It’s widely understood that dogs dream. If you have a pup, you’ve inevitably witnessed an active dream of some sort, and I’ve seen it all with my furry companion, Juniper (I’m convinced she dreams about playing with her best friend, Luna, and chasing bunnies. Lots of bunnies). While we’ll never know for certain what exactly our furry pets dream about from day to day, researchers have made strides in decoding a sleeping canine’s brain. Spoiler alert – it’s not that different from our own. Here’s what we know so far…
Q&A: What to Know About Dog Flu
It’s that time of year; with the kids back at school and germs on the rise, everyone is more susceptible to the flu, even our pets. That’s right: with a recent canine influenza outbreak in the Midwest, dog owners are concerned and asking questions. So, today we’re breaking down everything there is to know about dog flu and what we can all do to be prepared….
Q: What is canine influenza?
A: Canine influenza is a respiratory disease in dogs. There are two currently strains identified: H3N8 and H3N2. Both are considered highly contagious. Frustratingly, influenza viruses are able to change quickly and develop new strains.
Q: Where have dogs been diagnosed with the flu?
A: Dog flu was first diagnosed in Florida in 2004 and has since spread around the country. States affected with the flu include Chicago, Georgia, Texas, Tennessee, Montana, Louisiana, and North Carolina, among others. At the moment, canine influenza has yet to spread to New York or New Jersey, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t stay vigilant and up to date on its whereabouts.
Q: How is it transmitted?
A: A dog can become infected by being in close contact with another dog with the virus, especially in kennels, dog parks, groomers, crowded sidewalks, and shelters. Again, it is highly contagious and spreads similarly to a human virus via respiratory secretions (coughing or sneezing) or by being in contact with a contaminated object like a leash or collar. The virus, while originally transmitted via horses, has only been shown to affect other dogs, and in some cases, cats.
Q: What are the symptoms, and what is the treatment?
A: A common question is whether you can tell if your dog has the flu. Yes – once exposed, an infected pup will feel under the weather and may cough, sneeze, run a fever, and have a loss of appetite. Luckily, the virus is rarely fatal. Veterinary guidance is recommended if a dog shows signs of the flu, and a vaccine is available for at-risk canines.
Have more questions? We’ve found this website about canine influenza to be very helpful and informative. If your state has been infected, we recommend taking a look at this article, which outlines prevention and control in detail. Meanwhile, we always urge pet owners to practice cleanliness and safety when it comes to petting other dogs and letting your own furry friend interact with other canines. Hoping everyone’s four-legged pals are healthy and happy!
How to Walk Your Dog in the Summer Heat
Summer is officially upon us! While this sunny season is loved by many, for our beloved canines, summer can be a struggle, with dehydration and heatstroke sky rocketing in the warmer temperatures. Below, we’ve rounded up our essential tips for walking your four-legged friend safely in the hot summer heat.
Preventing Heat Stroke in Dogs
Summers in New York and New Jersey are no joke – temperatures can rise upwards of 100 degrees, and the hot concrete bakes in the sun. While we have efficient cooling systems to keep our body temperature stable, our pups have a much harder time handling the heat, with only panting to cool them down. Below, we’ve outlined a few ways to keep your dog happy and heatstroke free this summer.
What to Look for in a Manhattan Dog Walking Service
Exercising your dog is key to keeping them physically and mentally healthy, but not all of us have the schedules that allow for such extensive outdoor adventures. Thank goodness for dog walking services! Hiring a reliable walker to regularly hit the trails with your furry friend can be a huge weight off your shoulders, especially when you have a young, active dog and simply not enough time in your day.
Finding the right dog walking company in New York City can be a daunting task, though; just Google “dog walking service in New York City” and you’ll find a whopping 9,890,000 results. So, where to start? Here are 5 things to look out for once you begin your search…
How to Introduce New Pets
Congratulations on your new furry friend! In all the excitement and activity, it’s important to remember that pets, like people, need time and space to become pals on their own terms. Here’s how to set them up for peaceful coexistence and lifelong companionship.
The Importance of Routine for Pets
Both dogs and cats are creatures of habit, so establishing a routine is critical for their well-being and long-term happiness. Whether you yourself have an established routine or live everyday with a good bit of change or variety, there are a few surefire ways that you and your pet can develop simple but valuable rituals.
The Necessity of Quality Time with Pets
Studies show that people enjoy a boost in happiness and decrease in stress as a result of spending time with pets—although you probably didn’t need a study to tell you that! But did you know your furry friend reaps the benefits too (and gets bummed out when you’re absent)? Here’s why it’s so important to log quality, one-on-one time with your pet, plus our favorite ways to make that happen.
How Much Exercise Does My Pet Need? (Part 2)
Whether you’re playing a quick game of catch or going for a long walk, there are so many great ways to get your pet moving. And with pets as with people, there’s no one-size-fits-all regimen. As a rule of thumb, you should aim for about 30 minutes of activity each day, so why not have fun with it? Once you’ve read up on the basics of pets and exercise, here are some things to consider in finding a routine that’s perfect for your furry friend. Remember: a tired pet is a good pet!
What You Should Know About Pets and Exercise (Part 1)
The “right” kind and amount of exercise is as unique as your pet is. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your pets happy and healthy.