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How to Get Involved with Your Local Animal Shelter

Posted on by Above1 Support

Alicia is responsible for front office operations at WellPet, ensuring excellent customer service to visitors and employees, and is a corporate culture advocate. Here, she talks about her passion for volunteering at pet rescues and shares some helpful tips for those who are interested in helping animals but might not know where to start.

Why do I volunteer?

 Growing up, my family frequented the MSPCA at Nevins Farm in Methuen, MA to make donations of treats and newspapers – with the added benefit of being able to cuddle the animals available for adoption.  For a place that provided me with such joy, it only made sense for me to give back to their shelter.  I now volunteer at 3 local shelters (MSPCA at Nevins Farm, Salem Animal Rescue League and Lowell Humane Society) that provide a welcoming environment to small and large animals alike while they are waiting to find their forever home.    

alicia with puppy

What I do:

I am part of the outreach teams at these three shelters and assist at on-site and community events.  Goals of the outreach teams are to educate the public about the shelters, raise much-needed funds, and to find homes for the animals.   It always brings me happiness to watch someone interact with an animal for the first time and to see them leave the shelter with a new family member. There tends to be a stigma that an animal at a shelter has something “wrong” with it, but there are many reasons why an animal is placed at a shelter including the owner’s financial issues, a change in family dynamics, or a move that doesn’t allow pets.

alicia with goat

How do you get involved?

Most shelters are actively looking for volunteers! Help is always needed for a wide-range of tasks. From doing laundry to caring for barn animals – the shelter teams are willing to invest the time in properly training volunteers at any skill level.  Volunteers usually go through an application background check, attend orientation and then begin training from a mentor at the facility. There’s generally an age requirement for certain tasks, but most shelters will welcome any assistance you can provide. One misconception is that you need abundant free time to volunteer – but shelters are generally willing to work with your schedule and availability to find a fit that works for you. Many shelters offer children’s programming as an introduction of how to care for the animals and fundraising opportunities.

WellPet works closely with many animal rescue and shelters throughout the United States. We encourage you to reach out to your local facilities that are looking for volunteers. 

Get to Know Wellness Natural Pet Food Veterinarian, Dr. Danielle Bernal

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We’re excited to formally introduce you to Wellness Natural Pet Food veterinarian, Dr. Danielle Bernal. Dr. Danielle travels across the United States and other countries where Wellness is sold. In each place she visits, she educates pet parents on the role that premium, natural nutrition plays in pets’ health and longevity.

We were able to catch up with Dr. Danielle for an interview. Keep reading to get to know Dr. Danielle:

Q. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I grew up in Sydney, Australia on a hobby farm with a backyard full of pets. Having always wanted to be a veterinarian, I completed my Bachelor of Veterinary Science degree at the University of Sydney before working at an equine and small animal clinic. I absolutely adored the life of a veterinarian. Each day was different with unique challenges. Whilst it could be exhausting, it was also so very rewarding.

My role at WellPet is to educate our customers, consumers and internal sales and marketing teams about the importance of natural pet nutrition and how our WellPet brands are crafted to support the optimal health and wellbeing of dogs and cats around the world. When I am not helping WellPet customers choose the best products for their pets, I am often found on the sidelines of my 3 young boys’ sporting activities be that surfing, track and field, swimming or football. And my husband and I adore travelling, triathlons and taking our Border Collie Megs down to the dog park at the beach.

Q. What inspired you to become a veterinarian?

I adored animals growing up and would spend every waking minute down the back of the farm either teaching my dogs new tricks or preparing my horses for our next competition. A life with animals meant there was usually a veterinarian on our property. Whether it was for my horse who decided to go through the three rails of our wooden paddock fence in the middle of the night, or to check in on our newborn calf, these vets were my inspiration. I would ride along with them any chance I could get and saw how a passion could become a fabulous career. I knew this was what I wanted to pursue for myself.

Q. How do you personally see nutrition play a role in overall health and longevity of pets?

Nutrition is so fundamental to overall health. A pet’s genetics and the environment are key contributors to their health and wellbeing, but when we combine great care with top nutrition, the benefits for a dog or cat are significant.

Studies have shown that nutrition can help increase a pet’s lifespan by up to 25%. But moreover, pet parents often remark that their pet’s quality of life is better since transitioning to a premium, natural brand. The improvement in quality of life is evidenced in many ways, whether it’s with more energy and enthusiasm, ideal body condition, a soft, shiny coat or better digestion.

Pets are a key part of our family and giving them the best nutrition is a way of making sure they are healthy and happier for longer.

Q. How can pet parents work more closely with their veterinarians to ensure pets are getting the best nutrition for their needs?

Your local veterinarian is the perfect partner for helping advise you on the best nutrition for your dog or cat.  As part of an annual check-up, your veterinarian will assess your pet’s general health, weight, mobility, teeth and review issues they are experiencing. With this background, your vet can recommend the right recipe to either help support health issues or ensure that a pet in great health stays that way.

Q. What’s one of the most common questions you get from pet parents?

The number one question by far is, “Am I feeding the best option for my pet?” There are so many brands available today and pet parents can easily be confused, but we always want to feed the best we can. That’s why teaching pet parents about pet nutrition and helping them choose a diet is an important part of my role.

Q. Can you share a wacky or especially memorable story of a pet that came to see you?

Clinic life was often wacky! One morning I came into work to find a large, wild, western grey kangaroo sitting on the consult table with a broken leg. Over the next few weeks he fast became the clinic’s favourite patient. Another day, an adorable 5-year-old brought in her goldfish because one of his fins was longer than the other. But one of my favorites was caring for the most adorable Jack Russell who had a very unfortunate encounter with a dog far larger than him. Poor Ted needed three surgeries over the next few months, and it was truly that little fellas heart of gold that got him through the toughest time of his life and brought him back to his old self!

Q. What are some of the differences between pet parents and pets in Australia vs. in the United States?

Not much at all. One of the privileges of my role is that I get to travel all around the world talking with pet parents. All of them have the same love and desire to give their dog or cat the best. They have the same health concerns, from dental issues to skin sensitivities.

The cat parents all remark on how fussy their cats are and how they’ll only eat a certain flavor. And globally, dog parents are choosing smaller breeds with an increasing number of millennials becoming pet parents.

Q. What do you like most about working at Wellness Natural Pet Food?

Pet passionate colleagues. There will be challenges sometimes, but when you have the best colleagues to work with who are all dedicated to supporting the health and wellbeing of dogs and cats, it makes our workplace so enjoyable and means that I can truly say, I love what I do.

What is AAFCO?

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At Wellness, we hold ourselves to the strictest quality standards when it comes to sourcing our ingredients, manufacturing our foods and labeling or our products. As we strive to exceed the expectations of the industry and craft the best natural food for our pets, we look to AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) to guide our decision-making when it comes to formulating and labeling our products.

What is AAFCO?

AAFCO is a non-profit association of local, state, federal and international regulators whose primary goal is to ensure the health of our pets through nutritional standards and non-misleading labeling of pet food. AAFCO advises pet food manufacturers and state legislators on the appropriate nutritional values needed to support animals at different life stages (ex. growth, gestation/lactation, adulthood) and how to present nutritional information on product labels.

As an advisory association, AAFCO does not actively regulate pet food products. Instead, regulation is the responsibility of individual states. As a trusted source in the industry, AAFCO guidelines are followed by pet food manufacturers and adopted as regulation in most states.

AAFCO consistently revises their guidelines based on the latest research in pet nutrition to best support the health and wellbeing of our pets.  Recently, AAFCO made the following changes to their dog food guidelines.

In addition to formulating our recipes with our strict standards, we have updated our products to ensure they are all AAFCO compliant:

  • Optimal Calcium Level has been defined for Large Breed Puppies (puppies who will be 70lbs+ as an adult). AAFCO now recommends including on the label, with nutritional information, whether the product meets the levels of calcium recommended for the growth of large breed puppies.
  • The recommended daily amount of Vitamin D has been reduced. AAFCO has recommended that any dog foods that exceed this amount be reformulated to meet the new standard.
  • DHA is now recognized as an essential nutrient for the growth of puppies, so any product that is formulated for puppies should include DHA and report the DHA level in the Guaranteed Analysis on the product label.
  • Recommended daily calorie intake has been refined. 
  • AAFCO recommends that nutritional information indicates for what life stage(s) the food is intended (growth, maintenance (adulthood), or gestation/lactation). You are now required to specify if your product includes or excludes the growth of large size dogs.
  • Calorie Content is now required on all forms of pet food – previously it was not required for mixers, toppers and treats.
     

 

 

wellness CORE pet food

AAFCO guidelines as a whole help define which pet foods are “complete & balanced” versus “intended for supplemental feeding only”. “Complete & Balanced” products are those that meet all of the daily calorie and nutrient requirements of your pet and can therefore be fed alone without concern for nutrient deficiencies. Foods that are “intended for supplemental feeding only” – such as treats and toppers – do not contain all of the nutrients that your pet needs for optimal health and therefore must be fed along with other foods to ensure your pet gets all of the calories and nutrients that they need.

To learn more about impacted Wellness wet dog products, click here.

Do you have any questions about AAFCO or a product you’re currently feeding? We’d be happy to talk. You can reach one of our knowledgeable Consumer Affairs team members Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm ET at 800.225.0904 or email us at info@wellpet.com

How Pet Ownership Teaches Kids Responsibility

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National Kids and Pets Day is on April 26th. It’s both a day to celebrate the bond children and pets share but also a day to remember safety where our pets and children are concerned. 

It is important to remember that small children as well as pets may not know their limitations and should not be left alone. Supervision is essential to prevent injury. 

 

Check out our 5 tips on how pets can teach responsibility: 

 

1. Chores teach responsibility. Giving your children age appropriate tasks for your four legged family member helps build their self-confidence and is a perfect opportunity to reinforce their independence.  As parents, we know enthusiasm can dwindle when it comes to any chore so don’t be afraid to pull out the sticker chart to help!  

joaquin walk

2. Live an active life. Walking a dog is a fabulous hands-on experience for kids who love pets. With parental accompaniment to ensure their safety, a daily walk can be a rewarding time together with the added benefit of getting some fresh air and exercise for the whole family.

3. Companionship beyond the physical. Pets can fulfill so many psychological needs for children. The unconditional love and affection that pets give children not only boosts their self-esteem but it also helps them make emotional connections of their own. Studies of school-age children in fact have shown those with a pet, tended to be more empathetic and altruistic than those children without a pet, making dogs the perfect teachers of kindness.

Federico

4. Understanding the world. Having children care for pets provides the opportunity to discuss emotions that children often struggle to understand such as growth, accidents and death. Children often surprise us with their resilience but for most kids, the loss of a pet is often their first encounter with death and can be a devastating heartache. Discussing these moments with them helps them not only process the grief but also teaches them emotional skills far greater than their age.   

5. Teaching dog safety. Pets are treasured members of our families and having a pet can teach a child respect by knowing how to treat their own dog and with parental help, this can then be further built on to ensure kids on how to approach strange dogs safely, read their body language and how to behave around pets to ensure safety at all times. 

Alejandro Vet

Help kids and pets learn to be good partners to each other. Use #NationalKidsAndPetsDay and #WellnessPetFood to post on your social media.

5 Ways to Celebrate Earth Day with Your Pets

Posted on by Above1 Support

 Earth Day Tips provided by Wellness Natural Pet Food Partner, TerraCycle.TerraCycle is an innovative recycling company that has become a global leader in recycling hard-to-recycle waste. Wellness Natural Pet Food is the first U.S.-based pet food brand to make its packaging nationally recyclable through a partnership with TerraCycle. So far, the partnership has resulted in 70,000 pet food bags diverted from landfills.

Each year on April 22 the world celebrates Earth Day, a tradition started in 1970 to honor the Earth. During this annual event, people plant trees, take nature walks, host and attend festivals and partake in other activities geared towards raising awareness and support for environmental protection. 

For pet owners, making an effort to improve the health of the earth on this day (and year-round) is easier than ever. 

Here are five ways pet-owners can not only reduce their impacts, but make a positive contribution this Earth Day, and beyond.

Choose biodegradable waste bags:

If you take your pet for a walk (and you’re a responsible pet owner), it is likely that you are carrying a roll of ‘baggies’ to curb your pet and properly dispose of their waste. While your neighbors applaud you, these plastic bags contribute to landfills and take around 400 years to break down. Thankfully, biodegradable and compostable versions of these bags are now available at most grocery and pet stores.

Recycle pet food containers:

People-food packaging will sometimes bear information on their label signifying whether or not it can be recycled curbside; many pet food containers have this messaging, as well. When possible, buy pet food packaged in containers that can be recycled. Aluminum cans and rigid plastic containers are recyclable through many curbside programs, and all Wellness dry food flexible plastic packaging  can be easily recycled through its free TerraCycle program.  

Donate to shelters:

Do you have old towels, sheets, pillows and cases, or worn-out clothes you’ve been meaning to get rid of? There are millions of shelter pets around the country that could use these items in their kennels. Plus, many pet shelters and adoption centers are non-profit and appreciate these donations to help clean and care for the animals. It’s a win-win: you keep these items out of landfills and make someone’s future buddy’s day.

Plant a plant:

Many people celebrate Earth Day by planting a tree. Carry on this tradition by planting pet-friendly plants in your yard. Perhaps your cat would like a catnip plant. Parsley is great for dogs (and humans!) to eat, as are carrots. If space is limited (or you just prefer the ready-made variety), check out Wellness Treats that have these same natural ingredients. 

Get out in nature:

The easiest way to commemorate Earth Day? Just get out in nature, and take your furry companions with you! Skip the car ride (and carbon emissions) by leashing up. And while you’re out there in the fresh air, make a special effort to clean up while you’re visiting. Heading to the beach or woods? Pick up trash you see on the trail. It only takes a few extra moments to do this kind of good deed for the Earth, and you might be surprised to find that others might see your efforts and be inspired to do a cleanup of their own.

Everything You Need to Know About Lyme Disease in Dogs

Posted on by Above1 Support
lyme disease dogs cover photo

Lyme disease is the most common tick-transmitted disease. The effects of this bacterial infection has varying degrees of severity and can lead to major health problems including kidney failure and death. Keep your dog safe by learning what Lyme disease is, the signs and symptoms of it, how to treat it, and when and where it’s most likely to strike.

What is Lyme Diease?

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted to dogs, horses, some cattle, humans, white-tailed deer, and some rodent species via blacklegged ticks, a particularly small, almost impossible-to-see breed of tick.

Where is Lyme Disease Most Common?

The disease occurs all over the world but was named after Lyme, Connecticut following a tremendous outbreak in the eponymous location in 1975. It is still common in this part of the U.S. According to the CDC, 95% of all confirmed Lyme disease cases stemmed from 14 states:

  • Connecticut
  • Delaware
  • Maine
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Minnesota
  • New Hampshire
  • New Jersey
  • New York
  • Pennsylvania
  • Rhode Island
  • Vermont
  • Virginia
  • Wisconsin

Confirmed cases have also been reported in Northern California, Oregon, and Washington. When a host is bitten by an infected tick, the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi infiltrates the tissue and can cause multiple health problems. Infection does not enter the blood stream until after the infected tick has been attached to the dog for at least 24-36 hours.

What are the Signs & Symptoms of Lyme Disease?

Lyme Disease dog

While it is easy to detect Lyme disease in humans because of the circular red skin rash that appears, it is less detectible in dogs who do not get a rash. What is more, a dog can be infected for two-to-five months before the infection presents signs and symptoms, which include but are not limited to:

  • Lameness (one of the earlier signs)
  • Arthritis
  • Joint pain and swelling (knees and elbows are typically the most affected) 
  • Fever
  • Poor appetite
  • Dehydration
  • Inactivity
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Sensitivity to touch
  • Depression

Joint pain and swelling (knees and elbows are typically the most affected) 
In rare cases, heart abnormalities and nervous system complications have also been reported. The disease can be difficult to diagnoses as many of the symptoms will present and then appear to resolve. Additionally, these symptoms often mimic the signs of other diseases.

Onset of the disease typically occurs between May and August with the peak months being June and July. Conditions like warmer temperatures, higher humidity, and less rain can cause the season to start sooner. 

woman running with dog

How is Lyme Disease Treated & Prevented?

After Lyme disease was named, the number of reported cases increased dramatically around the world; however, in recent years, the numbers of cases are dropping in some states—particularly those where Lyme disease is a known issue. This is most likely due to increased awareness about the disease as well as proven prevention and treatment options.
For pet owners who live in areas where Lyme disease is prevalent, there are tick-preventative products and vaccination options available through your veterinarian. Your vet will evaluate your dog’s age, overall health, lifestyle, and likelihood of contracting Lyme disease when deciding if a preventative is right for your dog.

Other actions you can take to prevent your pet from getting Lyme disease are:

  • Keeping the lawn trim / mowed
  • Clearing shrubs next to your property
  • Avoiding leaf piles, tall grass, wooded areas, and marshes where ticks tend to gather
  • Search your dog for ticks every day. Check and remove any pests by hand. Use fine-point tweezers to grab the tick as close to your dog’s skin as possible. Gently pull the tick straight up to remove it. You want to avoid tearing the tick as that could lead to wound infection.
  • Explore tick repellent collars, sprays, and other topical options. This could be helpful if being in wooded areas is unavoidable for you and your dog

In the event your dog does get infected, you will need to see a veterinarian for treatment. The vet will provide an antibiotic such as doxycycline. Anti-inflammatories are also helpful for dogs with swelling and arthritic pain. Note that treatment, while effective, does not eliminate the infection, so symptoms may reappear. Kidney disease and other serious negative outcomes are always a potential risk following an infection.

dog lyme disease veterinarian
Note, too, that if your dog is infected that Lyme disease is a reportable disease, which means that its occurrence must be reported to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Reportable diseases are considered to be issues of great health importance. Monitoring these diseases enables researchers and health care professionals to take action and to remain abreast of potential epidemics. 

When it comes to your pet’s health, knowledge is power. Knowing about how to prevent dangerous disease like Lyme disease is one form of power. Another is knowing that a healthy, all-natural diet like those provided by Wellness Pet Food will help your dog live a longer, happier, more energized life. 

DIY: What Every Pet First Aid Kit Needs to Have

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diy pet first aid kit blog cover photo

Pet first aid kits are essential for every pet owner to have. Access to the right supplies when a crisis strikes can save your pet’s life. Learn what a pet first aid kit is, why you should have one, and where you should keep it.

What Is a Pet First Aid Kit?

A pet first aid kit is a collection of materials useful in a medical emergency. These resources are helpful for minimizing the effects of an incident before you seek professional medical help from your veterinarian or emergency vet.

What Your Pet First Aid Kit Should Have in It & How to DIY a Pet First Aid Kit

While pet first aid kits come pre-assembled, the benefit of building your own is that you know exactly what is in it and where the items are.

You can easily create a DIY pet first aid kit

Step 1: Gather the materials every pet first aid kit needs.

  • Paperwork & records such as your pet’s ID card with your name and address, the veterinarian’s number, the emergency vet clinic’s number, and the number for animal poison control (888-426-4435), a copy of your pet’s medical history, and list of vaccinations with dates
  • Remedies such as medications, flea treatments, sterile saline eye wash, dish soap for removing toxins from the skin and fur, milk of magnesia for absorbing poison, and hydrogen peroxide (3%) to induce vomiting (note to contact the vet or poison control center before inducing vomiting or administering treatment for poisoning with milk of magnesia)

diy pet first aid kit

  • Wound supplies like wound spray, Q-tips, gauze bandage, nonstick bandages, adhesive tape for bandages, wipes, and a Ziploc bag
  • Tools like a flashlight and tweezers, an emergency muzzle (nylon hosiery works well), a nylon leash, eye dropper for flushing wounds or giving oral medication, digital thermometer, and scissors for cutting tape
  • It also doesn’t hurt to have treats on hand or as part of the kit to soothe a pet that has been traumatized by a situation that requires emergency medical attention (provided your pet is okay and can eat).

Step 2: Package the materials in an easy-to-grab-and-go clear tackle box.

This enables you to keep the supplies organized, to see what you are out of or are missing, and to get materials faster when you need them.

Step 3: Place labels over each section of the tackle box. 

When there is a crisis, time is often of the essence.

pet getting bandage

Step 4: Store the box in a handy location

You may choose a cabinet where you keep other pet supplies. It does not hurt to have a separate DIY kit for the car as most materials are low-cost and can—as noted—make a huge difference in an emergency. 

Having the right materials on hand can be the difference between life or death for your pet, so if you don’t already have one, make a pet first aid kit now.

husky dog with bandage on nose
Pet first aid can save animal lives, and so can good nutrition. A balanced diet of natural ingredients like those made at Wellness Pet Food help to ensure a longer, healthier, and happier life for your pet.

6 Proven Breed Stereotypes from a Professed Siamese Cat Fanatic

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Maria is a graphic designer at WellPet. When she isn’t working and cuddling with her Siamese Mogwaii, you can most likely find her at a concert or local Pure Barre studio.

1. They’re one of the oldest and most recognizable cat breeds.

Breed variations include Blue, Chocolate and Lilac Siamese cats. Mogwaii is a Lilac Point Siamese. The gene that causes the pointed color pattern is all responsible for the blue color of the eyes that is one of the characteristics that makes Siamese different than other breeds.

Siamese Cat Lilac Point

Look at those lovely lilac ears!

2. They love to talk!

Known as total chatterboxes (for good reason), Siamese cats are known to strike up conversations over just about anything! In fact, their long, drawn-out meows sometimes sound like a human baby’s cry. Here, Mogwaii’s letting me know that he wasn’t pleased about his recent trip to the veterinarian:

3. They’re needy.

Well isn’t this the truth! Mogwaii gets pretty creative in telling me that I’m ignoring him by knocking all my stuff down and unplugging my laptop:

4. They’re affectionate, friendly, loyal and bold.

From sleeping in bed with me each night, to snuggling on the couch at the end of a long day, there’s never a time I’m home when Mogwaii isn’t right by my side.

Affectionate Siamese Cat

5. They crave companionship.

True to what the professionals say, I’ve experienced that Siamese cats form extremely close bonds with their primary caretaker–in this case, me! Mogwaii will follow me from room to room and needs to be involved in anything and everything I’m doing.

Siamese cat looking at computer screen

Mogwaii is assisting and keeping me company while I work.

6. They’re smarty-pants.

Siamese cats are known for their intelligence; they are highly trainable. Their behavior is described as being more dog-like than cat-like. Unfortunately, Siamese cats are prone to asthma and bronchial illnesses. True to his breed, Mogwaii has been diagnosed with asthma. We treat his asthma using an inhaler with a special attachment for kitties. Since he’s so smart, we’re able to train him to sit for his inhaler which we follow up with Wellness Kittles–his favorite treat!

Although every cat is different in personality, we couldn’t help but highlight some of the quirky “cat-eristics” that make Siamese cats so special! Happy National Siamese Cat Day!

Top 10 Pet Instagram Accounts of 2018

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10. @zammypup (instagram.com/zammypup)

Our #10 spot goes to Instagram’s biggest teddy bear: Zammy! Hugs are always on the menu with this pup around. Zammy even visits children’s hospitals where he spreads his good boy cheer as a therapy dog. If you’re ever in need of some Vitamin Z, get a big ol’ virtual hug from Zammy and he’ll fix you right up!

 

9. @the_island_dog (instagram.com/the_island_dog)

Our #9 spot goes to Instagram’s most spoiled pups: Santo & Marla! These two raw fed pups are living the good boy life in paradise and making everybody and their uncle heckin jealous! They’ve got pictures of pups at tropical beaches, tropical beaches with pups, pups on tropical beaches, and oh did I mention tropical beaches?? If you ever wanted to live vicariously through an account, this is the one!

german shepherds

8. @k9_jester (instagram.com/k9_jester)

Our #8 spot goes to Instagram’s most loved police K-9: Jester! Ever wondered what life is like for the good boys in blue? Well throw this pup a follow and you’ll find out! Although he’s a pup of many tricks, his hat trick is tricked out hats! Oh and just a quick PSA, stay on the straight and narrow or you’ll meet Jester under very different and unpleasant circumstances!

k9 jeste

7. @lacorgi (instagram.com/lacorgi)

Our #7 spot goes to Instagram’s most adorable loaf of bread: Geordi! If you’re looking for a personal trainer or booty model, look no further than this pup! Careful though if you and your gf ever run into Geordi in spin class. He may not be 6 foot, but he will steal your girl! 

geordi leg lift

 

6. @my_aussie_gal (instagram.com/my_aussie_gal)

Our #6 spot goes to Instagram’s most well trained pup: Secret! Ever wanted to see a dog do yoga, ski a hill on a sled, or dance to an Irish folk tune? Well you’re in luck ’cause this pup does it all! It’s no secret that Secret’s destined for stardom!

doga secret

5. @mayapolarbear (instagram.com/mayapolarbear)

Our #5 spot goes to Instagram’s most happy cloud: Maya! She loves trying new foods, makeup tutorials, and borking out a good howl! Although Samoyed accounts are few and far between on Instagram, she’s quickly changing that. According to many eyewitness accounts, every viewer who’s ever scrolled through Maya’s page immediately googles “WHERE CAN I GET MY PAWS ON A SAMOYED??”

maya polar bear

4. @thehuskyjoey (instagram.com/thehuskyjoey)

Our #4 spot goes to Instagram’s most photogenic husky: Joey! This pup is never shy of the camera! Her stoic poses and gripping gaze will leave you breathless as if she’s staring into your soul and judging every bad decision you’ve ever made. If she were a hooman, she’d be Beyonce.

the husky joey

3. @wat.ki (instagram.com/wat.ki)

Our #3 spot goes to Instagram’s most adorable pet family: Watson, Kiko, Harry, and London! What started off with just one pup quickly led to another dog, a cat, and now a hedgehog with each member having their own signature trait. Watson loves trust falls, Kiko loves hugs, Harry loves snuggles, and London just loves to look sharp. With all these animals under one woof, you could say it’s a full house!

gif wat ki

2. @henrythecoloradodog (instagram.com/henrythecoloradodog)

Our #2 spot goes to Instagram’s most famous adventure duo: Henry and Baloo! Coming from humble beginnings, Henry and Baloo are both rescues and when they left the pound they never looked back. The two have been climbing mountains and camping under the stars as a team ever since! Henry and Baloo have stolen so many hearts that it ought to be a crime!

henry colorado dog

1. @sukiicat (instagram.com/sukiicat)

Our #1 spot goes to Instagram’s most famous adventure cat: Suki! With an abnormal obsession for water, long hikes, and road trips she’s not your average bengal cat. She’s hiked mountains, forged streams, explored forests, and wandered deserts. You name it, she’s done it. And her fashion game is just as strong. Whether it’s a norwegian sweater or wool blanket, this cat hits the trail with style. By combining beautiful photography with an equally beautiful jungle cat, Suki is surely bound for big things! Ain’t no mountain high enough for this adventure kitty!

sukki cat

 

DISCLAIMER: These accounts are in no way affiliated with Wellness Natural Pet Food. 

A Veterinarian’s Top 5 Easter Hazards for Pets

Posted on by Above1 Support
easter dog

Spring is here and nothing is more wonderful than the warmer weather, amazing flower blooms, open grass fields, trips to the park, long blissful walks and runs, and Easter! There is just something about Easter that brings a sense of warmth, color, and vibrancy to the air. I love the bright color decorations, the beautiful spring colored décor, and of course all the flowers. As a small animal veterinarian, I know too well how much our beloved pets love the outdoors and holiday festivities. As pet parents, it is so important to be aware of which flowers are safe and which ones can be toxic for your pets, as well as other potential dangers associated with Easter. As the holiday approaches, I wanted to discuss the dangers of Easter for our pets and how we can protect them. Let’s get started:

Easter Lilies:

Easter lilies
Lilies from the Lilium or Hemerocallis plant are toxic for cats. Easter lilies belong in this family and are a common decoration during the holiday season and on sale in every store. Easter lilies are a threat to your cat and can be fatal if ingested. All aspects of the flower (petals, stems, leaves, and pollen) have the potential to harm your cat. The toxic effects of Easter lilies result in severe gastrointestinal upset, but if left untreated can result in kidney failure and death.  Although Easter lilies are the most common type of lilies during this time of year, other lilies that are also toxic to your pets are tiger lilies, rubrum lilies, Asiatic hybrid lilies, Japanese show lilies, Stargazer lilies, Red lilies, Western lilies, Wood lilies
What are the signs and symptoms of Easter lily Toxicity?
Within 2 to 4 hour of ingestion the most common clinical signs are:

  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy
  • Drooling
  • Within 24 to 48 hours if ingestion the most common clinical signs are:
  • Anorexia
  • Hiding
  • Increased drinking and urinating
  • Halitosis
  • Painful abdomen
  • If toxicity progresses to end stage renal failure, decreased or stop urinating

Time is of the essence in treating Easter lily toxicity. If you believe your cat has digested an Easter Lily, please seek veterinary care immediately.

Chocolate:


Chocolate contains two ingredients that are toxic in large quantities: theobromide and caffeine. Different types of chocolate contain different amounts of theobromide and caffeine; therefore, the amount and the type of chocolate your pet eats play a role in its toxic effects. Toxic doses of theobromine (the active ingredient in chocolate that is toxic) are 9 mg per pound of dog for mild signs, and up to 18 mg per pound of dog for severe signs. Milk chocolate contains 44 mg per ounce of theobromine while semisweet chocolate contains 150 mg per ounce. Baking chocolate contains the most at 390 mg per ounce.
What are the clinical signs of chocolate toxicity:

  • Diarrhea/vomiting from the high-fat content in the chocolate
  • Restlessness
  • Hyperactivity
  • Muscle twitching, tremors
  • Increased drinking and urination
  • Excessive panting
  • Irritability
  • Increased heart rate and abnormal heart rhythm
  • In extreme situations, seizures, collapse, and even death can occur.

If your dog or cat has ingested chocolate, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. Many times we can assess on the phone how much they ingested, and assure you it is not enough to cause a toxicity. However, if your pup did ingest chocolate, we can initiate treatment immediately by inducing vomiting, administering IV fluids, and monitoring during hospitalization.

Xylitol:

 
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener used in many sugar-free gums, candies, baked goods, and mouth washes.  When your pet ingests xylitol or xylitol containing products, it causes a rapid release of the hormone insulin, resulting in a sudden decrease in the blood glucose.
What are the clinical signs of xylitol toxicity:

  • Lethargy
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of coordination
  • Collapse
  • Seizures
  • Severe cases, liver failure

Be aware of any candies or foods that may contain xylitol and keep them far out of the reach of your pet. If your dog or cat has ingested xylitol, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.

Easter Decorations:

Easter-basket
Easter Basket Fillers- plastic Easter grass, plastic eggs, foil wrapping, and toys are very enticing for pets.  These decorations, if ingested in large quantities, can result in serious health problems such as mechanical obstruction, gastroenteritis (upset belly), and pancreatitis. I have performed emergency surgeries on many pets that have ingested these materials.  Make sure to keep the Easter baskets and decorations far out of reach of your pets.

Fatty Foods


It is the holiday and hosting parties with friends and family are always a big part of the festivities.  Be careful with allowing your pet to eat the Easter delights. This is a common time of year where I evaluate many fur babies at my animal hospital for an upset belly. Fatty foods that are often served during Easter festivities, such as ham and lamb, can cause problems ranging from stomach upset to more serious illnesses such as pancreatitis, resulting in pain, vomiting, and dehydration.
There is no need for your pets to feel left out. Let them indulge on Easter! I tell all my pet parents to have treats and food easily accessible during the holiday festivities and spoil your pets rotten. I absolutely love and trust Wellness CORE and it is what feed my own dog. Wellness CORE is a balanced diet that is grain free, contains all the highest quality ingredients, added supplements (omega 3 fatty acids, and glucosamine), and higher protein for lean body mass and muscle tone.
Spring is the best time of year and Easter is such a wonderful holiday. I hope this article is helpful in informing my pet parents of the dangers of pet Easter toxicities lilies and helps you to enjoy the holiday to its fullest. As always, your pets overall health and well being is my top priority. Knowledge of the dangers of Easter hazards and prevention is key to keeping your pet safe. Happy Easter!

About This Page

Pet Type:

CAT DOG

Topic:

Pet Safety

Date:

26/03/2018

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