A Kenneling Alternative

health

Small Business Saturday and Gratitude

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This year, as the world tries to get itself back to some degree of normal, we want to express our gratitude and celebrate Small Business Saturday.

One of the reasons that we are still standing is because of our clients. We want to take a few moments, if you will indulge us, by saying thanks.

For each of you who were able to continue using Floofins & Co.’s services, even if you didn’t absolutely require them, thank you. Your support has allowed us to keep staff in place so that you don’t lose any of your favorite pet care specialists. [Read more…] about Small Business Saturday and Gratitude

Making Ice Cream As A Summer Treat

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What sounds better on a hot, steamy summer day than a big ole scoop of your favorite ice cream? Not much!
 
But, your pet may not be able to digest the contents of your favorite batch of frozen goodness. So, why not make some ice cream for them?
 
We’ve assembled some ideas for you to whip up some homemade treats that will taste way better than what is in the store. And making it yourself will give you the benefit of knowing exactly what each treat contains.
 
First up, many people are familiar with Frosty Paws in the grocery store. Our friends over at HGTV have concocted a similar treat with fewer ingredients. It contains yogurt, peanut butter and baby food. If your dog doesn’t take well to plain yogurt you can use an alternate. Click this link to get the recipe.
 
Maybe you have fresh fruit and would prefer to mix up something a little less creamy, but still tasty. The AKC has options that extend beyond traditional peanut butter ice cream. Check out the various options they have available at https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/diy-frozen-dog-treats/.
 
Remember that too much dairy can cause an upset tummy. Also, some sugar free additives can be toxic to your pet. Be especially cautious with peanut butter as the additive xylitol can be fatal to your pet if ingested. If you have questions about your pets health and nutrition we always recommend consulting your veterinarian.
 
We hope that these ideas help you create a nutritious and delicious treat to share with your pet during the hot summer days ahead of us.

Winter Weather and Your Pet

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Now that winter has arrived, adjusting to the season means different things to different pets.

If you have a pet that is older or has arthritis, colder weather may have an impact on their bodies. If your pet is due for their annual, or semiannual, wellness exam with their veterinarian, now is a good time to make sure that they get a thorough exam.

Tolerance to cold weather can vary from breed to breed and individual pet to pet. Observation can be one of your best tools. Taking note of their comfort level and how long they are able to tolerate the cold will go a long way towards being able to adjust how long they spend outdoors.

According to the American Veterinary Medication Association, factors that impact cold tolerance include coat, body fat stores, activity level, and health. [Read more…] about Winter Weather and Your Pet

How Much Exercise Is Enough For Your Pet?

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Maybe your pants have felt a little snug as the pandemic continues. If you’re even putting pants on, that is.

But, what about your pets? Have you noticed them putting on some COVID weight as well?

Chances are that both you and your pet have seen a decrease in the amount of exercise over the last several months, which may account for the uptick on the scale. But as many locations have experienced heat waves and have limited areas to do outdoor activities, what is a person (and pet) to do?

Forbes reports that too little exercise is causing epidemic levels of canine obesity, lethargy and behavioral problems. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals reports that one in four dogs is now considered obese. Heart disease and diabetes are spiking upwards in our canine companions as well.

First, as with any good column offering advice, we recommend you consult with your veterinarian first. I was not surprised to find out that my older dog had put on some weight. We both had. What was surprising was that she had gained roughly 13 pounds in less than a year.

WHAT? I exclaimed, baffled, to my pet’s doctor. After some thyroid medication adjustments and a repeat blood test, her weight was holding steady and the answer turned out to be medical.

If, however, your pet has a non-medical reason for weight gain, we offer up the following advice to help curb the gain.

Most entities suggest that you exercise your pet anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour per day. The types of exercise should consider:

  • Age
  • Breed
  • Health

A senior may not require high intensity exercise and a puppy may need something vigorous but not taxing on their growing bodies. If you happen to have an adult in good health you’ve hit the sweet spot for exercise.

Another factor to consider are weather related conditions, which make it harder for certain short nose breeds to breathe. And depending on where you workout with your pet, asphalt and concrete temperatures should be considered so as not to damage the pads on your dog’s paws.

As many times as you’ve heard it, we are all in this together. That includes taking the time to make sure both you and your pet find a way to get in enough exercise and the right type. After all, any activity that extends the length and quality of your pet’s life is one worth taking advantage of. 

We will see you and your pet outdoors, at a safe distance, soon!

Making Ice Cream For Your Pet On Summer Days

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What sounds better on a hot, steamy summer day than a big ole scoop of your favorite ice cream? Not much! But, your pet may not be able to digest the contents of your favorite batch of frozen goodness. So, why not make some ice cream for them?

We’ve assembled some ideas for you to whip up some homemade treats that will taste way better than what is in the store. They will also give you the benefit of knowing exactly what each treat contains.

First up, many people are familiar with Frosty Paws in the grocery store. Our friends over at Rover.com have concocted a similar treat with fewer ingredients. It contains yogurt, peanut butter and bananas. If your dog doesn’t take well to plain yogurt there is an alternate version included. Click this link to get the recipe.

Maybe you have fresh fruit and would prefer to mix up something a little less creamy, but still tasty. They’ve got you covered with a Watermelon Mint Sherbet. Not only is it healthy, but the mint will give your pet great breath. You can even watch it being made by clicking here to see a video.

Remember that too much dairy can cause an upset tummy. Also, some sugar free additives can be toxic to your pet. If you have questions about your pets health and nutrition we always recommend consulting your veterinarian. 

We hope that these ideas help you create a nutritious and delicious treat to share with your pet during the hot summer days ahead of us.