touted as a great alternative to those noisy blow dryers that typically blast out a single jet of hot air. Those hand-held devices are time-consuming when it comes to targeting all those furry little nooks and crannies and can be downright uncomfortable if directed at any one area for too long.The gadget we’re talking about here is not to be confused with dog crate dryers that clip onto your pet’s cage and direct a steady stream of warm air into the crate and around your pet. A drying box is totally sealed. Your pet goes inside and the box then fills with multiple streams of warm air that cover 360 degrees to ensure a full dry. And unlike the crate dryer, you don’t have to worry about your pet moving out of range.What I love is how quietly they operate. Less noise equals less stress in my household. However, whenever you’re talking about heating and pets, there are concerns that pet parents need to consider before using this type of dryer.Even though they have heat settings of up to 99 minutes, never leave your pet for that length of time without having them within your sightline. I think that goes without saying.Always watch your pet’s reaction to being enclosed in this type of dog coat dryer. If he’s panicked, stressed, or panting, get him out. Heat stroke is real and needs immediate attention.This type of device isn’t a smart pick for brachycephalic dogs or those with breathing issues. It’s an enclosed space that heats up quickly and you already know your dog cannot cool himself down efficiently.Only consider drying boxes that allow you to set the temperature and have ventilation for adequate air movement. Stuffy, too warm, and uncomfortable mean your pet will never agree to go into the box again.I’m prone to the options that offer side openings so you can reach in and pet your dog or cat. It’s just a little reassurance that our buddies always appreciate.

What Is a Lick Granuloma?

In most cases when dogs lick themselves, it’s a part of their everyday self-grooming routine – and nothing to worry about. However, in some cases, they can go overboard with it, leading to a condition known as lick granuloma. This occurs when a dog repeatedly licks a specific area on their skin. This is usually on the front legs, and results in a raised, thick, and often ulcerated patch of skin. Due to the constant licking, the patch of skin is irritated and inflamed and can be infected as well. Because of this, the lick granuloma can be a frustrating and persistent issue for both doggos and their owners and will require long-term treatment. Here is all you need to know about this condition.What is a Lick Granuloma? Causes and TreatmentThere are many reasons why a dog could develop a lick granuloma, and they are usually a distinct combination of physiological and psychological factors. Here are just a few of the most common reasons:Allergies:Doggos who suffer from allergies, especially during the summer and spring, can develop an itchy sensation on a certain part of their body. They will try to alleviate this through repeated licking, which could lead to a granuloma if not prevented.Injuries and infections:Dogs often soothe injured areas with licking. If a minor cut or scratch bothers them, they can start a cycle of repetitive licking to alleviate the pain. Instead, the wound is given no chance to heal, and in time a granuloma is formed. Stress and anxiety:Some psychological factors such as anxiety, fear, boredom, or stress can lead to repetitive behaviors, of which licking is a common one. Left for long periods of time, some dogs might start the licking cycle in a way to soothe themselves. However, this leads to the pesky granuloma forming.Arthritis:Common in older dogs, arthritis can be a source of great discomfort. In order to relieve it, dogs might lick their joints or affected areas, repetitively. The discomfort is not eased, and a granuloma appears instead.You will usually have no difficulties spotting a lick granuloma. This is a raised, red, and sometimes ulcerated lesion, usually found on a dog’s leg, near the wrist. The wound may be moist, and the skin scarred and thickened. Another indication is the dog’s behavior: they might be persistent in licking it, and annoyed when prevented from doing so. Also common is hair loss around the granuloma, while bleeding happens rarely. Of course, these symptoms require urgent veterinary care. Depending on the severity of the granuloma, the vet can apply several treatment options. For example, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, and topical ointments are often prescribed. These can help reduce swelling, infection, and promote healing. However, if the cause of the licking is related to anxiety, boredom, and stress, the vet might prescribe increased physical activity, mental stimulation through special dog toys, or reduced stressors.

Colorado's Uber Dog Hits Star Status

Riding shotgun with his fave person, this rescue pooch greets passengers in style.

Antifreeze Poisoning In Dogs – How To Recognize It and What To Do

Antifreeze is a familiar product for many car owners, especially during the colder months. While essential for preventing freezing in vehicles and heating systems, antifreeze can pose a grave threat to dogs if not handled carefully. The primary ingredient in many antifreeze products, ethylene glycol, is sweet-tasting but highly toxic. Even small amounts can be lethal, making it crucial for dog owners to recognize the symptoms of antifreeze poisoning and respond promptly. Here’s what you need to know.Why Is Antifreeze Dangerous?Ethylene glycol, the key component in most antifreeze products, is highly toxic and dangerously appealing to dogs due to its sweet taste. Accidental spills, leaks from vehicles, or improperly stored containers can easily expose pets to this substance. For example:A car leak might pool antifreeze on a driveway or garage floor.Heating and ventilation units can leak antifreeze into accessible areas.Open or unsecured containers of antifreeze can tempt curious dogs.Once ingested, ethylene glycol is metabolized by the liver into harmful compounds that severely damage the kidneys and other vital organs.Symptoms of Antifreeze PoisoningAntifreeze poisoning progresses rapidly, typically occurring in three stages:Stage 1 (30 minutes to 12 hours post-ingestion):VomitingExcessive thirst and urinationStaggering or uncoordinated movementsLethargySeizuresStage 2 (12 to 24 hours post-ingestion):Temporary improvement or “apparent recovery”Ongoing internal damage, especially to the kidneysStage 3 (24 to 72 hours post-ingestion):Kidney failure symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite, and little to no urinationSwollen abdomenComa and death if untreatedWhat to Do If You Suspect Antifreeze PoisoningIf you suspect your dog has ingested antifreeze, time is critical. Follow these steps:Seek Veterinary Care Immediately: Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital without delay. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chances of recovery.Do Not Induce Vomiting Unless Directed: Inducing vomiting can cause complications and should only be done under veterinary guidance.Provide Information: Bring the antifreeze container to the veterinarian if possible. This helps them identify the specific toxins involved.Treatment OptionsVeterinary treatment for antifreeze poisoning depends on the severity of exposure. Common methods include: Activated Charcoa l: Administered to absorb toxins in the stomach.Antidotes: Medications such as fomepizole or ethanol that block ethylene glycol metabolism.Intravenous Fluids: To support kidney function and flush toxins from the body.Continuous Monitoring: Close supervision to manage symptoms and ensure recovery.

Fish Oil vs. Flaxseed Oil for Dogs: Which Omega-3 Source is Best?

A balanced diet is essential for maintaining a dog's overall health, and omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in supporting skin and coat condition, joint health, heart function, and cognitive development. Two common sources of omega-3s for dogs are fish oil and flaxseed oil. While both provide benefits, they differ significantly in composition, absorption, and effectiveness. Understanding these differences can help you make the best choice for your dog.The Role of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Canine HealthOmega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that dogs must obtain from their diet. These fatty acids help reduce inflammation, promote heart health, improve skin and coat quality, and support brain function. They also benefit dogs with arthritis, allergies, or chronic inflammatory conditions. The two primary omega-3 fatty acids that benefit dogs are:Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) – Helps with inflammation and supports joint and cardiovascular health.Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) – Essential for brain function and cognitive development.A key source of these essential fatty acids is fish oil. This oil is derived from fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, and anchovies. 

Are Goldendoodles High Maintenance?

Goldendoodles are undeniably the charmers of the dog world. A hybrid of the elegant Poodle and the friendly Golden Retriever, these dogs boast an irresistible combination of beauty, brains, and a lovable personality. With their fluffy, often curly coats and affectionate nature, Goldendoodles have quickly won hearts worldwide.But for those considering adding one to their family, an important question often arises: Are Goldendoodles high-maintenance? The answer depends on factors like grooming, exercise, training, and overall care. Let’s dive in!Grooming Needs: A Beautiful Coat Comes at a CostThe first thing you’ll notice about a Goldendoodle is its gorgeous, wavy, or curly coat — a hallmark trait from its Poodle parent. This low-shedding coat makes Goldendoodles a favorite among allergy-prone families. However, this comes with a grooming commitment.Brushing: Their coats need brushing several times a week to prevent tangles and mats. Investing in a high-quality grooming kit is essential.Professional Grooming: Regular trips to a groomer every 6–8 weeks will help maintain their coat’s health and length.

How Do I Stop My Cat from Eating the House Plants?

It’s a struggle that many cat parents have faced over time – the irresistible green temptation of munching on house plants. Your cat, that adorable fluffball of chaos (I’m looking at my cat, Pippen), may have developed a taste for our prized ferns, delicate orchards, or any other houseplant that remotely resembles a kitty salad bar.Don’t worry. This doesn’t mean you can’t keep plants in a cat-friendly home!In this article, I will address the many concerns related to houseplants and your cat, including what plants are best suited for a cat-friendly home, which toxic plants to avoid, and the steps you can take to discourage your cat from snacking on your greenery. After all, your cat’s health is priority Do Cats Eat Houseplants? Before I start discussing the many solutions and preventative steps you can take to stop your cat from snacking on your favorite houseplant, let’s start at the beginning. Why is your cat interested in eating your houseplants, anyway? These behaviors can stem from many factors, such as natural instincts, boredom, nutritional needs, or underlying medical conditions. Identifying the reason for your cat’s behaviors can often provide you with the insight necessary to decide on the most effective strategies to save your plants while keeping your cat happy and healthy. Here are a few of the most common reasons cats chow down on our indoor plants:  Natural Drive to Hunt and Forage Cats are natural hunters and foragers, skills that allowed their ancestors to survive in the wild. While our cats today are domesticated, their many survival skills are still strong. Your houseplants may be triggering a response driven by these instincts. For example, if a leaf is swaying in the wind or an insect has landed on your favorite plant, your cat may tap into this desire to “hunt” and “catch.” Nutritional NeedsWhile cats are obligate carnivores (meaning they require meat protein to survive and cannot survive off just plant matter), plants can help meet their nutritional needs. One great example of this is fiber. A wild cat’s diet contains fiber in their prey's fur, feathers, bones, and stomach contents. However, if these sources leave them in a position where their fiber needs aren’t met, they may ingest plants to naturally balance their system. Lack of Mental and Physical Enrichment One common misconception regarding cats as pets is that they are fully independent. The truth is that your cat needs to be provided with opportunities for both physical stimulation and mental enrichment to prevent struggles like boredom, stress, and anxiety. A bored cat is more likely to engage in destructive behaviors to release excess energy – including chewing on your houseplants or even digging up the soil from the pots. Texture or Taste There is a chance your houseplant is somehow enticing your cat, tempting them to want a taste. This could be an inviting scent that lures them in, or maybe your cat snuck a bite at some point due to one of the reasons above and realized that they liked the taste, returning for more. Unlike the other options, cats eating plants because they enjoy the taste or texture aren’t just engaging in an unwanted behavior – they want to eat that specific plant. Which Houseplants Are Toxic to My Cat? One of the most important things you can do as a cat parent is to familiarize yourself with the common houseplants that pose a danger to your cat. The level of toxicity that comes from eating these plants ranges from causing a minor stomach upset to potentially creating a life-threatening situation. Some of the most common houseplants that are toxic to cats include: LilyPeace lily (they are not true lilies, but are still toxic)English ivyPothosSnake PlantCutleaf PhilodendronSago PalmPoinsettiaDaffodilOleanderTulipChrysanthemumHyacinthBird of ParadiseOne of the easiest ways to avoid your cat becoming sick from eating a toxic plant is simply not to bring them into your home. There are many great cat-friendly plants and flowers you can choose to bring some life into your home while avoiding any of the plants listed above. If you are determined to have one of these plants in your home, like poinsettias, for Christmas, consider artificial plants instead of real ones.

How Do I Keep My Cat Warm This Winter?

Winter weather can be harsh for our feline friends, even those with the luxury of spending the cold winter months indoors. As temperatures drop and the wind howls, it’s crucial to ensure your cat stays warm and cozy. After all, you wouldn’t want your best friend to be uncomfortable!In this guide, I’ll share practical tips and tricks to keep your cat comfortable during the colder months. These steps will help your kitty feel warm and toasty, from providing cozy nooks to adjusting their diet.Plus, I’ll explore tips for keeping your cat warm while traveling in winter to help you prepare for the upcoming holiday season.What is the Ideal Temperature for Cats? Cats naturally have a higher body temperature than humans do. A healthy adult cat’s temperature should be between 100.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. As a result of this, they tend to prefer warmer temperatures than we would. This is great in the summer months but can make it challenging to keep your best friend comfortable during the colder temperatures of the winter. A healthy cat is happies in temperatures between 77 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. During the cooler months, an adult cat can adjust comfortably to temperatures as low as 59 degrees Fahrenheit. But this can vary if your cat is a young kitten or senior, as their tolerance isn’t as high. There are also several medical conditions that may make your cat more sensitive to cold temperatures, including diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, Cushing’s disease, and some forms of cancer. If your cat is living with joint pain or similar conditions, the colder winter temperatures may also cause them to experience more aches and pains. Signs You Cat is Feeling Cold Recognizing when your cat is starting to feel chilly will help you make the necessary adjustments to keep them comfortable. It would be so helpful if our cats couple talk to us in English, letting us know how they feel and what they need. Unfortunately, that’s not reality. As cat parents, we must become masters of non-verbal communication including body language and behavioral changes. Some of the more common signs your cat is feeling cold include: ShiveringBreathing slowlySlower heart rateCurling up into a ballHunching down close to the groundExtremities cold to the touch (ears, paws, tail)Lack of activityAppearing confused or disoriented Muscle stiffness Weakness Seeking warm spots in the houseThe sooner you recognize that your cat is feeling cold, the faster you can respond and make sure they are feeling comfortable. This is also key to preventing cold-related medical conditions and complications like hypothermia. Take steps to warm up if you notice any of the above warning signs. If you are trying to warm your cat up and they are still showing signs they are cold, contact your veterinarian. 8 Tips to Keep Your Cat Warm This Winter As cat parents, we love our cats and want to give them the best possible quality of life. With that in mind, we need to find ways to keep them warm and cozy even when the temperatures drop. If your furnace is running all winter keeping the temperatures within their ideal temperature range, this may not be a problem you need to worry about. However, in many parts of the United States, keeping the temperatures in your house over 77 degrees Fahrenheit can be quite costly! Plus, there are those of us who use alternative heating sources like baseboard heating and woodstoves that can make it challenging to keep all areas of the home at the temperatures your cat would prefer. If you’re concerned your cat may be feeling a little chilly, here are a few steps you can take to help keep them cozy: Stick to Indoors Do you have a cat that indoors spending time outdoors? While I am a huge fan of safe outdoor adventures with my furry family members (camping, hiking, etc.), there are times when it is better to stick to the more comfortable environment indoors. This isn’t to say your cat can’t enjoy some on-leash time exploring the ice and snow. My one cat, Pippen, adores playing in the snow. But it’s our responsibility as cat parents to keep an eye on the temperatures and limit their time outdoors when it could be unsafe. Offer Warm and Cozy Bedding One of the easiest ways to keep your cat comfortable is by offering extra bedding to allow them to snuggle in and create a cozy place to nap. There are several great options to consider, depending on your cat’s personal preference. Donut style beds have higher sides, like a warm hug. Not only have these beds been found to keep cats warmer, but they are also said to have calming properties. The Bedsure Calming Cat Bed for Indoor Cats is a favourite in our house. With two cats, we had to pick up multiple beds to avoid fights over who got to sleep in the fluffy, comfy spot. Another option for cozy cat beds that I have seen several pet parents sharing is a covered bed or cat cave. This helps keep your cat warmer by trapping the warm air inside the bed with your kitty. The smaller the entry to your cat’s bed, the less warm air will be able to escape while they are sleeping inside. However, some cats find being in an enclosed space like this frightening as they are trapped and can’t escape if threatened. Finally, make sure to include plenty of cozy blankets they can snuggle into. The more blankets they have to move around and nest in, the better. They will arrange their sleeping space to best suit their needs. Use a Heated Bed or MatAnother great solution for creating a warm, cozy sleeping spot for your cat is to use a heated bed or mat. There are two options to consider, depending on the availability of nearby sockets and your personal preferences/comfort level. The first is a typical plug-in heated bed similar to heated blankets and mattress covers used on our own beds. These heated beds have controls giving you the ability to easily change the temperature to suit your cat’s needs. They can also be set to turn off after a specified time to avoid the bed becoming too warm or drawing too much power. An alternative is to use a self-heated design. Self-heated beds and cat mats reflect your cat’s own body heat when they are lying on them. This creates a warm, heated sleeping spot without the need for electricity. Not only are these great for locations with no available nearby socket, but they are also the perfect solution for cats who tend to chew electrical cords.

It's Valentine's Day! And What Your Pet Wants is a Great Massage.

(photo credit: Javeir Brusch / shutterstock.com)Forget those boring treats, ho-hum toys, and expected cuddles next month. What your good buddy really wants for Valentine’s Day is a great massage and he’s counting on you to come through - because you always do.Now, just like with humans, massage can be therapeutic and a great way to relieve the stress and tension your pooch has been carrying around lately. It’s also a perfect opportunity to bond with your dog, improve his range of motion, and let you know if he has any tender spots you may want to keep an eye on.Ready to push the boat out this year? Try adding calming music or aromatherapy – both are special touches that any dog will appreciate. But before you go all Zen, it’s important that you’re working with the right equipment for your particular pooch. Is he cool with sound or vibration? Does he enjoy his back being rubbed but not so much his head and neck? There’s a massage tool for every dog type and you’ll be glad to learn you don’t need to break the bank or invest in formal training to deliver that relaxing rub-down your best buddy deserves. In fact, it’s almost guaranteed that he’ll enjoy this one-on-one time so much, he’ll be back again and again and again…

5 Popular Designer Dog Breeds

Designer dogs, or hybrid dogs, are a mix of two purebreds. Unlike mutts, you’ll know which breeds make up a designer dog. But, like any mixed breed dog, puppies will inherit the diverse traits of their parents, so there can be variations in temperament, coat, and other features, and this can make it a bit challenging to predict what these dogs will be like. Today, there are many highly sought-after designer dog breeds, whether they’re beloved for their looks, personality, or eagerness to work. Below are five designer dogs that have a lot to offer.