Tag Archives : pets


Durable Dog Toys For Heavy Chewers

Durable Dog Toys For Heavy Chewers

 

Is your dog a heavy chewer? Does your dogs chew through toys in a matter of days? If this sounds like your canine companion, keep reading for a list of  durable dog toys for heavy chewers.

When choosing toys for your dog, it is important to choose toys that will keep him engaged and active. You should also choose dog toys that have high ratings for safety and durability.

Remember to choose toys that are specially designed for dogs; children’s toys and even cat toys are a no-go for a dog.

We’ve put together a list of the best indestructible dog toys in 2018, to help you narrow down your choices in the toy section at your favorite pet store.

KONG

A Kong toy filled with peanut butter or other small treats is a great toy to keep your dog engaged and his mind active. This type of toy also teaches him skills that are important in other areas of his doggie life. A Kong itself is made of molded rubber and is shaped in a way that prohibits most dogs from biting off tiny pieces. Just remember to supervise your pup when he is playing with a Kong; some dogs can get excited and choke on the treats inside the Kong.

KONG Variations

The KONG Extreme dog toy has the traditional time-tested design. It is light weight, and made off all-natural and very durable rubber. It has a snowman like shape and has a small hole at the bottom to hold tasty treats, like Fido’s NuVet supplements.

KONG Tires are exactly what the sound like. A tire shaped dog toy made out of all-natural and durable rubber. This version of the KONG can give your dog a few more options on how to hold it or play with it. It also allows the pet parent to put peanut butter on the interior of the tire for Fido to enjoy.

For tug of war enthusiasts, there is KONG Tugga Wubba. Unlike the previously mentioned KONG dog toys, this toy is made with reinforced nylon and tails on both ends. It is a durable option for an interactive tug toy and comes in a variety of sizes and colors.

Zogoflex Hurley Tough Dog Bone

This tough dog bone is not only durable, but it is water safe! It can be easily seen due to it’s bright colors and is light enough to float in water. The West Paw dog bone believes in it’s products durability and offers a limited lifetime warranty.

For pet parents who are germ conscious, this indestructible dog toy may be the perfect option. It is made of non-toxic materials, FDA-compliant, and easy to clean. To sanitize the tough dog bone, just put it on the top shelf of your dishwater and let it go through a cycle.

Puzzles

Did you know that there are puzzles made just for dogs? Many pet stores carry these toys now, or you can find a lot of great options online. When you help your dog work a doggy puzzle, it teaches him recognition and memory skills. Plus, it gives you an opportunity to bond.

Most of these puzzles are made of tough rubber or even molded plastic, so they are basically indestructible.

Tough Plus Dog Toy

If your dog is insistent on having a plush toy, go for the goDog Gators Chew Guard dog toy. It is made with a strong and durable liner and double stitched to withstand chewing.

Although plush toys are not ideal for a heavy chewer, this is one of the more durable plush toys currently available.

Tennis Balls

If you prefer to stick with the classics, consider a tennis ball. Tennis balls are one of the most popular dog toys around; these balls come in several sizes to meet the needs of most dogs.

Due to their round size and solid composition, they are nearly impossible to chew up or destroy. Plus, they are easy to find, so you can pick up a can of tennis balls whenever you hit the store.

Frisbee

The frisbee is another old stand-by. Frisbees are fun for you and your dog, and many pet parents can throw a frisbee further than they can toss other types of toys. Plus, the large surface area of a frisbee makes it easy for your pooch to catch on the run.

This gives your dog exercise, and is a great way to wear him out so he sleeps well at night. Best of all, it takes years of wear and tear and bite marks to destroy a frisbee, so this inexpensive toy is a great option.

Squeaker Mats

Most dogs love squeaky toys, but a lot of toys with just one or two squeakers can be destroyed in seconds by a large or determined dog.

Ky-Jen has a great line of squeaker mat toys in cute shapes like alligators and cows. These toys have 12 to 30 squeakers and are nearly indestructible. Plus, they are big enough for your dog to share his toy with another dog or even with you.

Happy and Healthy

While toys and treats keep your dog happy and engaged, a good diet is also a must. A high-quality dog food is important; grain-free varieties are best. A high-quality supplement is also imperative for a happy and healthy canine.

Choose one that is made with highest quality ingredients for best results. NuVet Plus is specially formulated with high-quality, highest quality ingredients, and is made to meet the nutritional needs of almost every dog. For more information, visit our website where you can place an order for the right supplements for your dog.


Dogs with Digestive Issues: You Can Help!

Dogs with Digestive Issues: You Can Help!

 

Many canine breeds are susceptible to digestive issues. The size of your canine companion can play a part in this, as well. It seems that many very large dogs, as well as many very small dogs have digestive issues.

If your furry friend is having some tummy troubles, the following tips can help you figure out what is going on and how to help your fur baby feel better.

Vet Visit

It is always helpful to get the advice of a trusted veterinarian. Many dog parents prefer to try a few home remedies first. However, if your dog’s digestive issues worsen, you should make an appointment with the veterinarian.

If your canine companion is experiencing any of the below signs of digestive issues, a vet appointment is recommended.

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Lethargy
  • Loss of appetite
  • Significant weight loss
  • Change in stool type

When in doubt, ask your veterinarian! If you are unsure if these digestive issues are really a problem, or if your dog is just having an off day, call your vet’s office and explain why you are concerned. They can suggest a plan of action.

Pet Food

Many times, the answer to tummy troubles may be as simple as a change of food. Sometimes a particular food just won’t agree with your pooch’s stomach.

If you recently switched brands or types of food, this is probably the cause of your dog’s tummy problems. Even if your pet has been eating the same food for years, this could also be the culprit.

Once in a while, a dog food company will add or remove ingredients, or completely change the formula of a food. For more information on your dog’s current brand of food, or to choose a new one that might work better for his dietary needs, visit DogFoodAdvisor online.

Sneaky Dogs

Pet food is not the only type of food that can upset your pet’s stomach. Fido can sneak into the trash when  you aren’t home, or steal a table scrap when you get up for a glass of water. The scraps of food eaten throughout the day can easily cause temporary digestive issues.

If your pet is unable to get these troubling foods out of their system, make an appointment with your veterinarian.

Supplements

Another way to help reduce tummy upset in your best friend is to add a supplement to their diet. Sometimes, commercially prepared pet foods just don’t have everything a dog needs to live up to his potential and enjoy good health. Choose a supplement that is made of highest quality ingredients, and is manufactured in the United States to help your dog’s systems function properly.

One supplement that works well and gets great reviews from dog parents is NuVet Plus. NuVet Plus works to support your pet’s overall health from the inside out, and can help improve digestion.

For more information on NuVet Plus, including a list of NuVet ingredients and real-life stories from dog parents like you, visit us online. You can also place an order for the NuVet Plus wafers or powder at https://www.nuvet.com/products.html.

Your pet deserves the best you can provide, and NuVet Plus can help you do that. Visit NuVet on Twitter to learn more.

Exercise

There are several types of animals that must have daily exercise to keep their digestive system functioning properly. Horses, in particular, are very prone to digestive troubles if they aren’t up and moving enough. Did you know that this can also have an impact on your dog?

Helping Fido’s tummy can be as easy as incorporating one or two short walks into his daily routine. It’s a win for both of you – he gets the exercise he needs, and you get some fresh air and sunshine. As an added bonus, both of you might lose a pound or two and make some friends in the neighborhood in the process.

Hopefully the tips above will help you care for your furry friend! For more information about Fido, and how to optimize canine health, visit the NuVetonline blog.


Is Your Dog Food Missing These Vitamins?

Is Your Dog Food Missing These Vitamins?

dog food, pet food, vitamins, minerals, B vitamins

For humans, it is imperative to find the right balance of the necessary vitamins and minerals in your diet. A vitamin deficiency can cause several health problems. Likewise, too much of any one vitamin can cause other problems. The same holds true for your dog.

Choosing a high quality pet food is one of the most important decisions that you’ll make as a pet parent. You likely check the ingredient list to make sure there’s enough lean protein, and not too many  grains or fillers. But do you check to see if it contains the must-have vitamins?

A lack of vitamins, or overload, can cause skin, coat, muscle and bone issues, as well as many other issues. When shopping for your pet’s next bag of food, be sure to look for these vital vitamins.

Which Vitamins Should Be Included in My Dog’s Food?

  • Vitamins A and E — Both are antioxidants that can help your dog manage its weight and live a healthy life. They also help to improve your dog’s immune system and aid in the aging process. Dog food that contains eggs may contain sufficient quantities of vitamins A and E.
  • Vitamin C — Just like you might drink a glass of orange juice so the Vitamin C can boost your immune system and help you feel better; your dog requires the same vitamin for similar reasons.
  • Vitamin D — Helps your dog stay active by supporting it’s bones, helping to keep them strong and healthy. It also promotes dental health.
  • Vitamin B-12 — Helps your dog live a long and healthy life because it promotes healthy cell development in your pet.

The B-Complex

B vitamins are some of the most important vitamins for your dog’s diet. But which are necessary for great canine health?

The B-complex is a series of vitamins that are vital to your dog’s health. They are water-soluble and are constantly being flushed from your dog’s system. As a result, it is very important that your dog replenishes the levels of B vitamins in his body.

The B-complex includes thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), pyridoxine (B6) and Vitamin B12. Combined, these vitamins help to enhance the function of nearly every part of the body. This is why pet parents should make an effort to include all B vitamins in their dog’s diet.

Some signs that your dog may be dealing with a B-complex deficiency are a lack of appetite, decreased energy, digestive issues or unexplained weight loss. Increased thirst and increased urination can also be signs of a deficiency.

Pet owners should note that some B vitamins require the support of other vitamins in order to function and absorb properly. Finding food products and dog supplement products with all of these beneficial vitamins is essential.

Benefits of B Vitamins

  • Essential for a healthy metabolism, and can help control your dog’s weight.
  • Help to boost the function of the central nervous system in dogs. Niacin, also known as B3, allows the nervous system to properly grow and develop.
  • B5 allows carbohydrates, proteins and fats to release the proper amount of energy, helping your pet to feel revitalized. It also aids in the absorption and utilization of other vitamins, as well as the formation of antibodies.
  • Help improve fertility in dogs. B12 is essential for reproductive health.

Dietary Concerns

The most reliable way to ensure that your best friend gets the right balance of vitamins and nutrients in his diet is to feed a high quality food each day and avoid table scraps and people food. However, B vitamins can also be found naturally in the fruits and vegetables that you may give your dog as a treat.

While it’s essential that you feed your dog a nutritious pet food filled with the best vitamins, your dog may still not be getting everything that it needs.  The best way to fill in the nutritional gaps in your dog’s diet is to add a pet nutritional supplement to its daily routine.

Dietary Supplement

You should also choose a dietary supplement that provides the right combination of vitamins and minerals to keep your dog healthy. One of the best supplements on the market is NuVet Plus. NuVet Plus contains a synergistic blend of highest quality ingredients that benefit canine health. Vitamins B-1, B-2, B-3, B-5, B-6 and B-12 are combined with several other vitamins and minerals to deliver superior nutrition to your dog with each dose.

This product is formulated specifically to meet the nutritional requirements of dogs, and contains all of the best ingredients that are designed to work together in order to enhance your pet’s health. NuVet Plus provides your dog with an additional boost of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that will help to strengthen its immune system and improve its energy levels.

In order to find out first-hand how beneficial NuVet Plus can be, be sure to check out NuVet Labs on Twitter.


Tips on Finding the Perfect Dog Groomer

Tips on Finding the Perfect Dog Groomer

dog, groomer, bow

You are in the market for a dog groomer. Maybe your old groomer retired or you just can’t seem to find one. Either way, it is important to find the right expert for the job.

Unfortunately, when it comes to our beloved canine family the task may seem quite daunting. If so, keep reading to learn some tips on how to make your groomer search a little easier.

1. Get Referrals

One of the easiest ways to find a good dog groomer is to speak with friends. Contact friends who have dogs and regularly visit a groomer and ask who they go to for their grooming needs. If you have a groomer but they are retiring, ask for a referral.

You can also ask the pet care professional you get your pup’s NuVet Plus wafers or powder from or another dog care professional in your pup’s life – such as your veterinarian, dog trainer or dog walker – for a suggestion. With their ample, day-to-day dog experience one of these resources is sure to have a recommendation or two.

2. Confirm Experience

Once you’ve received a few recommendations for reputable dog groomers, it is time to move on to the next step. Reaching out.

Don’t be afraid to give them a call and confirm their experience. Find out how many years they have spent working with and grooming dogs.

Also, don’t be afraid to ask for references. A dog groomer who has established their business and clientele may be open to sharing positive feedback from other clients.

3.Certifications

Currently, there are no states that require a dog groomer to be licensed. However, there are professional dog grooming organizations out there that many dog groomers choose to belong to. This not only helps establish their credibility but also shows that professionalism is a priority to them.

One such organization is the National Dog Groomers Association (NDGA). In order to become a member, groomers must pass a series of tests regarding hygiene, safety, proper handling and canine anatomy. If you can’t locate their certification hanging on the wall, don’t be afraid to ask to see it.

4. Take a Look at the Shop

Before your initial visit, stop by the shop during a normal business day and check it out. Observe how the dogs are being treated, as well as how the dogs are responding to the groomer.

Note cleanliness and any strange or unpleasant smells that might suggest a lack of hygiene. The shop should be well maintained, well lit and safe.

You can also take this time to bring your dog for an introductory visit to meet the groomer and become familiar with the shop.

Tip: Keep Goodbyes Quick

Once you have found a groomer and the time has come to drop Fido off, keep goodbyes quick. By doing this you help to keep your dog’s stress level low, which will ultimately make the visit run more smoothly. You don’t want your dog to think a trip to the groomer is negative in anyway, which could happen if he gets stressed out.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind…

• Vaccinations

Any dog groomer you allow to work on your dog should request proof of up-to-date vaccination records from you. Because many dogs pass through the doors of a grooming salon, their is potential for canine bacteria to be passed onto your pooch.

Also, if you suspect your pup may be under the weather, postpone your grooming visit. Feeding your furry friend a high quality diet and a nutritious supplement, like NuVet Plus, can help keep your pet feeling his best.

• Instincts

Never hesitate to trust your or your dog’s instincts. If something doesn’t sit well with you during your visit, or Fido seems particularly agitated, then maybe this isn’t the groomer for you. A pre-grooming visit can help you determine how things might go.

• Nutrition

Just like having a trusted and experienced groomer in your network of pet care professionals is important, so is good pet nutrition.

This is why we created NuVet Plus. Comprised of highest quality ingredients and manufactured in an FDA registered lab, dog owners everywhere are using NuVet Plus to help maintain good health in their dogs.

If you would like to discover how NuVet Plus has improved the quality of life for dogs everywhere, please visit NuVet reviews on Facebook.


DIY Organic Shampoo for Your Dog

DIY Organic Shampoo for Your Dog

DIY, dog shampoo, organic shampoo

There is a wide range of doggie shampoos available on the market these days, and choosing the right one to suit your four-legged family member’s needs can be extremely difficult. Imagine if you could formulate your dog’s own shampoo the way you want to, as much as you want and whenever you want. Fortunately for you, you can! Here is a DIY organic doggie shampoo recipe that you can easily follow at home!

Why Make Your Own Organic Doggie Shampoo?

There are several reasons that some people prefer to make their own doggie shampoo instead of buying commercially sold ones. For example, making your own organic shampoo can save time and money. The ingredients for the shampoo can be cheaply bought from the market and you can make as much as you want. Plus, you don’t have to take a trip to the pet store every time you run out.

Another benefit of DIY organic shampoo is that you know exactly what the ingredients are and where they’re from. You can even adjust the ingredients to fit your dog’s needs. By making your own doggie shampoo, it is almost as if you have an unlimited supply of tailor-made shampoo for your canine companion at home.

Ingredients and Materials

  • 1 empty squeeze bottle – 12-16 oz. (larger if you want to make 2x the amount)
  • 1/2 cup organic liquid castile soap – made from olive oil, this gentle substance will serve as the base for your doggie shampoo.
  • 1/4 cup organic apple cider vinegar – fights odor and repels fleas, keeping your pup smelling lovely. It also adds gleam to your dog’s fur.
  • 1 tbsp. organic olive oil – this essential oil is conditioning. It also helps prevent your dogs hair from drying out.
  • 2 tbsp. water – for mixing and diluting
  • Organic lavender essential oil – Lavender has a calming property, which could be beneficial during bath time. It is also a natural tick and flea repellant.
  • Organic eucalyptus oil – fights unwanted odor, fleas, ticks and can help soothe sensitive skin.

Procedure

  1. Using a funnel, pour 1/2 cup of organic liquid castile soap into the squeeze bottle.
  2. Add the apple cider vinegar to the castile soap.
  3. Put in a tablespoon of olive oil.
  4. Add 2 tablespoons of water.
  5. Put in 4 drops of lavender essential oil and 4 drops of eucalyptus essential oil to the mixture.
  6. Shake well. Make sure to shake before use because the ingredients tend to settle at the bottom of the bottle.

Note: You can adjust the amount of the essential oils you put in the shampoo. You can play around with the ratio, depending on how you want it. If you want to add other essential oils, just make sure that it is safe for your pet and not to use too much of it.

How to Use

  1. Wet your pup with lukewarm water and apply an ample amount of shampoo. This is not a tearless shampoo so avoid the eye area.
  2. Lather well.
  3. Rinse thoroughly and completely.
  4. Towel dry and groom Fido any way you want.
  5. Enjoy the rest of the day with a fresh-smelling and happier pup!

Canine Shampoo

It will be fun creating your own shampoo for your dog, especially if you can see how effective it is in keeping your pup’s coat beautiful and healthy looking. However, if you prefer to leave shampoo making to the professionals, Nuvet has various shampoo products.

Some of the NuVet shampoo products include a hypoallergenic conditioning shampoo for dry skin, tearless puppy and kitten shampoo, soothing tea tree shampoo, and odor control pet shampoo. All of NuVet’s shampoo products are soap and detergent free so they will not extract crucial oils from your pet’s skin.

Aside from keeping your pet’s fur in top condition, it is just as important to maintain their inner beauty. To do this, give them a nutritional pet supplement such as NuVet Plus. NuVet Plus helps keep your pet healthy from the inside out.

NuVet Plus is made from natural ingredients and is manufactured in a FDA registered lab which is why more and more dog parents are choosing NuVet Plus for their pets. See what dog lovers have to say about NuVet products on NuVet’s Facebook page.


Pets Love Chicken Liver!

Pets Love Chicken Liver!

Many pet owners know that their pet will gobble up a chicken liver in a matter of seconds, but they don’t realize how beneficial this organ meat is for their pet. Chicken liver is filled with nutrients that can help boost your pet’s overall health and help keep them healthy, but it’s not always convenient to retrieve a chicken liver from the butcher and prepare it for your dog. Pet owners should know that their dog can enjoy all of the benefits of chicken liver, without going through the inconvenience of going to the butcher, by supplementing their pet’s daily diet with NuVet Plus.

 What are the Health Benefits Associated with Chicken Liver?

chicken liver; pet health; dogs; cats

• Chicken liver is a rich source of essential amino acids, B-vitamins, folic acid and proteins. Liver is an excellent source of protein for your pet, supporting muscle development and energy levels. It also contains a sufficient amount of fat and Vitamin A, which promotes longevity and quality of life for your pet. Liver, however, should only be offered in moderation.

• Chicken liver is also filled with nutrients such as copper, phosphorous, magnesium, zinc and iron. It also contains Omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are important components of a healthy, well-balanced diet. The compounds in chicken liver aid in digestion, help to strengthen the nervous system, promote proper tissue development and the production of red blood cells. The properties in chicken liver can be especially beneficial in pets with low iron levels.

• In addition to all of the physical health benefits associated with chicken liver, it can also help your canine or feline companion lead a stress-free life. Research has shown that dogs who consume chicken liver show reduced stress levels and are considered happier than dogs that do not enjoy the benefits of chicken liver. By aiding to relieve stress and support mood balance, chicken liver helps prevent your pet from participating in problem behaviors associated with stress or anxiety.

It is true that chicken liver can easily be purchased from your local supermarket or butcher shop. However, that requires you to properly clean and prepare the organ before serving it to your furry friend. Luckily, there is an easier way to provide the delicious taste and various health benefits associated with chicken liver to your pet. Simply purchase NuVet Plus supplements for your pet. This nutritional supplement is designed to provide your dog with a nutritionally-balanced diet, which includes the highest quality natural ingredients. The chicken liver included in the NuVet Plus supplement is 100 percent pure chicken liver and has been paddle-dried in order to preserve the maximum amount of nutrients in the organ. For more information on the benefits of chicken liver, visit the NuVet Labs website today.