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8 Ways Cats find #JOMO on Take Your Dog to Work Day

Posted on by Above1 Support

When it comes to being social, cats are often inaccurately labeled as solitary, aloof and asocial. In reality, cats are social but their social structure is a little different than their canine companions. Cats are territorial and take great comfort in the familiarity of their surroundings. For a cat to get to know another cat requires finesse and patience to avoid fear of the unfamiliar feline being a threat. So a one day social event where unfamiliar cats meet each other at an owner’s place of work wouldn’t be high on a cat’s list of fun ideas. So will cats feel left out as they’re home alone on Take Your Dog to Work Day? Actually, there are probably quite a few cats who may relish in having the house to themselves for those extra hours. That’s not to say a cat doesn’t love their canine companion but they may like this brief one-day staycation.

These are 8 ways cats will celebrate having the house to themselves:

1.    Show that belly.

show the belly

Most cats love to stretch out and snooze as the sun streams in the window. For a cat to stretch out on his back and expose his belly requires a feeling of security. If a cat has an uncertain relationship with the family dog, or if the dog wants to play, sunbathing may not happen as often as the cat would like. Take Your Dog to Work Day gives the cat many hours of ground-level nap time where that tummy can face the world (or rather, the empty room). Even if it’s not sunny, the cat will still enjoy those long yoga stretches without getting poked in the tummy by a dog nose or feeling the breeze of a wagging tail.   

2.    Gravity testing.

Many cats indulge in the feline sport of pawing at objects on counters and tables to see how easily they move. The fun starts when the object manages to go off the edge and land on the floor. When the dog is at home, this gravity-testing activity may get cut short if the dog happens to grab the object after it lands and run off with it. The dog may even bark in anticipation of the impending landing which may break the cat’s concentration during this highly refined experiment. With everyone out of the house, the cat can conduct uninterrupted gravity tests.

3.    Pillow time.

pillow time

In many households, the owner’s bed is a prime napping location. Soft, spacious and filled with the comforting scents of the owner, it’s not unusual for cats and dogs to take afternoon naps there. With the house to himself, the cat can pick the ideal spot on the bed for napping as well as a post-nap grooming session. This becomes even more of a luxury if the cat shares the home with a very large dog or multiple pets. 

4.    Everything here is mine.

That’s probably what the cat would say if he could on Take Your Dog to Work Day. Whether it’s the bed, the water bowl, the couch or the dog’s favorite chair, on this day it all gets a good dose of cat hair.

5.    Treasure hunting.

exploring

If there are normally rooms that are kept closed off from the dog, there’s a chance they may be left open if the dogs accompany pet parents to work. What a perfect opportunity for a cat to go on an indoor field trip to unknown lands but still be close enough to his litter box and food bowl.

6.    Set the toys free.

Cat with toy

In some homes shared by cats and dogs, the cat toys have to be kept put away and only brought out in areas the dog can’t access. Take Your Dog to Work Day (TYDTWD) means cat toys can be left out everywhere. And, while the toys are out, why not toss a little catnip around as well so kitty can have a little party of one. Cats are quiet when they party so there’s no need to worry about disturbing the neighbors!

7.    Catch up on beauty sleep.

sleeping cat

Cats are masters when it comes to sleeping and here’s a chance to fully partake in this beloved feline ritual. With the house more silent than usual, it’s a perfect opportunity for a cat to string many short cat naps into several hours of sweet dreams. 

8.    Happy reunion.

cat and dog

At the end of the day, the cat and dog will likely enjoy being reunited. The cat will get a recap of the dog’s day by checking out unfamiliar and interesting scents on his fur. The dog will probably be so eager to share his excitement over the day and luckily, the cat, being well-rested, will be ready to hear all about it.

To all the cats with JOMO (Joy of Missing Out), tag @wellnesspetfood or #wellnesspetfood to show us how your feline friends are enjoying the day without that pesky pup!
 

Should My Indoor Cat Use an Exercise Cat Wheel?

Posted on by Above1 Support

Cats need 15 minutes of exercise a day to avoid obesity and depression. The cat exercise wheel is a fun, safe way for your cat to get the exercise he needs.

Hamster Wheel for Cats

Cats are known for finding the best sunbeams for napping, for keeping your feet warm at night and for having uncanny timing when glancing ironically at you. As cats age (indoor cats in particular), they exercise less and less, but all cats need exercise regardless of how old they are. According to PetMD, cats need to be engaged in “activity” for at least 15 minutes a day.

Why is Exercise Important for Cats?

Without daily exercise, not only do cats run the risk of becoming obese and of developing medical problems such as heart disease and muscle deterioration, but they also are at increased risk of developing feline depression and other psychological problems.

What is Considered Exercise for Cats?

cat stretch

Cat exercise is considered anything that gets cats moving outside of  their normal routine. The walk from the bed to the couch into the kitchen and back to the couch is not considered exercise . The kind of activity that merits exercise gets your cat’s heart rate up. So, when you play with your cat with their toys and they run, jump and scamper, they’re being active.

Although 15 minutes a day doesn’t sound like a lot in theory, it can be tough to keep up with a cat’s fitness needs if you are someone who works and travels often. This means cats need a way to exercise on their own for those times their parents can’t be there to play and get them moving. But how?

Have You Heard about a Cat Exercise Wheel?

This is where the cat exercise wheel comes in (yes, it’s a real thing). Also sometimes called a cat hamster wheel, the cat exercise wheel created by One Fast Cat is a fun and safe piece of equipment that gets your kitty moving. Conceptually, the cat exercise wheel is just like a hamster wheel, but it is designed especially for cats.

What is a Cat Exercise Wheel?

via GIPHY

The four–foot–diameter wheel sits on a sturdy platform that braces the wheel and allows it to roll in place. The tread is 10–inches wide, so your cat has enough room to jog without being at risk of falling off or of sustaining an injury. A foam/rubber material covers the tread your cat runs on, so that your cat has traction without the risk of claw-snagging.

How Does the Cat Exercise Wheel Work?

To use the cat exercise wheel, your cat just steps on the wheel and starts walking. Many owners use toys or treats as motivators to get their cat comfortable using it at first.  As your cat accelerates their pace, the wheel turns faster, prompting your cat to pick up speed. Cats will use the wheel multiple times throughout a day and often end up getting more than the requisite 15 minutes of fitness that they need to sustain good physical and mental health.

Exercise is an essential component for your cat’s overall health. Another important aspect of feline health is diet. A balanced diet of foods made with natural ingredients, like those recipes made by Wellness Pet Food.
 

America’s 10 Most Pet Friendly Companies of 2019

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For the third year in a row, Wellness Natural Pet Food is honoring those who set the bar high for pet-friendly workplaces by curating its list of America’s Most Pet Friendly Companies, released in celebration of Take Your Dog to Work Day on June 21.

1. Amazon (Seattle, WA)

Photo via Amazon

Amazon takes the pet-friendly office to a whole new level as there are as many as 6,000 dogs in the Seattle-based headquarters on a given day. The company has been dog-friendly since its creation but has amped up their dog-friendly culture by creating multiple dog parks, including a doggie deck, for pups to stretch their legs and providing treats at every reception desk in their buildings. 

2. Harpoon Brewery (Boston, MA)

Photo via Harpoon Brewery

Featured for the second consecutive year, Harpoon Brewery welcomes dogs on a daily basis where they can lounge in the office or explore the Boston Seaport for a walk by the water. In 2018, Harpoon hosted the first-ever “Dogtoberfest,” which allowed Boston pet parents to bring their dogs along for an afternoon of beer tasting – just for the humans, though!

3. Trupanion (Seattle, WA)

Photo via Trupanion

A leader in medical insurance for cats and dogs, Trupanion is all about pet perks for its employees, too! Dogs are frequent visitors in the office, so the company has a team of in-house dog walkers to keep pooches moving as well as a Pet Program Manager and a Pet Emergency Team who work together to ensure that all four-legged friends are safe during the workday. Trupanion also supports pet parents by offering a pet bereavement benefit which includes three days of paid leave should their pet pass away. 

4. Ben & Jerry’s (Burlington, VT)

Employees at Ben & Jerry’s love their dogs almost as much as they love ice cream and their office is a place where “K9-5ers” are always welcome! The company’s “Canine Culture Committee” works hard to ensure that the 35-40 office dogs are happy and healthy by inviting in veterinarians to speak about behavior and training tips to educate pet parents. Dogs start the work day with a dog treat from the front desk on the way into the office. The only “work” they must do is enjoy plenty of play time and naps – talk about a sweet deal!

5. Contently (New York, NY)

Photo via Contently

Dogs have a permanent place on the employee roster at Contently, a leading content marketing platform company. On any given day pups can be found roaming the halls or curled up on conference room floors. Employees are encouraged to bond over pet parenthood through the company’s “Contently-Canines” Slack channel where pet parents can exchange photos, ask for advice and coordinate dog-sitting when it’s needed. These pet parents have each other’s backs – and Fido’s too! 

6. Procore (Carpinteria, CA)

Photo via Procore

Procore employees love their pups! The dog-friendly office has free treats and water bowls around campus and outdoor lawns to ensure pups have playtime too. Dogs and employees alike are a big fan of the frequent company “pawtys” otherwise known as dog-friendly happy hours. Employees who are pet parents also enjoy pet insurance as a benefit. 

7. Ticketmaster (Los Angeles, CA)

Photo via Ticketmaster

Ticketmaster employees are welcome to bring their dogs to the office. To show additional support for pet parents, the company offers pet insurance as a benefit, so employees don’t have to worry about coverage for Fido. 

8. PetSafe (Knoxville, TN)

Photo via PetSafe

As one of the most trusted pet brands globally, it only makes sense that the PetSafe® headquarters would be filled with the employees’ pets. PetSafe pups get a special first look at all of the company’s latest innovations, often testing new toys, treats, fountains and more before anyone else to help inform research, planning and design. Because PetSafe is dedicated to creating “best moments” between pets and their owners, having pups at the office every day serves as the perfect reminder of its overarching purpose.

9. TripAdvisor (Needham, MA)

Trip Advisor employees never have to leave their fur babies at home! The company’s headquarters is known to have dogs walking around the office, creating a fun, pet-friendly working environment for all employees.   

10. Purely Elizabeth (Boulder, CO)

Photo via Purely Elizabeth

Purely Elizabeth, a leading natural foods brand offering groundbreaking and delicious gluten-free products, strives to support employees however they can – which includes pet parenthood! The company encourages pet parents to spend more time with their dogs by introducing a pet-friendly culture where dogs are always welcome. Office pups enjoy lounging in the sun by the windows and are spoiled with treats!
 

Wellness Natural Pet Food Surveys American Pet Parents on Pet-Friendly Workplaces

Posted on by Above1 Support

Employers looking to boost workplace morale may want to consider hiring from a new pool of talent: one with wagging tails, fur and four legs.

A new survey from Wellness® Natural Pet Food found that 65 percent of American pet parents believe that having pets in the workplace would benefit company culture. That same survey revealed that not only are pets beneficial to morale, but may help with recruitment and employee retention: 

•    75 percent of respondents believe that pets would diffuse a stressful situation in the workplace
•    59 percent feel they would get to know their colleagues better if there were pets present 
•    Nearly half of dog owners say that “pet perks” are important when considering a job offer, with one in five millennial pet parents noting specifically that being able to bring their dog to work is important when considering a job offer

 

Pets At Work Can Help Conquer Distractions:

 

  • More than half (54%) of pet parents report feeling distracted at work thinking about their pet at home
  • One in three (33%) pet parents say taking care of their pet interferes with their work hours

 

Making Decisions to Make Our Pets Happy:

 

  • 28% of pet parents would consider accepting a job that would provide more time to spend with their pet 

 

Pets & Workplace Benefits:

 

  • One-third (32%) of respondents reported feeling more motivated or productive because of pets in the work environment

“Studies have shown how pets can have a positive impact on our own health and wellbeing – from lowering resting blood pressure to reducing stress – but now people are thinking about how those benefits translate to the work environment,” said Dr. Danielle Bernal, staff veterinarian with Wellness Natural Pet Food. “With more companies realizing that pets can improve the working experience, more are going above and beyond to cater to our new furry officemates and make sure they are happy and healthy from 9 to 5.”

Ben & Jerry's dog in the office

Ben & Jerry’s makes the list of Top 10 Pet Friendliest Companies in 2019. Photo via Ben & Jerry’s

For the third year in a row, Wellness Natural Pet Food is honoring those who set the bar high for pet-friendly workplaces by curating its list of America’s Most Pet Friendly Companies, released in celebration of Take Your Dog to Work Day on June 21.

Adopt a Cat Month: How You Can Help

Posted on by Above1 Support


June is Adopt a Cat Month, which means that every day for the next thirty days is a Caturday. In case you didn’t know, it’s also kitten season according American Humane and is a time when millions of kittens will be born. Many of those kittens will end up in a shelter and will need to be adopted. If you’ve been thinking of getting a cat or if you’d like to help the millions of cats and kittens needing homes, now is the time to take action.

 

Why You Should Adopt a Cat (or Two )


Cats are smart, affectionate and loyal companions. They are also low-maintenance pets, which make them an excellent choice for busy families who want to be pet owners. Many cats are content to be solo pets, but if you’re a pet owner who travels or often not home, adopting two cats (siblings tend to do well together) not only gives two cats a home, but it also gives your furry friends someone to play with when you aren’t around.

Other reasons to adopt cats include:

  • Cats are entertaining—watching them play or do silly things often puts you in a happy mood. 
  • Cats can help reduce stress and anxiety.
  • Cat purrs have proven healing powers, which include lowering blood pressure and healing muscles. 

What Goes into Cat Maintenance 


If you’ve never owned or adopted a cat or kitten but are interested, as noted, cats are very low-maintenance. They need food, water, veterinary care and a litter box if they are going to be indoor pets. While you should trim their claws and clean their teeth and ears, cats groom themselves very efficiently. You can brush them to assist with grooming as this is also a great way to bond with your cat.

Other Ways to Support Adopt a Cat Month 


For others, now may not be the time to adopt a cat, or you may already have one (or several) cats. The good news is that you can still help support cats in need during adopt a cat month. There are several ways.

  • Call your local pet shelters and find out what resources they need and make a donation. Shelters need many things ranging from pet food and pet bowls, beds, blankets, spay/neuter costs, to office and cleaning supplies.
  • Create your own virtual ASPCA Adopt a Shelter Cat Month Campaign and help raise money to support shelter cats in need. 
  • Promote Adopt a Cat Month on your social media pages with links to causes you support.
  • Become a foster pet parent. Many people don’t have the ability to be full-time pet owners; foster programs allow you to give love and nurturing to a cat who is waiting to find its forever home.

There are millions of cats out there that need your help. Even if this June isn’t the right time for you to adopt, there are still many ways you can offer your support and make a real difference in hundreds of cats’ lives this month. After all, cats (and their hilarious videos) bring joy to everyone. Take the time to say thanks by being active during Adopt a Cat Month.


Cats are wonderful, fun and friendly pets full of personality and Wellness Pet Food has a recipe for each one!  Did you adopt this month? Show us by tagging @wellnesspetfood on Instagram!
 

CBD Oil for Cats: Will it Help Their Anxiety?

Posted on by Above1 Support

A common concern among many cat owners is how to help their cats manage anxiety. For some cats, it takes something big to create anxiety and for others, even the smallest changes in daily life can cause upheaval and uncertainty. Some cat owners will investigate behavioral therapy and others will talk to their veterinarians about incorporating medication. Then there are the owners who simply don’t know what to do. Whether it’s an ongoing generalized anxiety or situational anxiety, cat owners want their cats healthy and happy.

The soaring popularity of Cannabidiol (CBD) oil has resulted in more people turning to CBD for their pets to help not only with physical pain but also with behavior issues. The CBD (cannabidiol) market, though certainly causing quite a buzz, is not yet fully backed by science and the claims companies make often lack scientific substantiation. Despite that, cat owners are encouraged by anecdotal evidence and are buying CBD products. Is CBD oil  for cats a miracle remedy for anxiety? Is it safe and effective? Based on all the anecdotal success stories you would certainly think so but it’s not that simple. 

What is CBD Oil?

CBD is a compound derived from hemp. To be considered CBD, the oil must contain less than 0.3 percent of tetrahydrocannabidol (THC). Therefore, CBD, does not cause any psychoactive reaction. The fact that CBD can have beneficial effects without these psychoactive side-effects makes it appealing to cat owners when it comes to administering to their pets.

Is CBD Oil Safe for Cats?

The problem is that the CBD market is still relatively new and not yet well-regulated or third-party/government tested for safety. It may be difficult for consumers to be sure of what they’re buying.  How do consumers know the product is correctly labeled? With regulated veterinary medications, veterinarians have accurate information regarding proper dosages, potential side effects, contraindications, toxicity levels and length of treatment. With CBD, there’s inconsistent information as well as whether the CBD oil in the product is even of good quality. Depending on where it’s purchased, there is the risk that there’s no CBD oil contained in the product at all. Depending on the manufacturing facility, a consumer can’t be certain the CBD oil is free of contaminants. Improperly formulated CBD oil that contains higher amounts of THC can be very toxic to pets.

Other Risks of CBD Oil in Cats

In addition, there’s another major concern. Some cat owners may be doing their own diagnosis on a cat and bypassing the veterinarian visit altogether. Skipping the veterinary exam and not getting an accurate diagnosis can be harmful to the cat or even life-threatening. Anxiety and stress may be due to an underlying medical problem. Although the cat may show improvements on CBD, it doesn’t other reasons for the anxiety such as intercat relationship issues, changes in the home environment and other potential stressors. Suppressing a behavior problem is not the same as identifying, understanding and resolving it.

12 Safe and Effective Ways to Help Treat Anxiety in Cats

If your cat seems anxious or stressed, your first step is to have the cat examined by the veterinarian. Don’t assume a problem is strictly behavioral before ruling out potential underlying medical causes.
Some ways to help ease your cat’s anxiety include:

1. Hiding places:

cat sleeping in hiding covered bed

Photo via @lilfranklestein_3

Hiding is a valuable coping mechanism for cats. Give your cat several hiding options in the home. Examples include: A-frame beds, boxes on their sides, paper bags without handles, cubbies, or cat tunnels. These provide easy ways for a cat to feel “invisible” and calm down. 

2. Interactive Playtime:

Play is more than just exercise and fun. Playtime is a valuable therapy and helps release beneficial neurotransmitters. Engage your cat in at least two interactive play sessions a day. Use a fishing pole-type toy and move it so it imitates prey, allowing your cat to stalk, pounce and capture. 

3. Food Puzzles:

Puzzle feeders are another wonderful way to exercise a cat’s natural hunting instinct. Puzzle feeders should be challenging but not frustrating in order to maintain the fun factor. Stuff a puzzle feeder with low-calorie, tasty treats like Wellness Kittles to keep your cat engaged with the activity. As with interactive playtime, food puzzles also help release beneficial neurotransmitters into the system. 

4. Desensitization:

Train your cat to become comfortable with activities such as being in a carrier, car travel, unfamiliar people and handling. Gradual, positive and gentle training will help your cat become more at ease with each baby step. 

5. Pheromone Therapy May Help:

There are artificial feline facial pheromone products available that may help cats associate objects and locations with comfort and familiarity. These products come in spray form and diffusers.

6. Provide Choice:

Don’t underestimate the importance of choice. Cats should have the choice of whether to engage or retreat. Forced interaction, holding or petting can create anxiety. Pay attention to a cat’s body language to see whether you are being invited closer or to keep your distance.

7. Play Music:

Classical and soft music may help calm your cat. There are even some cat-specific music CDs and downloads to play to help ease stress and anxiety. Many shelters use music to help with stress reduction.

8. Reduce Intercat Aggression:

two kittens snuggling together

Photo via Raul Varzar

Reduce anxiety and tension between cats by creating an environment where they don’t have to compete for resources. Some examples that help include increased number and locations of litter boxes, separate feeding stations, provide more bed locations, include elevated perches and provide enough scratching posts.

9. Perches and Cat Trees:

Your cat needs elevated perches and places to climb. It will help him get away from any chaos happening on ground level. Increased vertical territory can also help ease tension in multicat environments. Many cats feel more secure when they’re up high.

10. Quality Time Together:

person petting an orange cat

Photo via Jesse Borovnica

You may be the most effective anxiety-reducer for your cat. Spend quality time together with your cat in ways he enjoys. Some cats love having close contact with their human family members and others may prefer being nearby while you read or watch TV. Cats left alone too much can become anxious.

11. Let the Sun Shine in:

two cats sleeping by a window

Photo via Max Kukurudziak

 

Open curtains and let the sun in so your cat can enjoy the warmth and relaxation of sunbathing. Some cats also enjoy watching the view out the windows. 

12. Call in a Professional:

If you aren’t able to alleviate the anxiety and feel you need more help, ask your veterinarian for a referral to a veterinary behaviorist or a certified cat behavior consultant. A behavior professional may be able to help uncover the anxiety triggers and develop a treatment plan customized for your specific cat. 

Conclusion

CBD may ultimately be very promising but as of yet, there haven’t been enough studies and science behind it. We look forward, with interest, in seeing more research on effectiveness and safety.

Winners of the 2019 Small Breed Photo Contest

Posted on by Above1 Support

After receiving over 900 entries, we are excited to announce our 2019 Small Breed Photo Contest Winners! Thank you to the hundreds of Wellness fans who shared their pet photos with us – we smiled, laughed and enjoyed each one. Get to know the pups behind the winning photos below!

WINNER!

Chiuahua

Photo Submitted by: Alicia F.


Chihuahua, “Chihuahua,” Age 4 

Location of photo taken: Uptown Charlotte, NC
Favorite Wellness Food/Treat: Grain free lamb and salmon soft treats 
Does your pet have a nickname? Chi or Blue boy 
What is the naughtiest / funniest thing your pet has ever done? I walked into the kitchen one day and he somehow opened the drawers perfectly and used them as stairs to get on the kitchen counter! He was standing up there looking at me so proud of himself.
What is the best memory you have involving your pet?  The first day I met him! He was two years old and his family needed to find him a new home because of their work schedule. I met them at a park and as soon as I saw how confident he was and the happy dance he did for treats, I knew he was meant to be my boy!
What is the best thing about being a small breed dog owner?  You’re getting a big dog personality in a fun sized, lovable, travel-friendly package which fits perfectly on your lap for cuddle time!  

FIRST RUNNER UP!

Charlie

Photo Submitted by: Donna M.

Charlie, “Schnoodle,” Age 3 

Social handle: @sweetbabycharlie
Location of photo taken: Fort Greene Park, Brooklyn, NY 
Favorite Wellness Food/Treat: soft well bites turkey and duck. 
Does your pet have a nickname? So many! Bear, Boo, Charles, Chuckles, C…should I go on?!
What is the naughtiest / funniest thing your pet has ever done? The first thing that comes to mind is when she was a puppy and was curious about the lilies we had in our apartment. I must have left her alone for five seconds and when I came back she had gotten into the flowers and her entire face was stained yellow from the pollen! It was not easy to get off and her face was bright yellow for a couple days. 
What is the best memory you have involving your pet? The first day we brought her home. She instantly brought so much joy into our lives and continues to every single day.
What is the best thing about being a small breed dog owner? She’s small so I can take her everywhere with me!

SECOND RUNNER UP!

Odin

Photo Submitted by: Michael P.

 

Odin, “Yorkshire Terrier,” Age 2


Location of photo taken:  At home.
Favorite Wellness Food/Treat: Pure Rewards Chicken and Lamb Jerky bites
Does your pet have a nickname? Odie or Stinky
What is the naughtiest / funniest thing your pet has ever done? One time he was standing on a bench in our living room looking out the window and farted so loud he scared himself and looked around confused at what had happened!
What is the best memory you have involving your pet? Seeing my wife’s face the day we picked him up. She had a yorkie when she lived at home with her parents but he had become so bonded with her father that she couldn’t take him from him when she moved in with me. Seeing her smile and tear up when we got to bring our buddy home was certainly the best.
What is the best thing about being a small breed dog owner? Besides the easy clean up? Probably just that he can basically come anywhere with us and it isn’t a hassle. I have noticed that small breed dogs seem to have more personality than bigger dogs as well.

HONORABLE MENTION!

Smokey

Photo Submitted by: Sheila S.

Smokey, “Shihtzu/poodle mix,” Age 12 


Social handle: @smokeandsade
Location of photo taken: Lower Calf Creek Falls, Utah
Favorite Wellness Food/Treat: lamb and apple well bars, yum!
Does your pet have a nickname? Just Smokey or Smokes 
What is the naughtiest / funniest thing your pet has ever done? Smokey learned how to open the cabinet door then pulled all of the treat bags out and helped himself. Luckily I caught him before he ate too many, it was too funny though! 
What is the best memory you have involving your pet? I have so many memories since rescuing Smokey seven years ago, but all the best memories have been when we go on a new adventure. We have traveled to 35 states together and lived in four different states! He has been the best side-kick. 
What is the best thing about being a small breed dog owner? I love that Smokey loves to go hiking, swimming, or kayaking and is always up for anything, but he also will hang out, get cuddles and a belly rub if that’s what I would rather do. Plus, he’s so small, it’s easy to pack up and take him anywhere. Sometimes he even hitches a ride in my backpack if he starts to get tired.

 

Franklin

Photo Submitted by: Brittney M.

Franklin, “French Bulldog,” Age 3 

Social handle: @the_dapper_frenchie
Location of photo taken: Skinner Bark Park, Chicago, IL
Does your pet have a nickname? Little Man and Squirt
What is the naughtiest / funniest thing your pet has ever done? Frank was playing in a wading pool by himself at the dog park when a huge Great Dane came bounding over. Needless to say, Frank didn’t take well to the splashing. Frank puffed out his chest and let out his gremlin Frenchie war cry, and the Dane went running!
What is the best memory you have involving your pet? My best memory is picking him up for the first time in all of his three pounds of glory. He was the tiniest little thing, and so sweet and comfortable.
What is the best thing about being a small breed dog owner? All of the sweet snuggles and being able to take them just about anywhere!

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @wellnesspetfood from May 13th to May 18th for more Small Breed photos and information during our Small Breed Takeover!
 

Dr. Bernal Explains the Unique Nutritional Needs of Small Breed Dogs

Posted on by Above1 Support
small breed dog nutrition

Small dogs might be small in stature— but they’re mighty in their nutritional needs!

Did you know that within the last 20 years, Small Breeds have grown in popularity to now represent the majority of dogs in the USA? Whether chosen for their cuteness or perfect size to match our more urban lifestyles, many pet parents may not realise that these little guys have unique nutritional needs that need to be met. For example, did you know that a small breed actually has a higher energy need per pound than a Great Dane? They live the longest of all dog breeds and nutritionally they are more predisposed to dental disease and obesity as a direct result of what we feed them. 

So how do pet parents navigate nutrition with their Small Breed dogs?

Here are the Top 6 Nutrition Tips for Small Breed Dogs:

1. Feed a Small Breed specific diet.

Each Wellness CORE Small Breed recipe is customised with a smaller sized kibble to suit their small mouths. CORE Small Breed diets are packed with higher protein and fat levels to deliver delicious meals that contain more calories per bite to fuel their active lives.  

2. Accommodate your small breed dog’s life stage and lifestyle needs.

Some small breeds can potentially spend two thirds of their life as a senior, growing as much in their first year as we humans do over 15 years. This means that selecting an age-appropriate diet is key to a small breed’s wellbeing. For example, CORE Small Breed Puppy recipes contain guaranteed levels of DHA to make them smarter and more trainable as well as balanced vitamins and minerals for growth.

3. Monitor how much you feed.

 Whilst their energy needs are high per pound of body weight, smaller breed dogs are so small that it is very easy to overfeed them without noticing. In fact as little as an ounce of extra kibble could be as much as 20% higher calories than their recommended feeding amount, and over time contribute to unwanted weight gain.  

4. Watch their waistlines.

Building off tip #3, it’s important to watch your small breed dog’s weight. For some small breeds, just a half a pound weight gain may be a significant issue – the same as a 150 pound man gaining 20 pounds! Should you think your small breed might be carrying a little extra weight, the CORE Small Breed Healthy Weight recipe is perfectly crafted with lower fat and calories to help trim them down, with higher protein to ensure they maintain lean muscle during weight loss.

5. Maintain their dental health.

With the same number of teeth as a Great Dane small breed’s teeth are overcrowded versus bigger breeds, making them pre-disposed to dental issues. Pet parents of small breeds need to make sure that they help clean their dog’s teeth each day by brushing or giving an appropriate chew like WHIMZEES Dental Chews every day. These dental chews work to mechanically clean their teeth while they chew and are clinically proven to slow the progression of dental disease.    

6. Pick foods with variety and quality.

Lastly, look for a brand that is dedicated to delivering delicious taste in addition to high quality, protein-rich ingredients. With CORE, there is an entire small breed range of recipes committed to delighting even the fussiest small breeds. CORE gives you options such as CORE RawRev Small Breed, a kibble plus 100% freeze dried meat recipe; or one of the many CORE wet complete and balanced meals such as CORE Mini Meals or Petite Entrees that are perfectly sized as single serve.  When it comes to treats, CORE Petite Treats are 100% grain free and packed with meat protein to help reward great behaviour as well as be the perfect small breed sized treat for some healthy snacking.  

By following these customised small breed nutrition tips and tricks, you too can make sure that your small breed is getting recipes that not only taste delicious but ones that will also contain everything they need to live healthy and happy lives for a lifetime of love. To find out more details on any of these Wellness CORE recipes check out the full range of Small Breed CORE recipes at www.wellnesspetfood.com     
 

Little Dog, Big Impact: Best Friends Small Dog Adoption Story

Posted on by Above1 Support

Wellness is teaming up with Best Friends for two of their upcoming Super Adoption events! Read on to see Cashew the Chihuahua’s touching adoption story!

When Amy Loch of Los Angeles was ready to add another small dog to her family, she headed to Best Friends Animal Society’s NKLA Pet Adoption Center. 

Amy and her husband Daniel had found such joy after adopting Gremlin, a Chihuahua mix, so they were hoping for the magic to happen a second time – which didn’t take long!

“I couldn’t resist that face! With two teeth poking out and one crinkly ear, I instantly fell in love,” Amy said as her husband pointed out the tan Chihuahua. “Plus, his coat looks so similar to Gremlin’s, I thought they’d make for a funny little pair.”

Cashew

Upon meeting, the little dog made a big impact on the Loch’s. 

“I picked him up and he leaned all of his weight into me. I wrapped my arms around him, and we sat there quietly for a few moments. I just knew that he was the dog we’d be taking home,” Amy recalled. 

An hour and half later, they renamed their new dog Cashew and the Loch family trio became a quartet. Almost as quick as Amy and Daniel fell for Cashew, his new brother Gremlin quickly became a fan, too. 

Cashew & gremlin

“They’re like two peas in a pod! It genuinely feels like they’ve grown up together,” Amy said. The pair’s favorite activities are napping together in the backyard as the sun comes out and stealing each other’s beds at various points in the day.

While Amy loves dogs of all sizes, she said small dogs are their own type of special. 

“I love how silly, playful, and smart they are, and being able to hold them both at the same time!”

Csahew & gremlin 2

Bringing Cashew home has made the Lochs’ life fuller, according to Amy, and she recommends adoption to anyone looking to add a pet to their family.

“Adopting a dog means saving a life,” Amy said. “The opportunity to love another being is so rewarding, and knowing that Cashew never has to spend another night alone or scared makes me really happy.”

If you are interested in opening your home to a new family member, please see the pets available for adoption from Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. You can also adopt from one of their lifesaving centers in Los Angeles, New York, Salt Lake City, and Atlanta. Visit Best Friends to find one of their 2,600+ network shelters and rescues!

The Joys of Owning a Small Breed Dog 

Posted on by Above1 Support

Dog ownership rides the trend wave just like anything else, and today more people are choosing to own small breeds in lieu of breeds that mature into medium and large-size dogs. While all dogs are wonderful, loving and loyal, there are good things that come in small (dog) packaging!

Small Dogs Tend to Live Longer 

While our pets don’t live as long as we do, most live for well over a decade. On average, small dogs live upwards of 15 years and beyond. Your dog’s breed mix will play a role in their life expectancy, but it is nice to know that you have a few more precious years with your fun-sized baby.

Great For City Living

City living small dog

Small dogs are perfect fits for urban families living in apartments or condos or for families who have small yards. Of course, your small dog needs exercise; however, it is easier for small dogs to get that inside the home or in a small yard space.

Travel Better 

Just as small dog breeds have no problem living in small dwellings with little-to-no yard space, small dogs also travel easier whether it’s taking a stroll, a quick grocery run, going on a drive to up the coast or flying to see family far away. Small dogs fit comfortably in easy-to-carry kennels or bags that can usually be taken on a flight and fit perfectly in your car seat or shopping cart.

Small Dogs Need Less Exercise 

small dog exercise

If you’ve ever visited the park and watched the dogs, you’ve probably seen labs jogging with their owners or playing lively games of catch for lengthy periods of time. You don’t see small dogs jogging with their owners or playing for as long as their larger counterparts because they wear out faster. So, while small dogs need exercise, they don’t need as much, which makes them a great fit for pet parents that cannot participate in as much physical activity.

Easier to Clean 

Let’s be real, after a day of playing outside your pup will need a bath! Small dogs can be quickly bathed in a large basin sink or in a bathtub and toweled off with little strain, unlike their larger friends!

Small Dogs are More Affordable 

Small breeds eat less than medium and large-size dogs, which in turn means you’ll spend less money on feeding your dog. Not only that, but small dogs tend to have fewer health issues and thus, they visit the vet less frequently. 

The Perfect Snuggle Size

While most all dogs are loving and affectionate, small dogs are better lap dogs. They are more compact and can comfortably rest their whole little bodies on your lap while you work, read, nap, etc.

Small Dog snuggle

In other words, owning a small dog can be an absolute joy! There are so many small breeds and breed mixes out there, all you have to do is find the one that fits your personality!

Another way to ensure your small breed lives a long, healthy happy life is by feeding them a hearty pet food made with natural ingredients, and formulated especially for their unique nutritional needs, like those made by Wellness Pet Food.

Do you already know the joys of a small breed dog? Share a photo of your pup on social media and tag @wellnesspetfood for a chance to be featured on our website or social media pages!
 

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Topic:

즐거운 놀이와 스트레스 해소

Date:

09/05/2019

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