pets

How to Support Your Pet’s Health During Summer

Published

5 months ago

April 26, 2024

Daily News Staff

(Family Features) As a pet parent, you know your pet’s needs are continually evolving. That’s true during different stages of growth and even as the seasons change.

Part of supporting your pet throughout the year is understanding the specific risks that come with changing weather and special seasonal events. Supporting pets this summer can be easier with these tips:

Summer Health Concerns
It may be an exciting time of year for humans with all the extra activities, seasonal celebrations and travel, but those summer pastimes can add up to a whole lot of stress for pets. In addition, environmental factors like allergens and heat can affect them more than you realize.

Allergies: Pets can be affected by many of the same allergens as humans, including grass, pollen and other vegetation that is more prevalent during warmer months. Watch for signs of trouble such as scratching, chewing, watery eyes and general discomfort. Veterinarians can offer advice on allergy support and supplements appropriate for your pet’s age, breed and size.
Fireworks: Summer tends to bring more loud noise and commotion in general, but this is especially true around the Fourth of July when explosions become the norm. If pets are fearful, it’s especially important to ensure they stay in well-secured areas since fireworks are a common cause of pets running away. If possible, find a safe spot within your house where outside noises are muffled. Provide some comfort items and check on them regularly. If they seem extremely distressed, vet-recommended anxiety treatments and supplements can help promote relaxation and soothe their nerves.
Travel: If your pet suffers from separation anxiety, summer trips can be especially problematic. One solution is to take your pet with you, but that’s not always practical or even possible. When pets with separation anxiety stay behind, it’s a good idea to leave them with someone they know, and even better if that person can stay in your home so pets are in familiar surroundings. If that’s not an option, introducing pets to their caretaker or doing a trial run at the kennel can help ease their nerves. In extreme cases, you may need to consult with a vet about supplements that can help soothe pets in your absence.
Dehydration: Just like humans, hotter temperatures make it easier to get dehydrated, which can lead to myriad health concerns. Ensure pets have access to fresh, clean and cool water at all times and be sure to alert your veterinarian if you notice any changes in their interest in drinking, as that can signal an issue. Also watch for signs of dehydration, such as weakness, less energy, changes in appetite and panting.

Managing Activity Levels
During the summer months, pets may be tempted to take it easy in the heat, or you may have the opposite problem: a pet that’s a little too active for the elements. Monitoring their activity level is important to ensure they don’t get overheated but also get adequate exercise to maintain a healthy weight and keep muscle tone strong. This may require getting creative about bringing playtime indoors or shifting your routine to accommodate walks early or late in the day when temperatures tend to be more forgiving.

Introducing Health Supplements
Monitoring pets’ health isn’t a one-size-fits-all effort. In fact, different breeds have distinct needs when it comes to exercise, behavioral training and even nutrition. Supplements, from multifunctional solutions to those targeting specific issues, can help complement regular food to ensure pets are getting all of the nutrients and preventative support they need to thrive. One comprehensive option is NaturVet’s Breed Specific Soft Chews supplement line, which is made up of five products that provide proactive support for distinct dog breed categories, including toy/small, bully, sport/working, doodle and giant.

The vet-formulated soft chew line was designed to offer a streamlined and personalized supplement approach for breeds with particular health needs. To support pets precisely as they are, each product offering is formulated for pure and mixed breed dogs alike, delivering tailored, wholesome ingredients to address joint, allergy, immune, heart, gut, anxiety and dental issues.

Find more advice for supporting your pet’s health this summer and beyond at naturvet.com.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock (woman hugging dog)

SOURCE:
NaturVet

Preparing for Your First Pet: 5 tips for new pet owners

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The 9 Most Dog-Friendly Campgrounds in 2024 According to The Dyrt

The Dyrt announced the top nine dog-friendly campgrounds in the U.S. for 2024, with 4 Paws Kingdom Campground in North Carolina ranking first. Dog-Friendly Campgrounds

Published

3 weeks ago

August 23, 2024

Daily News Staff

PORTLAND, Ore. /PRNewswire/ — The Dyrt, the No. 1 app for camping availability, photos and reviews, has announced the Top 9 for K-9s: The Most Dog-Friendly Campgrounds in The U.S. for 2024. Camping is for the dogs, and we mean that in the best way possible. According to The Dyrt’s 2024 Camping Report presented by The All-New Toyota Tacoma, more than half of campers (53.7%) brought their four-legged friends along with them in 2023.

Photo Credit: The Dyrt camper Randy J. | Tahoe Valley Campground, California

Top 9 for K-9s: The Most Dog-Friendly Campgrounds in The U.S.

The Dyrt also found that 46.8% of campers list RVing as their primary camping type. If you think about it, it’s a perfect match. All the comforts of home and your best buddy, or buddies, traveling comfortably alongside you. No surprise then that five of the nine campgrounds in the Top 9 for K-9s cater primarily to RVs.

Speaking of being catered to, the No. 1 campground this year is 4 Paws Kingdom Campground & Dog Retreat in Rutherfordton, North Carolina. Yes, “Dog” is right there in the name. This property truly prioritizes pampering pooches, right down to not allowing any humans under the age of 18 for optimal relaxation and minimal fur tugging. 4 Paws is set on nine acres and some of the individual campsites even have fenced-in yards.

“People love camping for a lot of the same reasons that dogs love camping,” says Sarah Smith, founder of The Dyrt. “You get out of the house, immerse yourself in nature, explore, see some wildlife, sit by a fire, sleep in the great outdoors. When we take Brandy (aka The Dyrt Dog) camping with us, I know she’s having as much fun as we are.”

Top 9 for K-9s is the official close to The Dyrt awards season, which started with The Glampys and was followed by the Best Places to Camp Regional and National awards, presented by Toyota Tacoma, and the Best Places to RV presented by State Farm.

Using AI to sift through The Dyrt’s millions of user-generated reviews, photos and tips of U.S. campgrounds, we identified campgrounds that were not just dog-friendly, but dog-welcoming. They are ranked based on reviews, photos, accommodations and amenities offered. Here’s to the dog days of summer! Who wants to go for a ride?!

4 Paws Kingdom Campground & Dog Retreat — North Carolina: Doggy heaven on Earth
Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground — Idaho: Welcome to off-leash island
Lake George RV Park — New York: Bark Park hits the mark
Alum Creek State Park — Ohio: Fenced-in fields for big and small dogs
Tahoe Valley Campground — California: Dogs want to go to Tahoe too
Campground at James Island County Park — South Carolina: 643 acres of exploring
Chatfield State Park — Colorado: 69-acre, fenced-in dog park
First Landing State Park — Virginia: 20 miles of trails and Chesapeake Bay beach
Santa Fe Skies RV Park — New Mexico: Trails, a dog park and unmatched mountain views

All nine campgrounds earned positive reviews from The Dyrt campers, a group which is becoming more proactive in seeking out campgrounds that meet their needs as pet owners. The 2024 Camping Report found that when it came to adding amenities, the only things property owners added more than dog parks were Wi-Fi and pickleball courts.

“We’ve never been to a park like this one and highly recommend it if you can get in,” says The Dyrt camper Gabi B. about top-ranked 4 Paws Kingdom. “We’ll be back for sure!”

About The Dyrt

The Dyrt is the most comprehensive camping resource with millions of user-generated reviews, photos and tips for every RV site, cabin, glamping and tent camping location, including all public, private and free camping areas in the United States. The Dyrt is how campers search, save and book camping of any type anywhere in the U.S. With The Dyrt PRO, campers get reservations at sold-out campgrounds, advanced maps, discounts on camping and more. The Dyrt is the No. 1 camping app and receives more than 30 million visits from campers each year because The Dyrt has it all. www.thedyrt.com

SOURCE The Dyrt

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.

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Beat the Summer Heat with M&M’S® Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches and GREENIES™ Dental Treats for Dogs This National Dog Day!

Published

4 weeks ago

August 21, 2024

Rebecca Washington, Daily News Staff

Summer is in full swing, and what better way to celebrate the season and National Dog Day than with the ultimate treat for both you and your canine companion! Mars, a leader in creating delicious treats for both pets and people, is marking this special day with the introduction of the “Mars Summer Treat Pack.” On Monday, August 26, Mars celebrates the 25th anniversary of its M&M’s Ice Cream and National Dog Day by offering these delightful treat packs absolutely free to fans and their four-legged friends, while supplies last.

A Sweet Deal for Pet Parents and Pups

The “Mars Summer Treat Pack” features a delicious combo: creamy, decadent M&M’S Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches for the humans, and tasty, teeth-cleaning GREENIES™ Dental Treats for the dogs. It’s the perfect way to enjoy some quality time with your pup while keeping cool and satisfied during the hot summer days.

M&M’S® Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches and GREENIES™ Dental Treats for Dogs, both proudly part of Mars, are bringing pet parents and their dogs the ultimate treat duo with the launch of the limited time “Mars Summer Treat Pack” offering on National Dog Day.

Shaf Lalani, General Manager at Mars Ice Cream, elaborates on the celebration, “What better way to celebrate 25 years of delicious M&M’S Ice Cream and National Dog Day than treating both pet parents and their canine companions to free summer treats. The ‘Mars Summer Treat Pack’ combines two fan-favorites from our portfolio to help pet parents inspire moments of happiness with their dogs.”

How to Get Your Paws on These Treats

Leading up to National Dog Day, if you’re in New York City, don’t miss the “Mars Summer Treat Pack” truck! On Saturday, August 24, the truck will be making stops at Tompkins Square Park at 11:30 a.m. ET, and later at Union Square Park around 3:30 p.m. ET. Be sure to swing by to grab your scrumptious treats-for-two in person.

Celebrate Your 4-Legged Friend: 3 ways to give back during National Dog Month

https://stmdailynews.com/celebrate-your-4-legged-friend-3-ways-to-give-back-during-national-dog-month/

On the big day itself, August 26, Mars partners with Fooji to extend this special offering nationwide. Pet parents can visit MarsSummerTreatPack.com starting at 10:00 a.m. ET to claim their free “Mars Summer Treat Pack.” For residents in Chicago, Cincinnati, Los Angeles, Nashville, and New York City, enjoy the added perk of special same-day delivery. Remember, it’s while supplies last, so be quick to secure your summer treat pack!

Celebrate and Share Your Sweet Moments

We’d love to see how you and your furry friend are enjoying these delightful treats. Share your moments of summer fun and bonding with your dog by tagging #TreatedByMars on social media.

For more insights into M&M’S Ice Cream, check out MMS.com/mms-ice-cream or follow @mmschocolate. To explore more about GREENIES™, visit GREENIES.com or follow @greenies on social media. As Mars Petcare continues on its mission to create A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS, you can learn more about their efforts and initiatives at https://www.mars.com/our-brands/petcare.

This National Dog Day, embrace the joy of summer with a special treat from Mars that celebrates the love and fun you share with your furry best friend. Happy treating!

https://marssummertreatpack.com/#campaign-teaser

ABOUT MARS, INCORPORATED
Mars, Incorporated is driven by the belief that the world we want tomorrow starts with how we do business today. As a global, family-owned business, Mars is transforming, innovating and evolving to make a positive impact on the world.

Across our diverse and expanding portfolio of quality confectionery, food, and pet care products and services, we employ 140,000+ dedicated Associates. With more than $47 billion in annual sales, we produce some of the world’s best-loved brands including Ben’s Original™, CESAR®, Cocoavia®, DOVE®, EXTRA®, KIND®, M&M’s®, SNICKERS®, PEDIGREE®, ROYAL CANIN® and WHISKAS®. We are creating a better world for pets through our global network of pet hospitals and diagnostic services – including AniCura, BANFIELD™, BLUEPEARL™, Linnaeus and VCA™ – using cutting edge technology to develop breakthrough programs in genetic health screening and DNA testing.

For more information about Mars, please visit www.mars.com. Join us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.

SOURCE Mars, Incorporated

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Rebecca Washington

Rebecca Jo is a mother of four and is a creative soul from Phoenix, Arizona, who also enjoys new adventures. Rebecca Jo has a passion for the outdoors and indulges in activities like camping, fishing, hunting and riding roller coasters. She is married to Rod Washington View all posts

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Celebrate Your 4-Legged Friend: 3 ways to give back during National Dog Month

Published

1 month ago

August 4, 2024

Daily News Staff

(Family Features) While most dog owners need little reason to celebrate their furry family members, National Dog Month provides a perfect opportunity to show pets a little extra love.

Established in 2004 by the Animal Miracle Network and the International Association of Pet Sitters, the month-long celebration promotes responsible pet ownership and honors dogs of all breeds and sizes. Consider these ways you can get involved:

Adopt a dog from a local shelter or rescue organization
Organize a dog-friendly event in your community, such as a dog walk or pet parade
Donate dog food, toys or supplies to a local animal shelter
Volunteer at a rescue organization or shelter
Host a dog-themed party or gathering with your friends and their furry companions
Share photos and stories of your dogs on social media

To take it one step further and help dogs in need in your community, reach out to local pet-focused organizations and see how you can help.

Support Local Shelters
Supporting local shelters by donating money, supplies or your time can aid in the well-being of dogs in your community. Consider organizing a fundraising event or a donation drive to collect essential items for the shelter, such as food, bedding or toys. You can also help spread the word about the importance of adopting dogs from shelters and encourage others to do the same.

Promote Responsible Pet Ownership
Lead by example by being a responsible dog owner yourself through showing love, care and respect for your furry companion. Encourage spaying and neutering to prevent shelter overpopulation and educate yourself and others about the responsibilities that come with dog ownership, such as providing proper nutrition, regular veterinary care and training.

Take Advantage of Volunteer Opportunities
There are many ways to help dogs in need, such as volunteering your time at a local animal shelter or rescue organization, assisting adoption events, walking dogs, cleaning kennels or helping with other essential tasks. If you have specific skills or expertise, you may also consider volunteering as a dog trainer, groomer or foster pet parent.

Find more tips for caring for your pet at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com

NATIONAL DOG DAY | August 26

National Dog Day on August 26th encourages dog ownership of all breeds, celebrating the joy and companionship that dogs bring into our lives. While seeking a new furry companion, be sure to consider the wonderful variety available, from lovable mutts and unique mixes to majestic purebreds and everything in between. Each dog, regardless of breed, has the potential to bring immense happiness and love into a home.

#NationalDogDay

National Dog Day on August 26th encourages dog ownership of all breeds, celebrating the joy and companionship that dogs bring into our lives. https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/pets/

Whether mixed or purebred, we must embrace the opportunity for all dogs to live a happy, safe, and abuse-free life. These loyal companions enrich our lives in countless ways. They not only offer companionship but also provide protection and assistance to those in need. Dogs take on many roles in our lives; they are our friends, guardians, and therapeutic allies. By fostering a caring environment for them, we enhance our own well-being as they keep us healthy, both physically and mentally. Let’s celebrate and ensure the welfare of these incredible animals who ask so little yet give so much.

https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/pets