Archive for category: Fun

The holidays have come to a close and that time of the year is here again. The exciting back to school rush has got everyone getting ready for a season filled with numerous activities. As the children pick out their school bags, parents are busy filling up their calendar pages with a ton of extra-curricular activities. While everyone else in the house is looking forward to the baseball games, band practice and school plays, Buster, the family dog is left to deal with the back-to-school blues alone.

Often, we leave out our furry friends amidst all these activities. Suddenly, time for exercise, playing and bonding with the pooch reduces. It becomes difficult for our furry companions, especially if they are attached to the family. Dogs are loyal and affectionate to their families, and they love the attention they get from you. These sudden changes in their daily routine may cause lots of stress for them.

When Buster is stressed out, he may adopt some behavioral issues that will affect both the family and him. Behavior such as soiling indoors, clawing or chewing the furniture, and excessive barking is not only annoying but can also have some serious health ramifications on the dog. The health issues associated with back-to-school blues include depression, overeating, and loss of appetite. When depression sets in, it weakens your dog’s immune system and puts them at the risk of cancer, heart disease, and arthritis.

Like us, our furry friends can cope with life changes, but the change has to be introduced gradually. Better yet, the end of the holidays doesn’t mean the end of fun and activity in your dog’s life. Here are 5 ways to keep your dog active and help them cope with the fact that everyone else has left the house.

1. Get a Dog Toy

Instead of leaving your dog in boredom and frustration, you can get them a dog toy to keep them engaged while the rest of the family is away. A dog toy like Kong will keep Buster distracted and deterred from thinking about being alone. However, you should know that providing your dog with a toy isn’t as easy as leaving them with anything provided it fits in their mouth. There are different chew types, formulation, and sizes of dog toys and they are contingent on the age, breed, chewing style, and weight of the pet.

If your dog is in between sizes, it is more prudent to get the larger chew size. If they are a strong chewer, pose a challenge for them by getting a larger chew toy. You can also increase the fun by stuffing a Kong with treats, hiding kibble around his playing area for him to find, or setting up puzzle toys to provide your pet with some entertainment and mental stimulation at the same time.

2. School For Buster Too

Let your furry friend share the excitement of going back to school. Make your dog feel that they will be just as busy as you this season by enrolling them in a training school or a doggie daycare. There are so many benefits associated with taking your pooch to school that if you think about it, it is worth the expense.
Should your busy schedule mean an end to Fido’s social life? Let your dog meet and make new friends at a nearby doggie daycare. A day of supervised play and exercise will keep him happy and healthy. It stands to reason that you should inspect the facility before leaving your furry friend.

Training is another good way to keep him active mentally and physically. It benefits the dog, their family, and the community as a whole. He gets to learn rules and restraint which makes him more fun to be around, meaning he gets to spend more time with loving family members.

3. Hire a Pet Sitter

Hiring a sitter for your loyal friend is not easy, but when you get the right person for the job, the benefits are immense for both of you. A dog sitter will ensure that your buddy is comfortable and happy when you and the kids leave for work and school respectively. If you were in the habit of giving Fido a lunchtime snack during the holidays, a pet sitter would ensure that he gets it.

With a pet sitter, your dog doesn’t need to be confined indoors. They can play together in the backyard or even go for long walks. Let your pet sitter know the daily routine you and your dog are used to, and they can do it together. Sure, it won’t be the same for Fido since the two of you have a firm bond, but still, he will appreciate and benefit a lot from the time at the park and the long walks.

4. Bring Your Dog Whenever Possible

Dogs are social animals, and their biggest desire in life is to be with their “pack.” Thus, whenever you can, it is always a good idea to let your four-legged family member tag along. Unless his behavior is unfriendly to the public, there is no reason to leave him at home alone. Keep your dog involved and happy by bringing him to football practice or for those after-school visits to the park. It is commendable to always check in advance if a facility allows dogs to avoid surprises. Again, bringing a chew toy and a water dish will ensure that your dog’s needs are met even if you stay longer.

5. Create Time for Pup

One way to make sure that your dog does not get separation anxiety is by having and maintaining a strict routine. Your dog is an important aspect of your family, and it is in everyone’s best interests that he stays balanced. Thus, although your day is busy from morning till evening, you should create some time to cater for his exercise needs. You can do this by going for walks or jogs early in the morning before embarking on your business or later in the evening. You can also teach your kids some easy games like hide and seek or fetch and encourage them to play with Fido as soon as they get home. This will help the dog stay active and get over the daytime boredom. Playing with your dog when you get home will also make them feel more appreciated.

Our dogs will always remain loyal to us no matter what; it is a challenge that you remain loyal to them as well. Since we will always work out a way to strike a balance between work and family, let’s not leave out our dogs who are a vital part of our families.

About the Author:

June is the founder of TobysBone, where she shares her passion for writing and love for dogs. She wants to help you deal with your dog’s behavior issues, grooming and health needs, and proper training. Through her blog, you can find informative and reliable posts, tips and tricks, and a lot of interesting reads that will help you maintain a close bond with your furry companion.

When you’re living in a crowded city where greenery is sparse, traffic is heavy and space is limited, it’s likely that you keep your cat indoors, mainly for his own safety. Many people feel that keeping a cat indoors is cruel because it denies him the ability to exercise his natural cat behaviors like hunting and stalking. However, many cats do just fine in an apartment or house, and they needn’t become fat and lazy as long as you keep them entertained! The best way of doing that is to harness their natural feline instincts. Here are a few ways of doing just that.

1. Cat Trees

Cats love to climb. They love looking down on the world from a lofty height and one of the reasons for this is that it gives them status among their peers. He’s literally looking down on them. By providing a cat tree where your kitty can climb, scratch and hide, you’ll provide him with hours of fun and maybe a place to rest and nap. It also increases his vertical space and makes it easier for two cats who live in the same home to be close without crowding each other. A cat with less status who’s sitting on top will always give way to a more dominant one.

2. Scratching Posts

Cats gotta scratch! Scratching is part of a cat’s natural exercise regime that helps him exercise and strengthen the muscles of his feet and fore paws. His fore paws contain scent glands so it’s also a way of marking his territory both by the smell and the marks he leaves. It also sloughs off dead layers of claws. It’s a good idea to give him a scratching post to save damage to your furniture. The best ones are made of sisal, and you can encourage him to use it by spraying it with catnip spray. You can even get ones with toys attached to them!

Cats HAVE to hunt! If you don’t want to let him do the real thing outside then put a bird feeder outside so that he can watch them and dream about them. He can’t actually get to them so he can’t kill or injure them.

3. Hunting and Brain Exercises

Cats need to use their brains so it’s a great idea to give them puzzles and toys to work on, especially those containing food or cat treats. These feed the cat’s need to forage, and because it makes it more difficult to reach their food, heavyweight cats will find it harder to eat too much. They will also get some great exercise!

4. Music to Their Ears

Cats like music! Yes, really! OK, we don’t mean Heavy Metal, but maybe some meditation music or soft classical sounds like violin, harp or piano. You can play this while you’re out at work and he’s alone at home.

5. Go on a Safe Walk

Cats on a leash? Absolutely. Contrary to popular belief, you can train a cat to go walking on a leash, but it takes time and patience. Cats are not little dogs; they don’t live to serve us, so getting one to walk on a leash is no mean feat, but it can be done. It’s best to start when he’s a kitten, when everything is a game, but even older cats can be taught and may actually enjoy and look forward to the experience.

Start with a harness, holding it out so he can sniff it, then leave it beside his food bowl, giving him a little treat so that he associates it with a positive experience. When he’s familiar with its shape and scent put it on for a few minutes, making sure it’s neither too tight nor too loose. A good guide is to slip two fingers in between the collar and the cat’s neck. If they can get in and out easily the fit is just right. When he’s used to the harness you can leave it on a while longer. Attach the leash to the collar and let him lead you around, making sure there is no tension on it. You need to keep it loose so that it puts no pressure on him at all, and lavish him with titbits and praise.

After a while you can start gently pulling on the leash, guiding him to where you want him to go instead of letting him lead you. Call him by his name and treat him again when he comes to you.

Always carry your cat outside. Start taking the kitty outside in the garden first before venturing out into the big bad world, then little by little you can explore further, making sure you don’t force him out of his comfort zone. After a while he’ll be enjoying his walks so much he won’t think twice about going. Bengals are especially active, that’s why they are also called “Action Cats”!

6. Getting Inside Out

Get a cat patio! This is a way of providing him with some indoor/outdoor space. It has see-through walls, a roof and areas where he can get out of the sun and rain. You can put all his favorite toys in it and even make a space for yourself. You don’t have to spend a lot of money; there are plenty of kits out there for the D.I.Y. enthusiast.

7. Schedule the Play Sessions

When you get home from work, schedule a play session with your cat. You can play with crinkle balls, catnip mice, fishing pole toys and anything that he can chase, pounce on and stalk. Don’t, however, leave them alone with string toys since they are very dangerous choking hazards. Balls of wool, contrary to popular belief, are not good cat toys!

I hope I’ve given you some constructive ideas to stop your kitty from becoming bored stiff – but the best thing you can do for him is love him!

About the Author:

Hi, I’m Jane Miller! I’m a certified cat lover and an unapologetic writer! That’s why I created SweetieKitty! Born in Connecticut, one sunny day of April, during the most interesting decade of past century! Nowadays I live in South Carolina, with my three tomcats! I’d love to read your comments on my article!

Allowing pets in the workplace is becoming an increasingly popular perk as more employers shift to attracting a millennial workforce that values non-traditional offerings. This growing office trend is shown to support what pet owners have known since the beginning of time: Pets make us happy.

According to the Society of Human Resource Management, 7 percent of employers now allow pets to come to work with their owners which is up from 5 percent five years ago.

So, beyond happiness, what exactly are the benefits for employees, employers, and the office as a whole, for allowing pets to come to work?

1. Less Guilt

If your dog is by your side throughout the day, you aren’t constantly worrying about whether he is lonely, bored or destroying things. Bringing peace of mind into the office tends to make people focus on their work more and the tasks at hand rather than on external factors beyond their control.

2. Create Balance

The line between work and home is getting blurrier for many today. Offices can be a home away from home for many workers, which is why it’s not only nice to have your pet at work, but a necessity, especially if you work long hours and can’t break away to get to check on your pet.

Inverse-SquARE, a custom application development company, knows that opening the workplace to pets create a positive work-life balance because it keeps spirits high and reminds employees to take short breaks to play with and walk their dogs. Dogs can just be plain funny; a little comic relief goes along way because laughter is contagious.

3. Improved Morale

A workplace that encourages pets increases employee satisfaction, encourages teamwork and communication among colleagues, and improves morale, according to a study by the International Journal of Workplace Health Management. Dogs may buffer the impact of owner stress as well as make the job more satisfying. People with higher morale are usually easier to get along with than grumps.

4. Positive Company Image

Good employers place high value on their company’s image and what they are portraying to the rest of the world. They look more progressive and in tune with not only employees, but with customers who walk in the door. An inviting company culture is attractive to potential employees.

5. Less Employee Turnover

Job performance and employee retention is directly related to employee job satisfaction. Workers these days no longer stick in a job if they aren’t happy. They’d rather pursue new opportunities that align with their values. Plus, employers with less turnover could reduce company costs such as recruiting, screening and training new people to replace employees who quit.

6. Reduced Pet Care Costs

No one wants to spend money if they don’t have to. Daily doggie daycare can be an expensive endeavor, which is why younger generations look for employment that meets their needs. Another factor is long commutes or even short trips back and forth to let your dog out to do his business.

7. Boost Employee Performance

It’s a fact that happy employees are more productive. Animal expert, Mary Hope Kramer, has been quoted in many articles about the pros and cons of bringing pets to work.

“Employees of pet-friendly businesses tend to work longer hours and have fewer absences,” Kramer said. “They don’t have to worry about rushing home to let the dog out or staying home to watch a pet that may be feeling under the weather.”

She said that according to one study, 17 percent of employers had pet-friendly workplace polices. Pet-friendly companies such as Google, Amazon and Etsy are becoming more common, Kramer said. Taking breaks from work throughout the day is actually good for the brain.

8. Stress and Anxiety Relief/Health Benefits

A 2012 study found that people who had their dogs with them at work experienced reduced hormonal stress levels compared to those who did not bring a pet to work. In fact, those who didn’t bring their pet to work showed an increasing amount of stress as the day went on.

Overall, there’s been an increase in the need for pet therapy with a variety of animals including dogs, cats, birds, bunnies and even llamas in settings ranging from hospitals, schools, senior living communities and prisons.

Among seniors, a study back in 1980 found that heart attack patients who owned pets lived longer than those who didn’t. Another early study found that petting one’s own dog could reduce blood pressure.

The benefits of pets in the workplace are numerous. The most obvious of all is that our furry BFFs make us laugh, bring a lot of joy, make us feel less stressed, and just plain bring smiles to our faces.

One of the long-term effects of global warming is the ever-rising mercury level. According to The Humane Society of the United States, the extreme summer is detrimental to your pet’s health. Did you know that animals can suffer from heat stroke? Thus, as you beat the heat this summer, make sure your pet is able to cope too.

Your pet’s well-being is your responsibility. Your pooch is a part of your family and hence, it is important to keep him safe and in good health. Here are a few enjoyable things to do so that you and your pet dog can have a great summer.

1. Walk and Exercise with Your Mutt

Early morning hours are cooler compared to afternoons. Morning is the ideal time for going on a long walk with your dog. Carry a ball or a Frisbee with you. Dogs like chasing flying objects and it is a good form of exercise too. When left alone, pets tend to get bored and upset. They vent their frustration by chasing other pets and chewing on sofas or shoes. Indulging in physical activity can prevent this. Walks are also important for their physical and mental development.

2. Try Treat-Stuffed Toys

Digging, barking, marking their territory, and gnawing come naturally to dogs. They can get frustrated if their natural instincts are suppressed. Avoid punishing your pet pooch for improper behavior. Instead, try productive ways to keep him active. Kongs have been used for countless years by dog-owners. These are chewable playthings that bounce about when thrown. Stuff Kongs or any other toy with peanut butter, mashed banana or kibbles. Your furry friend will love the treats and look forward to having more.

3. Stay Cool and Hydrated

In summers, encourage your dog to drink more water than he usually does. Try adding a little flavor to the fluids he consumes. Add tuna water or beef/lamb/chicken broth to the fresh water bowl. Keep multiple bowls of water in shaded and cool spots. Older pets are more susceptible to dehydration. Watch out for the warning signs like difficulty in breathing and a dry tongue. When it’s awfully hot, wrap icy-cool, wet bandanas around your pet’s neck. This will keep him calm and refreshed the entire day.

4. Go Treasure Hunting

Treasure hunting is a fun way to keep your dog’s mind active. Every once in a while, take him to the woods or to a riverside and begin by hiding a treat or a favorite toy somewhere obvious. Let him watch as you hide it. In the beginning, set your dog up for success so that he understands the game. Later, increase the difficulty level to keep him motivated. Hide the delicacies in places where your dog can use his sense of smell to investigate. Reward your dog well when he succeeds.

5. Make Frozen Delights

Frozen delights are one of the fastest routes to your mutt’s heart. Whip together a variety of seasonal fruits and make appetizing popsicles this summer, or try the Cool Pup Popsicles. Enjoying fruit popsicles is the healthiest, coolest and quickest way to beat the summer heat. Your canine companion will love these frozen treats. You don’t need anything besides a few minutes, some basic ingredients and a freezer to prepare them. You can use watermelons, strawberries, peaches, bananas, pineapples, fruit juices, yogurts, meat and chicken broth, carrots, peas, and beans. Use your creativity and make sweet and savory popsicles.

6. Keep a Separate Splash-Zone in the Lawn

Most dogs love to play in sprinklers placed in lawns. A sprinkler will operate like a fun-zone for your kids and pet. Encourage your dog to play around it in the heat. This will help regulate his body temperature too.

7. Hit the Beach

A good number of popular beaches are dog-friendly. However, you must be aware of the beach rules before you head to one. Most rules refer to observing pet etiquette and cleanliness. It is also crucial to know whether or not your dog needs to be on a leash. Carry a leash to be safe. In the case that your dog can move around without restraint, make sure he is in your control. Whether you take a dip in the sea or play a game of Frisbee along the shore, beach visits are great fun. Your four-legged family member will love going to the beach and will be extremely grateful for the fun.

8. Go for a Drive-in Movie Date

A drive-in movie or an outdoor movie night at a local park can be an amazing experience for you and your pet. There is nothing like watching a movie under the stars with your best buddy. Your pet also gets to socialize with other pets.

9. Explore Your City

Involve your dog in a little bit of city sight-seeing. There is no shortage of pet-friendly establishments in the United States. Several cruises, boat trips, restaurants, museums, aquariums, botanical gardens, and shopping malls are open to having pets. Your canine pal can enjoy with you while you visit these dog-friendly destinations.

10. Go Out Camping

Camping is almost synonymous with summer. A number of provincial, state and city park campsites are open to pets, provided they are on a leash. In fact, a number of parks have gone the extra mile in making these sites pet-friendly. They provide pet cabins on rent and off-leash play areas too.

Camping does take you closer to nature, but it can also expose your pet to a variety of health concerns. Talk to the veterinarian and work out a plan for your pet. It is better to read all about pet wellness before you set out camping.

Summer is a time for lots of fun activities with family and pets. Yet, you must be aware of the soaring temperature and its effects on your pet. Don’t overdo outdoor activities if it is too hot. Watch out for any signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke in your pet. In the summer, everyone looks forward to spending time outdoors. Use the tips shared in this post to have fun with your pet while staying safe.

About the Author:
Erica Montes is a digital content editor for LiveWellTesting based in sunny San Diego, California. She is immersed in the healthcare industry and is the go-to-person for health and wellness tips. In her free time, she enjoys making “healthy” dessert alternatives and trying to get as many Fitbit steps as possible. Here you may read all about pet wellness.