Tag Archives: dog toys

Dog Care, General Care

Yard Pupgrades for Summer

Dogs are very playful and active. While every pooch has their own unique exercise needs and preferences, most, if not all, of them will enjoy and benefit from having an outdoor space of their own to run and play in. If you have a back yard, you may want to consider adding a few features to make it more fun for your canine pal. A Georgetown, IN vet lists a few ‘pawsome’ options in this article.

Kiddie Pool

Fido often enjoys splashing around on hot days, just as much as people do. Get your four-legged buddy a kiddie pool to play around in. This can make for some really cute pictures … not to mention a really happy dog.

Pet Fountain

Keeping Fido hydrated is extremely important in summer. It can also be super cute! Put in a pet fountain for him. There are different types. Some shoot water into the air when your furry pal steps on a pad. Others just offer your canine companion moving, filtered water.

Agility Ramps

This is a good option for very active, bouncy dogs. Put in a little doggy agility course for Fido. You can use things like ramps, children’s slides, or buried tractor tires.

Sandbox

Does your furry bff like to dig? Give him a little sandbox to bury goodies in. This is great for pups that like to bury treasure. If Fido knows where the good stuff is, he may leave your flowerbeds alone!

Doghouse

Doghouses are always the gold standard when it comes to yard upgrades. Just be sure to choose the right size. If Fido’s hangout pad is too big, it won’t feel very safe or cozy to him. He’ll also be more likely to defecate in it. Your pup should have room to sit up, turn around, and stretch out a bit, but that’s about it. Material is also important. Plastic is cheapest, but doesn’t offer much by way of insulation. You’ll also want to avoid pressure-treated wood: the chemicals used to process it make it toxic to dogs.

Mechanical Ball Launcher

Is running after tennis balls your canine friend’s favorite thing ever, aside from perhaps scoring some treats or belly rubs? Get Fido his own ball launcher! Just get one that uses balls that are the right size for him.

As your Georgetown, IN veterinary clinic, we’re here to help! Call us anytime!

Behavior, Dog Care, General Health

Caring for an Anxious Dog

Is your dog high-strung? Just like people, dogs all have their own personalities. Some pups are calm and friendly, while others are more anxious and easily frightened. If your pooch tends to get nervous easily, read these tips from a Floyds Knob, IN vet on caring for an anxious dog.

Exercise

Make sure that Fido is getting the right amount and type of exercise. A brisk walk, or a vigorous round of fetch, will burn off your pet’s excess energy, leaving you with a calmer, slightly-tired pooch. Not all activities are right for every dog, so ask your vet for specific advice.

Aromatherapy

Look for pet-calming products or sprays in your local pet store. These can help calm anxious dogs. Certain scents, such as lavender, peppermint, and rosemary, can also help soothe Fido. Just be very careful when using essential oils, as some of them can be very toxic to dogs. Be sure to only choose ones that are safe for Fido. Also, never apply oils or scents directly to your dog. Just a spritz or two in the air is plenty. Ask your vet for more recommendations.

Veterinary Care

Just like people, dogs often act unusually when they don’t feel well. If you’re not sure why your dog is acting uneasy, have your vet examine him to rule out any medical issues. If you get the all-clear, at least you know you have an anxious pooch, rather than a sick one.

Toys

Proper dog toys can keep your pet occupied, and also offer a healthy outlet for your pet’s angst. Make sure your canine buddy has plenty of toys, and take time to play with him every day. If your pup shows signs of aggression, it’s best to skip Tug O War, though: this may just get Fido riled up.

Soothing Shirts

Many pet companies now make doggy shirts that can soothe our canine friends. These are great for keeping Fido calm at particularly stressful times, like during fireworks or thunderstorms. Ask your vet for advice.

Cuddles

Many dogs like being petted and cuddled. If your dog runs to you when he feels uneasy, pet his head gently, scratch his ears, or give him a belly rub.

Do you have questions or concerns about your dog’s health or care? Contact us, your Floyds Knob, IN animal clinic, for all your pet’s veterinary care needs.