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Going Stir Crazy Yet? Home Distractions and DIY Projects for you and your Dog!

With many of us several weeks into this temporary normal, we figured it’s time to break up the mundane routine and foster some happy distractions!

Here are 5 at home activities to accomplish with your dogs!

  1. By now, you’re probably running out of things to watch? We’ve got you covered! Check out our YouTube compilations. All dogs all day – you’re welcome! PS: Don’t forget to Subscribe.
  2. In a doggy-dog-world, busy is always better than bored. How are you keeping your pooch occupied indoors? Scavenger Hunts? Trips to the Mailbox? Gourmet Meals? Check out our favorite quick-make, easy-bake, at-home dog treat recipes.
  3. As pup-parents, we attempt to record every cute, quirky, and mischievous moment our furbabies take a part in. Send in your best dog videos to be featured in our future YouTube compilations. Videos can be texted or emailed to SocialMedia@splashanddashfordogs.com
  4. Get outside and WALK! That favorite “W” word is more than ever a priority now. Whether you stroll around the apartment complex or take a hike through your backyard, fresh air and a simple change of pace can make all the difference. If you’re feeling cooped up, your fur-baby is likely to be too!
  5. Take advantage of the extra time and teach your old dog a new trick! Patience is something we are all mastering by now. If you’re fine-tuning commands or teaching something entirely new, the time you have available now will be the consistency you thank yourself for later. As with any training, regular practice and follow through is the secret to success. With all the additional time at home – you might be surprised the things you can learn… or teach!Be well!
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What you need to know about CoronaVirus (COVID-19) and Your Dog

It’s not uncommon for dog parents to be stopped during outings by others who want to admire and pet your pup. Usually, this is no concern and a great way to socialize your dog. With all the recent fear surrounding COVID-19, better known as the coronavirus, pet parents may want to put a limit on how many contacts our fur babies have with strangers.

Even though the chance of a K9 catching COVID-19 is rare, with only one reported case in Hong Kong to date – the true concern still lies with human health. Although pets cannot easily catch the coronavirus, it does live on objects and surfaces and is transmitted through contact. Therefore, if a stranger came in contact with COVID-19, it’s reasonable to assume they could pass the virus onto a dog’s coat, collar, or leash and then become passed onto the next point of contact. 

We completely understand that our dogs are our family and it is common for them to climb on furniture, cuddle with us, and sleep in our beds. With that said, it’s understandable to be concerned.

Because it’s not reasonable nor fair to keep pets inside all day. It now becomes a matter of adjusting a dog’s hygiene, similarly to the way we humans are stockpiling hand sanitizer and avoiding handshakes. 

Quick Tips for Dog Hygiene at Home

  1. Use scent-free baby wipes to clean paws, coats, and snouts after walks. 
  2. Invest in a pair of boots (if your furbaby will wear them). 
  3. Wash any pet clothing, dog collars, and leashes more frequently.
  4. Implement a tidy-up routine between regular bathing and grooming appointments. 
  5. Be cautious when asking to pet other dogs — and having others bombard yours.
  6. Lessen days out with your dog to public places where masses of humans congregate.
  7. Keep hand sanitizer out of reach from your dog. High levels of alcohol can be extremely dangerous to their health. 

The most important thing we have to echo is that there are no proven cases of dogs transmitting the virus to people. Don’t panic just be precautious. 

At Splash and Dash, the safety and wellbeing of your dogs is our business and we can assure you that we are taking preventative measures within each of our locations:

  • We are committed to disinfecting every surface our employees, customers, and puppy patrons come into contact with.
  • All employees have been informed and instructed to follow CDC recommendations.
  • Our support center is providing additional cleaning supplies to all locations.
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4 DIY Halloween Costumes for your Dog!

Don’t limit your Halloween crafting just to your human family members. Get all members involved, including your fur babies. We’ve compiled a list of super creative DIY dog costumes to try out on four-legged friends of all sizes.

Just be sure to start desensitizing your dog to wearing articles of clothing and accessories prior to Halloween if you want them to wear the outfit for a longer period of time. Otherwise, put the costume on and snap a photo before the dog rips it off.

Harry Potter

Harry Potter fans have found dozens of ways to transform their pooches into their favorite Wizarding characters, and the results are beyond cute. You can repurpose scarves and glasses you own, or you can make glasses using pipe cleaners.

Materials needed:

Colored scarf (depending on which house)

Pipe cleaners (mold into glasses)

Starbucks

This Halloween costume is super easy to recreate using cardboard, a Starbucks logo, and a to-go coffee lid as the hat. If you have a different local coffee shop you prefer, just swap out the logo. This is a very easy and very cute costume to do!

Materials needed:

Plastic coffee cup lid

Cardboard cutout with Starbucks logo design

Superhero

Depending on your superhero of choice, this costume idea can go a number of ways. Two essentials are a felt mask and a cape. This black ensemble works well for a rendition of Batman. This type of look is great for golden retrievers or yellow labs, perfect to get into the Halloween spirit with a black mask and cape!

Materials needed:

Cloth (color depending on design)

Scissors

Superpowers (just kidding)

Lion 

If you like knitting, consider giving this dog costume a try. This get-up looks especially believable and cute on lighter toned dogs. All you need to complete the lion’s mane is some medium weight yarn, circular knitting needles, and a crochet hook.

Materials needed:

Yard

Knitting needles

Crochet hook

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URGENT – Recall of ALL Pig Ear Dog Chew Treats!

Consumers are being urged not to buy pig-ear dog treats nor feed them to their pets during an outbreak of salmonella that has expanded to 33 states and sickened 127 people, including 26 hospitalizations.

The warning issued Wednesday by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention comes amid an investigation that has prompted two separate recalls in recent days and weeks. The agencies also advised retailers to stop selling all pig-ear treats for now.

Lennox Group, one of two dog treat companies that have recalled the product, on Tuesday expanded its previous action, saying it knew of multiple cases of people getting ill from salmonella, with several people identifying Lennox pig ear treats as the brand they had purchased. In its initial recall notice, Lennox said it was aware of two cases in which its pig ears caused dog Illnesses.

Some of the pig ear pet treats originated from Argentina and Brazil, the FDA and CDC said. This is another reason why it’s important to buy American made treats, although it comes at a premium cost, it’s worth it for the safety of you and your beloved fur babies. Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutiques Keepin’ it Simple dog treats are USDA approved with all natural ingredients that are proudly American sourced. If you want to try Keepin’ it Simple dog treats, we’re offering a 25% coupon for a limited time! (scroll to the bottom for your coupon code)

Keepin’ it Simple ONLY uses beef ears, not pig ears. Studies show that dogs enjoy beef ears much more than pig ears, not to mention they’re a much safer and better alternative when compared to pig ears. Keepin it’ Simple knows the dangers of importing products from other countries, which is why ALL of our pet products are proudly made in the USA. This is just another way Keepin’ it Simple puts you and your fur babies first.

The warning extends to pig-ear dog treats already in homes: “handling these treats could make people sick; eating the treats could make dogs sick,” the CDC said in its own post. Tests have identified “many different strains in salmonella in pig ears from various brands and suppliers,” according to the agency. It added that data on where ill people bought pig ears has not identified a single supplier, distributor or common brand of pig ear treats.

“We believe the most effective way to protect public health at this time is to warn consumers to avoid purchasing or feeding their pets all pig ear treats and for retailers not to sell these products,” Steven Solomon, director of the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine, stated in the advisory. “We also continue to advise those who may have come into contact with potentially contaminated products to practice safe hygiene, including thoroughly washing hands and disinfecting any surfaces that have touched pig ear pet treats.”

Salmonella can affect animals eating contaminated products as well as the humans who handled the sickened animals or the infected product. In people, the salmonella infection causes symptoms including nausea, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever; in rare cases, it can cause more serious ailments. Affected pets may become lethargic and have diarrhea, fever and vomiting.

The CDC says it’s important to throw out ALL pig ear chew treats for dogs, and to not buy any pig ears until further notice.

Illnesses in the outbreak have been reported in the following 33 states: Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, North Dakota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wisconsin.

keepin' it simple dog treats

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Dog Rescued After Found 135 Miles Out at Sea!

A heartwarming story off the Gulf a Thailand where a young dog was found swimming 135 miles from shore. Workers on an oil rig noticed the dog’s head poking out above the ripples as she paddled through the ocean last Friday. They called out to the exhausted animal and she swam towards them, taking refuge among the rusty metal bars of the rig.

Workers lowered a rope down to the brown Aspin dog and pulled her to safety. She stayed on the drilling platform for two nights while a special cage was welded together and staff gave her food and water. The dog was finally lifted by crane on to another oil vessel passing through the area yesterday. She was taken to vets in Songkhla, southern Thailand. Oil rig worker Khon Vitisak, who saved the animal, said he does not know how she came to be in the ocean but he would like to adopt her if no owner comes forward.

Khon Vitisak who rescue the animal said: “We found her trying to swim towards our rig, which is about 135 miles from the shore. Thankfully the sea was quite still because the wind was calm.”

“We just saw her small head but if the ripples were bigger, I think we probably wouldn’t have noticed her at all.”

“After she made it onto the bars below the rig she didn’t cry or bark at all. We looked for a way to help her and in the end, decided to use the rope to tie around her body to lift her up.”

“When we first took her onboard her she was depressed and tired from being in the water for a long time . She had lost her body water.”

“When he gave her water and minerals her symptoms improved. She started sitting up and walking normally.”

Animal charity volunteers who are now caring for the dog do not know if she has an owner of if she was a stray. It’s possible she swam from the shore or boarded a boat then jumped off. Once she reached the rig, workers nursed the dog back to health while they radioed for help and requested a tanker that was returning to shore to stop by and collect her.

She was sent to the animal charity Watchdog Thailand today who took her to be checked over by vets. Watchdog Thailand had said the boat arrived at 10am and the dog was in good spirits. They took her to the vets to be checked and she was found to be healthy.

“Everybody who played a part in co-coordinating the rescue has done a brilliant job.”

a woman and a dog sitting in the water: The dog lies on the metal grates of the rig with the rope still fastened around her body

Workers were able to pull the dog up onto the ship for safety. a couple of people on a raft in a body of water: Workers from the oil rig in the Gulf of Thailand pet the dog after they saved her but mystery surrounds how she got thereOil rig worker Khon Vitisak, who rescued the dog, offers her a bucket of water which she readily accepts

The dog was severely dehydrated when they found her, many believe that she wouldn’t of lasted much longer had they not heard her cries for help.a close up of a map

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Welcome to Baton Rouge – A Dog Friendly Community

Baton Rouge, Louisiana is a welcoming community that embraces the life of being a Dog parent. This is why a Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique location is perfect for the area. There are so many dog friendly amenities you will find here. There are many parks you can take your dog, as well as stores and restaurants. There are several options for Dog Grooming in Baton Rouge as well as any other service you can think of. Take a look through this list to find the stores and doggy services that will best fit your needs. If you find that we have missed something in our list, let us know.

Dogs at Play

Play is essential for dogs. It allows them to learn how to interact with people and other animals. It also help them to get the exercise they need to be healthy. In addition to this it can help them to expend their excess energy so they are less likely to take it out on your home. There are many ways that you can allow your dog to play in the area. You can take them to dog parks in Baton Rouge, or even parks that allow your dog on a leash. This can be done with meetups or you can simply go by yourself and enjoy some time with your dog.

Dog Parks in Baton Rouge

Getting exercise is essential as a dog. If you want some place fun where your dog can run free and off leash, then one of the several dog parks in Baton Rouge may be the best option. Even if you have a large yard that your dog can run free in, this still does not replace the fun of going to the dog park. You will find that this allows your dog to make new friends and have some time to play with you.

 

Raising Cane’s Dog Park
1442 City Park Ave
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
(225) 387-1482

raising canes dog park baton rouge

This park is located in the southwestern part of East Baton Rouge Parish by LSU. The Raising Cane’s Dog Park at City Brooks Community Park was opened to the public on May 31, 2008. The dog park is open seven days a week, from sunrise to sunset, at no charge.

 

Dog Park at Burbank Park
12400 Burbank Dr
Baton Rouge, LA 70810

burbank dog park

Your pup is sure to love this off-leash dog park at Burbank Park in Baton Rouge. This dog park is highly recommended for smaller-dogs. The large gated area for large pups is complete with mud and a walking trail with benches for humans, a separate agility area, and a gated lake area.

 

Forest Community Dog Park
13900 S Harrells Ferry Rd
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
(225) 273-6400

forest park dog park

The Forest community park is more than just a dog park. This park includes tennis courts, softball fields, picnic tables, splash pads and fishing areas. This is a lovely park in the Baton Rouge area and your dog is sure to enjoy it.

 

Parks That Allow Dogs in Baton Rouge

Although your dog can’t run off leash at these dog parks in Baton Rouge, you will find that they still enjoy getting some fresh air as well as taking in new sights and smells. You can go to one near your home that you can walk to or get in your car and drive there. Keep in mind that these parks do not have accommodations for pets so you will need to bring your own supplies.

 

Independence Community Park
7500 Independence Blvd
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
(225) 928-7860

independence community park baton rouge

This park is located in the center of East Baton Rouge Parish. Independence Park serves a larger geographic area than a neighborhood park and is designed to engage the entire family for a whole day. The perimeter of the park is lined with hundreds of American flags. Your pup and family will enjoy a day at Independence Community Park in Baton Rouge.

 

Highland Road Community Park
14024 Highland Rd
Baton Rouge, LA 70810

highland park baton rouge

This park is located in the southeastern part of East Baton Rouge Parish. Highland Road Community Park is the perfect place to spend the day with your pup and family. It is a very popular park because of all the features it has to offer and for the scenic landscape.

Dogs Around Town

Gone are the days when you are forced to leave your pooch at home. Whether you want to go to dog restaurants, or simply to a store that allows pets, you will find many options in the Baton Rouge area. This can be the perfect activity when you need to take your pet for dog grooming in Baton Rouge or simply because you want to spend time with them.

dog restaurant baton rouge

Dog Friendly Restaurants + Bars in Baton Rouge

Going out to eat or grab a couple drinks can be even more fun when you have your furry best friend with you. There are several dog restaurants in Baton Rouge you should know about. You can find just about any type of food you are looking for with these dog friendly places.

 

La Divina Italian Cafe
3535 Perkins Rd, Acadian Village
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

La Divina Italian Cafe has Gelato (as well as gelato for dogs), sorbeto, espresso, full breakfast, lunch and dinner menu. Patio dining tables allow dogs so there is no excuse not to bring your pup with you for lunch!

 

Grimaldi’s
6401 Bluebonnet Blvd, Mall of Louisiana
Baton Rouge, LA 70836

Grimaldi’s of Baton Rouge, LA, serves New York style pizza and features a dog-friendly outdoor patio. This is a welcoming place to take your dog and family for some good pizza and a great time.

 

The Chimes East
10870 Coursey Blvd
Baton Rouge, LA 70816

Chimes East prepares authentic Louisiana style cuisine, including chargrilled oysters, crawfish etouffee, red beans and rice with sausage, shrimp po’boys, and blackened salmon sandwiches. Covered outdoor seating area is dog friendly.

 

The Bulldog
4385 Perkins Rd
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

Located in the heart of Baton Rouge, The Bulldog offers one of the best dog-friendly patios in town, complete with a large-screen TVs and the famous beer-tap fountain. Choose from any of 81 fine draft beers or 100+ bottled beers, along with a full selection of cocktails and award-winning pub fare such as roasted garlic hummus, quesadillas, Tex-Mex egg rolls, shrimp po’boys, pulled pork sandwiches, Buffalo chicken sandwiches, and 100% Angus beef burgers. Your dog is sure to love The Bulldog in Baton Rouge.

 

The Londoner
4215 S Sherwood Forest Blvd
Baton Rouge, LA, US, 70816

The Londoner maintains the authentic feel of a true British Pub experience, serving traditional dishes like shepherd’s pie and bangers & mash. Dogs are welcome on the patio.

 

Dog Friendly Hotels in Baton Rouge

Need a couple of days to unwind in a hotel? Or perhaps you’re visiting the area and want to know the hotels that accept your pet. Either way there is good news, there are many hotels in the Baton Rouge area that offer this service. Each one of them has a slightly different policy so make sure you pay attention to this before booking your stay.

dog friendly hotel baton rouge

Drury Inn & Suites Baton Rouge
7939 Essen Park Ave
Baton Rouge, LA 70809

Set 6 miles from Louisiana State University, this casual hotel is also 7 miles from the Old Louisiana State Capitol.

The traditional rooms offer free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs with premium channels, as well as mini-fridges, microwaves and coffee-makers. Suites add separate living areas with pull-out sofas.

The hotel provides complimentary hot breakfast, afternoon snacks and parking. Other amenities include an indoor/outdoor pool with a whirlpool, plus a 24/7 exercise room and business center.

 

Radisson Hotel Baton Rouge
2445 S Acadian Thruway
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

This modern hotel off I-10 is 2.8 miles from Louisiana State University, 3 miles from Tiger Stadium and 10 miles from the Blue Bayou Waterpark.

Featuring Mediterranean, Asian, modern and retro motifs, the rooms come with free Wi-Fi, 37-inch flat-screen TVs and work desks. Upgraded rooms have full kitchens or whirlpool tubs, while suites add separate living rooms with wet bars, mini-fridges and microwaves. No dogs allowed in the whirlpool, a dog can dream though.

There’s an American bistro and a pub, as well as an outdoor pool, a sauna and a gym. Other amenities include a business center and meeting space. Parking is free and pets are welcome for a fee.

 

Crowne Plaza Executive Center Baton Rouge
4728 Constitution Ave
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

Off I-10 in south Baton Rouge, this sophisticated hotel is 4 miles from Louisiana State University and 5 miles from Baton Rouge River Center arena.

Classic rooms have free Wi-Fi, iPod docks and flat-screen TVs, plus mini-fridges, microwaves and coffee-makers. Club level rooms offer access to a lounge with complimentary breakfast and afternoon appetizers. Suites add wet bars and either sitting areas or separate living rooms.

A casual restaurant/bar with a patio serves classic Louisiana fare. In addition to complimentary parking, there’s an outdoor pool, a sundeck and a 24/7 gym, plus 32,000 sq ft of event space and a business center.

 

Animal Services

There are many services you may need for your pet throughout their lifetime. This is why it’s helpful to know the options that are available to you. Whether you are looking for vets in Baton Rouge or simply someone to help you walk your dog in the afternoon, we have a list of the companies you can call. Studies have found that owning a dog can actually improve your health.

Pet Stores in Baton Rouge

Taking your dog to the pet store can be fun for both of you. There are toys, clothes and so much more you can explore together. There are several options for pet stores in Baton Rouge. Dogs need a bath and grooming too! Take them to a dog groomer in Baton Rouge today. We can’t forget to mention the awesome dog franchise that is in Baton Rouge.

 

Neighborhood Pet Market
12871 Perkins Rd
Baton Rouge, LA 70810

A local pet store in the Baton Rouge area, they provide many food options and accessories for your dog. Neighborhood Pet Market in Baton Rouge is a good place to buy dog toys or accessories.

 

Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique
11575 Coursey Blvd Unit B1
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70816

At Splash and Dash, they believe that dogs should be treated as family members and equals. They deserve to get the same enjoyment out of life, to be able to feel comfortable and clean, and to eat delicious foods that provide them with the nutritious energy they need. In other words, “Play Dirty – Live Clean.”

splash and dash pet store baton rouge

That’s why Splash and Dash has introduced relaxing spa treatments for dogs, and developed treats made with 7 human-grade ingredients or less. Plus, with their affordable monthly memberships, it’s never been easier to keep ‘em clean year round.

 

Petco Animal Supply
3535 Perkins Rd
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

Chain with pet food & supplies, such as toys, beds & apparel (many offer pet services & adoptions).

 

Vets & Animal Hospitals in Baton Rouge

Vets in Baton Rouge are some of the best around, and not to forget to mention a service that every dog needs. You want to find a vet that works well with your pet and specializes in the issues your pet may have. Be sure to take your pet in at least twice a year for wellness checkups. You can make a whole day of it and even take them in for dog grooming in Baton Rouge at the same time.

 

Associated Veterinary Services
7807 Greenwell Springs Rd
Baton Rouge, LA 70814

The mission of the Associated Veterinary Clinic has been the same since its beginning in March of 1981. “To provide affordable quality Veterinary services for the people of Baton Rouge.”

 

Capital Heights Veterinary Clinic
7662 Goodwood Blvd
Baton Rouge, LA 70806

Capital Heights Veterinary Clinic is a small animal veterinary practice in the heart of the Baton Rouge area. They strive to deliver quality care to pets with a focus on personal service and convenience in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

 

Perkins Road Veterinary Hospital
5215 Perkins Rd
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

Perkins Road Veterinary Hospital is proud to serve Baton Rouge, LA and surrounding areas. They are dedicated to providing the highest level of veterinary medicine along with friendly, compassionate service.

 

Adoption & Shelters in Baton Rouge

If you want to help a dog in need, then dog adoption in Baton Rouge might be the right option for you. There are also breeders in the area though if you go this route make sure they follow responsible breeding practices.

dog adoption baton rouge

Friends of the Animals Dog Adoption House
8476 Highland Rd
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

The mission of Friends of the Animals Dog Adoption House is to rescue, rehome, or otherwise save as many dogs and puppies as possible from the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA).

Since starting in 2010, FOTA has found forever homes for more than 2000 animals from the EBR Parish shelter and PASS program.

 

Companion Animal Alliance
2680 Progress Rd
Baton Rouge, LA 70807

Since 2011 CAA has been focused on improving the lives of shelter animals, finding good homes for as many of them as possible, and upgrading shelter operations. This is a great place in the Baton Rouge area for adopting pets.

 

Capital Area Animal Welfare Safety
6357 Quinn Dr
Baton Rouge, LA 70817

The Capital Area Animal Welfare Society (CAAWS) is a non-profit organization committed to the well-being of animals in the Baton Rouge community. Caaws helps with the facilitating and adoption of homeless animals, teaching the community responsible companion animal ownership. They also promote the humane treatment of animals, and the practice of spaying/neutering your animal.

 

Dog Grooming in Baton Rouge

Although it depends mostly on the breed, hair length, and type of coat, regular dog grooming should be done about once a month. For young puppies and dogs who have never been groomed, more frequent dog grooming or brushing at home should be done to get the dog used to being handled and to avoid grooming issues into adulthood.

 

The Royale Treatment LLC
7657 1 Perkins Pl Dr Ste A
Baton Rouge, LA 70810

Royale Treatment is a canine salon and spa in the Baton Rouge area. They have a unique mix of dog grooming and handling experience. All dogs are required to have current vaccinations. This includes 6-month Bordetella, DHLPP and Rabies. Bordetella is not effective unless given 72 hours prior to appointment.

 

Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique
11575 Coursey Blvd Unit B1
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70816

Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique is the premier dog grooming service in the Baton Rouge area. Splash and Dash breaks away from the typical “big box” pet stores (like Petco/Pet supplies). Splash and Dash is family owned and run and offer professional grooming services and natural dog treats and products.

All Splash and Dash products, dog food, and dog treats are 100% sourced in the USA and USDA approved. All of their dog treats are 7 Human-Grade ingredients or less. Play dirty, Live clean, Eco-Friendly dog supplies are in abundance around Splash and Dash.

splash and dash baton rouge

Splash and Dash Memberships start at $39.95 a month! This unique monthly membership offered by Splash and Dash allows your pup to get unlimited baths and brushes all month long.

 

Petz Plaza
4763 Perkins Rd
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

Petz Plaza opened their doors to the Baton Rouge pet community in 2002 and have continued providing a high level of customer service to local pet owners ever since.

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Can having a dog improve your health?

After the end of a stressful day you come home to your dog wagging their tail and running towards you, that sudden feeling of calmness and relief isn’t just in your head, is it? No, that feeling isn’t just in your imagination, recent research suggests that your fluffy friend truly is good for your physical and mental health.

“Pets often provide unconditional acceptance and love and they’re always there for you,” says Gary A. Christenson, MD, chief medical officer at Boynton Health Service at the University of Minnesota. “There is a bond and companionship that makes a big difference in mental health,”

Not to mention all the extra exercise you get from walks and playtime. Dogs improve out health in many ways, whether it’s though physical or mental health, pets can be very calming and have been scientifically proven to lower stress levels.

“We found that pet owners, on average, were better off than non-owners, especially when they have a higher-quality relationship with their pets,” says pet researcher Allen R. McConnell, PhD. Who is a professor of psychology at Miami University.

Happy dog health mental physical

A dog can be your heart’s best friend

Recently, a panel of experts from the American Heart Association (AHA) have weighed all the available evidence. The conclusive finding has been that having a pet, a dog in particular, likely lowers the risk of heart disease, but why?

“People who have dogs live longer than people who have cats, and the assumption has been that dogs naturally cause their owners to be more active,” suggests Dr. Thomas Lee, Co-Editor in Chief of the Harvard Heart Letter. “The emotional benefits of having an affectionate creature are also one of the theories for why dog-lovers live longer.”

Much of the evidence reviewed by the AHA Indicates that dog owners are more likely to exercise. They also found that they are more likely to have lower blood pressure, be less vulnerable to the effects of stress, and more likely to survive a heart attack.

Can having a dog help with anxiety and depression?

Dogs can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. However, don’t just take our word for it.

Dog helps with depression anxiety

“I finally realized the answer to my decade long question of how to manage anxiety and depression – exercise, laughter and love – all things that were unattainable for me before, were achieved by getting a dog.” Says pet owner Kathryn Oda from the Huffington Post.

The reason that these three things are so key, is they all trigger the release of the chemical serotonin – the feel-good chemical in our brains (also released by working out or exercising). By having increased levels of serotonin every day, symptoms of anxiety and depression can dramatically decrease.

Hey, what about cats?

It’s true, both dogs and cats are positive influences and can have an additive calming effect on their owners when compared to other animals. Doctors aren’t exactly sure why, but researcher think that cats and declining stress may have more to do with the personality of the cat owner than anything else. Cats commonly become the focus of their owner’s attention and interest, which can divert their stressful worries into positive thoughts.

Though this article giving you the top 10 reasons why dogs are better than cats may disagree.

More relationships and connections

One key to a healthy mind is to stay engaged with other people. Pet owners tend to want to talk with other pet owners compared to people who don’t own any pets. Basically having a dog is a conversation waiting to happen, people are more likely to stop and talk with you when they see you walking your dog.

Dog helps you get a relationship girlfriend boyfriend

Having a dog even makes you more likely to find a partner believe it or not.

“They see you with a dog and all their defenses go down,” said Dr. Helen Fisher, “They assume you must be a decent human being. How could you have a dog and be a bad person?”

All of us at Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique agree with Dr. Fisher, dog owners are often perceived to be more approachable and happier than people without dogs.

“Having a dog really says something about you,” said Dr. Fisher. “It says you can care for a creature, that you can follow a schedule and get home to feed it, that you can walk it and love it and spend time with it.”

“It’s a signal that a man or woman may not only make a good friend but also a good parent”, Dr. Fisher said.

Is it time to get a dog?

As we stated above, getting a dog can dramatically change the way you’re able to manage anxiety, depression, or simply your overall mental health. However, owning a dog comes with many responsibilities. There are many things to consider before deciding to get a dog.

Remember, thousands of dogs are abandoned at shelters every year, especially in the first year of their lives. This is common phenomenon because people are unaware of how much time, money, and responsibility a dog requires. When it comes to food, Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique offer trusted brands in our stores that we feed to our own dogs at home.

Dog can help with depression

Some important things to consider before deciding to own a dog:

  • A dog requires at minimum two hours of your time each day for attention. A puppy requires even more at around four hours each day. If you can give at least two hours consider rescuing/adopting a dog in need of a home, there are thousands of dogs that would love to have you in their lives.
  • Keep in mind that there are many different breeds of dogs that all have their unique requirements when it comes to exercise and diet. Different dog breeds also mean different personalities, try to pick a dog that will match well with your personality. We suggest taking this quiz at My Real Personality to find the perfect match for you.
  • Although you don’t have to be a millionaire to own a dog, being able to afford everything a dog requires is important. Dogs, especially puppies, can be very expensive. Keep in mind you have to buy all of their accessories, food, treats, toys, and the most expensive: vet bills. The ASPCA estimates that it costs between $580 and $875 per year to take care of a dog’s routine needs.

Don’t forget about your dogs health either! Treat them to a spa style grooming every month if you can, your dog (and furniture) will appreciate it.

The last thing to remember is that owning a dog is not a miracle cure for any type of physical or mental illness. Owning a dog will only be beneficial and conforming for those who love and appreciate animals, and for those who have the time and money to keep a dog happy and healthy. Please consider all of these things before deciding to get a dog.

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