Caring for Your Pets

(Family Features) A new year brings fresh opportunities for a lifestyle reboot, and as you set health goals for 2025, remember that your pet can embark on the journey to healthier living right along beside you. Whether you’re aiming to eat better, exercise more or find peace of mind, one of the best strategies for success is the buddy system – and your pet might be the perfect partner.

Consider these three ways you and your pet can work toward healthy habits together this year.

Exercise
Many people find it challenging to stick to a gym routine and get the most out of that membership. However, there are countless ways to get exercise without relying on fancy gym equipment and working out at home means you can include your pet in the fun too. Even a simple walk or jog with your dog can be essential for vitality and well-being.

When you’re feeling ready for more adventure, head to a local park or hit the trails for an extra challenge. To keep things fun, try a game of fetch in the backyard or visit a dog park to add variety to your routines.

Diet
Eating real, recognizable and nutritious foods is essential for both humans and pets. An option like Nature’s Recipe delivers premium, natural nutrition with added vitamins, minerals and nutrients for pets at every life stage. With more than 40 years of expertise, its dog food recipes are inspired by nature and designed for dedicated pet parents who demand the best in nutrition.

“We’re committed to our promise that every ingredient counts,” said Dr. Preston Buff, principal scientist, nutrition and animal safety, Post Consumer Brands and Nature’s Recipe’s Pet nutritionist. “Pet parents can trust we use only the best to fuel their dog’s health and happiness. By focusing on premium ingredients that promote vitality, Nature’s Recipe empowers dog owners to invest in their pet’s health. We aim to recognize and delight pet parents who dive into ‘research mode’ and want healthy, nutrient-rich recipes.”

Emotional Serenity
Quality time with pets has been shown to lower cortisol levels in humans, helping to promote calm and wellness, according to the National Institutes of Health. Whether it’s a walk through the neighborhood, playing in the backyard, a gentle grooming session or simply offering the occasional belly rub, spending time with your pet can bring a sense of peace and well-being.

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As you and your pet journey together toward a healthier lifestyle in 2025, remember the path to healthy living is even more rewarding when traveled with a buddy. Discover more ways to support your pet’s vitality, health and happiness in 2025 with purposeful, nutrient-rich nutrition by visiting naturesrecipe.com.

SOURCE:
Nature’s Recipe

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

Dog Treat Recall

In a recent announcement that has concerned dog owners across the Southeastern, Midwestern, and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States, the FDA has reported a recall of “Hollywood Feed Carolina Made Chicken Chips” dog treats manufactured by Carolina Prime Pet, Inc. of Lenoir, North Carolina. This recall, affecting approximately 400 bags of these popular dog treats, is attributed to the potential risk of Salmonella contamination.

Why Is This Recall Important?

While there have been no reported illnesses linked to the consumption of these chicken chips, the safety of pets—and by extension, their human companions—is paramount. Salmonella, a bacteria that can cause severe gastrointestinal distress in animals and humans alike, can be particularly dangerous for pets, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. For individuals, Salmonella can also result in serious health complications, especially in young children, elderly adults, or those with weakened immune systems.

Details of the Recall

The recall specifically pertains to 16-ounce bags of “Hollywood Feed Carolina Made Chicken Chips” that carry the lot number 20051324L2 and an expiration date of 11/13/25. Consumers can easily identify the affected product by checking the back of the packaging, which features a distinctive purple-and-black design. The recall extends to retail locations across 19 states, including:

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• Florida
• Georgia
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Michigan
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Pennsylvania
• South Carolina
• Tennessee
• Texas

For those who purchased the treats online, they were also available on the company’s website at www.hollywoodfeed.com.

What Should Consumers Do?

Carolina Prime Pet, Inc. has advised consumers to check their homes for the affected product. If your dog treats match the recalled lot number and expiration date, it is crucial not to feed them to your pet. Instead, return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund. For those who have questions or need more information, the company encourages contacting their customer service.

Final Thoughts

As pet owners, it is our responsibility to stay informed about the products we give our furry friends. The safety of our pets is essential, and recalls like these serve as a reminder to always check product packaging and stay updated on food safety announcements. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health or have noticed any unusual symptoms after consuming potentially contaminated food, it is advisable to consult with a veterinarian immediately.

Stay alert, stay informed, and together we can ensure the safety and well-being of our beloved pets.

Related links:

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/carolina-prime-pet-inc-recalls-hollywood-feed-carolina-made-chicken-chips-because-possible

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https://www.hollywoodfeed.com

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(Family Features) While family and friends share gifts and hearty meals during the holidays, pets are there to share snuggles and comfort. This year, make sure you protect the joy of the season by keeping pets safe as you likely introduce new foods, decor and other potential hazards in the home.

Healthy Happy Pets

Share the holiday cheer with your pets by unwrapping peace of mind with these suggestions from the experts at VCA Animal Hospitals.

Manifest Holiday Mindfulness
Keeping your pets (and yourself) happy and healthy throughout the holiday season isn’t just about the physical. Don’t forget the mental and mindful aspect of care with these fun, easy ways to spread cheer.

• Practice Self-Care Together: Enjoy a “spaw” day with pet-safe grooming products, throw a holiday-themed movie night, grab your favorite blanket for a cuddle session or try pet yoga.
• Manifest Happiness: Write five reasons you’re grateful each morning, send holiday notes to those you care about, play interactive games during festivities and put a little extra thought into gift-giving.
• Supercharge Your Calm: Meditate with your pet, unplug from social media to be present with loved ones (including pets), take a deep breath during special moments and accept that some things may go wrong during this hectic season.
• Get Moving: Go for a winter walk, teach your pet a new trick, create an indoor obstacle course, enjoy a playdate at the dog park or introduce your pet to a new toy.

Avoid Toxic Foods and Hazardous Items
Your festivities are sure to be filled with love, laughter and joy, but all that celebrating is likely to include decorations and delicious foods that are harmful to pets.

Pets are often naturally curious and may be attracted to bright, shiny items like candles and decorations. Protect against accidents by keeping decorations like tinsel, ribbon, open-flame candles and fragile ornaments out of reach. Avoid plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, lilies, holly and amaryllis that may be toxic to pets. Be sure to cover or hide exposed electrical cords and exposed Christmas tree water.

Many common festive foods are bad for pets. It may be tough to resist those cute, begging eyes, but your pet’s health will benefit from your restraint. Keep chocolate, candy, fatty meat and bones, alcohol and exposed trash off the menu for pets.

Stay Prepared
Being prepared is always a good idea for pet owners, but the holiday season especially can be unpredictable with new routines, unfamiliar guests, hazardous foods and more. Stay safe throughout the festivities and enjoy peace of mind knowing VCA is by your side for those unforeseen moments with access to world-class emergency medicine by providing 50% off an ER exam for all pet owners and free ER exams for CareClub members.

Visit pets.vcahospitals.com/er-holiday to claim your 50% off coupon, find a location near you and discover more tips for a safe, pet-friendly holiday season.

Holiday Do’s for Healthy Pets
With endless checklists and to-do’s before big holiday gatherings, you know how important it is to be organized during this hectic time of year. Part of your organizational strategy ahead of the festive season should include your pet’s health and ways you can protect him or her whether you’re celebrating at home or on the go.

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Consider this list your holiday cheat sheet with quick, easy ways you can protect pets before, during and after get-togethers.

• Decorate with pet-safe ornaments
• Keep festive plants out of reach
• Put a skirt around your Christmas tree and secure it so it can’t fall over
• Invest in electric candles or menorahs
• Keep dogs inside during get-togethers
• Follow your pet’s regular diet
• Create a quiet space for your pet away from guests
• Check in with your pet to ensure he or she is happy and comfortable
• Thoroughly clean up and pack away any leftovers

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:
VCA Animal Hospitals

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.