Ticks and fleas can spread quickly and with ease, especially on pets with dense fur. Their coats can harbor these pests, letting them stay undetected for weeks or months. Initially, the symptoms of a tick infestation will be mild and not cause any major discomfort. But as the ticks burrow deeper, they can cause visible signs and pain, becoming a source of nuisance for the pet. Here are common signs of a tick bite: Swelling and redness The first sign of any kind of skin distress is swelling and redness that develop due to inflammation. For pets, this symptom is usually a result of a tick bite. So, one can check under the fur coat for signs like excessive swelling and redness or bumps that are red or pink in color. There is a chance that pests have burrowed deep into the skin in the affected area. Ticks feed off the blood and make a home deep into the skin, so it may be easier to check with a flashlight. Bumps and nodules Pests like fleas and ticks feed on the blood of pets and grow in size during an infestation. Also, as the pests burrow deep into the skin, the increase in size can make the skin develop a bump.

Pets are often curious and like to sniff around what their human parents are eating. As a result, one may get tempted to feed their pets from their own plate. However, this is a bad and dangerous habit. Individuals must remember that not all human foods are safe for pets. Some can harm them by causing severe health complications. Here are a few toxic foods to avoid feeding one’s pets. Garlic Garlic, onions, leeks, and chives belong to the family of vegetables called allium, which is highly toxic to cats and dogs. Feeding these may cause the pet’s red blood cells to rupture and lead to poisoning. Furthermore, garlic and onion can lead to gastrointestinal problems, such as excessive drooling, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Some pets may also experience symptoms like pale gums, lethargy, weakness, sudden collapse, and increased respiratory and heart rate. Chocolate People are often tempted to treat their furry companions with chocolate. However, even a small amount can harm them. Chocolate contains theobromine and methylxanthines, elements that are toxic to pets. It can cause diarrhea, vomiting, panting, hyperactivity, excessive urination and thirst, abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, and tremors. Raisins Grapes, raisins, and currants can cause extreme toxicity, particularly in dogs.

If there are two things pet owners do not want to see on their beloved dogs, it’s fleas and ticks. Fleas can be a seasonal or round-the-year problem, depending on where you live. While formal healthcare treatment is the most effective solution to get rid of fleas, many people also resort to kitchen ingredients to fight fleas on dogs. If you’re looking for creative ways to get rid of fleas, try these simple home remedies: Lemon spray If you’re looking for a way to get rid of fleas that enter your home, a lemon spray can be effective. Simply boil a slice of lemon in some water, and pour this mix into a spray bottle. Spritz this concoction over your pet’s bedding and toys and other home furnishings and carpets until damp, and let it dry overnight. The acidic pH makes an unwelcome environment for fleas. However, speak to a veterinarian before using this remedy. This is because your dog is likely to lick several surfaces around the home, and ingesting too much lemon can be potentially toxic to dogs. Rosemary mix Another common kitchen ingredient that could help get rid of fleas is rosemary. It is essential to make sure that your dog is comfortable with the smell of rosemary before using these techniques.

Dogs can bring immense joy and love as pets. A key aspect of providing adequate care to dogs is to be vigilant and attentive to their well-being. Dogs cannot communicate their feelings verbally, so it is important to look for signs of illness and any discomfort they may be experiencing. Here are some of the common signs indicating that a dog may be sick and what one can do to address such concerns: Common signs Changes in appetite One of the first indicators that something might be wrong with a pet is a sudden change in appetite. If the dog is normally a voracious eater but suddenly becomes disinterested in food or starts eating significantly less, it could be a sign that something is wrong. Lethargy Dogs are typically active and playful animals. So, if the pet dog becomes unusually lethargic and reluctant to move or spends an unusual amount of time sleeping, these could be signs that the dog may be sick. Vomiting or diarrhea Occasional stomach issues may be normal, but frequent vomiting or diarrhea can be a cause for concern, possibly indicating an underlying health issue. Here, persistent gastrointestinal issues can lead to dehydration. Changes in water intake Dogs usually maintain a consistent water intake.

Online stores launch offers on several products, including deals on foods for pet cats. But the biggest sale people wait for is the one that goes live in November each year. We’re talking about Black Friday, a sale through which you can find deals on brands like Whiskas and Royal Canin at prices that are at an all-time low. Apart from these brands, here are other options to bookmark for the upcoming Black Friday sale. Purina Pro Chicken and Rice Formula 3.5 lb. Bag A 3.5 lb. bag of the Purina Pro Chicken and Rice Formula normally sells for about $22.31. But in the Black Friday sales of the past, we saw the price drop by about 33%. So this year we expect similar price cuts or more. The product can reduce cat allergens by neutralizing Fel D1, a common allergen in cat saliva. Royal Canin Large Breed Dry Dog Food 30 lb bag This large breed dry dog food from Royal Canin has several antioxidants that help dogs fight the aging process. As for the price, the product usually goes for around $85. But considering last year’s Black Friday price drop, it can be expected to drop to about $10 discounts on the item when the sale goes live in November.

Your furry friend is a faithful companion through thick and thin and looks up to you for care and nourishment. The good news is that most of the essential nutrients your dog requires can be derived from food sources. Premier dog food companies provide foods catering to animals of different age groups and breeds, integrating taste and nutrition. Here are some dog foods you can get at discounted prices on Black Friday 2022: CESAR Wet Food Classic Loaf in Sauce Prepared with the finest ingredients curated for your dog’s health, CESAR Wet Food is available in duck and grilled chicken varieties. This multipack is rich in protein, crude fat, and fiber, providing your dog with the energy it requires to play and thrive. Nutro Ultra Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food This dog food pack comprises protein from lamb, chicken, and salmon, together with a blend of 15 superfoods, including chia, coconut, kale, and blueberries. Moreover, it does not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives. Last year, the brand offered a 30% discount on a few products. Merrick Oven-Baked Natural Crunchy Dog Treats These scrumptious dog food packs are available in different flavors made of natural kitchen ingredients. The Grammy Pot Pie flavor consists of carrots, real chicken, and peas, making for a delicious and nutritious feast for your pet.

Cats are fussy eaters, and that’s why brands make sure that their foods meet feline standards. But some foods that we humans consume also happen to be safe for cats and can be fed to them in moderation. These foods take minimal time to prepare, and it is better to serve something wholesomely made in your kitchen rather than relying solely on packaged cat food. Here are a few choices to consider: Eggs Eggs pack nutrients that are beneficial for humans as well as safe to feed cats. In fact, eggs are a staple food ingredient found in different types of cat food, both wet and dry recipes. But ensure that you don’t feed them raw eggs as this increases the risk of salmonella. Lightly seasoned boiled or scrambled eggs are fine as long as given in moderate amounts. Vegetables and fruits Quite an assortment of vegetables and fruits that we eat are safe for cats. Cooked spinach is a popular nutritious option to consider as the veggie is rich in iron, calcium, vitamins A, C, and E. Pumpkin is an excellent choice low in calories and high in fiber. Cats can also safely munch on some banana slices, apples, blueberries, strawberries, pears, watermelon, and some cantaloupe.

Just like humans, good nutrition is crucial for the overall well-being and longevity of canines. Though some foods that you eat can harm your four-legged companions, many others are completely safe. In fact, some even contain an array of nutrients beneficial for your dog’s overall health. In this article, we’ve listed common human foods that are safe for dogs. It’s best to consult with your veterinarian before giving these foods to your dog. Human foods that dogs can eat safely and easily Fish Fish is not only safe but extremely nutritious for dogs. Salmon and tuna, in particular, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help improve and maintain their immune system, coat, and skin. Remember, you must only give well-cooked fish to your dog, as undercooked or uncooked ones may contain harmful parasites. Carrots Carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A, which plays a role in maintaining a dog’s immune system, fur, and skin. Their low-calorie content also makes a great snack. Besides, chewing on raw carrots helps remove plaque from your furry friend’s teeth. Peanut butter It’s not just humans who love this snack; dogs love peanut butter too. Peanut butter is a good protein source and it is also packed with heart-healthy fats, vitamin B and E, and niacin.

Your dog’s coat is one of the first things anyone notices about them. It is also said to be an indicator of their health, both inside and out. Digestive problems, heartworms, flea and tick infestations, and even stress can cause their coat to lose texture. So, if you want your dog to have healthy, shiny, and enviably glossy fur, you must take certain precautions. Here are three easy ways to obtain that dream coat. Proper nutrition A healthy coat comes from a healthy body, which, in turn, comes from healthy food. So, give your dog the right amount of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, carbohydrates, and other essential nutrients. In most cases, a dull coat results from unbalanced meals that fail to meet the body’s nutritional needs. It is recommended to choose whole foods-based meals to benefit your pet in the long run. Regular grooming Regular grooming activities like brushing helps stimulate blood circulation to the coat, making it shiny. It also helps get rid of dead skin and damaged fur. Try brushing both ways, as doing so is said to add shine to the coat. Another common practice is regular bathing. An oatmeal bath will take care of any itching if they have a flea and tick infestation.

Dogs tend to chew and nibble on anything and everything they come across. But this habit can be rather dangerous when it comes to plants. Certain plants contain toxic elements and can lead to severe symptoms and make your pet pooch ill. Dogs do not know which plants can be toxic to them, and therefore, it is safe to just remove or avoid having such plants in your household. Read on to find out more. Aloe vera Aloe is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Not to mention, it can work wonders for your skin and makes for a great indoor plant. But, what many do not know is that aloe vera can be toxic to dogs. This is because of the saponins in the succulents. Consuming even small amounts of the aloe vera plant and gel can cause severe poisoning in dogs. It can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and even cause general central nervous system depression. Sago palm Another popular houseplant that is toxic to dogs is the sago palm. Commonly known as cardboard palm or coontie palm, this plant contains the toxic element cycasin. Consuming even small amounts of any part of this plant can lead to poisoning and cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even liver failure.

Cats make excellent pets. But, they can also be fussy when it comes to food. The argument between the two of you might even hold the potential of turning hostile if the four-legged creature does not get its way. However, that cannot be motivation enough to let your kitty steal food off your plate. That said, there are some foods that you can treat without worrying about the safety aspect of it all. Meat Meat is one of the tastiest and safest human foods cats can enjoy. Since cats need proteins in abundant quantities, meat is a great addition to their home-cooked meals. Beef or poultry does not matter much as long as it is not loaded with sodium. Excess salt in your feline’s food can lead to toxicity and needs to be avoided. Cheese If there is something we have all learned from binging cartoons is that cats love cheese. It is one of the human foods that are also safe for them. Cheese can be used as a treat or snack as it is rich in calcium and protein. However, abstain from growing lenient about the amount of cheese your cat nibbles on, as excessive dairy can cause complications like diarrhea.