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While I was walking with my little dog, she loved running after acorns. I didn’t know why, but she loved walking through the acorns and kept going to them.

If I accidentally kicked one of the acorns, she would run like crazy after it. Sometimes she would also pick them up and bring them to me.

Once, we came home after a walk, and she started drinking water. When I looked to fill her water bowl, I saw an acorn in it. She had brought one home, that’s how much she loved them!

At first, I didn’t think much of it, and she kept doing it.

But one day, she threw one up. I was so scared that I stopped walking with her near the acorns. Then, the next day, she threw up a total of eight acorns. I was terrified it had upset her digestive system. I went to the vet, and luckily, she was fine. But still, it was shocking that she would do that.

Moral of the story: Watch out for what your dog does when going on a walk. Not everything that makes them happy is good for them. Always keep an eye out, even for things that seem harmless.

Our homes are meant to be a safe haven for our pets. But many everyday items can be a risk, recognizing these hazards is key to keeping pets safe.

There are a lot of foods that are toxic to dogs, for example: Chocolate, grapes, onions and garlic can harm or even kill pets. Store them somewhere your pet can’t reach them. Also cleaning products like bleach, disinfectants and detergent pods can cause severe harm. Keep them out of reach and clean the surfaces well. What people just leave around the house without thinking twice is medication like pain relievers and certain vitamins can be deadly. Like the other items, don’t leave them in reach and store them securely.

Also other stuff such as batteries and coins can cause choking or blockages. So keep an eye out for small objects around the house or supervise your pet when they are near small items. Some pets also chew on electrical cords, so use cord protectors and give them a safe chew toy. They will love that.

Something that you might overlook are plants. Some plants can be poisonous to animals. Such as lilies and tulips. Lily poisoning was the number one exposure call to Pet Poison Helpline. Make sure you don’t have any poisonous plants that your animal can reach.

By securing all the dangerous items, you won’t have to worry about your pet accidentally eating something harmful. That way, your pet and you don’t have to worry about anything when going to sleep.

References:
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). (n.d.). Animal poison control. Retrieved December 20, 2024, from https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Humane Society of the United States. (n.d.). Pet safety tips. Retrieved December 20, 2024, from https://www.humanesociety.org/pet-safety-tips

VCA Animal Hospitals. (n.d.). Household hazards: Toxic hazards for cats. Retrieved December 20, 2024, from https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/household-hazards-toxic-hazards-for-cats

When something happens, the safety of your family is a priority, and that includes your pet. Whether it’s an accident or an unexpected emergency, having a pet emergency kit can make all the difference. It ensures your companion remains safe and comfortable during times of crisis.

A pet emergency kit is designed to provide everything your pet might need in an emergency. From food and water to medical supplies. It’s also essential to include items such as a leach, medication and a first aid kit for pets. If your pet has special needs, like allergies, having a backup supply of medication is important. Also including his or her favourite toy won’t hurt.

It will also reduce stress during an already stressful time. If you need to evacuate or seek shelter, you will know that you have everything your pet might need. This will allow you to remain calm and act accordingly.

In short, being prepared is key for both you and your pets. By making a pet specific emergency kit, you can ensure that you are ready for anything that might happen to your pet. It will keep them safe and also save you time and a stressful situation.

Sources:
American Red Cross. (n.d.). Pet disaster preparedness. Retrieved December 20, 2024, from https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/pet-disaster-preparedness.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Be prepared to protect your pet in an emergency. Retrieved December 20, 2024, from https://www.cdc.gov/natural-disasters/psa-toolkit/be-prepared-to-protect-your-pet-in-an-emergency.html
The Humane Society of the United States. (n.d.). Pet disaster preparedness. Retrieved December 20, 2024, from https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/pet-disaster-preparedness

During a walk, it is better to be well informed. A dog is not simple and anything can go wrong. Therefore, you better inform yourself well.

1.        Leash

Before you go for a walk, it is better to have the right collar at home. The collar can range from a collar around the dog’s neck to a dog harness. Both the collar and the harness should fit well around the dog’s body. But then again, the harness gives better control over the dog.

In addition, you also need a good sturdy leash. It is recommended that the leash be 2.5 to 3 meters long so that the dog has enough free space to walk. Even if the leash is too long, you can still pull the leash back so you have more control over your dog.

2.        Duration

When walking a dog, it is recommended that you walk 5 times a day. The hours how long you should walk per walk varies from age to age. With puppies up to 8 months old, you should only walk for a maximum of 80 minutes per walk while older puppies up to 1 year old should walk for a maximum of 1 hour per walk. Walking between 30 minutes and 1 hour is recommended with these older dogs. For small adult dogs, the same rules apply as for older puppies. But with large adult puppies, there is an exception. They are allowed to walk up to 1.5 hours.

3.        Walking on the loose

When you walk, it is better to walk at a leisurely pace to the dog’s rhythm. During the walk, your dog smells everywhere and wants to explore everything. Also, your dog prefers to walk on the loose. Without limitation, leash or route from one place to another. If you want to let your dog run loose, it is better to do this in a defined place or in a nature area where nobody distracts her. Definitely don’t do this in a crowded area with lots of people and other dogs. And definitely watch out for cars, cyclists and motorcycles.

4.        Extra tips

When your dog poops, you better clean it up. Of course it’s not the nicest job, but you do it to respect passers-by and of course avoid a GAS fine. Forcing your dog to walk or run when it is too hot is also strongly discouraged. The dog is your friend so be sure not to make her sad or angry.

So before going for a walk you better be well prepared so all problems can be avoided. For dogs, walks are golden so better make sure that your dog can walk without any problems.

Sources

Horta. (n.d.). 5 tips voor de perfecte hondenwandeling. Horta.

https://horta.org/b/5-tips-voor-de-perfecte-hondenwandeling#:~:text=Om%20alles%20uit%20jullie%20wandeling,dat%20jij%20de%20baas%20bent.

Renske. (n.d.). Hoe lang mag je met je hond wandelen? Renske.

https://www.renske.com/nl/hond/hoe-lang-mag-je-met-je-hond-wandelen#:~:text=Wandelen%20met%20een%20volwassen%20hond,een%20uur%2C%20of%20zelfs%20langer.

Tom&Co. (2024, November 7). De perfecte wandeling met je hond: Tips van onze expert. Tom&Co.

https://www.tomandco.com/nl-be/blog/de-perfecte-wandeling-met-je-hond-tips-van-onze-expert.html

There are several things to take into consideration when choosing a pet to adopt. First of all, make sure to never impulse adopt an animal! Think about your personal needs and capabilities first. I’m talking about allergies, space, lifestyle, time, financial situation,… But also think about the needs of the animal in question. You want to adopt an animal that is compatible with you and you’ll want to be capable of providing for them. In this blogpost, I’ll be sharing some key-elements to keep in mind when choosing the right pet.

1. Space, environment and activity

Are you looking into adopting a dog? Dogs require a lot more space: a backyard and preferably a park nearby to play/exercise in. After having interviewed one of the volunteers at the local shelter, we learned that they would rather choose an adopter with a small backyard but is capable of taking the dog to walk regularly, than an adopter with a large garden but without the capability of going on many walks. This goes to show how active dogs are and how important the outdoors is for them. Dogs need the time and space to run and play around as they please in an environment that is large enough.

Cats don’t require a lot of space compared to dogs, however they do need an environment to help stimulate their natural instincts. They should have the ability to sneak and play around, as well as a spot to claim as their personal space. You should also think about a designated water, food and litter box area.

If applicable, be sure to check your landlord’s rules regarding pet ownership.

2. Family and lifestyle

If you live with family or any roommates, be sure to involve them in the decision making process! What suits your lifestyles? Make an agreement that aligns with all of your needs together.

What does your daily routine look like? Assess your lifestyle and that of the animal. Dogs cannot be left alone at home for more than 4-6 hours. Cats on the other hand can stay on their own for way longer. Look at your schedule and that of your family/roommates. For dogs, it’s ideal if they have at least 2 human-friends who take turns in accompanying them throughout the day. 

3. Energy and activity

Some people are more sedentary than others. Depending on your energy levels, you should get a pet that aligns with your routine. Do you go outside often for a walk or a run? Then, why not get a dog to accompany you on your exercise? An active owner is the dream-friend of a dog. You both benefit from it, so it is a win-win situation! 

Or are you more the type of person to hang out at home after school or work? A cat would love to snuggle up to someone on the couch for a couple of hours without being disturbed, and in the meantime, you can show them a lot of love by petting them while watching your favourite show.

A happy life

Choosing the right pet for your lifestyle is a big decision that requires careful thought and consideration. By taking into account your living space, daily routine, energy levels, and the needs of your potential furry friend, you can create a happy life for both you and your pet.

If you already have adopted any animals, what factors were most important to you when choosing which pet to adopt? Please, feel free to share your experiences in the comments below!

sources

Van Heeckeren, A. M., DVM. (2022, June 7). Tips for choosing the right pet for your home and lifestyle. One Health. https://www.onehealth.org/blog/tips-for-choosing-the-right-pet-for-your-home-and-lifestyle 
Ellie. (2023, August 16). How to choose the right pet for your lifestyle. Roundwood Vets.https://www.roundwoodvets.co.uk/single-post/how-to-choose-the-right-pet-for-your-lifestyle
Choosing the Right Pet – Community Humane Shelter of Steuben County. (n.d.). Community Humane Shelter of Steuben County. https://www.chssteubencounty.org/choosing-the-right-pet/

Dogs have been our companions for centuries. Over time, they have always played an important role in our lives, as a faithful friend or even as a cherished family member. They never ask for much, just love, and in return, they give us so much more. This is why dogs are the most popular choice as a pet. But did you know they are capable of so much more than just companionship?

Certain dog breeds are capable of learning up to 250 commands, showcasing their remarkable intelligence. This ability is further enhanced by their extraordinary sense of smell. While humans have about 5 million scent receptors, dogs possess between 125 and 300 million, depending on the breed. Not only can they detect scents, but they can also differentiate them with incredible precision. 

Humans quickly recognized the exceptional sense of smell that dogs possess and began utilizing this ability to their advantage. One of the earliest examples is the use of Saint Bernard dogs by monks in the Alps during the Middle Ages. These dogs were trained to locate lost travelers buried in snow. This marked the beginning of a partnership between humans and dogs for life-saving duties.

Today, dogs are vital in multiple situations, from search and rescue missions to helping law enforcement detect drugs and explosives. They also play a huge role in both physical and mental health care, assisting individuals by serving as guide dogs or providing emotional support. Their ability to detect medical issues or offer comfort makes them invaluable, depending on the specific needs of the person.

Dogs are much more than loyal companions. Their intelligence, remarkable sense of smell, and dedication make them essential in various aspects of our lives. Their loyalty and unique skills ensure that they will always be valued members of our society.

Sources:

Middleton, J. (2024, June 25). How service dogs change lives. James & Ella. https://ella.co/blog/how-service-dogs-change-lives

Wikipedia contributors. (2024, December 9). Dog intelligence. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dog_intelligence

Admin. (2021, March 31). How Many Commands Can A Dog Learn? – Delaware K9 Academy. Delaware K9 Academy. https://delawarek9academy.com/blog/how-many-commands-can-a-dog-learn/#:~:text=According%20to%20studies%2C%20an%20average,like%20sit%2C%20down%20and%20stay.

The Saint-Bernard Dogs – Le Relais du Petit St-Bernard. (n.d.). Le Relais Du Petit St-Bernard. https://www.petit-saint-bernard.com/en/the-saint-bernard-dogs/#:~:text=In%20the%2017th%20Century%2C%20certain,and%20Petit%20Saint%20Bernard%20%C2%BB%20Passes.

Dogs are hyperactive animals that do not like to sit still. They like to go for walks and can already get dirty. Because of this, you better be prepared and wash her properly.  Here are 5 steps to give your dog the best possible wash.

1.        Preparation

To wash a dog, it is of course best to wash her in a bathtub or shower. If the dog is too big, it is better to wash her outside in the garden. If you wash her inside then you better put enough towels to prevent your bathroom from getting too dirty. Or choose a safe space that is allowed to get dirty and wet.

After choosing a quiet place, it is best to put the necessary conveniences ready: nail clippers, ear cleaner, dog shampoo, a soft towel, a brush, possibly a hair dryer and conditioner and a reward if your dog behaves. It is better to have all the conveniences ready in advance. By doing so, you will avoid problems and the wash will be at its best.

2.        Brushing

Before bathing your dog, brush her coat to remove most of the loose hairs. In addition, it is also recommended to cut her nails with nail clippers.

3.        Wash

Once you have put the dog in the bath, rinse her off on a gentle spray on lukewarm water. This will keep her calm. After the dog is wet, you can soap her up. You do this with dog shampoo. After this you rinse the dog well again with lukewarm water. So that no residue remains and the dog does not suffer from itching or irritation. If the dog has long hair, it is best to soap her again with conditioner. Of course, rinse your hair behind it again.

4.        Drying

Once the dog is washed, remove her from the bath and dry her off. For long-haired dogs, you can use a hair dryer. But most dogs are not fans of this so be careful with this. After the dog is dry it is best to clean her ears with an ear cleaner.

After you have made a good preparation, brushed your dog, waxed but also dried her, your dog will smell fresh again. Don’t forget to reward your dog with a treat.
Dogs are hyperactive animals that do not like to sit still. They like to go for walks and can already get dirty. Because of this, you better be prepared and wash her properly.  Here are 5 steps to give your dog the best possible wash.

Source:
Huisdierenarts. (n.d.). Hond wassen. Huisdierenarts.

https://www.huisdierenarts.nl/hond-wassen/

Beeztees. (2014, December 11). Hond wassen. Beeztees

https://www.beeztees.nl/2014/12/11/hond-wassen/

Organimal. (n.d.). Hond wassen. Organimal.

https://www.organimal.nl/hond-wassen/

Have you ever wondered why animals are so important to human-beings? Why there are so many different households with different pets? There are a lot of benefits of having a little creature at home to call your friend. Some of them may even surprise you!

It’s scientifically proven that pets can reduce our stress levels. When you spend some time petting your favorite dog or cat your body releases oxytocin, prolactin and serotonin. These are the so-called “feel-good” hormones. It also lowers cortisol levels, which is the body’s natural stress hormone. This lowers our blood-pressure by 10% and sends our body to a relaxed state! Physical exercise is another one: dogs need to go on walks regularly. This is a good way to get your daily steps in for yourself and for your furry friend!

Next to the physical benefits, there are also a ton of mental benefits. Pets provide us with emotional support. If you deal with loneliness, dogs and cats are perfect to help keep your spirits up. They are the perfect companions and great listeners. Pets give us a sense of purpose and help people with depression to find a reason to get out of bed and to get some fresh air. Thanks to the calming effect of a loving house-animal, people who struggle with anxiety find a lot of comfort with their pets. Did you know that pets can oftentimes pick up on our moods? They can sense when we feel sad or anxious, and therefore try to comfort us by snuggling up to us or licking our hands.

These factors all play a part in the overall health of a human being. For seniors and younger people especially, having a pet is very beneficial. 

Having a companion pet as a child is great because it helps with emotional, cognitive, behavioural, educational, and social development. It fulfills attachment needs, improves self-esteem, helps in regulating emotions and with all that also comes the physical and mental benefits named above. 

Same can be said for our seniors. The elderly with companion pets have an improved quality of life as it helps them get out of the house more. It has also been proven that they show slowing symptoms of dementia and that symptoms of depression and anxiety are alleviated.

Overall, having a furry friend has more upsides than downsides! I really recommend thinking about it. See what you, as an individual or a household, may need and if you are prepared to take on the responsibilities of looking after a pet. It comes with a lot of authority and costs, but considering the benefits it comes with it, it is certainly worth thinking about.

sources:

Buyting. (2020, May 21). The Importance of Pets in Our Lives. Transitions LifeCare. https://www.transitionslifecare.org/2020/05/27/the-importance-of-pets-in-our-lives/ 

What are the benefits of companion animals to human health? (2024, August 6). https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/what-are-the-benefits-of-companion-animals-to-human-health/

Habri. (2024, May 2). How Pets Impact Our Mental Health. HABRI. https://habri.org/blog/how-pets-impact-our-mental-health/ 

Cats are one of the most popular pets in the world. They are loved by many people for their independence, playful nature and companionship, but one particular type of cat is often avoided: the black cat. Despite their mystical beauty and charm, black cats are often associated with superstitions and myths. Throughout history, black cats have played interesting roles. Depending on the time and place, they were either feared or worshipped.

In ancient Egypt, cats had a high reputation among the people. The goddes Bastet, depicted with the head of a black cat, was worshipped by the Egyptians. Killing a cat, even by accident, was punishable by death.

During the Middle Ages, black cats were associated with witchcraft and the supernatural. They were believed to be the companions of witches or even the embodiment of demons. From the early 13th centry in Europe to the 17th century Salem Witch Trials in Massachusetts, this belief led to the execution of both “witches” and their black cats.

Luckily, in some cultures, black cats are also believed to bring good luck. In Scotland, for instance, it was thought (from the 16th century onwards) that a black cat entering a home would bring prosperity and happiness. In Japan, they were also believed to attract good fortune for centuries, especially for single women, as they were believed to bring potential suitors. Sailors, too, regarded black cats as lucky, often keeping them aboard ships to protect them from storms and ensure safe travels.

Despite the positive associations in certain cultures, and the image improvement of black cats in modern times, people are still hesitant to adopt them. Many still hold onto old superstitions, thinking that a black cat would bring bad luck. As a result, these wonderful animals often have a harder time finding a forever home. It’s important to remember that a cat’s color doesn’t determine its personality, and black cats are just as loving and loyal as any other cat.

Sources:
Superstitions and Black Cats. (z.d.). https://carnegiemnh.org/superstitions-and-black-cats/#:~:text=In%20some%20European%20folklore%2C%20black,reliable%20weather%20predictor%20(3).

Catit, & Catit. (2024, 20 augustus). Vanwaar komt het bijgeloof dat zwarte katten ongeluk zouden brengen? Catit. https://www.catit.com/nl/spotlight/vanwaar-komt-het-bijgeloof-dat-zwarte-katten-ongeluk-zouden-brengen/

Wikipedia-bijdragers. (2023, 31 mei). Bastet. Wikipedia. https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bastet#:~:text=Bastet%20(oorspronkelijk%3A%20Bast%2C%20ook,%2C%20feest%2C%20leven%20en%20warmte.

Syufy, F. (2024, 14 augustus). Myths and Superstitions About Black Cats. The Spruce Pets. https://www.thesprucepets.com/black-cat-superstitions-554444

Black Cat Meaning: Myths and Facts Debunked | Four Paws. (z.d.). https://www.fourpaws.com/pets-101/cat-corner/black-cat-myths-and-facts#:~:text=In%20fact%2C%20they’re%20considered,cats%20as%20cute%E2%80%94not%20creepy.

Do you know the best way to feed your cat?  Keeping your cat healthy starts with the right food. Here are some tips to make sure your furry pet stays in tip-top shape:

1. Healthy food

Because cats only have a small stomach, it’s best to feed your cat several times a day. The recommended number of times is the same for cats as for humans, which is 3 times. In the morning, the afternoon and in the evening. If your cat is still a kitten, it is best to give her a very small meal 5 times a day. This will give the cat enough energy at different times without hurting her stomach.

In fact, it is best to give a cat the normal cat food from the store. This food is specially made for cats and also contains the necessary vitamins, proteins, fats, carbohydrates and fatty acids. This allows the cat to get through the day healthily without suffering from hunger.

2. Extra nutrition

If a cat gets outside then it may also hunt for birds and rodents. This prey often serves as an extra meal in addition to the standard meals during the day. This also provides her with nutrients. She supplements this extra source of food with the tasty grass.

If you want to give your cat an extra treat, you can also give her a tasty cat snack from time to time.  You have to be careful to pick a brand that your cat likes since cats are very picky.

3. Cat poison

Unfortunately, there are now some things that cats had better never consume. These evil foods are chocolate, nuts, currants and raisins. Should your cat swallow any of these things, you’d better get to the doctor quickly.

With a healthy diet and avoiding dangerous products, your cat will stay healthy and happy. In addition to proper nutrition, you should also give your cat plenty of attention. This will allow your cat to stay in top shape for years and she will never forget your care.

Sources:

Het Huisdiersuper Team. (2024, December 20). Wat eten katten? De Huisdier Super. 

https://www.dehuisdiersuper.be/blog/wat-eten-katten#:~:text=Alleen%20droogvoer%20is%20voldoende%2C%20maar,zoals%20Profine%20of%20Amiguitos%20kattensnacks.

Welkoop. (n.d.). Hoeveel eten per dag voor een kat? Welkoop.

https://www.welkoop.nl/advies/hoeveel-eten-per-dag-kat#:~:text=Kittens%20hebben%20een%20zeer%20kleine,3%20kleinere%20porties%20per%20dag.

Kattendons. (2023, November 8). Mijn kat is gezond want ze krijgt de juiste voeding. Kattendons.

https://kattendons.be/2023/11/08/mijn-kat-is-gezond-want-ze-krijgt-de-juiste-voeding-2/