With the holidays are around the corner, seasonal treats are everywhere around us. We know that you’re often baking for your human family, so why not bake a special treat for four-legged friends? Check out our fun pumpkin recipe that uses our popular CORE Marrow Roasts. Guaranteed to make your pup lick her lips!
First things first, ingredients:
Biscuits:
1 1/4 cups oat flour* 1 1/4 cups brown rice flour** 1 egg 3/4 cup pumpkin puree 1 8 oz bag Wellness CORE Marrow Roasts, any recipe
Food processor or blender Hand or stand mixer Rolling pin Cookie cutters
*Oat flour can be made easily by grinding dry oats in a food processor or blender. **Other flours can be substituted, such as garbanzo bean (chickpea) flour or potato flour.
Directions for Biscuits:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Add 1/2 bag Marrow Roasts (about 20 treats) into food processor. Grind on high for 2 minutes or until a powder forms (can be grainy).
3. Mix Marrow Roasts powder and other dry ingredients in a large bowl to ensure even distribution.
4. Add egg and pumpkin puree and use a hand or stand mixer on low to incorporate ingredients, gradually increasing the speed until a dough forms. The dough needs to be the correct consistency to be rolled out, so add some flour if the dough is too wet and some warm water if it is too dry.
5. Form a flattened disc, then roll out to ¼ inch thickness on a floured surface.
6. Use cookie cutters to cut into shapes then place on a cookie sheet lined with wax paper or a baking mat.
7. Bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes or until biscuits are hard and dry to the touch.
8. Allow biscuits to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Directions for Frosting:
1. Mix peanut butter to ensure that any oils that have separated in the jar are incorporated. Mix yogurt and peanut butter in a small bowl until uniform.
2. Use a knife or a piping bag to frost cookies.
3. Place biscuits in a single layer in the fridge, uncovered, for 45 minutes to allow the frosting to harden.
4. Transfer biscuits to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to one week. Biscuits can also be stored in the freezer for longer shelf life.
Last but not least: ENJOY!
Share your favorite DIY dog treat recipes by tagging @wellnesspetfood and #wellnesspetfood!
It’s that time of year where everyone gets a pumpkin spice latte, takes a nice fall hike, and eats enough candy to make their dentist sick. Sure your pooch can’t indulge on the forbidden fruit, but they can still partake in the spirit of Halloween with some costume fun! Here are 10 spooktacular dog outfits that will make your floof the life of the party and the talk of the town!
10. Lion
I wouldn’t be lion if I said this costume is both hilarious and frightening. Your pooch will think he’s the king of the jungle! I’d sure hate to run into this creature in the wild!
9. Delivery Dog
You’ve got mail! Is your pup at war with the mailman? Help him or her bury the hatchet and get them this ironic costume!
8. Hawaiian Rockstar
Sure the cold is here, but let’s not forget summer was just two months ago and will be here again. Throw this on with some Jimmy Buffet in the background and you’ll feel some nice Hawaiian vibes fill the room! Your friends will thank you too!
7. Unicorn
Is your dog special? Is your dog rare? Can your pup fly around and fart rainbows? Well then folks, you got yourself a unicorn! Help your pup show its true colors and get them this “cloud” favorite!
6. Spider
Wanna raise some heart rates and maybe spill a few drinks? We got just the thing! Throw this on and wait for the screams!
5. Shark
Does your pooch self-identify as a fiesty great white? Look no further than this baby shark doot doo doo doot doot! Better warn the guests they’re treading in shark infested waters!
4. Super Dog
If your pooch can scale the puppy gate, jump up on the top counter, or run the opposite direction at lightning speed when called upon, well then you got yourself a super-pooch! Harness your dog’s inner super power with a super suit!
3. Business Pup
Does your dog do it’s business like no one’s business? Buy them this Wall Street wardrobe and everyone will know they mean business!
2. Jedi
If you’re a true Star Wars fan, you gotta show it! Join the bark side and flaunt your pup’s Jedi pride with a cloak and lightsaber!
1. Ghost Barkers
Keep those pesky ghouls and night goblins away with your very own ghost guardian! Who ya gonna call?? Ghostbarkers!
Sure, your pooch may get more likes than you online, but let’s not forget who made them social media famous…YOU! Happy online shopping and Happy Halloween!
Share a photo of your dog in costume and include @wellnesspetfood and #wellnesspetfood. Then keep an eye out for your four-legged friend on our website, Facebook or Instagram!
Halloween marks the start of the holiday season! The children count down the days until they get to dress in their favorite characters and get spoiled with candy and treats. Parents decorate, pick out the perfect costumes for kids and pets and stock up on candy.
Although Halloween is one of our favorite holidays, it is typically one of the most dangerous holidays for pets. As a small animal veterinarian, it is a common time of year that I see pets for getting lost, emergencies and illness. So today, I would like to discuss the top pet emergencies and illnesses associated with Halloween and how we can prepare to keep our pets for a safe and fun holiday. Let’s get started:
1. Chocolate Toxicity:
Place the human treats out of reach of your pets. The most popular Halloween treats are toxic to pets. Chocolate in all forms, especially dark or baking chocolate can be very dangerous for cats and dogs. Sugar-free candies containing the artificial sweetener xylitol can also cause serious problems in pets. Keep the HUMAN treats away! I know firsthand it is difficult to watch your pets sad face as they look at everyone eating and enjoying, and just want to be a part of it. There is no need to let your pet feel left out and not let them indulge on the holiday that celebrates eating treats. I tell all my pet parents to have your favorite dog treats easily accessible during the holiday festivities. I absolutely love and trust Wellness CORE pet treats. These treats have all the highest quality ingredients.
2. Decoration Emergencies:
Watch the decorations and keep wires away from pets. Pumpkins are popular decorations that can pose a dangerous hazard, especially when used as jack-o-lanterns. Kittens and puppies are especially at risk of getting burned by candle flame. Although pumpkins and decorative corn are nontoxic, they can cause stomach discomfort in pets that nibble on them.
3. Costume Mishaps:
Be careful with costumes. Nothing is cuter than seeing our pets in adorable Halloween costumes. However, unless your pet is used to getting dressed up, I do not recommend it. If you do dress up your pet for Halloween, check the costume for small, easily chewed-off pieces that could present a choking hazard. Make sure the costume does not limit their movement, vision or ability to breathe, bark or meow. Costumes that do not fit properly can get twisted on your pet or caught on external objects leading to injury.
4. Lost Pets:
Keep Pets Calm and Easily Identifiable. With all the trick-or-treating, and visitors arriving at your door, Halloween can often be scary and stressful for pets. I recommend dogs and cats be kept in a separate room away from the front door during peak trick-or-treating hours unless you are certain they are very social. Also, the constant opening the door for trick-or-treaters can lead to escaping pets. Always make sure your pet is wearing proper identification. I always recommend microchipping your pet.
Happy Halloween everyone! I hope this helps all my pet parents out there be more aware and prepared for all the possible Halloween pet emergencies. I always tell all my pet parents, be conscientious of the possible dangers, but do not forget to enjoy and have fun with your pet during the holiday. Make sure to spoil them extra with some yummy HALLOWEEN TREATS just for them and take lots of cute pictures. My goal always is to keep our pets safe and healthy. As much as I love seeing them walk in through my doors, I prefer to help avoid “sick” trips to the veterinarian. Happy Halloween everyone!
Dogs are remarkable animals; they are wise, compassionate, intuitive and brave; however, some dogs, like these incredible service dogs, are just a cut above the rest. Their stories inspire us and remind us just how special dogs are and how much of a better place they make the world.
1. Chi Chi, “American Hero Dog” of the 2018 American Humane Hero Dog Awards®
Chi Chi’s heartwarming story reminds us that life often isn’t fair, but that doesn’t mean we should despair. Chi Chi was found starving and bound in a garbage bag in South Korea. None of Chi Chi’s limbs were salvageable, and she became a quadruple amputee. Remarkably, Chi Chi learned to trust people again despite her abuse. She was given custom prosthetics and soon after became a certified therapy dog. The joy that emanates from Chi Chi is palpable. In addition to overcoming her early traumas and going on to help others, Chi Chi is also a cancer survivor whose personality and attitude inspire and motivate everyone she meets. The ceremony honoring Chi Chi will be aired on national television on the Hallmark Channel on October 24 at 8 p.m. ET/PT.
2. A Dog Named Hero Helps Military Sexual Assault Victim Heal
It’s no coincidence Hero the dog’s name is ‘Hero’ given his heroism in helping his owner, Heidi Luke, overcome the PTSD stemming from a sexual assault endured while serving in the military. For Heidi, hero is her battle buddy who enables her to go about her life. She can now grocery shop without having a panic attack. Hero guards Heidi in public, keeping strangers from getting too close. Hero’s work is part of an effort called Healing Paws for Warriors; the objective is to minimize the number of veteran suicides that occur due to trauma resulting from military service.
3. Lizzy the Labrador Gives Leigh Michel New Hope after Multiple Sexual Assaults During Army Service
As indicated by the NPR headline that details Leigh Michel’s harrowing tale, service dogs are taking on an increasingly prominent role in helping those who served in the military overcome trauma after being sexually assaulted. Unfortunately, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs benefits for service dogs do not cover service dogs as therapy for mental illness; however, it is possible that as brave service members share their stories and their experiences with service dogs, that will change.
4. Willy’s Sense of Smell Saves His Owner’s Life
Madison Stangl was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes her first year at college. A few years after diagnosis, however, Madison developed a condition called hypoglycemia unawareness where she was unable to recognize warning signs of low blood pressure. Willy, a service dog came to Madison’s rescue. Trained to sniff out a drop or spike in blood sugar, Willy the golden retriever woke Madison in the middle of the night when her blood sugar was deathly low. Without Willy, Madison would have died.
5. Sully Serves Former President George H. W. Bush & Raises Awareness
As many know, former President George H. W. Bush suffers from Parkinson’s and has been hospitalized twice since his wife Barbara passed away in April 2018. Sully not only is helping the former POTUS, but the lovely yellow lab is helping to raise awareness via the Instagram account, @sullyhwbush, to raise awareness for and about the important role service dogs play in all of our lives.
Service dogs do amazing work, and we salute them in their various, honorable missions. To show our love and support, we at Wellness Pet Food stand firm by our dedication to making delicious, high-quality, all-natural foods, snacks, and treats that are designed to ensure wellness and longevity in all animals that enjoy them.
This summer was hot but these accounts were hotter! From impressive dock jumps to internet challenges, these dogs sure left their “mark” on the internet!
10. Madame Eyebrows: Our #10 spot goes to Instagram’s most frumpy pooch: Madame Eyebrows! Her uniquely marked face is furever stuck in Monday-mood and everyone can relate. Sure, she may wear that frown pretty convincingly, but make no mistake she is living her best life!
9. Logan the Shepherd: #9 goes to Instagram’s most stunning dog model, Logan! Rescued from a Craigslist ad, Logan came from humble beginnings but quickly climbed the ranks with his beautiful split-face markings and longing eyes. He’s since captured the eyes of millions and stolen the hearts of many more! Sure, he may be “two-faced” but he’s certainly no Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde!
8. Walter Geoffrey the Frenchie: Our #8 spot goes to Instagram’s most gifted singer, Geoffrey! When he’s not lounging around at the house, getting sassy with his mom, or ordering Puppuccinos at Starbucks, he likes to dust off the old pipes and sing a few tunes. Remember, if you run into Geoffrey at a karaoke bar, don’t even try to challenge him to a sing-off! He’ll steal your pride and your girl!
7. Golden Retriever Jill: Our #7 spot goes to Instagram’s most famous underwater fetcher, Jill! What surfaced as an unbelievable video of a dog swimming underwater quickly led to a massive treasure chest of unseen diving videos buried in the account! This pooch must have been a submarine captain in a past life because she’s one incredible sub-woofer! If you ever drop your phone or sunglasses in a lake or pool, you know who to call!
6. Winston Moose: #6 goes to Instagram’s most famous scaredy-cat, Winston! During the dog days of August, a video of him getting adorably spooked by an ocean wave blew up. His reaction was priceless, sending waves across the internet! A true service dog at heart, Winston has done us all a public service and brightened each of our days with his hilarious, playful, and easily-spookable personality!
5. Ringo Swiss Alot: Our #5 spot goes to Instagram’s most gifted dock diver, Ringo! It’s a bird! It’s a plane! Nope, it’s Ringo! Whether he’s jumping after his toy or challenging his mom to a diving competition, this pooch hits the water with grace and style! Every jump is a chance for Ringo to SEND IT and he never disappoints!
4. Kirk the Border Collie: Our #4 spot goes to Instagram’s most lovable Border Collie, Kirk! A video of Kirk reacting to herself winning the 2017 Incredible Dog Challenge captured the hearts of millions. Bouncing and spinning with each obstacle, Kirk didn’t miss a beat as she watched her run on tv. Although the video was posted last year, it didn’t go viral until this summer proving once again there’s a goldmine of viral content just waiting to be discovered!
3. Maya Polar Bear: This spot goes to Instagram’s most happy cloud, Maya! She loves borking to some Spotify tunes, giving makeup tutorials, riding the escalator with her mom, and creating food ASMR videos! She’s become such a staple in the Instagram dog community that anything she touches turns to gold. One could say she has the Midas “fluff’!
2. Siberian Husky Jax: Our #2 spot goes to Instagram’s most viral Husky, Jax! Remember the What The Fluff Challenge that popped up earlier this summer? Well, this account started it all! The goal of the challenge was to fool your pet into thinking you disappeared by throwing a blanket up into the air and running into another room. What began with a simple homemade video led to a massive internet sensation leaving millions of pooches bamboozled or laughing at their owners for attempting such a cheap trick!
1. Long Coat Max: Our #1 spot goes to Instagram’s most loved German Shepherd, Max! His coat may be long but there’s certainly no long-face to match! With Max, there’s never a boring minute! He’s made us laugh, cry, and laugh some more with his hilarious internal-voice videos, adorable throwbacks, and goofy memes! Max has put the GSD gang on the map by growing quicker than any other dog in the Instagram community! Max gained almost 100K followers in the span of a few weeks after one of his videos went viral on an international scale. Max’s dad has shared so many adorable moments that it feels as though we’re right there with them for every swim, lick, bamboozle, and happy accident on the kitchen floor!
Mick Szydlowski is an author, marketing consultant and animal welfare advocate living in Seattle, Washington, with his wife, plus two young daughters and their “big brother,” Klaus the cat. Although Oskar is no longer around, Mick is patiently awaiting the arrival of his next special-needs shelter cat, which just happens to be another blind tabby!
What are some common special needs in pets?
If you’ve browsed social media over the past six or seven years, you have likely come across a number of accounts which feature pets with special needs. Animals with special needs are those that require additional daily care which is often quite specific, although not necessarily a lot of extra work in every case. The broad range of special needs may include varying degrees of blindness, deafness, loss of limbs or use of wheels for mobility, neurological issues, paralysis, behavioral problems, birth defects, plus a range of digestive disorders and chronic diseases that reduce organ function. The truth is that any pet that lives well into its senior years will likely develop a condition that would classify it as an animal with special needs.
How to care for a pet with special needs:
Frequently, the thought of caring for a pet with special needs discourages people from adopting the afflicted cat or dog, hence finding homes for these unique animals is a challenging task for shelters. However, an animal with special needs is not necessarily unhealthy or destined to live in a state of suffering. These assumptions come from unfounded biases and low expectations that society imposes on those with disabilities. With the right environment and daily attention and love, most of these pets can absolutely thrive. The key for those interested in adopting a “less than perfect” animal is to be armed with knowledge about the specific condition and a commitment to care which can include additional time and expenses. The rewards of caring for a special animal are immeasurable; you’ll be inspired daily and the bond of friendship will be something you’ll never forget!
Life with Oskar & Klaus
I am very lucky to have been blessed with two special needs cats in my life. The first cat, named Klaus, was adopted from a no-kill shelter in 2006. Klaus was already an adult cat when I brought him home after meeting numerous cats and kittens with every character trait from timid to wild. There was something special about this cat — the only adult — that was in a room full of kittens. His collapsed right ear, missing teeth and scars were a reminder of his previous life as a famished stray, but his elegant tabby coat, bright eyes and overall confidence were a clear sign that he would make a perfect spoiled indoor companion.
Klaus, however, came with digestive issues that required a fair amount of trial-and-error to control. He suffered from frequent bouts of colitis, which translated to recurrent diarrhea and responsive vomiting lasting a week or more. The key to eliminating the flareups ultimately came down to feeding him the right ratio of protein and carbs, portion size, mix of kibble and wet food and adding a daily probiotic supplement. With the right formula in place, Klaus’ digestive health is something that I don’t worry about and I certainly don’t miss cleaning up the messes that were part of the daily routine for many, many months!
The second cat, Oskar, was an outdoor farm kitten discovered in 2011. Oskar was only eight weeks old when I found him, and although I was not actively searching for a second cat, I immediately fell in love with him and brought him home to Klaus. Oskar was born completely blind with a condition called microphthalmia; he technically had eyes, but they were never fully developed and thus stayed tucked far behind his eyelids. Instead of navigating his world visually, Oskar mapped out his environment using his senses of hearing, smell and touch and by utilizing detailed special memory.
Initially, however, I had serious misconceptions about how well he’d do in an indoor space. Would Oskar run into the walls and furniture? Would I have to put down padding along the base of the walls to keep his head safe? Would he be able to find his food or the litter box? Oskar began to prove that my fears were misguided on the first day! As long as I didn’t rearrange the furniture and kept the clutter to a minimum there were zero issues. As a matter of fact, Oskar never made a mess anywhere outside of the litter box and he was the first cat at the food bowl when breakfast was served! Like many blind cats, he was adventurous and quite fearless, plus exceptionally skilled at climbing on top of the tallest object in the room, which Klaus often couldn’t do!
Should Your Next Pet be a Special Needs animal?
If you are prepared to offer the extra care and are ready to bring a unique special needs cat or dog into your home then talk to your local shelter about the animals that are in their custody that need that special someone. Shelters will often keep pets with special needs in their foster care program so you may not see them at the facility. Additionally, some shelters, such as Milo’s Sanctuary in California, specialize in caring for pets with special needs, so feel free to extend your search if you have no shelter locally. When you have finally brought home your special needs pet, share your experience on social media with others to inspire them to adopt the “less than perfect” cat or dog that ends up being absolutely extraordinary.
With so many different personality types among them, it can be difficult to read your cat’s mood and overall wellness; however, studies have shown that happy, healthy cats (regardless of personality) all exhibit similar physical and vocal cues to indicate that they are happy and healthy.
Good Grooming
A happy healthy cat will keep himself well-groomed. Not only that, but he might also feel inclined to groom other pets or even you. Some pet owners call licks from their cat “kisses”. They’re not wrong as your cat’s attempt to groom you is a show of trust in your bond.
Lifted or Twitchy Tail
You can tell a lot about your cat by her tail. When a cat holds her tail high in the air, it’s a show of confidence, and when she twitches the tip of her tail, it means she’s happy with who is around her.
Gets Comfortable
When cats are on the defense, they arch their backs, and their ears flatten. Happy cats will indicate they are such by being relaxes in their movements and sleeping positions. They will tuck their paws under when watching the world go by, for example.
Dilated Eyes
While your cat’s eyes won’t be dilated 24/7, a sign of happiness is a sudden dilation of the eyes—most people think it means their cat is about to go wild, but it’s not.
Forward-Facing Ears
When cats are upset, they will fold their ears back against their heads. Happy cats’ ears are forward-facing as if to say they’re interested in what you have to say.
Hearty Appetite
Healthy cats enjoy eating and will show enthusiasm at meal times by rubbing against your legs and guiding you to where food is typically served.
Playful Patterns
As cats age, their playing habits might change, but a sign of a happy cat is a playful spirit. Whether it is chasing a toy or just jumping and running around, happy cats are playful pets.
Good Sleeper
Cats can nap anytime, anywhere and for any length of time—that’s surely why they call them “cat naps”; however, a happy cat will want to sleep with someone…on your lap, with a fellow pet, in your bed, etc. What is more, a happy cat will sleep but not in excess as that is a sign of an unhappy cat.
Likes to Chat
Happy cats can be chatterboxes. Their high-pitched “talks” are signs that they are happy, happy, happy.
Happy cats purr when they are feeling content. Often, this happens while they are getting a back scratch, but sometimes, a happy cat will purr just because. If this describes your cat, then rest assured, he is one happy, healthy kitty.
Happy and healthy cats are ones that feel good. Keep your cat health (and happy) by giving him or her all-natural (yet very yummy) snacks, treats, and meals. Wellness Pet Food cares about your cat’s health and happiness and shows it through a complete line of wet and dry foods, snacks, and treats designed especially for felines.
At the height of hurricane season, please remember that our pets rely on us to get them ready for the next big storm so it’s important to include your dog and cat in your preparedness plan. Here are my best tips on how to prepare your pets for the next inevitable hurricane.
Make Sure Your Pet Is Prepared for a Hurricane
Have an evacuation plan:
We all create a plan in case of an evacuation, but it is important to make sure that pets are allowed wherever you are headed. Many motels, hotels and shelters do not allow for pets. Be prepared and make sure your evacuation plan includes your pets.
If your evacuation location does not allow for pets, choose designated caregivers that can care for your pets. Keep a list of friends, relatives, boarding facilities, animal shelters, or veterinarians who you know can care for your animals in an emergency. Be prepared with a list of phone numbers.
Many times in emergencies, we need to separate pets. Be prepared to designate more than one place for your pets to go.
Include your pets in evacuation drills so that they become accustom to traveling in their carriers comfortably.
Have emergency supplies and travel kits ready:
Have leashes, harnesses and/or carriers ready to transport pets safely and ensure that they cannot escape.
Make sure to have enough supply of food, drinking water, bowls, and cat litter. Don’t forget a can opener if you pet eats canned food.
Remember all medications and keep copies of medical records stored in a waterproof container.
Make a hurricane first aid kit which includes the following:
Identification (current color photo of your pet, ID tag including owners name, current address, contact phone number).
Keep medical records and information of any medical conditions, or behavior problems handy.
Keep information on feeding schedules, and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to foster or board your pets.
Always keep a list of veterinarians and 24-hour emergency animal hospitals that are close to your destination if you need to evacuate.
Make sure to include pet beds and toys, or something that provides your pet with comfort during what can be a difficult time.
Be prepared to Travel with Your Pets:
Make sure that your pet’s vaccinations are current and that they are wearing collars with up-to-date identification (many pet shelters require proof of current vaccinations).
Stock up on any medications your pet requires, along with a copy of their medical records.
Many pets get lost or displaced during natural disasters. Make sure your pet is microchipped and that their microchip is registered and current.
If your pet exhibits anxiety and stress during storms or travel, have your veterinarian prescribe a sedative if needed. Always consult with your veterinarian before giving your pet any medications.
The ASPCA recommends this sticker be displayed so that people know there are pets inside your home.
Make sure your sticker is visible and includes the number of and type of pets in your household.
With all the nervousness and busy preparations for hurricanes, please make sure to keep your pets in mind. They rely on us to ensure their safety and well-being. As always, your pets’ health and well-being are always my top priority.
Hello everyone! My name is Alison Streit and I am Forever Freckled’s veterinarian. Being a veterinarian has been my dream job since I could barely speak. Over the past six years, I have dedicated my life to building, opening, and running an animal hospital in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, accomplishing a life long goal of mine. It has been an amazing journey turning my passion for animals into a career. I know pets are our family and nothing brings me more joy than to help pets and their parents with wellness and healthy living. In addition to being a veterinarian, I am a wife to my amazing husband Rob, and a mommy to my greatest accomplishments and the most unbelievable joy for me, my children Luke, Leah and Hayden. Everyday I feel so lucky to have pursued my dreams to take care of animals, and become a wife and mother. I am so proud to have started Forever Freckled with my sisters and develop a platform to help people and pets on their life journeys.
All the kids are headed back to school, mom and dad are getting back to their regular schedules at work, but what about the dog? The change in routine this time of year isn’t just an adjustment for the humans, but it can cause separation anxiety in your dog. Here are
6 ways you can help with your dog’s separation anxiety this back-to-school season:
Acclimate them to more and more time home alone in their safe spot, whether that be their dog bed, a crate or other area. Instead of taking Fido with you on errands and to the beach, get him used to spending a few hours alone at a time.
Get a dog walker! A full work day home alone is a long time for a dog to have to “hold it”, especially if they get used to being let out several times a day over the summer. There are plenty of wonderful dog walkers available, check out who is in your area and make sure they are reliable, bonded and insured.
Provide them with puzzle toys and food enrichment toys which will provide them with mental stimulation during the day. This will keep their day from being so boring. There are many brands to choose from, and freezing them a special treat will help keep them busy longer.
Get up early and take your dog for a walk or jog. Although you’ll have to skip the snooze button, this ensures Rex is well exercised and tired before you leave, and will help prevent your dog from getting overly excited when you come home.
If your dog is the type to enjoy it, doggy daycare could be a good option! The kids are going back to school, why not send Rover to “school” too? He won’t have to be alone during the day, he can play with his friends and come home tired. Just be sure to do your research on doggy daycare locations near you and make sure you feel comfortable with their policies.
Did you know that Spot can be an excellent study buddy? Especially for kids learning how to read, your family dog can be a non-judgmental pal to practice reading aloud to. Who doesn’t like snuggling with their dog and a good book after a long day at school or work?
In addition to the above suggestions, it can help to get your dog used to the “cues” that you are leaving. Does he now associate the sound of you picking up the car keys with him going with you for a ride? Does tying your shoes mean that you are all going on a walk? Take the time to desensitize him to these triggers by picking up and putting down your keys several times a day, or sitting down and putting on your shoes, wearing them around the house and then taking them off. It will make these cues that you are all going some where less predictable, and there for less stressful for your dog when you leave without them!
We wish you all a happy and successful school year!
Ginger Cat Appreciation Day takes place in September, but any day to recognize these cute, adorable, yet often overlooked fur babies is a reason to celebrate! Most Americans remember such iconic ginger cat characters like Garfield with his funny, quirky, fun-loving attitude, and Hobbes of Calvin and Hobbes, who embodies playfulness and feline instincts. Ginger cat fans may know some of these already, but let’s take a look at these 5 Reasons Why Ginger Cats (also known as Orange Tabby Cats) are So Special:
Just like humans, there are different shades of ginger between cats. They can have an orange, red, or yellow-colored fur. Pheomelamine is the pigment responsible for the ginger color in cats. The amount of this pigment reflects how intense the ginger color of the cat is.
Their gender:
Ginger cats are more likely to be male than female.
*This is because the “ginger gene” which produces the orange color is on the X chromosome. Females have two X chromosomes and so need two copies of this gene to become ginger, whereas males need only one. This means there are roughly three males to one female ginger cat. Ginger tom cats father tortoiseshell or ginger females. If both parents are ginger, then they will have all ginger kittens as well.
Although early socialization plays the biggest role in an adult cat’s personality, there is some anecdotal evidence that says cats’ personalities vary between different colors. Male Ginger cats have a reputation of being assertive, vocal and active. Female Ginger cats are known to be calmer and quieter.
Their coat patterns:
The ginger coat comes in 5 types, classic (swirled), mackerel (striped), spotted, ticked and patched. Learn more about the specifics of each pattern here.
Example of a ticked pattern orange Tabby cat
They are all considered Tabby cats:
All ginger cats are tabbies as they all have the “agouti” gene, but all tabbies are not orange. One characteristic to look for in tabby cats is an “M” marking on their forehead. Tabbies are also often referred to as “tigers” for obvious reasons.
Notice the “M” marking on this orange kitty’s forehead.
Do you have a ginger cat? We’d love to hear from you! On Instagram, tag @wellnesspetfood and #Wellnesspetfood for a chance to be featured on our social communities or website!
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single layer in the fridge, uncovered, for 45 minutes to allow the frosting to harden.
