pets
PetSmart Helps Pet Parents Check Off Bucket List Adventures This Summer
Last Updated on August 20, 2024 by Daily News Staff
From new Arcadia Trail outdoor products and safety tips to a chance to win a road trip with your pup, PetSmart is making summer adventure easy
PHOENIX, May 16, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Summer is all about travel and checking those must-do adventure experiences off of the bucket list. And this year, pet parents aren’t leaving their pets behind. According to a recent survey* from PetSmart, more than 60% of pet parents believe it is important to bring their dog along on outdoor activities over the summer. Knowing that pet parents have a passion for exploring the great outdoors with their dogs by their side, PetSmart is inspiring dream summer adventures with the new Arcadia Trail Summer Bucket List Contest in which 10 pet parents will win the ultimate road-trip vacation with their dog. PetSmart also is gearing up pet parents with new products from the outdoor-focused Arcadia Trail collection as well as expert tips to help keep pets safe while adventuring. 
Arcadia Trail Summer Bucket List Contest **
As people are dreaming of bucket list adventures to take with their pets, PetSmart surveyed pet parents to see what outdoor activities top their lists. Among the top experiences people want to have with their pets this summer are water activities, camping, hiking and road trips.
PetSmart’s Arcadia Trail Summer Bucket List Contest will give pet parents and their dogs a chance to make their bucket list adventure come true. People are asked to share why it’s important for them to head out on an ultimate road trip with their pup, and PetSmart will choose 10 pet parents and their dogs to receive a fully customized road trip experience along with 100,000 PetSmart Treats reward points and a full suite of merchandise from the 2023 Arcadia Trail collection, available only at PetSmart.
To enter, pet parents can visit AnythingforPets.com now through June 7.
Safety Tips Made for Adventure
To help keep pets and pet parents safe and healthy on their adventures, Dr. Jennifer Bruns, DVM, MPVM, of PetSmart Veterinary Services, shares tips to keep in mind when planning for outdoor activities, including:
- Go at your pet’s pace. If your dog isn’t accustomed to outdoor adventures, be mindful of how much energy an activity like swimming or hiking can take from them. Keep an eye on them and watch for any signs of distress.
- Stay safe in the water. Even if your dog is a strong swimmer, always outfit them with a life jacket when near bodies of water, especially if you’re on a boat or kayak and are far from shore.
- Be mindful of the heat. Just like humans, dogs can experience heatstroke, the symptoms of which can take hours or even days to show up. Watch for signs of distress such as excessive panting or difficulty breathing, weakness, increased heart rate, diarrhea or vomiting.
- Keep your pet fueled and hydrated. In the hot summer months, your pet needs extra water, too. Take frequent water and snack breaks to keep pets hydrated and fueled to continue the adventure.
- Pets get sunburned, too. Protect your dog from the sun with regular breaks in the shade and apply pet-safe sunscreen to their noses, ears and other areas where their coat doesn’t cover the skin.
- Have proper identification on your pet. Be sure your dog is wearing a tag on its collar and that the information is up to date in case you get separated. Don’t forget to update the information connected to their microchip as well.
New Arcadia Trail Gear Made for the Outdoors
Having the right gear is critical for any outdoor excursion. PetSmart’s Arcadia Trail collection of adventure-approved dog toys, clothing and gear are tough enough for all outdoor activities, including camping, hiking and water play. New items in the expanded collection include a new Pet Wagon, an Inflatable Dog Raft, a Quick-Dry Dog Harness, a Portable Dog Showerhead and a Waterproof Car Seat Cover, as well as durable dog toys, like the Water-Repellant Canvas Duck Dog Toy and Adjustable Ball Launcher.
For more safety tips, trip inspiration and to enter the Arcadia Trail Summer Bucket List Contest, visit AnythingforPets.com. For more information on the Arcadia Trail collection, as well as PetSmart’s services and ways to shop, visit PetSmart.com.
*Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 American pet owners was commissioned by PetSmart on Jan. 4-5, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).
**NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. The PetSmart Arcadia Trail Contest is sponsored by PetSmart LLC. Open to legal residents of the 50 United States and D.C. who are 18 years of age or older and the age of majority in their jurisdiction of residence as of the date of entry. Begins at 8 a.m. ET on 05/16/23 & ends 11:59 p.m. ET on 06/07/23. Void where prohibited. Prize package includes: 3 nights’ hotel accommodations, pet-centered activities, Arcadia Trail Gear package, and more. ARV: $5,000. Prize restrictions apply. For complete Official Rules, visit www.anythingforpets.com.
About PetSmart
PetSmart LLC is the leading pet retailer offering products, services and solutions for the lifetime needs of pets. At PetSmart, we love pets and we believe pets make us better people. Every day with every connection, PetSmart’s passionate associates help bring pet parents closer to their pets so together they can live more fulfilled lives. This vision impacts everything we do for our customers, the way we support our associates and how we give back to our communities.
PetSmart operates approximately 1,660 pet stores in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico, as well as more than 200 in-store PetSmart PetsHotel® dog and cat boarding facilities. We provide a broad range of competitively priced pet food and products, as well as services such as dog training, pet grooming, pet boarding, PetSmart Doggie Day Camp™ and pet adoption.
PetSmart, PetSmart Charities® and PetSmart Charities® of Canada work with nearly 4,000 animal welfare organizations to bring adoptable pets into stores so they have the best chance possible of finding a forever home.
Through this in-store adoption program and other signature events, PetSmart has facilitated over 10 million adoptions, more than any other brick-and-mortar organization.
SOURCE PetSmart
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.
pets
Cost Management for a Healthy, Happy Furry Friend: 5 Ways to Save Money While Giving Your Pet Excellent Care
You’re not imagining it – like many goods and services, pet care costs have gone up. There are simple ways to keep costs in check, however, while still giving your furry friends the care they deserve.
(Feature Impact) You’re not imagining it – like many goods and services, pet care costs have gone up.
In fact, Healthy Paws Pet Insurance reported a 38% increase in pet services over the past five years with pet parents spending more than $4,200 a year on routine expenses for a cat or dog.
Lots of factors are driving increased costs, from higher ingredient prices for pet food – like meat and grains – to veterinary drug shortages. Add in rising labor and transportation costs and those everyday expenses can start to take a bigger bite out of your budget.
There are simple ways to keep costs in check, however, while still giving your furry friends the care they deserve:
1. Prioritize Preventive Care
Routine checkups, vaccinations and screenings can catch health issues early when they are easier and less expensive to treat. Most pets should see a veterinarian at least once a year, while puppies, kittens and senior pets may need more frequent visits.
Preventive medications play an important role as well. Treating heartworm disease, for example, can cost thousands while monthly prevention costs $15-$30.
2. Focus on Daily Wellness
Consistent exercise helps reduce the risk of chronic conditions and supports overall health. Most dogs benefit from at least 30 minutes of daily activity while cats need regular play to stay active.
Feeding appropriate portions can also help with weight maintenance. Portion sizes vary, but a good starting point is the feeding guidelines on your pet food label, adjusting as needed with your veterinarian’s input.
3. Find Support in Your Community
Many local humane societies and rescue groups offer resources that make pet care more accessible, including low-cost vaccinations, spay and neuter services and discounted supplies.
For seniors, local Meals on Wheels providers can be important resources. With support from PetSmart Charities, many local providers offer free pet food and, in some cases, services like veterinary care and grooming. To date, 20 million pet meals have been delivered through this collaboration, helping keep pets healthy and in loving homes with older adults.
4. Plan Ahead for Unexpected Costs
Even with routine care, unexpected illnesses or injuries can happen – and costs can add up. The PetSmart Charities-Gallup State of Pet Care research revealed 52% of pet parents skipped or declined veterinary care services in 2025, with the majority citing cost as the key barrier.
Pet insurance can help manage risk. Most policies reimburse a percentage of covered veterinary costs after you meet a deductible, helping offset unexpected bills. Plans vary, but average monthly premiums are around $60 for dogs and $30 for cats.
It’s also important to be open with your veterinarian about financial concerns. In many cases, clinics may be able to offer payment plans, or look for low-cost-veterinary care resources in your area.
To find a local provider and learn whether pet support is available in your area, visit mealsonwheelsamerica.org/lovepets.
A Companion Through It All
A devastating cancer diagnosis left Lois hospitalized for eight months. Afterward, she began receiving home-delivered meals through her local Meals on Wheels provider. That connection proved to be a lifeline.
“When I was sick,” Lois said, “the Meals on Wheels volunteers … were the only company I had.”
That changed when a small white kitten with calico markings showed up at her front door. Today, that kitten – now named Grace – is rarely far from Lois’s side.
Though Grace softens Lois’s loneliness, caring for a pet on a fixed income isn’t always easy. For many seniors, it can mean making difficult choices, like stretching groceries or delaying medical care, just to afford pet food and supplies. Through support from her local provider, food is delivered for Grace as part of Lois’s regular meal service, helping keep them both healthy, happy and, most importantly, together.
SOURCE:
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.
pets
Wet Noses Brings 5lb Organic Grain-Free Peanut Butter Banana Crunchy Treats to Costco.com
Wet Noses launches a 5lb resealable bag of organic, grain-free peanut butter banana crunchy baked dog treats—exclusive to Costco.com.
Pet parents who read labels like they’re shopping for themselves just got a new bulk-buy option. Wet Noses—best known for its human grade dog treats—has launched a 5lb bag of Organic Grain-Free Crunchy Baked Peanut Butter Banana dog treats, now available exclusively on Costco.com.
What’s new (and why it matters)
The headline is the size: a resealable 5lb format designed for households that treat daily—whether that’s training reps, post-walk rewards, or the “you were patient while I took that call” snack. But the bigger story is the ingredient approach. Wet Noses says the recipe is made with just five certified organic ingredients, built around house-made peanut butter and bananas, then gently oven baked in Wet Noses’ own kitchens to bring out natural aroma and a crunchy texture.
For shoppers used to long ingredient panels, this is the kind of product that aims to keep things simple: no fillers, no surprises, and a recognizable pantry-style recipe.
A classic flavor combo, kept clean
Peanut butter and banana is one of those timeless pairings that feels familiar for a reason—sweet, nutty, and naturally appealing. Wet Noses positions this treat as an everyday staple: a clean, organic option that can rotate into your routine without the “special occasion only” vibe.
According to the company, the treats are grain-free and made with no corn, no wheat, and no soy, with zero artificial additives.
The “bulk value” shift in pet shopping
Wet Noses says the move to a larger bag reflects how the pet category is evolving—where value and quality are expected to coexist.
“Bringing this 5lb format to Costco.com reflects where we see the pet category continuing to evolve,” said Roel Cruz, VP of Sales and Marketing at Wet Noses. “Today’s pet parents are looking for real value without compromising on ingredient quality. This launch pairs one of our most loved recipes with a format designed for everyday treating, delivering the convenience families need and the organic, human grade quality they expect from our brand.”
How they’re made
Wet Noses notes that, like its other products, these Crunchy Baked Treats are oven baked in the company’s WSDA human grade certified, SQF-audited kitchen in Washington State. For consumers, those certifications and audits are meant to signal tighter standards around handling and production.
Who this is best for
If your household goes through treats quickly—multi-dog homes, active training schedules, or anyone who keeps a jar by the door for “good behavior on the way out”—the 5lb resealable bag is built for that pace.
Quick checklist
- Available: Exclusively on Costco.com
- Product: Wet Noses Organic Grain-Free Crunchy Baked Peanut Butter Banana dog treats
- Size: 5lb resealable bag
- Ingredients: Five certified organic ingredients (per the company)
- Free from: Corn, wheat, soy; zero artificial additives (per the company)
- Made in: Washington State, in a WSDA human grade certified, SQF-audited kitchen
Bottom line
The pet aisle is increasingly mirroring the human food aisle—short ingredient lists, recognizable inputs, and “buy bigger, waste less time” convenience. Wet Noses’ new 5lb Peanut Butter Banana Crunchy Baked Treats aim to hit that sweet spot: bulk value without stepping away from organic, human grade positioning.
For more information, Wet Noses can be reached at Sale@wet-noses.com.
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.
National Parvo Awareness Day
(Feature Impact) April 28, 2026, marks the third annual National Parvo Awareness Day, aimed at bringing awareness to this devastating and often-fatal virus. Canine parvovirus (parvo) is a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease that can affect dogs of all ages, though it is particularly dangerous for unvaccinated puppies.
Early detection is the key to survival. As pet owners, recognizing the signs can save a life. Common symptoms include severe lethargy, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and persistent vomiting. One of the most critical warning signs is severe, often bloody, diarrhea. If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, it is imperative to act immediately – every minute counts.
Ask your veterinarian about Trutect™ if your dog is diagnosed with parvovirus. Trutect™, formerly Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody, is the only USDA-approved treatment for parvo.
While vaccination remains the cornerstone of prevention, knowing the symptoms and seeking rapid veterinary care is essential. This National Parvo Awareness Day, let’s work together to protect our pets.
Learn more at StopParvo.com.
Watch the video below:
PM-US-26-0651
SOURCE:
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.
