Parenting pets, such as dogs, is a wonderful experience. However, tick and flea infestations could become every owner’s and canine’s nightmare. Luckily, there are ways to eliminate and prevent such critters. You could visit a vet to seek prescriptions, flea collars, or for other treatments to rid your dog of these infestations. You could also consult with the vet about using these six kitchen ingredients to reduce ticks and fleas. Apple cider vinegar The combination of apple cider vinegar and salt is the most common kitchen ingredient to ward off ticks and fleas. Using a diluted solution of this combo could help balance your pet’s pH levels to make it optimal for their health while making it unsuitable for fleas. To create the solution, mix six cups of apple cider vinegar with four cups of water. Next, add a dash of sea salt, then spray directly onto your dog’s coat. But ensure that you avoid contact with your pet’s eyes. Baking soda This ingredient does not need to be applied to your pet’s fur; instead, sprinkle it onto the carpet. Once you do this, sweep it from side to side so the powder settles deep within the fibers, which could keep fleas away.

A pet’s overall well-being is every pet parent’s ultimate desire and objective. However, life is unpredictable, and despite one’s best efforts, a pet may require healthcare assistance for health conditions, accidents, and injuries. Pet insurance helps pet owners alleviate the financial repercussions of such untoward events through financial compensation. It is advisable to opt for pet insurance from a reputed insurance company. Here are some common mistakes to avoid while securing pet insurance: Assuming that all healthcare services are covered A common mistake by pet parents is to assume that an insurance policy covers all healthcare services and requirements. For example, some insurance policies may not cover pet pregnancy-related complications, while some may exclude dental checkups and procedures. Thus, it is important for pet parents to browse the list of healthcare services a pet insurance policy includes under its hood and zero in on a policy based on this factor. Only considering the premium Although paying a high premium may burn a hole in one’s pocket, insurance policies with low premiums may sometimes not cover all the essential healthcare expenses. In such cases, one may end up spending a much higher amount at the veterinary hospital in case of a health emergency that the policy does not cover.

A home cooked meal is a great way to ensure that the pets are well fed with proper nutrition. Moreover, there are many pet food brands available that are a convenient option if cooking at home is not possible. However, one should always be aware of the ingredients that are safe and unsafe for the pet to consume. Here are some toxic foods that should not be part of the pet’s meal plan. Chocolate While delicious, chocolate is a toxic food for pets, which is usually a known fact for many. But it is important to know why it is not okay to feed dogs or cats chocolate and it needs a visit to the emergency room if ingested. The problem is the theobromine component in chocolate. It is found in both milk and dark chocolate, so both the varieties are a big no for pets. Moreover, the unsweetened baking chocolate is the most toxic as it contains the highest amount of theobromine. Eating this can lead to diarrhea, vomiting and other serious issues like seizures, tremors, and heart problems in pets. It can even be fatal in some cases if the right treatment is not administered quickly. Grapes An otherwise sweet and snackable fruit, grapes are toxic to most pets.

Besides helping cats stay clean, litter boxes maintain a hygienic home environment. So much so that often, when a cat urinates outside its litter box, it could indicate a health condition. So, cat parents should consult a veterinarian to rule out such issues. However, this change could also mean the cat is not comfortable using the box. In such cases, here are some litter box mistakes one may want to avoid: 1. Not considering the cat’s preferences A cat is typically uncomfortable in a litter box if it is not to its liking. While animals cannot express their tastes and preferences, a trial-and-error method can help cat parents identify what their feline friends like or detest in their litter boxes. For example, some cats may not be comfortable with specific textures, while others may steer clear of certain fragrances. These aspects should be carefully observed until one discovers exactly what their cat likes in its litter. 2. Placing the box in noisy spots Just like humans, cats prefer quiet, peaceful surroundings. Placing the litter box in a noisy environment can make the cat leave the box often. So, one should find a quiet place for the litter. This spot should be away from the kitchen as the noise emitted by cookers, blenders, and other appliances could bother cats.

Pets are an important part of most households today, and it’s only natural that dog parents want to serve nothing but the best for their furry friends. But with a variety of dog food options available in the market, it can be difficult to choose the right food for one’s pet. No matter which type of dog food one chooses, one must pick a variant that meets all of their pet’s nutritional needs and preferences. 1. Kibble One of the most affordable choices in the market today, kibble is a widely available and popular type of dog food. The crunchy pellets are manufactured by a process called extrusion and have a long shelf life, making them perfect for pet parents on the move. It is also a great way of keeping the dog’s teeth healthy, as the crunch and bite prevent tartar build-up. Pet parents can find several options in the market with different nutritional formulations and flavors to meet their dog’s specific needs. But one must exercise caution when buying kibble, as certain low-quality products can be packed with fillers, additives, and preservatives that can be unhealthy for dogs. 2. Canned/wet food Wet food is most dogs’ preferred meal.

For most dog owners, ensuring their furry friends eat healthy foods is important. While commercial dog foods provide adequate nutrition that a pet needs, adding some human foods into their meal plan will offer them many health benefits. Certain human foods can provide essential vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals that support the overall well-being of one’s pet. However, it is important to note that not all human foods are safe for dogs. Peanut butter Most dogs love licking on peanut butter treats. Peanut butter is rich in healthy fats and vitamins and has a healthy dose of protein. However, ensure it is always used in moderation since peanut butter is high in calories. Pick unsalted peanut butter to treat the dog as both salt and sweeteners, even artificial ones, can be harmful to them. Blueberries Blueberries are a rich source of antioxidants and essential nutrients. They carry most of the necessary vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals. They are also low in calories and can be added as a snack or a treat. Blueberries can also be an easy option for training treats. Other berries that are healthy for dogs include raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries. However, it is important that they eat these in moderation.