Everything a pet parent needs to know about giving dogs and cats a proper introduction for a healthy and pet-friendly home.How to introduce Dogs and CatsCartoons of our beloved past have done an excellent job manipulating the masses to believe that dogs and cats are destined to fight until the end of time. So when your kids can’t agree on which animal to have as a pet – a cat or a dog – your next move is to figure out which types will coexist better than others.Whether you’re bringing home a new dog or a new cat, it’s essential to make the necessary adjustments to accommodate both pets. Let’s say you’ve chosen a puppy to take home. Ensure that you’ve relocated your cat’s bowl to a place that’s out of reach to your new puppy. If you have some extra time before your pets meet, make changes to the cat’s environment gradually.Now let’s reverse it, you’ve selected a kitty, and she’s ready to see her new playground. In the same way, as we’ve noted, prepare an elevated spot for your new kitty to eat & linger while she familiarizes herself with your home. This strategic positioning is both for your cat’s protection and an effective way to allow the kitty to follow her curiosity when she’s comfortable and begin to explore her new domain. Being sensitive to your dog or cat’s stresses provides a smoother transition and a more stress-free union between canine and feline.A Home Sweet Pet-Friendly HomeDog and cat playing together on the couchAs soon as you’ve made it home, provide separate spaces for each animal and prevent contact for at least 3-4 days or until the newest furry family member has received necessary vaccinations, a comprehensive checkup, and been cleared of any potential illness. That’s right; even your animals need to be quarantined! This room should be secure and include any required comforts for either animal. This list can consist of a scratch post, water, food, toys, multiple levels, and hiding places, to name a few of the necessary amenities. Place a few items that smell like your dog in your cat’s quarters and a thing or two of your kitty in your puppy’s space; in this way, they’ll become accustomed to each other before their initial meeting. The mission here is to grant both animals the time and space to come to terms with their newest neighbor at a distance before they’re able to cross paths formally.Another useful technique is brought to you by the Animal Humane Society. The AHS recommends that you feed both animals on either side of a closed-door; that way, both animals associate each other’s presence with something pleasant like meal times! Each day move the bowls closer to the door until each pet can calmly snack close to the other. Clue in your pooper scooper service team so that they’re also on board to bridge the gap between kitty and pup. Don’t underestimate the power of commands and treats while training your cat and dog to play nice.Face Time for Dogs and CatsAt this point, if the cat and dog have managed to coexist peacefully, allow each other the courtesy of a quiet meal. Then it is time for some facial recognition! The idea here is to separate spaces between your cat and dog to one another by gradually increasing exposure. One of the key ways to accomplish this is to designate rooms for each animal. Only allow viewing during specific times. Keep each room suited to each animal’s needs. Remain familiar with risks such as the cat’s ability to squeeze through tight spaces or the dog’s jumping gates. The intention here is to allow a chance for familiarity without allowing access just yet. Have treats readily available to reward good behavior. Keep a leash or toys nearby to redirect attention and limit any negative scenarios from playing out! The more they’re familiar with one another, the more they’re comfortable coexisting. Although they may not be best friends yet, both animals will be on the...

Ten common-sense questions every pet parent should be able to answer.Is my pet at a healthy weight?The first of the 10 questions is on weight. Did you know that more than half of all cats and dogs in the US are overweight? A 2019 survey conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention found that owners deny their pet’s weight and continue without addressing the issue. Unfortunately, this can lead to long term health concerns. Check with your vet by asking about your pet’s body condition score (BCS). This score can be figured out by evaluating your pet’s structure, and it’s also important to feel your pet’s current weight. If you can feel the ribs easily without excess fat covering the area, can observe the waist behind the ribs, and an abdominal tuck is present, then your pet is at an ideal weight range for their breed, size, and stature.Is that (insert unusual behavior here) normal?Fret no more! Your pet’s annual wellness exam is a perfect time to ask about any peculiarities you’ve been concerned about within your furry companion. This visit can address concerns such as wheezing, frequent itching, biting at paws, and groaning in older dogs. Keep a list of when unusual behavior began, the frequency, and any details your vet may find helpful. Remember, they don’t have the luxury of telling us where it hurts, so gift your canine or kitty with a full assessment to make sure they’re in the clear!Should I be worried about this lump or bump?First, don’t panic and resist the temptation to search the web for answers. Lumps and bumps are more prevalent in older dogs, and although some spots can indicate a medical condition, it’s better to check before assuming the worst. Once again, document each bump, take pictures and note any changes. Ultimately your vet will decide if a biopsy is necessary, and you can go home with your loved one and some peace of mind.Which vaccinations should my pet receive?According to Dr. Mike Paul, DVM, core vaccinations are vital to your pet’s health and prevent diseases that are extremely widespread in their distribution. These vaccines provide long term immunity to potentially fatal diseases, making annual vaccination unnecessary. Some vaccines to ask about are:Canine distemperCanine ParvovirusCanine adenovirus 1 infectionRabiesThis is not an exclusive list! Ask your vet what is vital for your pet according to the local and regional incidence of disease, as well as a risk assessment to make sure that vaccinations are specifically tailored to your pet’s long-term health.How often should I bathe my pet?Without a skin condition present in your pet, you can get away with bathing him or her once a month! In fact, over or under bathing, your pet can cause dry skin, which leads to severe discomfort. Stick to a routine, and don’t forget to prioritize cleaning your pet’s ears once or twice a week to prevent infection. To do this, use your finger, gauze, and any major brand of ear cleaner.How much food does my pet need?Although there’s no definitive rule for this question, ask your vet what would be ideal for your pet’s lifestyle. Factors to consider include breed, age, size, and energy level, along with how much activity your canine receives regularly. The vet can also assist in figuring out the type of nutrition your pet would benefit from most. Before you hit the store, check-in with your vet to ensure your pet is receiving optimal nutrition.How often should I schedule check-up exams?Preventative care and proactive planning provide your pet with the best possible chance at a long and healthy life. Schedule annual exams, keep a list of any irregularities, and take advantage of the yearly review of medication as well as a refill for heartworm meds. It’s easy to get complacent after the initial...

The relationship between pet owners and their furry companions is one of mystery and intrigue. Many studies have helped us understand our pets and vice versa. However, there is still no one finite answer to how we formed this sacred bond! Human body language, which comprises 90% of our communication, is arguably the most effective way to communicate our feelings, thoughts, and desires. When used correctly, it can also be a powerful tool to connect with our pets. Since we’re not able to carry on a two-way conversation with our canines, body language proves to be the best way to connect with your pet. Dogs pick up on every cue, even the unintentional signals. In this post, we’ll help you conclude the most efficient ways to train your pet using emotional responses and cues.Facial RecognitionThe University of Lincoln in the UK performed a series of experiments to monitor the effects of body language and a canine’s ability to recognize facial expressions. In this study, a dog was placed in a room alone; the dog’s owner and a stranger entered from different doors, crossed paths, and exited through separate doors. The dog-focused intently on its owner and ultimately relocated closer to the door the owner walked through. The experiment was repeated, but this time both individuals had their faces covered. The dog was far less attentive and less likely to be at the owner’s door at the end. This proved that facial recognition is an integral component of your dog’s ability to read you. Although your dog may not peer deeply into your eyes, dogs recognize facial expressions such as smiling or frowning. Try a simple experiment! Face your dog, and smile wide. This will most likely inspire a tail wag and a relaxed posture from your pup; he may even decide that it’s time for a belly rub. Now furrow your brow or frown at your dog. He’s able to recognize that you’re unhappy, so he’ll respond with an ashamed or sheepish reaction feeling that he may have done something wrong. Once you’ve reassured your doggy that he is, in fact, a very good boy, be mindful of facial expressions and how useful they can be when training a puppy or communicating with any of your animals.Body LanguageLove languages exist in the canine world, too. In their way, your pets can decipher your moods and signals based on how you choose to express yourself physically that day. Whether you’re sad, angry, or excited, the emotional signs that accompany each of these sentiments reach your canine. Sadness can translate to less affection or extra cuddling, both of which can confuse your pet. This lack or abundance of cuddles can lead to attention-seeking behavior such as pawing or barking. Canines are so intelligent that they immediately recognize rigid posture or signs of agitation and have a tendency to become timid in response.Furthermore, if you’re so ticked off that there’s a wave of palpable anger in your demeanor, your pet may cower or remove themselves entirely in response. Similarly, excitement can trigger reactions such as jumping, running, or barking. Allow your canine to view you as calm and collected even when you’re in an inconsolable mood! Venting to pets is a popular choice of some owners, but ultimately it can warrant unwanted behavior. This can promote defensive or even aggressive behaviors in some animals. This can be an excellent opportunity for you to control, train, and mold your canine’s behavior as long as you master your own actions. This mirror technique allows for smoother communication over time and leads to that special bond we all crave with our animals.GesturesSome of us are more animated than others, and our gestures may occur like reflexes. The more mindful you are of your gestures, the more control you can have in the relationship with your pet. For those who aren’t as comfortable with canines, it can be an immediate reaction to raise arms, panic, or even run away....

Why do dogs eat poop? This is a question that pet families have been asking for ages. Although we can’t give you insight into the thought process behind your doggy’s decision that a pile of poop appears appetizing, we can list several reasons as well as some prevention techniques. Coprophagia, a fancy term for eating poop, is an unfortunate habit that your pup picks up for both physiological and behavioral reasons. Don’t panic if your dog has decided that pet waste is a delicacy – educate yourself on the following reasons and start discouraging this habit today!Why do dogs eat poop? #1 StressDoggies can become increasingly stressed for a variety of reasons, including excess confinement and isolation. Studies indicate that when dogs feel isolated or have spent too much time in a small space, they react anxiously. This same anxiety can be seen in dogs that suffer harsh punishment methods while being house trained; eating poop eliminates evidence during house training difficulties. In other cases, the stress is associated with separation anxiety and a lack of activity. Pay attention to the number of hours your dog spends alone or confined. Keep in mind that prolonged confinement or lack of exercise can lead to aggression and other behavioral changes that worsen over time. Playtime, increased bonding time, and less confinement is your best friend in the war against poop eating.Why do dogs eat poop? #2: AttentionYour doggy can tell which behaviors get a rise out of you and which ones you ignore entirely. With this in mind, once your dog eats poop in front of you and receives a reaction, your pup will conclude that this behavior is a way to secure your attention. Although it may be difficult to react calmly, it is best to avoid overreacting. Your pup is less likely to repeat an unwanted action once he realizes he is not receiving the attention he seeks. Next time he’s caught in the act, calmly call his name and discourage the behavior without force or yelling. The less you react, the less your dog will find satisfaction in taboo or unwanted behaviors.Why do dogs eat poop? #3: AssociationLet’s say that your doggy bowl is close to where your dog chooses to eliminate, and this will form an association between food and poop. The Smell is a strong sense and perhaps the most potent sense associated with memory! Even though this behavior disgusts humans, a dog may not understand that mealtime and poop time are not affiliated with each other in any way. Similarly, if a dog or puppy sniffs pet waste on his mommy’s breath, he will become confused and form a bad habit by association. Keep the doggy bowl inside and the eliminating outside!Why do dogs eat poop? #4: Medical ConditionsCoprophagia can also be associated with disease of the intestines, as well as other parts of the body. If your dog suddenly picks up this undesirable habit, it may be found alongside other symptoms such as weight loss, lethargy, discomfort, gastrointestinal symptoms, and other behavioral changes. In this case, it’s highly recommended that you set up an appointment with the veterinarian to rule out any serious health concerns and begin the necessary treatment.While the act of eating poop itself won’t harm your dog, the feces he ingests can cause illness. It’s not the poop eating; it’s what the poop contained that may cause stomach discomfort, infection, or other health issues to develop. Nevertheless, it’s essential to deter your pup from any potentially harmful behavior, this can be done through redirecting attention or encouraging extra training.Once you’ve ruled out health concerns, it’s time to seek pet waste removal service’s finest, POOP 911, for your other poop and pet care related matters. You cannot be expected to shoulder the burdens of a hectic week AND your dog’s ever-changing needs! That is why your local POOP 911 pooper scooper...

Your dog’s health is vital. After all, your dog is your best friend. Keeping your dog healthy can be as simple as looking at your dog’s poop. While it doesn’t sound appealing, there’s a lot that your dog’s poop can tell you about your pet’s health. So, the next time you see your dog pooping, you can take a look at it. The following guidelines will help you determine whether your dog is healthy or if you need to call your trusted veterinarian.1. Hard PoopHard dog poop from your dog looks hard and pebbly. According to PetMD, this likely means that your dog is dehydrated. All you need to do to remedy the situation is to give your dog more water. It will not only make it easier for your dog to poop but it will also ensure that your pet is getting enough to drink.2. ColorWhen your dog is pooping grey or yellow poop, this is a sign that your pet may have pancreas, liver or gallbladder issues. It would be a good idea to take your dog to the vet so that an evaluation can determine what’s causing these health problems. If you see your dog pooping black poop, it could indicate an upper intestinal bleed. Likewise, if your dog’s poop has streaks of red in it, your pet could have a lower intestinal bleed. Get your beloved pet a health checkup for these changes in the color of your dog’s poop.3. Liquid PoopIf your pet’s poop has a liquid consistency, there are a number of reasons this could be happening. According to the American Kennel Club, it could be your pet’s diet, parasites, eating spoiled food or garbage, allergies, infections like parvo or distemper, eating a foreign substance, illnesses, antibiotics, or stress causing your pet to have diarrhea. The AKC recommends if you notice your dog pooping liquid stools, then you can try having your dog fast, give it Pedialyte, adjust your pet’s diet. Try adding rice water or other grain water to their diet to help. If your dog’s diarrhea is persistent and accompanied by lethargy, vomiting, fever, or dry heaving you need to get your dog to the vet.4. Amount of PoopYour dog probably seems like a lean, mean pooping machine. However, the amount your dog is pooping is essential to your pet’s health. If you see your dog pooping about the same amount he or she eats, then your pet is okay and doing what it’s supposed to do. If your pet is pooping a lot and the consistency is changing, then there’s something wrong and it’s time to take your pet to the vet.5. ContentThe content in your dog’s poop is super relevant to their health. Dogs pooping mucus with its poop is a sign that the colon is inflamed. According to Pet Health Network, this could mean that your dog has parasites, like hookworms. Check with your dog health professional who may suggest to de-worm your dog.6. Healthy PoopPet Helpful indicates, “when your dog is pooping and his poop looks chocolate brown, in soft, play-dough like logs that are easy to pick up or scoop, then your dog has healthy, normal poop.” This means there’s no need to worry. While each dog may poop different size logs, the experts agree that as long as your dog’s poop is proportional to the amount of food they are eating then your dog has normal, healthy poop.Your dog is important to you and making sure your pet is healthy also means paying attention to your dog’s poop. Professional dog poop scoopers like the ones at POOP 911 see the signs of your dog’s health in every pickup. At POOP 911, your pet’s health is essential to us, as well. Not only do we take cleaning your yard seriously, but we also consider your pet’s health seriously when cleaning your pet’s poop. If you like these facts and others like them, then stick with us as we bring the best expert information to you.