Wanting what’s best for your pet is second nature as a pet parent, but sometimes what we consider “good” for us is not always best when it comes to our fur baby. Whether it be feeding them the wrong fruits and vegetables or allocating a corner hangout, be in the know about what your furever friend should and shouldn’t consume.
Fruits for Fido
When it comes to giving your pet a healthy treat such as fruits or vegetables, it can be difficult to discern which ones are best for keeping them healthy. Dogs are often more eager to sample a human’s fruits and veggies than cats are, so for this portion, we’ll focus on our slobbering best friends. The following fruits and veggies are off-limits for your dog’s moderate consumption, according to the American Kennel Club: avocado, onion, garlic, grapes, cherries, tomatoes, asparagus, and mushrooms.
Another great online resource to find whether a food in question is detrimental to your dog’s health is PetWorshiper.com. Here, you can find a comprehensive list with explanations and info-graphics that detail which foods are or are not safe for dogs.
Essential Oils and Pets
Household use of essential oils has been on the rise within the last 10 years. Some people use and diffuse oils for aromatherapy and others use them for their reported purifying qualities. Whatever your personal use of essential oils may be, be sure to choose blends that are safe for cats, dogs, and other household animals. Be sure to never use the following around your pets: citrus, tea tree, clove, garlic, birch, thyme, or anise.
This is not a comprehensive list; be sure to research the specific oil or oil blend that you’re about to use before putting it into action. For more information, visit the Lifestyles blog to read more in-depth reasoning for why certain essential oils are harmful to animals.
Make Some Space
And possibly the most important piece of making your home just as cozy for your pet: set aside their own space. Most people assume that this only pertains to cats, but dogs especially love to have a designated spot to relax.
A great testament to this is the way in which wolves make themselves dens: creating a den for your pet signals to other animals that the surrounding area off-limits. Giving your dog (or cat, too) their own bed, crate, or corner gives them a private space to relax and shake off the overwhelming stress of being a house dog. Making sure your pet has their own area within your home is the best way to make sure that they stay happy with their ruff life.
If you have any questions or concerns about your pet, consult your veterinarian to ensure your pet’s health and happiness.
