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We hope wherever you – either at home with your pup or out braving this pandemic – that you are staying healthy and safe. More than ever, we are happy to have you as part of our #furfamily and we find comfort in that #togetherness.
We miss you and most of all we miss your #furbabies! We look forward to looking forward!
The Holidays are a great time to get the family together to share a festive meal. The aromas wafting around your kitchen are a huge enticement for your dog. As you load dish after dish onto the table, the smell of delicious turkey and pumpkin pie can make even our best behaved pets go into a food frenzy.
Thanksgiving for Dogs
Everyone likes to indulge during the holidays, and Thanksgiving is no exception. Even the most strict pet owners aren’t able to resist giving their four-legged friends some food. Which is why it’s good to know the appropriate and healthy treats for our four-legged babies. Responsible pet owners should want to use good pet care to keep their dog from getting sick. Veterinarians see a spike in pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), and other gastrointestinal cases around Thanksgiving. Monitoring what your dog eats will keep them in good shape this holiday season.
It’s not secret that many human food ingredients are toxic to dogs. If you give your dog food that is too high in fat, toxic, or has indigestible carbohydrates, this can be very harmful. Symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of coordination are signs of a more severe health issue. However don’t worry, this article details the types of food that are safe for your dog and the types that you should keep them away from.
Tips to Keep Dogs Healthy and Happy
Keep your portions small and limit the introduction of new foods. Abrupt dietary changes can be unsafe on a dogs digestive tract. Small portions help curb the possibility of danger. If a toxic ingredient is present in the food you give them, a smaller dose will help their chances of not getting sick. Some dog breeds are more prone to stomach issues, Shelties are especially vulnerable. If your dog has a sensitive stomach please use precaution.
Watch out for known common cooking ingredients that have been found toxic in dogs. Garlic, onions, and cilantro are very harmful to dogs. Also foods that are rich–high in fatty content are also not easily digested. Butter, sour cream, and bacon are often overly rich for a dog to eat. Consumption of foods like these will cause digestive irregularities and are not part of well balanced pet care diet.
Removing any temptation is also useful for your dog in the long run. Even for the most well-behaved dogs won’t be able to control their temptation when they see a juicy turkey inches away from their nose. Make sure to push all dishes toward the middle of the table. This will curb bad behaviors like begging and scrap-stealing. It might also be a good idea to put your dog in another room, or use a doggie gate while you cook and eat.
Turkey
Small portions of turkey are okay. Turkey is a protein, and in small doses will be fine for your dog. But if you decided to fry your turkey this year, you might want to reconsider. Frying a turkey drives the fat content up, which can be unhealthy for your pup.
Pet owners should remove the skin and bones before putting turkey into a dog bowl.
Potatoes
Potatoes are also usually okay in small servings. One or two bites of potato for your dog won’t hurt them. Many premium dog foods are replacing whole grains with potatoes as a fibrous substitute. If your recipe calls for lots of butter, cheese, sour cream, or bacon, you might want to consider using this dish as a treat. Give your dog a few bites before adding the toppings.
Yams or Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are nutritious treat for your dog, however they’re best served raw. If you add butter, brown sugar, or marshmallows, don’t let your dog have any. Be especially careful of ‘sugar free’ foods. Sugar free foods can potentially contain xylitol.
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to dogs. The chemical is also common in sugar free gum, and some peanut butters.
Don’t have the time to make sweet potatoes for your dog? Try the Southern Sweet Potato flavor of our Keepin’ It Simple All Natural Dog Treats!
Green Beans
These veggies are great for healthy low calorie snack. Green beans are high in vitamins like Vitamin A and Vitamin B. They also contain high amounts of minerals like calcium and iron. For your dog they’re best served raw without butter or fried onion toppings. Especially the onions, these are terribly bad for pet care diets.
Carrots
Carrots are also ‘all good’ for dogs. Bite sized cooked portions without the sugary glaze and butter are the most ideal. Carrots are certainly nutrient rich, but will need to be cooked so your dog can properly digest them.
Carrots contain beta-carotene–an antioxidant and precursor to Vitamin K. The green veggies are a great side for your dog’s Thanksgiving Dinner.
Bread Rolls
Bread is one of those treats that isn’t necessarily good or bad for your dog. Dogs can metabolize some carbohydrates as long as it’s served in small portions.
Since it’s Thanksgiving the exception can be made. Although plain turkey or vegetables are probably the better option.
Hidden Spices Can Make Your Dog Sick
Pumpkin is a great treat for dogs. It’s delicious, nutritious, and can be served as a puree or frozen cube. Unfortunately, when it comes to Thanksgiving pumpkin, many of the canned brands and pie fillings come with hidden spices like ginger. While a little bit of these roots and spices won’t kill your dog, giving them just a little could give them an upset stomach and giving them a lot could cause graver health problems. If you plan to feed your dog pumpkin as dog food this Thanksgiving, try to keep it as plain as possible.
Don’t have the time to make your Pumpkin pie dog friendly? Try the Pumpkin Patch flavor of our Keepin’ It Simple All Natural Dog Treats!
Only the Best Part of the Turkey as Dog Food
Turkey is an excellent source of protein for people and for dogs. In fact, it’s such a great source that it is often used as a main ingredient for some of the best dog food on the market. If you’re planning to share the turkey with your pet this holiday season, try to keep it purely white. The darker meat can have higher levels of fat that are less healthy and harder for your dogs stomach to process. On another note, do not give your dog turkey bones. While there is the good ol’ image of a pet happily chewing away at their bone after a big meal, turkey bones can be filled with splinters that may cause internal bleeding if swallowed.
Green Beans and Potatoes
Green beans and potatoes are more great items to give your pet as dog food. However, they are also much better for your dog if they are kept in a purer form. If you plan to share the greens and potatoes with your dog, make them as plain as possible. Do not serve your dog green bean casserole in the final product as the cream and onions are bad for dog stomachs. Mashed potatoes often have butter, sour cream, and milk in them, along with various spices that are not good for pet health.
Alcohol and Sugar is Never Okay
From the funny videos and memes on the internet, to making it big on America’s Funniest Home Videos, when a party erupts, many partygoers may think that a drunk dog is a funny dog. However, alcohol is something that your dog should never have in their clutches. It can cause incredible sickness which can become more severe with higher volumes of alcohol. By the same token, as much as we love the sweet pecan pie or Thanksgiving cookies, dogs must avoid sugar and fake sugar substitutes at all times. Instead of giving your dog human treats, why not cook up some special doggie biscuits that are not only tasty, but healthy dog food.
Don’t have the time to make these treats? Try the PB N’ Jelly Crunch Flavor of our Keepin’ It Simple All Natural Dog Treats!
Have a Great Thanksgiving!
From all of your friends at Splash and Dash, we want to wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with loads of leftovers!
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
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
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
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
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
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 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.
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.”
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.
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 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.
Intestinal parasites often referred to as “Worms” can cause severe and life threatening diseases. Much to the surprise of many pet owners, several canine parasites are transmissible to humans as well. This is why understanding these parasitic health symptoms, hazards, and treatments are important to set preventative measures for the whole household.
It is important to realize there are many more parasites other than just roundworms and tapeworms that commonly come to mind. Whipworms, Hookworms, and many other worms can cause serious life threatening complications.
How do dogs get worms?
Most tapeworms require an intermediate host, which means most of the time they aren’t passed from pet to pet. Common intermediate hosts include fleas and small rodents. It’s important to note that dogs will become reinvested with tapeworms if these hosts aren’t controlled.
Dogs can become infected with roundworms by eating worm eggs from contaminated soil or stool. Although more common in cats, dogs can also become infected by eating infected rodents.
Although human infection occurs rarely, it can cause significant health issues depending on where the worms migrate to. If you have been exposed to a pet with worms, we recommend talking with your physician to discuss any potential problems.
Types of worms
Roundworms
Usually spread in feces or during pregnancy or nursing, the roundworm causes a serious infection in dogs and puppies. The roundworm eats the food of its host and may cause diarrhea and other symptoms. It’s important to note that roundworms in puppies can be fatal. Human infection of roundworms can cause even more serious symptoms and implications.
Hookworms
Hookworms suck the blood out of their hosts, mostly in the small intestine. Mothers can infect their puppies, and adult dogs can be infected through their skin or when cleaning themselves. Infection causes many symptoms, mostly weakness and malnutrition which can lead to death in puppies. Humans can also become infected with hookworms from unwashed vegetables or by walking barefoot on sand and soil.
Heartworms
One of the most dangerous worms, heartworms are spread through mosquito bites. They can be up to 14 inches long, and commonly live in the heart and arteries. Heartworms can affect how the heart functions and can cause blood clots which are likely to cause death if untreated. Monthly heartworm preventatives are are effective and Splash and Dash recommends to use a monthly heartworm treatment.
Whipworms
Whipworms live in the area where the small and large intestines meet. Similarly to hookworms, whipworms also suck the blood of their hosts. Dogs commonly pick them up from contaminated soil or by grooming. Whipworms can be quite serious and symptoms include bloody diarrhea especially when there are a large number in the intestine.
Tapeworms
Dogs most commonly are infected with tapeworms from fleas, which carry them. Tapeworms absorb dog’s nutrients from the intestine where they often attach. Tapeworms are each about the size of a grain of rice. These are commonly passed in stool and can be seen around the dog’s anus. Humans can also get tapeworms, but can’t get them from an infected pet.
Ringworm
Despite its name, ringworm is actually not a worm at all. It is a skin infection caused by a fungus. In dogs, ringworm is often seen as a dry, gray, and scary patch. Although it may cause no symptoms at all, it is still important to take your dog to the vet if you notice anything abnormal. Humans can become infected in ringworm as well, however they usually cause a red lesion with a ring-like appearance (hence the name). Infection comes from spores which are commonly found in the soil or on cats, humans can become infected by touching an infected pet. Treatment for ringworm can involve medicated shampoos and ointments. More commonly, an oral medication will be needed for a couple of months. It is important to take extra measures to clear ringworm from the environment to prevent the spread.
How can I tell if my dog has worms?
Although there is no obvious outward signs of infection when it comes to your dog having worms, normal bowel movements don’t rule out the possibility of a parasite infection. However, when signs are present they can include diarrhea, bloody stool, mucus in the stool, change in appetite, weight loss, and vague signs of abdominal or rectal discomfort.
Other signs are abdominal enlargement, scooting of the hindquarters, and excess licking or irritation around the anus. Some parasites even can cause severe blood loss and even death, especially in young, weak, or old and malnourished pets.
Can I see worms in my dog’s stool?
One way to see if your dog has worms is examining their stool. Adult roundworms and hookworms will appear as small to large, off-white to tan, spaghetti shaped parasites. Human infection can be examined in stool as well.
Tapeworms will often appear in stool or clinging to hair around the genital area. Fresh segments will be white, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch long, and may expand or contract. Dry segments resemble sesame seeds or rice grains and will be darker in color.
Treatment for Worms
Tapeworms and other variations of worms are not effectively treatable with over-the-counter dewormers, which means a veterinary examination is necessary. All of us at Splash and Dash want the very best for your pet, please don’t take any symptoms lightly.
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.
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.
“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.
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.
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.
During a recent interview, Barbra Streisand revealed that she had her late dog Samantha cloned after passing away last year. Ms. Streisand revealed that two of her three Coton de Tulear dogs were clones. Specifically, the two dogs named Miss Violet and Miss Scarlett, both had been cloned from cells taken from the mouth and stomach of Samantha.
How new is this technology?
Cloning dogs may be new to some of you, but the process has been available to the high-paying public for over a decade now. The first cloned dog was created in 2005, an Afghan hound named Snuppy in South Korea, named after “Seoul National University puppy”. Snuppy actually lived a full 10 years before she died of cancer. Afghan hounds typically live for 11 years, so this was considered a successful dog cloning. To take it a step even further, scientists cloned three new puppies from Snuppy, all have reportedly been living healthy and normal lives.
Companies like Sooam Biotech in South Korea, and Viagen in Texas offer the service to the high-paying public. On Their websites, both Sooam Biotech and ViaGen confirm that live births are used to create their clones.
How are dog clones made?
In an interview with Scientific American, author of a book on dog cloning, John Wostendiek explained the process:
“In addition to the tissue sample of the original dog, cloners will need to harvest egg cells from dogs in heat, at least a dozen or so. And, after zapping the merged cells with electricity so they start dividing, they’ll need surrogate mother dogs to carry the puppies to birth.”
There is tons of science behind it, basically the nucleus is removed from the original donor’s eggs and injected with material from the animal to be cloned. This process usually takes around 60 days after injection (about the same as a normal dog pregnancy).
A video by BuzzFeed showing how dog cloning works:
Are cloned animals healthy?
This largely depends on how you define “healthy.”
Believe it or not the FDA actually monitors the cloning of animals like goats and sheep. According to the agency’s website, cloned animals are generally healthy. Dog cloning can be a little more complicated because of the advancement of their reproductive system. At the Sooam Biotech lab in Korea, the process requires operating on the egg donor and the surrogate mother – two dogs who are rented from a lab-animal provider. It’s not exactly clear what happens after those two dogs are no longer needed.
The company has told media outlets in the past that the dog cloning process works only about 33 to 40 percent of the time, which means the chance of a miscarriage is highly likely. Of course, the general public only hears about the successful dog cloning and not the failures from the lab. However, after the cloning process is successful, the cloned dog has a very high chance of living a full and healthy life.
Will the clone act the same as the original dog?
Although the cloned animal contains the exact same genes as their donor, they still will have slight variations with how these genes are expressed. There can be different markings on their coat, different eye color even. Personalities vary as well, this isn’t a surprise though as dog personality is highly influenced by the environment and manner in which the puppy is born, something that is tough to replicate in a lab.
It wouldn’t be 2018 without some controversy
Although animals in the agriculture industry at typically highly regulated, cloning dogs is largely unregulated. Without public data it’s difficult to put an exact number on how many dogs are cloned annually. Many animal advocacy groups such as the Humane Society and Peta, oppose the practice.
In a statement release by Vicki Katrina of the Humane Society:
“The Humane Society of the United States opposes cloning of any animals for commercial purposes due to major animal welfare concerns. Companies that offer to clone pets profit off of distraught pet lovers by falsely promising a replica of a beloved pet. With millions of deserted dogs and cats in need of a home, pet cloning is completely unnecessary”
Peta President Ingrid Newkirk also voiced her opinion on the matter:
“We all want our beloved dogs to live forever, but while it may sound like a good idea, cloning doesn’t achieve that – instead, it creates a new and different dog who has only the physical characteristics of the original. Animal’s personalities, quirks, and very essence simply cannot be replicated, and when you consider that millions of wonderful adoptable dogs are languishing in animal shelters every year or dying in terrifying ways when abandoned, you realize that cloning adds to the homeless-animal population crisis.”
Final Thoughts on dog cloning
Whether you agree or not, cloning dogs is here to stay, unless laws are passed that would stop the cloning of dogs for the future. The $50,000 price tag is steep to many, but the chance of possibly “prolonging” the life of a loved one is priceless to some. All of Us at Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique love all dogs, cloned or not.
In this corner, weighing in at a lean 8 pounds, we have Smokey—the American Shorthair cat. Across the ring, we have Buddy weighing in at 65 pounds, the Golden Retriever. Our bets are on Buddy. That’s right! The age old debate is back on the table—why dogs better than cats!
The argument is as old as domestication itself. Starting before Odie and Garfield feuded over the affection of their owner Jon. There are a lot of opinions swirling around in the mix of claws, jaws, and furr when it comes to this debate. So we thought we could clue in readers on some history first.
Cats, Felis Catus,
The domestic cat is believed to have been domesticated as early as 4,000 years ago in Egypt. The culture was as obsessed with cats. The Egyptians worshiped a cat goddess named Bastet—the god of cats, protection, joy dance, music, and family. They even took it one step further and mummified their beloved pet cats to take the journey with them into the afterlife. They even mummified the remains of mice for the cats to snack on!
Cats were adopted from the wild for their abilities to hunt rodents that disrupted crops and home life. Cats are carnivorous and great hunters. The species has an intrinsic ability to stalk prey and pounce, striking to kill with their sharp claws and teeth. Just ask any cat owner who comes home to a dead mouse on their doorstep. Cats have light-reflecting eyes which give them excellent night vision.
Many animal behaviorists actually theorize that cats are nocturnal and since domestication, have adopted to our habits. Since food is readily available there is no need for cats to hunt. Now they have different sleeping habits than their wild counterparts. Cats will usually sleep all day and become more active as the house fills. Still, any cat owner will tell you, cats are night owls and perfectly content to swat at your face while you sleep.
According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), there are 47.1 million households that own at least one cat.
Dogs, Canis Lupus Familiaris
Dogs are first believed to have been domesticated around 15,000 years ago in Central Asia around modern day Nepal and Mongolia. It is theorized that friendly Eurasian gray wolves actually approached humans first. Scientists believe that because humans wiped out other large mammals during the time period, dogs were spared because of their charm.
Since then, hundreds of breeds have emerged from early wolves. Of the hundreds of breeds, the American Kennel Club currently recognizes 189 of them with mix breeds also making up a huge percent of the dog population. Dogs fist served as companions as working dogs. They helped herd livestock, hunt, guard homes, and use their noses for police work.
The Egyptians also worshiped dogs in the form of the god of cemeteries and embalming—Anubis. Anubis had the body of a man with the head of a dog. The Aztecs also have dogs as a prominent role of their religion. They also believed that the Mexican Hairless dog, or Xolotl, led the soul to the underworld. Dogs have appeared in myth, folklore, and regions countless times showing their kinship with humankind.
The APPA reports that 60 million households own a dog in the U.S.
Let’s take a look at why dogs are better than cats!
1. More Famous than Cats
Ok so, there’s Snoopy, Scooby Doo, Balto, Marley, Winn Dixie Wishbone, Beethoven, Old Yeller, Hooch, Airbud, Blue from Blue’s Clues, and everyone knows…All Dogs Go To Heaven.
Enough said.
2. Dogs Make you Laugh, It’s Science.
A study conducted by Department of Psychology at St. Bonaventure University reported that dog owners laughed more than cat owners.
Participants who owned a dog, cat, both, or none were surveyed to see how frequently humans laugh and what provoked the laughter. It was found that dog owners laugh more than people who own both animals with cat owners laughing the least. This explains grumpy cat.
This prompted another study conducted by the Department of Psychology at Eastern Kentucky University. The researchers filmed people playing with dogs. The goal was to determine exactly what was provoking laughter. It’s no surprise that they found that people laugh most at dogs when they fail some aspect of playing. If you throw a dog a ball, and they trip in the process, we all burst out laughing.
The second situation that evoked laughter was when a dog did something unanticipated or exaggerated. AKA, they act goofy. Still no surprise here. Any dog owner will tell you that it’s hilarious when their dog tries to guess cup the treats in.
Both studies concluded that laughter is a social interaction. Laughing reduces stress and gives you a higher quality of life. Our dogs are partners with us and help us to laugh making them better than the grumpy cat equivalent.
3. Dogs Help You Make Friends
Harvard University partnered with other academic institutions around the world to publish a series of studies scientifically proving how dogs provide human-to-human friendships. Of course, dog parents already know this, and probably already know why dogs are better than cats.
Dog owners were found to be 60% more likely to get to know their neighbors through a pet related connection. People meet people while walking their dogs and are far more likely to befriend the people they met while walking or visiting parks. When was the last time you walked your cat?
There are also have been numerous studies showing dog ownership makes you seem more approachable and friendly. Researchers from a separate study surveyed 1,210 Match.com users. The studied showed women were twice as likely to be attracted to a guy because he had a dog, and also twice as likely to judge their date based on how they reacted to their dogs. Even more damning for the cat-people, 32% of women surveyed said that a guy with a cat was a potential deal-breaker. Ouch, get a dog!
Dogs making people more social and adventurous is also evident in dog meetups. Many cities have social media pages, dog bars, and even apps dedicated to getting dog owners together.
4. Dogs Can Smell Cancer
Everyone knows dogs have the best nose! Dogs like Bloodhounds possess up to 300 million olfactory receptors compared with about six million in humans. Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania’s Working Dog Center have trained dogs to put their sniffers to good work detecting cancer.
With a process called imprinting dogs are able to sniff out different chemicals present in ovarian cancer. Researchers spread the scents gathered from an ovarian tumor on a blanket. They have the dog target each scent over and over again. Each time, they reduce the size of the blanket, and increase the scent. Once the dog has mastered this, they remove the blanket entirely.
Scientists are using this data to build a device that will sense cancer. The chemical the dogs gravitate toward the most will be the chemical they base their sensor design on.
5. Dogs Keep Human in Shape
Everyone who has ever owned a dog can attest to this. Dogs need walks. Most of us get home at the end of the day and hit the couch. But after a few whines and earnest looks from Fido we take a nice healthy walk around the neighborhood.
A study published in the National Institute of Health showed that older people with dogs covered an average distance of a mile daily. The study also found that dog owners with a backyard spent an average daily duration of 100 minutes walking the dog.
There you go, get grandma a dog!
6. Dogs Can be Trained and Do Cool Stuff, Cats Don’t
A study out of the University of Tokyo showed that cats actually do know their name and have the ability to come when called. They choose not to. Cats have selective hearing, just like your kids.
The study analyzed how cats responded to hearing the voice of their owners compared to the voices of strangers. They determined cats could recognize their owner’s voice and identified with their given name. 10% of cats involved in the study displayed behavior of responsiveness when called.
Animal behaviorists theorize that because cats were used as independent creatures to hunt rats the strong bond didn’t develop the way it has with dogs. Cats have come closer since agrarian days, but the evolution of cat responsiveness is still antiquated.
Compare this with dogs. Dogs can be trained to sit, shake, lay down, play dead, roll over, and even open doors. These are just tricks for your average pooch. It’s not called the Westminster cat show now is it?
7. Dogs Help Humans from Developing Allergies and Asthma
This is reason six dogs are better than cats.
Dogs are saving the world one potentially asthmatic kid at a time. A study out of University of California, San Francisco, shows that exposure to infants exposed to dog dust—dried flakes of dog skin—help protect against developing allergies and asthma later on in life by altering intestinal bacteria. Mice that inhaled dog dust built a better immune response to cockroach allergens than their non-exposed counterpart.
So having a dog around not only protects your infant but helps build up their immunity. Not sure if the cat does either of these, but boy is he funny when gets his paws on that catnip!
8. The Dog House is Cleaner Than the Cat House
No scientific studies here. Just pure observation of having owned both cats and dogs over a lifetime.
Yes, while dogs are puppies they will tear up the house. But with some proper guidance and good dog training, this stops. Dogs learn to use the bathroom outside and respect the furniture. As long as they get their de-shed service the house is neat and orderly with the doggos.
Cats? Not so much.
You have to deal with the litter box. No matter where you put the thing, or what kind of litter you use, it still has a lingering smell. Also, cats claw everything…everything. Now some cats are good, but I had a cat once that had three scratch posts, but still preferred to maul the couch every time I left the house. Cats also vomit and cough up hairballs! They love to aim for your favorite rug too.
9. Dogs Can Take Selfies
Seriously! A dog training center in London now offers a class called iPad Masterclass. The trainers focus dogs on taking their own selfies and doodling. Dogs use their noses to swipe the screen to take candid shots of themselves for Instagram. The intention of dog training is based on animal behaviorists theories that animals trained to do something have a lower incidence of anxiety and aggression.
This might be true, but we have a feeling all the pet parents who have signed up their dog to take iPad Masterclass really just want a dog that can take their own picture. It’s a pretty cool cocktail party trick…
Dogs are also being trained to recognize and respond to typical commands written on an Ipad. The dog reads the command ‘sit” and then loyally takes a seat. What a time to be alive!
10. Dogs are Man’s Best Friend
Period.
All kidding aside, we at Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique love all animals of every shape and size. We just like to have a little fun every once in awhile. You can join in by commenting on our Facebook page who you think is better, cats or dogs?
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There are many natural disasters you may encounter as a pet owner, depending on where you live. Earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, violent electrical storms, flooding, fires, and more. We’ve all seen these disasters on the news or movies. Perhaps you’ve experienced them personally. With pets, things get a little more complicated and pet services aren’t the only things you need to know to keep safer during these events. However, the proper preparations can make natural disasters slightly less disastrous for the family.
Pets Evacuate with the Rest of the Family
In the event of an evacuation, pets should always leave too. To make evacuation easier, visit pet services and pack an evacuation bag for your dog just like you would any other family member. Don’t make the mistake of feeling your pet can fend for himself using natural instincts. Red Cross
shelters do not accept pets, so find pet services to take your pet in advance. If you do have to evacuate, make sure your pets are contained. An easy way to do this is with a crate they feel comfortable in.
Minimize Their Fear and Anxiety with the Help of Pet Services
They’ll be scared and stressed too and likely to bolt. Keep a disaster kit in the trunk of your cars and include supplies for your pet’s needs. Some of the things to put in the disaster kit include:
- a portable kennel
- food and water dish
- Food to last for at least a few days
- an extra leash
- a first aid kit
- supply of any medications your pet may need
- A few toys they love
- Treats that can help focus them
- Thundershirt or other calming devices for your dog
Documentation is Essential Too
Make sure vaccinations are up to date and keep copies of those records in your car. Make sure your pet is always wearing an id tag and consider microchipping if you haven’t already. There are many pet services that can help you with this. If your pet is lost, these will be his ticket home.
Weathering the Storm
The flash of lightening and clap of thunder can be particularly frightening to a pet. If there is a storm in progress, find a quiet place, like a closet or someplace with no windows for your pet to stay. Try swaddling them and holding them close. In case of power outages or being unable to get out, such as in a blizzard or in the event of flooding, have a two week supply of pet food on hand. And remember you pet will need water just like you.
Keep a pet carrier on hand and easily accessible, in case of a quick departure. A sticker on the front window of your home, will let emergency personnel know there is a pet in residence. Finally, create your emergency plan ahead of time, a little forethought into the pet services and plan of action you will use you can create a calm feeling in a stressful situation, ensure your pet’s safety and provide peace of mind. After getting through the store it never hurts to find an affordable option to get the dog clean. Check out our franchise opportunities that are available if you love pets and want to get in the industry. This affordable pet franchise resource should be very useful no matter where you are.
2015 inc 500 America's fastest growing private companies, Splash and Dash for Dogs
Rank: #296
3 year growth rate of 1,550 %