Prevent Pets from Fleeing in Fright

(Family Features) Summer social gatherings and celebrations involving fireworks can add up to a lot of fun for humans, but it’s an equation that may test the limits for a fearful pet. The break in day-to-day consistency and the chaos that comes with festivities can cause pets to escape in search of solace, which often times results in them leaving their loved ones behind.

“During the summer months, we tend to take a step away from our usual routines and that can be very unsettling for a pet,” said David Haworth, DVM, PhD, president of PetSmart Charities. “While July 5 is known as a day of high intake for local animal welfare organizations due to the noise and chaos associated with the Fourth of July holiday, even small barbecues and other summer events can cause distress that results in a pet fleeing for perceived safety.”

In honor of National Pet Loss Prevention Month, the experts from PetSmart Charities recommend these tips to prevent your pet from running off.

Practice effective “stay” techniques with your pet: Pets and pet parents who participate in behavioral training courses can learn effective ways to communicate during times of leisure or stress. Knowing simple commands like “stop,” “sit” or “stay” can help prevent a pet from running away.

Ensure your pet has proper identification: Microchips are a great way to ensure your pet is armed with the proper identification. To help decrease the number of pets that enter shelters each year across North America, PetSmart Charities supports low-cost microchipping programs in local communities. Whether you use tags, embroidered collars or microchips, make sure you update the information provided at least once a year to ensure the latest contact information is available to those who may find your pet.

Secure your pet’s surroundings: To prevent your pet from running away, provide a comfortable, yet contained environment that he or she may safely explore. This could include a fenced-in backyard during a family barbecue, the use of a leash at a local parade or access to favorite toys for a soothing escape. Don’t forget an ample supply of shade and water to help your pet stay cool and comfortable in the summer heat.

Inquire about calming solutions: Just like pet parents, pets can become sensitive to unexpected events and develop anxiety over time. Symptoms may include, but are not limited to destructive behavior, excessive barking or panting despite lack of exertion. If your pet is exhibiting extreme behavior, ask a veterinarian if calming solutions are a fit ahead of a large gathering.

Know how to handle a lost pet: If you see a lost pet, check his or her tags and contact the pet parent. If the pet shies away from contact, reach out to your local animal control department for assistance. If you lose a pet, contact your local animal control department or your neighborhood shelter to request assistance.

For more information about helping local pets in need, visit petsmartcharities.org.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

4 Feline Summer Health and Safety Tips

(Family Features) Summer may be the perfect time for family trips and outdoor activities, but it’s also a great time to reset and make sure you’re keeping the whole family healthy, including your feline friend.

To live their best lives, cats need to feel healthy from the inside out, and much of that stems from what they eat. Help your cat stay active, healthy and safe during the summer months by following these tips from the experts at the IAMS™ brand.

1. Focus on Food – Cats are natural carnivores and need the proper amount of protein in their diets. One way to get that is with IAMS High Protein cat food, which is formulated with 84 percent of protein sourced from chicken and salmon. The high concentration of high-quality chicken and salmon helps cats maintain strong muscles and keeps them active.

Other key elements to look for in a high-quality dry cat food include:

• Optimal levels of fatty acids for a soft and shiny coat
• A fiber blend, including prebiotics and beet pulp, for healthy digestion
• A good mix of premium, high-quality ingredients to support healthy energy levels

Photo courtesy of Fotolia

2. Prioritize Playtime – Though they tend to sleep a lot, especially in the heat, cats also require exercise. Playing a cat-and-mouse game with toys that encourage aerobic activity is one way to give your cat necessary exercise and create a fun bonding experience.

Photo courtesy of Fotolia

3. Keep Hydrated – Cats need help to stay hydrated, especially in warmer weather. Make sure their water dish is always full and consider placing a few additional water dishes throughout the house. Whatever rooms your cat is drawn to or wherever the family spends quality time, have water readily available so your pet can easily quench his or her thirst and avoid dehydration. You can also incorporate wet cat food to their routine for added moisture in their diet.

Photo courtesy of Fotolia

4. Create a Cool Space – When the weather is warm, your cat will likely seek out cool places in and around the house to lounge. Make sure he or she has plenty of shady places to lay and that those spots are free of clutter or obstacles. Cats are curious by nature, so tuck cables and cords away, limit the amount of free-standing, sharp or glass objects and keep anything with hazardous chemicals, such as cleaning supplies, locked away to help reduce the possibility of illness or injury.

For more information on establishing healthy habits for your feline friend, visit IAMS.com.

5 Ways to Keep Your Dog Healthy in the Heat

(Family Features) Warm weather calls for outdoor activities with your pup, such as hiking, traveling and spending time in the park. While more outside playtime can be great for increased exercise, it’s also important to keep your pet healthy, inside and out, especially during the hot months.

Maintaining your dog’s hygiene – including cleaning his ears, bathing him and cleaning his teeth – is a critical component of helping him live a healthy lifestyle, from head to tail.

These five tips can help keep your pup hygienic and cuddle-worthy throughout the hottest time of the year.

1. Sit, Stay, Hydrate

Be sure to have fresh water accessible at all times to keep your pet hydrated, especially in warm weather. If you’re thirsty, chances are your pet will be, too.

2. Bond Over Bath Time

After a day in the sun with your pup, a bath is typically a must. Not only will it get your pup clean, but it can help cool him down from the hot weather. When bathing your dog, don’t forget about his sweet puppy-dog eyes and face. Moisten a soft washcloth or sponge with room-temperature water and gently wipe your dog’s face clean.

3. Throw Some Shade

Warm weather can make you want to spend the whole day outside. While your dog may love the extended outdoor playtime, make sure to fetch a spot that has a mix of sun and shade for when your dog needs a rest and a quick drink of water.

4. Make Nap Time Cozy and Clean

Your dog’s bed may be where he feels most comfortable, which is why it’s important to keep it nice and clean during the dog days of summer. Any bugs, fleas or germs your dog may pick up will follow him into the bed. Choose one with a removable cover to make cleaning it as simple a quick load of laundry.

5. Keep a Clean Smile

When considering your dog’s health, don’t forget about his oral care. Dental treats such as GREENIES™ Dental Treats or PEDIGREE® DENTASTIX™  Treats help freshen breath and clean your dog’s teeth down to the gum line, helping to keep bad dog breath from getting in the way of snuggling with your pup all summer.

For more information and tips for your pet’s oral care needs, visit pedigree.com and greenies.com.

Photos courtesy of Fotolia

Tips for Safe Summer Travel with Pets

(Family Features) With warmer weather, people often spend more time on summer trips with family. These trips can be more enjoyable when your four-legged friends tag along, but it can be less of a vacation if your pets are uncomfortable on the road.

“Taking pets out of their homes can induce stress on both the pets and the owners, so it’s important to keep them comfortable and safe while traveling,” said Jessa Paschke, behavior and training specialist at Mars Petcare. “Surrounding them with some of their favorite things from home can help reduce any anxiety and keep your pet happy anywhere you go.”

Keep these tips in mind when taking your pet on a summer road trip:

• See your vet before you go. Be sure to visit your veterinarian prior to taking off. Especially when traveling with an older pet, your vet can do a quick check-up to help identify any potential issues that could arise while traveling. If you’re crossing state lines, you also may need to get a health certificate for your pet.

• Find pet-friendly stops along the route. Long drives often require frequent stops, but don’t forget that your pets need pit stops, too. Find a rest stop that has a grassy area for them to expel some energy and take care of their business. Be sure to keep your pets on leashes to keep them from roaming freely in unfamiliar places. If you’re stopping overnight, don’t forget to call ahead to make sure your accommodations are pet friendly.

• Keep your pet comfortable. Bring a few of your pet’s favorite things along for the ride to surround them with familiar smells. Whether it’s your dog’s bed and rope toy or your cat’s crunchy TEMPTATIONS™ Treats, packing a few favorites can easily make anywhere feel like home. If it’s your pet’s first road trip, try some pre-travel road trip training by taking him on more frequent car rides. It’ll help him become acclimated to riding along so he’ll be more comfortable for the longer trip.

• Check your pet’s ID. Before embarking on a trip, make sure your pet’s nametag is secured to their collar and the information is up-to-date. Also be sure your pet is microchipped. In the event your furry friend gets lost, it’s one of the best ways to locate him or her. You can take safety one step further by adding a GPS tracker to the collar, like the WHISTLE™ Pet Tracker. This handy device can alert your phone if your pet strays too far.

• Avoid Bad Breath. When the family is crammed into a car, pet breath can put a damper on your drive. Oral health products such as GREENIES™ Dental Treats for dogs and cats and PEDIGREE® DENTASTIX™ Treats for dogs promote fresh breath and clean teeth. With a clean mouth and fresh breath, your family can get “road trip close” with your pet and share endless hugs and kisses on the road this summer.

“Pets are involved in all aspects of our lives, including vacations,” Paschke said. “Help your fur-family stay healthy, happy and comfortable when traveling by keeping these simple tips in mind before your next road trip.”

For more information on ways to treat your pets this summer, visit Greenies.com and Pedigree.com for your pups and TemptationsTreats.com for your feline friends.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

5 Ways to Keep Your Pet Healthy in the Heat

(Family Features) Warm weather calls for outdoor activities with your pup such as hiking, traveling and spending time in the park. While spending quality time with your canine companion is essential, making sure your furry friend is healthy and clean inside and out is also a must. 

"Warm weather means more outside play time, and while that can be great for increased exercise, it’s also important to be sure you’re keeping your pet healthy, starting with proper hygiene,” said Dr. Ernie Ward, veterinarian and Mars Petcare spokesperson. “Maintaining your dog’s hygiene, including cleaning his ears, bathing him and cleaning his teeth, is a critical component of helping him live a healthy lifestyle – from head to paws.”

These five tips can help keep your pup cuddle-worthy throughout the hottest time of the year.

Bond Over Bath Time
After a day in the sun with your pup, a bath is typically a must. Not only will it get your pup clean, but it can help cool him down from a hot day. When bathing your dog, be sure to clean his whole body, including his eyes and face. Moisten a soft washcloth or sponge with room-temperature water and gently wipe your dog’s face to clean it.

Sit, Stay, Hydrate
Keeping your pet clean and healthy starts on the inside. Be sure to have fresh water accessible at all times to keep your pet hydrated, especially in warm weather. If you’re thirsty, chances are your pet will be, too.

Freshen Up Snuggle Time
There’s nothing like a good snuggle with your furry best friend after a long day, but bad dog breath can put a damper on getting too close. Give your dog dental treats like Greenies Dental Treats or Pedigree Dentastix Treats to help keep teeth clean and breath fresh so you can enjoy more snuggle time together.

Make Nap Time Cozy and Clean
Your dog’s bed may be where he feels most comfortable, which is why it is so important to keep that area clean during the dog days of summer. Any bugs, fleas or germs your dog may contract will follow him into the bed. Using a bed with a removable cover can make keeping it clean as simple as regular washes.

Keep Clean on the Road
If you’re planning to travel with your dog in the car, groom your pup before you leave to reduce messiness in the car. Also while you are packing your toothbrush, don’t forget to pack dental treats for your furry family member as well.

“Oral care treats such as Greenies Dental Treats or Pedigree Dentastix Treats not only help freshen breath, but they also help clean your dog’s teeth and gums,” Ward said. “They’re great to have on hand whenever traveling with your pets.”

Find more information and tips for your pets oral care needs at greenies.com.

Photos courtesy of Fotolia.

4 Summer Health and Safety Tips for Cats

(Family Features) Summer is officially here and while it may be the perfect time for family trips and outdoor activities, it’s also a great time to reset and make sure you’re keeping the whole family healthy, including your feline friend. By keeping your cat healthy, hydrated and active, your family will be able to enjoy more time together and get the most out of the season.

“For both people and cats, hydration, proper nutrition and overall healthy habits are imperative to fully enjoying the summer months,” said Dr. Ernie Ward, veterinarian and IAMS Cat spokesperson. “To live their best lives, cats need to feel healthy from the inside out and much of that stems from what they eat. It’s important to look for a premium cat food that includes high-quality protein to help your cat maintain strong, lean muscles and incorporate healthy vitality.”

These tips from Ward can help keep your cat active, healthy and safe during the summer months. For more information on establishing healthy habits for your furry friend, visit IAMS.com/visibledifference.

Focus on food – Cats are natural carnivores and need the proper amount of protein in their diets. Ward recommends IAMS High Protein cat food, which is formulated with 84 percent animal protein – more than the leading dry cat brand*. The high concentration of high-quality chicken and salmon helps maintain strong muscles and keep cats active.

Other key elements to look for in a high-quality dry cat food include:

• Optimal levels of fatty acids for a soft and shiny coat.
• A fiber blend, including prebiotics and beet pulp, for healthy digestion.
• A good mix of premium, high-quality ingredients to contribute to healthy energy levels.

Photo courtesy of Fotolia

Keep hydrated – Cats need to stay hydrated, especially in warmer weather. Make sure their water dishes are always full and place a few dishes throughout the house. If there are certain rooms your cat is drawn to or if the family is spending quality time in a different area, have water readily available so pets can easily quench their thirst and avoid dehydration.

Photo courtesy of Grace Atwood of The Stripe

Prioritize playtime – Though they tend to sleep a lot, cats need exercise, too. Playing a cat and mouse game with your furry friend is one way to give him or her necessary exercise and create a fun bonding experience. Toys that can encourage cats to get off the couch are a great way to get engaged in a little aerobic activity.

Photo courtesy of Fotolia

Eliminate clutter – Cats are curious by nature and it’s no secret that they tend to explore even the highest or smallest nooks in the house. It’s nearly impossible to keep an eye on your cat at all times, so it’s important to create a safe environment at home. Tuck cables and cords away, limit the amount of free-standing, sharp or glass objects and keep hazardous chemicals, such as cleaning supplies, locked away to help reduce the possibility of illness or injury.

*Based on Nielsen sales data and in-market packaging as of March 11, 2017. Comparison does not include specialty products.

Protect Your Pets from Summer Pests

(Family Features) As the weather warms up, many people like to take their dogs for long walks or let their cats frolic outside. While you’re having fun in the sun, however, pests like fleas, ticks and mosquitoes can tag along for the ride.

These pests can be a real nuisance, irritating your pet’s skin or even causing disease. To help keep your pets happy and healthy, Mark Beavers, Ph.D., Orkin entomologist, offers these tips on protecting your furry friends from biting pests during the summer season.

Signs
Fleas, ticks and mosquitoes all draw blood from their hosts at some point in their lifecycle, and Beavers said spotting the adults is the easiest way to tell if your pet has been affected.

• Fleas: Usually, adult fleas are easy to see when they jump on you or your pet, or when you see them crawling along on your pet’s skin. Beavers said that if your pet is being bitten by fleas, they will often repeatedly scratch and groom themselves.

• Ticks: Ticks crawl about on vegetation, waiting for potential hosts – like pets – to walk by. They attach themselves to a host for days at a time, and most swell up as they feed. Ticks can transmit diseases like Lyme disease, which in rare cases can result in kidney failure for dogs, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which is seen in dogs and sometimes in cats. Beavers said that the disease pathogens are often transmitted within the first 24 hours, so it’s best to remove the tick quickly. Check your pets for ticks daily, especially after they spend time outdoors.

• Mosquitoes: Just like people, pets can fall victim to mosquitoes. Mosquito bites on pets aren’t always obvious. However, some mosquitoes can transmit potentially fatal heartworm disease. While it may be tempting, do not use human mosquito repellents on your pet. You may see mosquitoes flying around or landing on your pet when it’s hot outside, so be on the lookout.

Prevention and Treatment
Beavers advises taking these steps at home to reduce the number of fleas, ticks and mosquitoes on your property:

• Adult fleas like humidity and shade, so eliminate shaded areas around your home.

• Remove unkempt grass and weeds, prune bushes and generally maintain your yard to reduce the number of ticks, mosquitoes and fleas on vegetation. Keep leaf litter to a minimum, as pests like to live in this damp, protected shelter.

• Keep raccoons, opossums, deer and rodents off your property, as these animals can carry ticks and fleas.

• Remove standing water from gutters and frequently change out water in bird baths, fountains and potted plants.

• Frequently vacuum, wash and dry indoor and outdoor pet bedding.

• Regularly groom and bathe your pet to help identify and prevent problems.

• Discuss prevention strategies with your veterinarian and have them check your pet for pests if you are worried. Your vet can recommend special flea and tick collars, treatments and shampoos to help protect your pet.

To keep pests out of your home and away from your pets, work with your pest management provider to create a prevention and treatment plan. For more pest prevention tips, or to bring in a professional to assess your pest activity, visit Orkin.com.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images