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1 in 3 pets get lost during their lifetime
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Microchips + ID Tags: Partners in Reunification
It’s estimated that 1 in 3 pets go missing in their lifetime. 1 in 3!! There are 2 easy ways to avoid heartbreak and increase your chance for reunification with your pet should this ever happen to you. The first is get your pet microchipped, and the second is by having your dog wear a collar with an id tag. Microchips and ID tags are the best ways to be reunited with a lost pet because they both provide your contact information in the event that your pet gets lost. A microchip is a small electronic chip that is implanted under your pet's skin. It’s painless, we promise. The chip contains a unique number that can be scanned by a veterinarian or shelter. If your pet is lost or stolen, the chip can be scanned to find your contact information. Keep in mind that the chip must be registered in order to find your contact information. Note that this is not a GPS device and does not track your pet. An ID tag is a tag that you attach to your pet's collar. The tag typically includes your name, address, and phone number. A digital id tag (often with a qr code) allows you to update your profile at any time and you can add additional information like what to feed your pet when found, or types of behavior they might exhibit. The rescue hero will use their smartphone to scan the tag and you’ll know instantly that your lost pet has been found! Microchips are a great way to help reunite lost pets with their pet parents. However, they are not a replacement for an ID tag. An ID tag is the first line of defense in helping to get your pet back if they get lost. If your pet is found by a stranger, they will likely check for an ID tag before taking the pet to a shelter or veterinarian. If your pet does not have an ID tag, the stranger will not be able to contact you and your pet may never be reunited with you. Here are some tips on how to increase the chances of being reunited with a lost pet: Keep your pet's ID tag up-to-date with your current contact information. Microchip your pet. Pets with microchips are reunited with their pet parents more than 52% of the time! Post lost pet ads in your local newspaper and online. Contact your local animal shelter and veterinarian.
Innovation Nation: The Smart ID Tag
Everyone knows that the first line of defense is a registered microchip. To ensure a successful reunification should your pet every escape is a trackable id tag. We've come a long way since the only tag option was a heavy engraved metal dog tag. A traditional tag hangs from a pet's collar and is typically made of metal, such as aluminum, brass, or stainless steel, and can be engraved with the pet's name and contact information. Have you ever tried to read the engraving on a tag like this? It's near impossible! Picture this - you've found a dog without a leash, roaming around outside. When you finally do grab hold of the collar (hopefully it has one!), you strain your eyes to read the number on the tag. Can't do it. that's where a new qr code smart tag comes in. A smart QR code ID tag can be an excellent way to help keep pets safe and provide important information to their pet parents. Here are a few reasons why: Quick Identification: If a lost pet is found by someone, a smart QR code ID tag can help identify the owner and provide important information about the pet. All someone needs to do is scan the code with their smartphone, and they will be directed to a pet profile with all the necessary information. Updated Information: Unlike traditional pet tags, a smart QR code ID tag allows owners to update their pet's information quickly and easily. This means that if the pet parents move, change phone numbers, or get a new veterinarian, they can update the information on the tag without needing to buy a new tag. Medical Information: A smart QR code ID tag can also include important medical information about the pet, such as any allergies or chronic conditions. This information can be crucial in an emergency situation where quick access to medical information can be life-saving. Tracking: Some smart QR code ID tags also have GPS tracking built-in. This means that if a pet gets lost, the owner can track their location using a smartphone app. This feature can be especially useful for pets who like to roam or for owners who live in areas with high rates of pet theft. the Wagtopia Smart Wag Tag ID will send you a notification of the last location where the tag was scanned. Overall, a smart QR code ID tag can provide peace of mind for pet owners and help ensure that lost pets are reunited with their owners as quickly as possible.
How to Potty Train (Housebreak) Any Dog or Puppy
Training a puppy to potty outside can be challenging, but with the helpful tips and tricks in this video, you'll have them housebroken in no time. Plus, here are our recommendations for products that will make potty training a breeze: Frisco Dog Training Pee Pads from Chewy Bissell Crosswave Wet/Dry Vacuum Bissell Enzyme Action Plus Stain Remover Just Food for Dogs Salmon Bark Treats Eat Play Wag Poop Bag Holder from Chewy Earth Rated Dog Poop Bags from Chewy Bark Potty - The New Generation of Pee Pads Doggie Lawn - Real Grass Training Kit
The Litter Box: What You Need to Know
Now that you've become a Rescue Hero and brought home your furbaby, the first order of business is setting your cat up for success. This includes litter box training. Part 1: The Litterbox The cat litter box is an essential item for cat owners as it provides a designated area for cats to urinate and defecate. Here are some reasons why the cat litter box is important: Promotes good hygiene The cat litter box helps to keep the cat's waste contained in one area, making it easier to clean up and reducing the spread of bacteria and germs. Encourages good litter box habits By providing a designated area for cats to use the bathroom, the litter box helps to encourage good litter box habits and reduces the likelihood of accidents outside of the litter box. Prevents damage to furniture and flooring If cats do not have a designated area to use the bathroom, they may choose to use furniture or flooring as a substitute, causing damage to the home. Pro tip - use an exzyme cleaner for urine messes. Helps to monitor your cat's health Monitoring your cat's litter box habits can help to identify potential health issues such as urinary tract infections or digestive problems. There are even smart kitty litter brands that can show you digestive issues. Reduces stress and anxiety Providing a safe and comfortable space for cats to use the bathroom can reduce stress and anxiety, especially for indoor cats who spend a lot of time inside. Overall, the cat litter box is an essential item for cat owners as it promotes good hygiene, encourages good litter box habits, prevents damage to the home, helps to monitor your cat's health, and reduces stress and anxiety. It's important to choose the right type of litter box and litter for your cat's needs and preferences. Part 2: Training your cat to use the litter box Training your cat to use the litter box is a crucial part of cat ownership. Here are some steps you can take to train your cat to use the litter box: Choose the right litter box: Choose a litter box that is the right size for your cat and is easy for your cat to access. Some cats prefer covered litter boxes, while others prefer uncovered ones. Choose the right type of litter: There are different types of litter available such as clay, clumping, silicon and natural litters. Choose a litter that your cat is comfortable with and that is easy for you to clean. Show your cat the litter box: Place your cat in the litter box and let them explore it. Gently scratch the litter with your finger to show your cat what it is for. Encourage your cat to use the litter box: After meals, playtime, or naps, place your cat in the litter box and encourage them to use it. Praise and reward your cat when they use the litter box. Clean the litter box regularly: Keep the litter box clean by scooping out waste and urine daily and replacing the litter regularly. Address any accidents: If your cat has an accident outside of the litter box, clean it up immediately and move the waste to the litter box to encourage your cat to use it next time. Be patient: It may take some time for your cat to get used to using the litter box. Be patient and continue to encourage and praise your cat when they use it. Overall, training your cat to use the litter box is an important part of cat ownership. By choosing the right litter box and litter, showing your cat the litter box, encouraging your cat to use it, keeping it clean, and being patient, you can successfully train your cat to use the litter box. Part 3: Types of litterboxes There are different types of litter boxes available for cat owners, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are some of the most common types of litter boxes: Open litter box: An open litter box is a basic litter box without a cover. This type of litter box is easy to clean and allows your cat to see their surroundings while they use the box. Covered litter box: A covered litter box has a hood or cover over the top, which can help to contain odors and keep litter inside the box. Some covered litter boxes also come with a door or flap, which can provide your cat with privacy and help to prevent litter tracking. Self-cleaning litter box: A self-cleaning litter box uses sensors or timers to automatically scoop waste and urine clumps into a separate compartment or bag. This type of litter box can save time and make cleaning the litter box more convenient. Top-entry litter box: A top-entry litter box has an opening on the top of the box, which can help to prevent litter tracking and keep dogs or young children from accessing the litter. This type of litter box is also good for cats who like to dig and scatter litter. Disposable litter box: A disposable litter box is made of cardboard or other biodegradable materials and is designed to be used once and then thrown away. This type of litter box is convenient for travel or for use in temporary living situations. If you can't stand the thought of leaning the litter box, this is a great option! High-sided litter box: A high-sided litter box has higher walls than a standard litter box, which can help to contain litter and urine inside the box. This type of litter box is also good for cats who like to dig and scatter litter. Overall, the type of litter box you choose will depend on your cat's needs and preferences, as well as your own lifestyle and preferences. It's important to choose a litter box that is the right size for your cat, easy to clean, and fits your budget.
Tips to Safely Introduce Your New Rescue to Your Current Furbaby
Adopting another pet? Congratulations! Already have a pet at home? Proceed with caution... Introducing a new pet to a home that already has a pet can be a gradual process that requires patience and preparation. Here are some tips to help you introduce your new rescue to your home when there is already a pet in the home: Choose the right timing Pick a time when both pets are calm and relaxed, and when you have enough time to supervise their interactions. Avoid introducing a new pet during a time of high stress, such as during a move or when there are other significant changes happening in the household. Start with scent swapping Before the pets meet face-to-face, start by exchanging their scents. This can be done by rubbing a towel or blanket on one pet and then placing it near the other pet's bed or feeding area. Introduce them through a barrier The first face-to-face introduction should be through a barrier, such as a baby gate or screen door. This allows the pets to see and smell each other without the risk of direct contact. Gradually increase the amount of time the pets spend together separated by the barrier. Supervise interactions closely When you feel comfortable that both pets are tolerating each other through the barrier, it's time to introduce them directly under close supervision. Keep the interactions short and positive, and reward good behavior with treats. Gradually increase the amount of time they spend together Gradually increase the time the pets spend together, always supervising their interactions closely. Be prepared to separate them if either pet shows signs of aggression or discomfort. Give them their own space Both pets should have their own space where they can retreat to if they feel uncomfortable or need a break. A separate bed or crate can help prevent any potential conflicts. Remember, introducing a new pet to a home with an existing pet takes time and patience. Be prepared for the process to take several days or even weeks, and don't rush the pets into a relationship before they are ready. Article by Traci Theis, National Trainer of the Year AKC
Why Your Dog May Benefit From Supplements
While it is always recommended to consult with a licensed veterinarian before giving any supplements to your dog, there are a few common reasons why some dog owners choose to give their pets supplements, vitamins, and probiotics: Improved immune system: Supplements can help strengthen your dog's immune system, making them less susceptible to illnesses and infections. Joint health: Some supplements can help promote joint health and reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial for dogs with arthritis or other joint issues. Better digestion: Probiotics can help improve your dog's digestion and promote healthy gut flora, which can reduce the risk of digestive issues like diarrhea and constipation. Improved skin and coat: Supplements containing essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6 can help improve your dog's skin and coat health, making their fur shinier and less prone to shedding. Increased energy: Some supplements can help boost your dog's energy levels, making them more active and playful. Better dental health: Supplements containing enzymes can help promote good dental health by breaking down plaque and tartar on your dog's teeth. Reduced stress: Some supplements can help reduce anxiety and stress in dogs, making them calmer and more relaxed. Hemp derived products can be given a variety of ways - treats, tinctures, balms or creams. You may need some trial + error to discover the best delivery system for your dog. Overall health and wellness: Supplements can help provide your dog with the nutrients they need to maintain optimal health and wellness, even if their diet is lacking in certain areas. Just like when a pet parent takes a multivitamin, dogs may see benefits as well. Improved cognitive function: Certain supplements can help promote brain health and cognitive function in dogs, which can be especially important for senior dogs. Faster recovery: Supplements can help promote faster recovery from injury or illness, by supporting your dog's immune system and overall health. Again, it’s important to remember that any decision to give your dog supplements should be made in consultation with a licensed veterinarian, who can help you determine the most appropriate supplements and dosages for your pet based on their individual health needs.
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