Adopting a pet is a fantastic way to make a new addition to your family. Not only will you have an instant friend and companion that will add meaning and purpose to your life, but you’ll be saving lives in the process. Every year, millions of animals end up in shelters around the country. Although some shelter animals come with complicated histories that require additional attention and care after their adoption, many others are well-adjusted animals who were simply the victims of unfortunate circumstances. Either way, adopting a pet means you will be helping an animal in need find a loving home. Want to learn more? Here are some of the top reasons why adopting a pet from a shelter vs. breeder is a great decision:
You’ll save an animal’s life and give them a second chance to be happy and thrive.
Every year, approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter the shelter system, and nearly 1.5 million animals are euthanized. Some of these animals come from abusive situations and require special care and attention, as a result. But many others are perfectly healthy, happy animals that simply lost their homes for one reason or another. Their previous owners may have moved, passed away, divorced, lost jobs, or could no longer care for their pets. Animal shelters are full of a vast-array of different kinds of animals from different backgrounds with different levels of required care. Rest assured that there is an animal perfectly suited to your family at a shelter near you.
You’ll discourage unethical breeding practices & reduce the number of homeless pets.
Purchasing a pet from a breeder or pet stores used to be a lot more common. These days many new pet owners are opting to find their pet companions at shelters. Adopting a pet from a shelter not only helps to reduce the population of homeless pets, but it discourages unethical breeding practices, such as kennelling too many animals in unsanitary, enclosed spaces.
You’ll free up valuable space in a shelter to make room for other animals in need.
With millions of animals in and out of the shelter system each year, most organizations have little space reserved for incoming animals in need. Adopting a pet is a great way to both support these valuable organizations, while also freeing up limited resources. Not only will you reduce the number of homeless pets, but you’ll free up shelter space for another deserving animal.
You’ll get a pet that’s been prescreened for health & behavioral issues.
Animal shelters perform pre-adoption wellness checks to screen animals for health and behavioral issues. These often include physical exams, dental checks, vaccinations, spay & neutering, microchipping, and training evaluations. When you adopt an animal from a reputable shelter, they’ll provide you with a full medical outline, including vaccination certifications. This will give you some understanding of what you might expect in the months and years ahead, as well as give you a baseline workup to take to a new primary care vet of your choosing.
You’ll save money.
Not only will you save money on health & wellness screenings, but you’ll save a ton of money on adoption fees. Breeders often charge exorbitant fees for their animals, while shelters charge a mere fraction of those prices. You may even get a few starter freebies, such as starter food, medications, or name tags.
Adopted pets are loving, loyal, and appreciative.
Adopted pets are some of the most loyal and loving pets you can find. They often seem keenly aware of their circumstances and appreciate that their lives and surroundings have been vastly improved by their adoptive parents. They show their gratitude in very special ways that only adoptive pet parents will understand.
The best part of adopting a pet is having a new best friend and devoted companion. Owning a pet comes with many rewards. They’ll keep you active, improve your physical health, and mental wellbeing. They’ll shower you with love and affection. And best of all, you’ll take pride in knowing that you’ve made a valuable impact on the life and wellbeing of another! Consider adopting today! Find a local shelter near you.
Have you recently adopted a pet? Looking for more ways to improve their health & wellness? Start by adding JoviBowl to your pet’s mealtime routine!
JoviBowl is the only pet bowl on the market with elevated height & adjustable tilt to customize your pet’s bowl to their individual needs. JoviBowl improves pet’s health by promoting effective digestion and reducing strain on the neck & joints. It’s great for everyday use for dogs and cats of all life stages, and also offers additional support for animals with recovery cones, disabilities, or flat-faces. Visit our homepage to learn more about JoviBowl today!
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Every year, nearly 6.5 million companion animals enter the shelter system, and nearly 3 million adoptable dogs and cats are euthanized. The vast majority of these numbers are attributable to unplanned litters. And sadly, many of these deaths could have been preventable if more animals had been spayed or neutered.
Spaying or neutering your pet ensures that your animal will never be responsible for producing unwanted litters. Unwanted litters lead to overcrowded shelters, and ultimately, the euthenasia of millions of homeless pets each year. Doing your part to prevent overpopulation saves animal lives.
But that’s not all. Were you aware that spaying or neutering has great health benefits for your pet as well?
In this article, we will discuss the health benefits of sterilization, how to prepare your pet for the procedure, and how to plan for the aftercare. We hope this guide provides you with enough insight to decide whether taking this important step in your pet’s life is the right decision for you.
Sterilization Has Clear Benefits for Dogs and Cats
The act of sterilizing your pet may seem like a harsh procedure, but spaying or neutering has clear health benefits for cats and dogs. In fact, many animal rights organizations, like PETA, proactively advocate for the practice.
So just what are the benefits of spaying (female) and neutering (male) dogs and cats?
While the benefits of spaying and neutering are very clear, it is not entirely without risk. Spaying or neutering early has some added risk for specific breeds, which is why it is very important to speak with your primary veterinarian or animal healthcare professional to determine the best time in your pet’s life to have the procedure performed for their specific breed.
The ASPCA generally recommends that male dogs be neutered after the age of 6 months, with the 6-9 month window being the traditional time frame for neuters. Female dogs are often spayed prior to their first heat, typically between the age of 4-5 months. Cats are most often spayed or neutered before they reach the age of 5 months, but shelters often safely perform sterilizations on kittens as early as eight weeks to prepare them for adoption.
Did you know that dogs and cats can also be sterilized as adults? There’s a slightly higher risk of complications for older pets if they are elderly, overweight, or have preexisting conditions, but the vast majority of adult pets can be safely spayed or neutered. Speak to your veterinarian if you’re interested in finding out more about adult sterilizations for your pet.
What to Expect on the Big Day
Once you’ve determined the right time for sterilization, you’ll need to prepare for the big day and aftercare, to ensure your pet is as comfortable as possible.
On the day of the procedure, you’ll drop your dog or cat at a licensed veterinary clinic at a designated time. The veterinary technicians will receive your pet for intake procedures and perform any required pre-anesthetic exams.
During the procedure your veterinarian may administer an intravenous catheter to administer necessary fluids or drugs via an IV. To allow for this, they’ll shave a portion of your pet’s leg or paw to clear a space for IV insertion. Females will also have a portion of their belly shaved, where the surgical procedure is to be performed. Males require only a small incision near the scrotum.
The procedure typically lasts around 30 minutes. Stitches may be required to prevent complications during healing. In this case, your veterinarian may use dissolvable or traditional sutures or staples. Dissolvable sutures do not require a follow-up for removal, whereas traditional sutures will require a post-op visit for removal.
When the procedure is over, your veterinarian will monitor your pet for a short time as they wake and recover from the anesthesia. You’ll be called to pick up your pet a short time later.
Preparing for Your Pet’s Aftercare
After surgery your pet will require aftercare to ensure they are healing properly and are comfortable throughout the process.
For the first one to two weeks post-surgery, your dog or cat will require a recovery cone. Colloquially known as “the cone of shame,” these devices attach to your pet’s neck to prevent them from biting or licking their wounds. Preventing your pet from reaching the surgical site will help to prevent the two most common post-surgery complications: 1) torn sutures and 2) infections at the surgical site.
Wearing a recovery cone for an extended period of time can be frustrating for your pet, and especially during certain activities, like feedings. The JoviBowl elevated feeding system helps pets wearing recovery cones to easily access their meals, without the cumbersome process of having to remove and replace the cone multiple times a day.
The JoviBowl is equipped with customizable height and adjustable tilt that allows pet owners to adapt the bowl to meet their pet’s specific needs. The sleek design with weighted base also provides balance and stability for a spill-free eating experience. JoviBowl also offers additional health benefits for pets, like improved ingestion, digestion, and joint support, making it the perfect everyday bowl for all life stages.
You’ll also want to provide your pet with a soft, cushioned area to relax. Activities must be limited for 7-10 days post-op, which means no running, jumping, wrestling, or other strenuous activities. Activities must be restricted to short leash walks to let your pet relieve themselves. Try to keep them mentally stimulated with attention, toys, and healthy snacks. You’ll need to monitor your pet’s surgical site daily to check for any swelling, bleeding, or inflamation. Your veterinarian may also prescribe your pet pain medications that you will need to administer.
With a little care and attention, your little furry loved one will be back in action and ready for adventure! Best of all, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your pet’s procedure has saved the lives of countless animals, while reaping the many health and behavioral benefits that spaying and neutering offers!
February’s Spay and Neuter Awareness Month is the perfect time to consider taking this vital step to improve your pet’s health and wellness! Many local animal rights organizations, nonprofits, and shelters offer educational resources, discounts, and directory services to help you locate the best accredited veterinary clinic to perform this important procedure near you.
Start your search today! Visit the ASPCA’s Low-Cost Spay & Neuter Programs page to find local spay and neuter options near you.
Be sure to subscribe to JovialPet’s newsletter for more great articles on pet wellness! Visit the JovialPet homepage to learn more about the JoviBowl feeding system and find out how it can improve your pet’s life and health.
The most wonderful time of the year is here! ‘Tis the season for tantalizing treats, stimulating toys and seasonal sweaters, but most importantly, it's a great time to focus on quality gifts that will work to improve your pet’s life and heath. That’s why we’ve put together our comprehensive gift guide to JoviBowl. The JoviBowl feeding system is the only elevated pet bowl with adjustable height AND tilt on the market; a stylish addition to any home that will have a long-term impact on your pet’s health.
What is JoviBowl?
The JoviBowl is the optimum elevated feeding system for pets. With customizable, adjustable height and tilt, the JoviBowl ensures the best feeding experience based on each pet’s height, ingestion and digestion needs, special requirements (cones, injuries), or disabilities (blindness, arthritis, missing limbs, etc).
The JoviBowl is designed for all life stages, making it the perfect feeder for the life of your pet. It’s the only bowl you’ll ever need whether you’ve just welcomed a newborn, adopted an adult, or are caring for a senior pet. Its customizable features allow the bowl to grow with your pet as they age.
JovialPet’s Wellness Vision
JovialPet believes that pet owners have the power to make a lasting impact on the health and wellness of their pets. That’s why we’ve worked tirelessly to develop products that promote healthier, happier, and longer lives for our beloved four-legged family members.
JoviBowl was born from real stories and experiences. Joel Brown, JovialPet founder, a furniture designer and woodworker, started the JoviBowl journey after a series of personal challenges with his 2 dogs, Enzo and Loka. Enzo, an “energetic and hyper-intelligent” Jack Russell Terrier, tore his cranial cruciate ligament, which required him to wear the dreaded ‘cone of shame’ for an extended period of time. The post-surgery recovery was brutal, and eating with the cone was a chore that proved stressful for both Enzo and Joel.
Joel went to work to find a comfortable solution for Enzo to eat while still wearing the cone, and thus, the JoviBowl was born. Later, Joel also found that the JoviBowl had many supportive benefits for his adopted stray, Loka, who was elderly, almost blind, and debilitated. Through research and personal experiences Joel realized the JoviBowl had the power to provide a better feeding experience to pets of all ages and sizes, and in the long term, have a real impact on the health and happiness of all pets. Today, JovialPet continues to strive to create quality pet products that improve the lives of pets in myriad ways.
What makes JoviBowl the ultimate holiday gift for pets?
JoviBowl’s unique combination of height and tilt adjustability has numerous benefits for pets of all ages and life stages. It is the ONLY elevated bowl with adjustable tilt on the market! The size and anatomy of each pet requires a different setup for optimal feeding. JoviBowl allows a better, customized feeding experience for each pet’s individual needs.
A few of JoviBowl’s many benefits:
Quality nutrition provided at the best setup translates to good health
Feeding time plays a very important role in your pet’s health and wellness. The food you feed your pet and the feeding system you provide go a long way in determining your pet’s wellbeing.
Your pet relies on you to make good decisions about what goes into their bodies, and providing an optimal feeding system that meets your pet’s needs and allows them to eat comfortably without stress or strain is part of that decision making process. This holiday season, consider giving your pet the gift of good health with the JoviBowl elevated feeding system!
Be sure to subscribe to JovialPet’s newsletter for more great articles on pet wellness! Visit the JovialPet homepage to find out more about the JoviBowl feeding system to find out how it can improve your pet’s life and health!
Growing older is a natural part of a pet’s life. As they age, they pass through life stages that require different types of care, and they have special needs unique to this phase in their life. How you care for your senior pet once he reaches old age can make a big difference in their quality of life and longevity. Older pets may require specialized diets, a modified exercise routine, or even extra supportive materials for aging joints.
At JovialPet, we understand the challenges pet owners with senior animals face in a very personal way. In fact, our company mission was inspired in-part by our company founder’s experience caring for an elderly stray named Loka. JovialPet’s founder, Joel Brown, rescued Loka from the street in front of his workshop.
When Loka was found she was in such poor condition that Joel couldn’t even determine her breed, or whether she was male or female. She was limping, filth, and scared to death. The vets told Joel that Loka was very old, had many missing teeth and a heart condition, along with arthritis and cataracts. Knowing that Loka would have trouble getting adopted out, Joel decided to keep her as his own.
Over the next two years, Joel found himself discovering many unique ways to manage Loka’s many health challenges and obstacles, an experience out of which the JoviBowl was born. The JoviBowl’s adjustable tilt and lift allowed Loka to access her food at an optimal and comfortable feeding level, so she no longer tripped or stepped in her food.
To help you navigate care for your own senior pet, the Jovial Pet team has put together this overview of some of the things to be on the lookout for as your dog or cat grows in age.
Senior Diet & Nutrition Requirements
Senior diet and nutrition is especially important as your pet ages. As pets get older, their metabolism and nutritional requirements change.
Poor quality pet foods are often packed with fillers that contain inessential ingredients, carbohydrates, and starches that increase your pet’s chances of weight gain. Obesity is a major risk factor for the development of conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
Because your pet’s metabolism changes as they age, they’ll often require a shift in their diet to reflect their evolving needs. For dogs, this may mean lower calories, lower sodium, and higher protein. For cats, it might mean lower protein, and increased water.
Many quality pet food companies offer senior-specific diets. When your pet reaches senior status, it’s always a good idea to visit the vet for a metabolic evaluation and dietary recommendations.
Moderated Daily Exercise Plan
Exercise is an important part of senior pet care. As pets age their mobility declines, which can contribute to weight gain. They also tend to develop arthritis, which causes stiffened joints, pain, and inflammation.
Daily, low-impact exercise can help prevent or prolong some of the diseases and discomfort associated with these conditions. While your dog may no longer be able to join you on a strenuous hike or fast-paced run, they may enjoy a relaxed walk around the neighborhood. A cat might enjoy a modified tower, toys, or other light but stimulating indoor play.
Always observe your senior pet when they are active to look for signs of stress, like panting or wincing, which could be a sign that you need to scale back on activity.
Arthritis and Joint Support
Sadly, joint problems are very common in senior pets. In time, most pets will go on to develop joint problems. If your little one lives long enough, he or she will probably experience some degree of arthritis. But, that doesn’t mean there aren’t great ways to help!
Nutritional support and weight control are two big factors that impact joint care for a senior pet. Making sure your pet is fed an adequate senior diet that reflects their evolving needs is imperative, as is daily low-impact exercise. A heavier weight stresses your dog’s joints, increasing the chance of joint-related injury.
Additionally, consider upgrading your pet’s environment. To help alleviate stress on aging joints, consider making the following purchases:
An elevated bowl to reduce strain in the neck and joints. The JoviBowl feeding system offers elevated feeding with customizable height and tilt features to maximize comfort and ease feeding stresses. Elevated feeding supports dogs and cats that experience aches and pains in their joints.
Hearing and Vision Loss
It’s common for senior dogs and cats to suffer from impaired hearing and vision. If you notice your furry friend bumping into items, diminished responsiveness, or disorientation, it’s time for a vet visit to check for hearing or vision loss.
Hearing and vision loss in elderly pets is a gradual degenerative process that occurs slowly over time, and typically isn’t curable. Fortunately, for most pets, deafness or blindness isn’t nearly as detrimental to their everyday lives as one might assume. With a little patience and attentiveness, you should be able to find ways to help your pet cope.
Here are a few suggestions to help you deal with a dog or cat suffering from hearing or vision loss:
Behavioral & Cognitive Changes
As an older pet ages, it is not uncommon for behavioral changes to occur. Just like humans, most aging pets will experience some degree of cognitive decline that manifests in a variety of ways. This might include increased separation anxiety, phobias, house-soiling, restlessness, aggression, or appetite changes.
Usually these behavioral changes occur over time, and do not appear overnight. For example, you might notice that your once bubbly and affectionate pet has become more detached or disinterested in playful activities, or alternatively, your once independent pet might become more needy or clingy.
While these behavioral changes might seem concerning, they are a normal part of a pet’s life. It may require some patience and compassion on your behalf to learn about the myriad changes that might occur, but learning them will help you become a more empathetic and caring pet owner, and overall improve your pet’s quality of life.
If your senior pet is experiencing any behavioral changes, schedule a vet visit or consultation with an animal behavioral specialist that can provide you with more information about how to help your pet cope.
Veterinary Care & Vaccination Requirements
Caring for your senior pet is probably going to involve more frequent visits to the veterinarian. At a minimum, geriatric pets should receive semi-annual veterinary visits, allowing a better opportunity to notice signs or symptoms of failing health. Your veterinarian needs to know what is going on so he can treat any harmful conditions early before these problems become worse!
The Importance of Compassion
You remember those early days when your little fur-baby wasn’t quite able to walk straight, his coordination not quite all there, or the frequent accidents around the house before your training took hold. Nothing you did seemed to make sense to the pup or kitten, but you were compassionate and caring no matter what! Your senior pet will need the same compassion and patient understanding you showed them at a young age.
Though dealing with a senior pet has its challenges, it’s important to maintain patience and perspective. Remember, you are your pet’s world. Embrace this stage in your dog or cat’s life and enjoy every day you have together. Your senior pet is relying on your empathy and understanding to make this final stage of life as fulfilling as it can be!
Be sure to subscribe to JovialPet’s newsletter for more great articles on pet wellness! Visit the JovialPet home page to learn more about the JoviBowl feeding system, and how it can improve your pet’s life and health!
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Veterinary clinics and hospitals are essential businesses that provide important preventative and life-saving services for animals. Because of this, they must keep operating during the pandemic, but you may wonder, is it safe to visit a vet while the COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing?
The good news is that while no activity is completely without risk, you can greatly reduce the risk of virus transmission by taking a few additional precautions before, during, and after a visit to the vet.
To help you navigate veterinary visits in the midst of the pandemic, the Jovial Pet team has prepared a handy guide that outlines some of the precautionary measures your veterinary practice should adhere to, along with the steps that you, as a pet owner, can take to prepare yourself and your pets for a safe visit.
What precautions vets are taking during COVID-19
It’s important to note that there have been a few confirmed cases of cats and dogs that have contracted COVID-19 in the United States. However, the CDC states that “at this time, there is no evidence that companion animals play a significant role in spreading SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).” Based on the limited research that has been done, it appears that the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people remains low. However, further studies are needed to determine the role animals may play in the spread of COVID-19.
To minimize risks, the CDC has issued a number of guidelines that veterinary practices need to adhere to in order to prevent the risk of COVID-19 transmission. These recommendations include:
Requiring personal protective equipment (PPE) and supplies for all staff.
Prioritization of urgent and emergency visits and procedures over routine check-ups.
Curbside dropoff and pickup.
Social distancing inside office locations requiring a minimum of 6-ft of distance between staff and visitors.
Telemedicine options.
Having staff members hold animals to minimize contact.
A designated plan for veterinary care if the pet’s household has been exposed or is suspected to have been exposed to COVID-19.
Using hands-free billing and payment options to reduce contact with fomites.
What precautions pet owners should take before, during, and after a vet visit.
Pet owners should also take precautions to minimize the risk of catching or transmitting Covid-19. Below is an outline of steps pet owners can take before, during, and after your vet visit to reduce the risk of contracting or transmitting the SARS-Cov-2 virus.
Before:
Discuss your pet’s needs with your vet in advance to determine whether your pet needs an in-person visit, a telemedicine appointment, or if it’s best to postpone a less-urgent exam or elective procedure.
Monitor all members of your household to check for symptoms of COVID-19. Avoid bringing your pet to the vet if you’re experiencing any symptoms associated with SARS-CoV-2, such as fever or chills, respiratory symptoms, shortness of breath, or general malaise.
During:
Be patient and receptive to your vets enhanced or evolving protocols.
Wear a mask and maintain 6-feet of distance from veterinary staff or other patients whenever possible.
Wait patiently in your car or other designated area outside of the vet’s office to minimize and reduce the amount of contact you have with veterinary staff or other patients.
After:
Wash your hands and disinfect your vehicle and other high-touch surfaces, such as your dog leash, after your pet has been returned to you.
It may be a good idea to give your local veterinarian a call to discuss whether they’ve implemented the recommended protocols to protect against COVID-19 before bringing your pet to their offices for evaluation. Ask what steps they’ve taken to minimize risk and compare them to the official recommendations issued by the CDC.
With a little bit of effort, you can safely visit your vet during the pandemic. Taking the steps listed above will not only give you peace of mind and help keep your family safe, but will also protect the staff at your local veterinary clinic.
Be sure to subscribe to JovialPet’s newsletter for more great articles on pet wellness! Visit the JovialPet homepage to find out more about the JoviBowl feeding system to find out how it can improve your pet’s life and health!
]]>We here at JovialPet would like to remind you that Halloween is not just for human ghouls! Don’t forget your fur goblins can get in on the fun as well!
To help everyone get into the spirit, we’ve compiled a list of 15 adorable Halloween costume ideas for dogs & cats!
A Pirate’s Life for Pooch
Get your pooch prepped for a swashbuckling adventure in this adorable pet pirate costume. With just a few items, and a little craftiness, you and your first mate will be ready to hit the high seas! How To: Dog Pirate Costume from Makezine
Great Granny
Grandma is up to no good this Hallow’s Eve! Disguise your cat or dog in this oh-so-adorable outfit for a hilarious look that will melt the coldest of hearts. No one will recognize your pup or kitten in their beehive hairdo, pearls, and handbag. Frisco Front-Walking Granny Dog & Cat Costume from Chewy
Ferocious Werewolf
Beware the full-moon rising! This clever “front walking” werewolf costume for dogs and cats will have your friends and family howling with laughter. It comes complete with stylized fur hat, werewolf paws with claws, tattered plaid shirt and ripped jeans. Frisco Front Walking Werewolf Dogs & Cat Costume from Chewy
Bat Outta Hell
There’s nothing creepier than a blood-thirsty bat flying around the neighborhood on Halloween night. Follow this DIY tutorial for instructions on how to create these comfy felt bat wings attached to a custom harness. We love this easy-to-create, super cute costume! Pet Wings Bat Costume from Martha Stewart
Lion King Cat or Dog
Your pet is going to look utterly ferocious in this Lion King costume from Spirit Halloween. Watch your pet magically transform into the king of the jungle when you strap-on this fluffy lion’s mane, with ears. It’s bound to kick off a roaring good time! King of the Jungle Pet Costume from Spirit Halloween
Furry Taco Fiesta
You can never go wrong with food-themed costumes! Turn your pooch or kitty into a taco fiesta on four legs with this no-sew, DIY pet costume tutorial from Faith Provencer. We think this look is hotter than habanero! How to Make a Taco Tuesday Dog Costume from Curbly
Smores Please!
Your furry friend is going to look good enough to eat in this sweet s’mores costume from Studio DIY! Dressing your pet up as your favorite campfire treat is sure to be the ultimate crowd-pleaser this Halloween. DIY S'mores Dog Costume from Studio DIY
Hot Diggity Dog
Does it get any ‘punnier’ than a dog in a hot dog costume? We think not. That’s why we’re recommending this DIY hot dog costume tutorial from Lia Griffith to complete your pooch’s ultimate Halloween look. Don’t forget the ketchup & mustard! Felt Hot Dog Costume For Your Pet from Lia Griffith
Avo-cat-o
We’d like to submit this adorable avo-cat-o costume for your costuming consideration! Everyone agrees that avocado is good on just about everything, right? Right. We think this delightful avocado costume takes this concept to a whole new hilarious Halloween level! Avocado Avo-Cat-O Cat & Small Pet Costume from Etsy
Witchy Wardrobe
Cast a spell on the town as you transform your favorite furry friend into a spooky sorceress of the night. Made from felt, yarn, and hot glue, this costume is a cinch to make. Your pet will look utterly bewitching! How To Make A Halloween Witch Hat for Your Dog from DIY Network
Spider-Pet
Beware! There’s a creepy-crawler terrorizing the town, demanding tasty Halloween treats! Check out this totally terrifying DIY arachnid costume for dogs and cats. Fashioned from a pre-made poseable spider decoration and affixed with velcro, hot glue, and ribbon, this inexpensive, no-fuss costume is hard to beat! How To Make Your Own Spider Dog Costume from Buy Costumes
Sloth Life
Have you ever looked over at your pet lazily lounging in their favorite sunspot, nary a care in the world, and thought to yourself, “what a great life this little sloth has”? Let your pet’s inner sloth shine through in this adorable, easy-on, front-walking costume that comes complete with a cozy detachable headpiece. Frisco Front Walking Sloth Dog & Cat Costume from Chewy
Rocket Dog (or Cat)
Send your pet in search of space treats in this irresistibly cute one-piece, front-walking rocket costume. Your pet is going to look out of this world this Halloween! Frisco Front Walking Spaceship Dog & Cat Costume from Chewy
French Chef
Mon coeur! Imagine all the delectable dishes your pet will cook for you in this adorable DIY French chef’s costume from HGTV! The tutorial includes directions on how to craft a pet-perfect toque blanche (the quintessential chef’s cap) out of card-stock and tissue paper, along with a little red neckerchief. Halloween Pet Costume: French Chef from HGTV
The Executive
Your cat or dog will be dressed-to-kill in this devilishly handsome executive costume. You can bet your pet will command the respect and attention they deserve while wearing this one-piece navy suit with attached collar and tie. Show your friends and family that your pet means business! Business Suit Cat Costume from Pet Costume Center
Wishing you a fun & safe Halloween! Help us celebrate by posting a picture of your pet’s costume to social media with the hashtag #jovipets!
Don’t forget to subscribe to JovialPet’s newsletter for more great articles on pet wellness! Visit the JovialPet homepage to learn more about the JoviBowl feeding system and how it can improve your pet’s life and health.
Pet obesity has become a common health issue. Experts estimate that almost 60% of dogs and cats in the United States are overweight or obese. Like humans, poor diet and overeating contributes to excessive weight gain in pets, which can result in health problems like diabetes or degenerative joint diseases.
The addition of these extra pounds can have various health consequences on our furry friends, hampering the relationship we share with them. Yet, many pet owners still don’t realize how their choices directly contribute to their pets’ weight issues.
Why Should My Pet Maintain A Healthy Weight In The First Place?
Obesity has many ill effects. For one, it makes your pet more susceptible to various health problems like diabetes, osteoarthritis, heart and respiratory disease, not to mention multiple types of cancer. Maintaining an ideal weight means a better quality of life at optimal health, which translates to more happy years with you.
How Do I Know My Pet Is Obese?
Not sure how to tell if your dog or cat is overweight? You’re not alone! Many pet owners don’t know when it’s time to worry about their pet’s weight.
Regardless of your pet’s breed or size, you can easily evaluate whether your pet is overweight using a measurement tool called the ‘body condition score’ or a BCS chart. Most vets have body condition score charts available at their offices, and you can also find them readily available online.
A BCS chart presents you with a set of physical guidelines to check your pet’s weight.
For example, put your hands on your pet’s ribcage. The ribs should be palpable, but not visible. Next, check your pet’s “waist” line from above. It should resemble the shape of an hourglass. When you view your pet from the side, its abdomen should appear slightly tucked up behind the rib cage. Look for fat deposits over their back or at the base of their tail, as these are indications that your pet may have a weight problem.
Expert’s Tips to Prevent Pet Obesity
As a pet owner, your pet’s weight is an issue that requires attention and vigilance from you. Your pet looks to you to take care of their needs and keep them healthy, which includes maintaining an optimal weight. Here are a few expert tips that you can follow to help prevent your pet from unnecessarily packing on extra pounds:
#1: Manage Portions
It’s easy to be tempted to overfeed our pets at mealtime or hand out extra treats for good behavior. But regularly overfeeding your pet has serious consequences for their health and wellbeing.
When we talk about obesity prevention in pets, portion control is key. Keep a watchful eye on the amount of food and fats your pet consumes. When you buy pet food, read labels and instructions carefully. Make sure the diet you select is appropriate for your pet’s needs. Feed only the suggested portions allocated for your pet’s weight and age range. Using a smaller bowl, apportioned for one meal at a time, can also help ensure your dog doesn’t overeat in one sitting.
Elevated bowls can also be useful to slow down fast eaters and encourage pets to chew their food, aiding in digestion. The JoviBowl feeding system has a well-portioned bowl that allows for single meal feeds at a customizable elevated height with adjustable tilt.
Beyond slowing down fast eaters and encouraging effective digestion, the JoviBowl helps prevent neck strain and reduces joint stress, and supports pets with disabilities, such as difficulty swallowing, arthritis, blindness, and pets with recovery cones.
#2: Set Designated Feeding Time
Try to maintain a regular feeding schedule that divides meal times throughout the day. Avoid ‘free feeding,’ where you keep your pet’s bowl filled at all times. Pets that free feed aren’t cognizant of portion size and often overeat. Even pets that do not have a tendency to overeat often snack or graze when they have nothing else to do. This practice quickly leads to weight gain.
Setting designated meal times gives you control over portion size, which makes it easier for you to track and monitor how much your pet is eating each day. For dogs, 2 to 3 staggered meals per day is just fine. Cats require 3 to 4 meals per day.
#3: Understand Proper Pet Nutrition
Not only do you need to feed your pet the right portion of food, but also the right type for its species, size, and age. For instance, puppies and kittens require specialized diets that have been formulated with the appropriate nutrients, proteins, and fats to help them grow. Senior pets also require formulated diets that target the specific needs of an aging animal.
Most pet foods have labeled products with information to help you decide which variety is best for your pet. Although most diets come with feeding guidelines, it’s important to know that every pet is unique. A consultation with your veterinarian can be beneficial, as they can determine what types of products have the right nutritional mix to meet your pet’s specific needs. They’ll also be able to give you advice on how much to feed your pet, and how often.
#4: Daily Exercise is Important
Pets of every age need exercise. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to obesity along with other health problems like joint and behavioral issues. Daily exercise keeps the circulatory system working, lowers blood pressure, and it builds muscle. It also allows your animal to expel energy, keeping their mind active and stimulated in the process. Exercising with your pet is also a good way to keep you fit and healthy, an added bonus!
Ideally, dogs should get at least 30-minutes of exercise a day. This can be in the form of a long walk, a hike or run, a game of catch, or even a couple of shorter leisurely walks throughout the day. Cats need stimulating environments to keep them agile mentally engaged, so provide them with climbing posts and toys to keep them active.
#5: Healthy & Nutritious Lean Treats
All pets love goodies, and most pet owners love to treat their furry friends with snacks for good behavior. However, quality is key when it comes to treats. A lot of commercial treats are packed with fillers that are devoid of nutrients and packed with empty calories.
Lean meat treats, and even fresh fruits and veggies, are low-calorie snack options that taste great and provide necessary nutrients. Why not motivate your dog with raw carrots, apple slices, or string beans? These are all fantastic options, especially if your pet already has a weight problem.
Contact your veterinarian for other great low-calorie, high quality treat suggestions.
#6: Regular Weigh-Ins & Vet Visits
Regular visits to the veterinarian are key to keeping your pet healthy. Vets take a slew of baseline measurements every time you visit. You can consult with them about your pet’s optimal weight, so you have an idea of their ideal size. They’ll also be able to address potential weight-related issues before they become bigger problems.
Once you know how much your pet should weigh, you can purchase a digital scale to keep in the home. Measuring your pet every couple of months is a good idea to ensure they aren’t gaining, or losing, too much weight.
Final Note on Pet’s Obesity
Obesity is an affliction that has many health consequences for pets. Taking care of your pet’s health is an important part of your relationship that will result in a longer, healthier, and happier life for your pet. Make the best of your days together by taking the necessary steps to ensure your beloved pet maintains a healthy weight.
We discovered this unique raised feeder for pets when the company, Jovial Pet Products, approached us for a Jovibowl raised feeder product review. Since Tripawds Spokesdog Wyatt Ray loves to eat, we said “Sure!” They sent us a unit to try, and here’s what we learned.
Dogs and cats were designed with four legs to provide steady balance. Eating on the floor is easy when their bodies are young, but when they get older and arthritic, or lose a leg, mealtime becomes challenging.
Raised pet feeders solve this problem for three and four-legged pets. Raising a pet food or water bowl even a few inches off the ground can ease the burden on their bodies. There’s no more hunching over to eat or drink.
The Jovibowl is one of the most unique designs of raised feeders for dogs and cats. The stand height can be custom tailored to your pet’s specific needs.
And while the sleek, modern design looks lightweight, it’s actually quite heavy and well-balanced. Not even a brute like Wyatt could knock it off balance when eating.
To continue reading the full article, visit: Tripawds.com
]]>Flat face pets eat with their entire face in a scooping motion, arching their heads forward and upward as they eat. An adjustable tilt and weighted base of JoviBowl allow for kibble, freshly prepared and wet foods.
A short snout can make it difficult to get to every last morsel of food, the adjustable tilt allows your pup or kitten to breathe through their nose while eating, helping to eliminate anxiety and regurgitation.
Perfect for flat-face puppies and kittens as a first bowl, the Jovibowl can grow with them.
If you have one of these breeds of pups: Affenpinscher, Boston Terrier, Boxer, Brussels Griffon, Bulldog, Cane Corso, English Toy Spaniel, French Bulldog, Japanese Chin, Mastiff, Pekingese, Pug, Rottweiler, Shar Pei, Shih Tzu, or Tibetan Spaniel
Or one of these breeds of kittens: British Shorthair, Burmilla, Exotic Shorthair, Himalayan, Munchkin Cat, Persian, Scottish fold or Selkirk Rex
A weighted adjustable tilt Jovibowl is the perfect solution for a cleaner, more comfortable feeding position.
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There are many health benefits of owning a pet. They can increase opportunities to exercise, get outside, and socialize. Regular walking or playing with pets can decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels. Pets can help manage loneliness and depression by giving us companionship. Most households in the United States have at least one pet.
Studies have shown that the bond between people and their pets can increase fitness, lower stress, and bring happiness to their owners. Some of the health benefits of having a pet include:
CDC.gov
A pet's gift:
No opinions, judgements or verdicts. And always happy to see you!
“In a Johns Hopkins Depression & Anxiety Bulletin, Karen Swartz, MD, mentions a recent study that found that nursing home residents in St. Louis felt less lonely when they spent quiet time with a dog alone than when they visited with a dog and other residents.
The study enrolled 37 nursing home residents who scored high on a loneliness scale and were interested in receiving weekly half-hour visits from dogs. Half of the residents had quiet time alone with the pooches. The other half shared the dog with other nursing home residents. Both groups said they felt less lonely after the visit, but the decrease in loneliness was much more significant among the residents who had the dogs all to themselves.”
We calm down, we slow our minds. Meditative aids – helping us to get our focus on the now, because a pet’s life happens only in the now. We are able to shift and relate, helping us take our minds off the consistent noise of anxious thoughts.
Instead of ruminating on the pandemic, pets need to go outside, walk, and require affection. We are forced to change our environment to take care of their immediate needs, all the while, getting our own needs met in the process.
4. Pets promote touch
Touching is healing. Research indicates that a 45-minute massage can decrease levels of the stress hormone cortisol and optimize our bodies immune system by building white blood cells. Getting hugged gives us a surge of oxytocin, a hormone that reduces stress and lowers blood pressure and heart rates. In a study done by UVA, holding hands can reduce stress-related activity in the hypothalamus region of the brain, part of our emotional center. Stroking a dog or cat can lower our blood pressure and heart rate while boosting levels of serotonin and dopamine. Pets yearn for affection and in turn promote healthy doses of affection each day to those of us keeping our distance during these times.
Responsibility promotes mental health and self-esteem. By being responsible pet owners, we reinforce to ourselves that we are capable for caring for ourselves and another. For children pet care harvests self-mastery and independence. Taking care of pets brings healthy structure to our lives, everyone in the home gets on a schedule, a healthy pet requires a daily regimen for comfort and happiness.
Bolstering our immune system, keeping us mentally balanced, lowering our blood pressure and heart rate while increasing levels of serotonin and dopamine, our pets have the ability to not just be our best friend, but a healthy jolt of much needed wellness.
Becoming responsible based on LOVE and WELLBEING is the most healing duty we can ever partake in. At Jovial Pet, we believe in the symbiotic relationship between humans and pets and we develop products that cater to the happiness and wellbeing of our unconditionally loving mates.
Pet adoption services:
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Today there are over 200 prison dog programs in the US. The first successful animal therapy program in a US prison dates back to the early 1970's. At the Oakwood Forensic Center in Lima, Ohio, a psychiatric social worker initiated a therapy program after he witnessed mental and behavioral improvements in some of the inmates who had cared for an injured bird.
"The hospital conducted a year-long comparison study between two identical wards, except one had pets and the other did not. The ward with the pets required half the amount of medication, had reduced violence, and there were no suicide attempts. The other ward had eight suicides attempted during that period" (Lee, 1983, pp. 23-24)
In 1981, the first ever Prison Pet Partnership was launched out of the Washington Corrections Center for Women. Spearheaded by Sister Pauline, who gives credit to Joni, a German shepherd that helped save her from a life on the streets. While she was living on the street, Sister Pauline would visit dog kennels as a way to cope with her failing mental wellbeing. When she adopted Joni, her entire world turned around.
“That became the start of a different life because I learned I had power within me at that time. She gave me the power,” Quinn says.
Her personal success inspired the WCCW program that paired homeless dogs with inmates who trained them as service animals to help veterans and others suffering from trauma. The benefits of animal programs are a three-way win; the dogs get a new lease on life, the inmates get job-training and professional skills that help them find employment upon release, and lastly the community benefits by lower health costs and a lower return rate for released inmates.
Dogs that would have otherwise been euthanized, are trained to assist people with special needs. Prisoners partake in a mental and behavioral rehabilitation program that helps them transition back to civilian life and facilitate job placement.
Project Pooch, launched in the early 1990's was the first juvenile program that brought together incarcerated juveniles and abandoned and abused dogs. Students are taught dog grooming, animal health and wellness and discipline training. Project Pooch founder Joan Dalton had the program evaluated for the effects on the youth. For her dissertation, Sandra Merriam-Aduini studied the impact of the program on participants:
"The findings indicate that there is zero recidivism of POOCH participants, that the program assists to meet judicial orders and educational expectations with high percentages. Based on survey responses from the adults there appears to be a marked behavior improvement in areas of respect for authority, social interaction and leadership. The youth provided descriptors of change and growth in areas of honesty, empathy, nurturing, social growth, understanding, confidence level and pride of accomplishment." (Merriam-Arduini, 2000)
Less than 5% of the world's population is in the United States, but 20% of the world's prisoners are right here. Prisons are becoming more expensive to operate and there has been little change in the high rate of recidivism, successful alternate rehabilitation programs should be studied more seriously. State and local funds are needed for over 40 years of successful animal programs to get legit. We need to conduct proper psychoanalytical research, document the findings and develop a national program that promotes wellness and healing for abandoned animals, our currently high incarcerated population and our larger communities.
Here are some links to help us all know a bit more:
References
Lee, D. R. (1983). Pet therapy: Helping patients through troubled times. California Veterinarian, 5, 24-25.
Merriam-Arduini, S. (2000). Evaluation of an experimental program designed to have a positive effect on adjudicated violent, incarcerated male juveniles age 12-25 in the state of Oregon. Unpublished doctoral dissertation, Pepperdine University
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Pet wellness is a new and growing concept. Pet parents are becoming more aware that the particularity of their care makes a big difference in the quality and longevity of their pets’ lives. The flip side of this is there’s an epidemic of poor pet health underway. One study found a 900 percent increase in diabetes among dogs, another demonstrated that breeds of dogs who formerly had a life expectancy of 17 years now live between 9 and 10 years on average. One out of every two dogs and one out of every five cats will get cancer. Research has found the primary culprit in lack of pet wellness is diet. A revolution is occurring in pet food, incorporating more fresh foods and less processing in pet feed.
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But that’s only part of the wellness equation. It’s not only what your pet eats that counts, but how your pet eats. Here are five ways that an elevated feeding bowl can contribute to your pet’s wellness.
As goofy as it sounds, try this experiment. Put a plate of food on the floor. Now try eating it (no utensils allowed). No really, try. Obviously, you have some handicaps your pet doesn’t — that short little human tongue, such a tiny mouth, not much of a neck, really. But your digestive system otherwise really isn’t that much different than your pet’s, and do you notice something? Gravity sucks. Literally. Getting that food going up your gullet only to go down to your belly isn’t that easy. Even if you just do this as a thought experiment, there’s nothing complicated to understand: eating with gravity on your side requires less effort. Swallowing is easier. Your food, therefore its nutrients, gets from point A to point B much more easily. And this means your food is more digestible, so its nutrients are better delivered to your body, which greatly contributes to your overall wellness. Now apply the findings of your experiment to your pet, and elevate his or her wellness. Literally.
Every dog (and cat) has that day. Almost no pet gets through life without an injury, a surgical incision, or a skin irritation that requires the wearing of the cone of shame. In the U.S., over 80 percent of dogs and 90 percent of cats are neutered, usually early in life, and have to wear that cone so they don’t undo stitches. As a pet owner, you’ve probably experienced this double-edged trauma: both you and your pet’s, every time the cone goes on. The thing about trauma is that once it occurs over something as fundamental as eating, its effects can linger long after the cone is gone.
Elevate your pet’s bowl, however, and by easing your pet’s eating, you both avoid trauma.
One unintended consequence of putting your pet’s bowl on the ground or floor is now there’s a competition for the food in the bowl — between your pet and another pet, occasionally, and between your pet and pests, always. This often means your pet ends up eating ants or even cockroaches. A bowl elevated to exactly your pet’s height means this meal is for him or her alone, no pests, and no other pets.
Old age isn’t easy. For a pet whose whole life has been a testament to the joy of mobility — running, leaping, generally just loving movement — arthritis and creakiness is counter to an animal’s whole way of being. To add injury to insult, now the simple act of eating from his or her bowl is harder. Maybe your pet’s sight also begins to fail, so even seeing the bowl is iffy, and the sad scene that results is a beloved old friend bumping into a meal instead of eating it. Raise the bowl, make it so it tilts right to the angle from which your pet approaches, and you’ve performed a simple but profound act of kindness: allowing a pet to enjoy eating.
Some pets — let’s face it, mostly those crazy dogs — get really, really excited come feeding time. This excitement spills over to the act of eating, and things get messy. These over-excited eaters notoriously slide a floor-bound bowl around, and then there’s food on the floor, and then there’s a pet — let’s face it, mostly those crazy dogs — tracking food all through the house. Elevated feeding bowls eliminate this problem. They don’t slide around and encourage a better eating posture, so your pet’s nose isn’t bumping the bowl and creating spills.
The science behind elevated feeding bowls is relatively new. Studies are really just now beginning to be done. If you have a large dog with a tendency to bloat, in particular, you should consult with a veterinarian before using an elevated bowl. But for most pets, elevating a feeding bowl means elevating their experience of feeding, and increasing their overall wellness.