Give your dog an enrichment toy to keep their mind occupied during fireworks season. Enrichment toys present a challenge (like a puzzle) that give your dog something less stressful (and positive) to focus on besides the loud noise. Some options include:
Extend the Chew Time of a Bully Stick
The West Paw Quizl is designed to hold a bully stick for the toughest chewers – adding an extra mental challenge and extending chew time! They’re also perfect for carrot sticks, collagen sticks, and (dog-safe) peanut butter! Quizl’s are also:
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Methylsulfonylmethane, or MSM, enhances joint health & can also help with these six ailments:
We met Kai at Sean Casey Rescue Center in Brooklyn, NY when he was one. He melted our hearts as he bunny hopped down the block with excitement.
Kai’s favorite game is hide and seek. When he is able to find us he starts wagging his tail so hard his whole bottom half shakes.
Kai loves car rides. He even tries to jump into open cars that aren’t his.
Kai is a sock thief. He likes to look you in the eye as he steals socks out of the room and then mischievously prances away.
Breed: Some breeds (such as pitties and shepherds) are known for their jaw strength, while other breeds like collies and terriers) are known for their ability to problem-solve. Is your dog craving a tough chew to gnaw on, or simply needs a chew to keep their mind occupied?
Age: Teething puppies need a slightly softer chew to help soothe sore gums. Similarly, senior dogs may need softer chews for aging teeth.
Size: Regardless of age and breed, dog size/weight plays a crucial role in choosing any toy or chew. Any chew that is too small for your dog poses a potential choking hazard, so if you’re unsure of which size is best, always size up!
Extreme: For the toughest chewers, Benebones offer a wide array of sizes and flavors in a long-lasting ergonomically-shaped toy.
Destructive: Look for durable rubber chew toys (like Kong or West Paw) or strong natural chews such as elk antlers and buffalo horns.
Picky: Aromatic chews–like bully sticks and pig ears–appeal more to dogs that prefer a tasty chewy treat over a tough bone-type chew.
Clever: If your dog enjoys a good puzzle, look for rubber toys or natural chew options that allow you to stuff with your own filling. Classic Kong toys are a great entry point for this, or for something more challenging, try the West Paw Toppl. Take it to the next level by putting the filled toy in the freezer for a longer-lasting treat.
Quick: For a chew that will keep your pup busy for a short sitting, look for natural digestible chews composed of dehydrated skin, tendon, and cartilage. These include body parts like duck feet, pig ears, and bully sticks.
Longer: For something that will last longer than a single sitting, try a stuffed marrow bone or Kong toy, a split elk antler, or a water buffalo horn. Himalayan yak milk chews are another option for longer-lasting digestible chews.
Longest: While chew duration is relative to the size and strength of your dog, some of the longest lasting options available are raw recreational bones, elk antlers, and Benebones.
Chew toys and treats that work for one dog may not work for another dog. While these recommendations are intended to assist your purchase decisions, accidents happen and there is risk associated with dog chews of any kind.
*No toy or chew is indestructible. All chews should be fed under supervision only.*
As we prepare to do a big store inventory, we’re having a Red, White, and Toy Sale! Buy any 2 toys and get 1 FREE until Sunday 6/6!
Our pet’s health wellbeing starts with quality nutrition. However, many people fear that changing their pet’s diet will cause digestive upset. After all, no one wants to clean up after a pet with an upset stomach! Therefore, a smooth pet food transition is key to ensuring optimal digestion. In this blog, we will share valuable insights on how to navigate the transition and avoid digestive upset.
Every pet is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to transitioning their food. The key is to adopt the “start low and go slow” strategy.
A common mistake is to wait until the pet food bag is empty before purchasing their new food. However, abrupt changes in the diet are likely to upset your dog or cat’s stomach.
Instead, we highly suggest planning for a gradual transition period lasting 10-14 days. This means to begin the introduction of new food while you still have 7-10 days’ worth of old food left. This timeframe allows your pet’s digestive system to adjust to the new food gradually. By taking it slow, you can minimize the chances of digestive upset and other discomforts.
Another common misconception is that a 50/50 mix of old food and new food is appropriate to start. While some pets may acclimate well to this type of transition, many will not. Instead, most pets do well with a 20-25% mixture of new food to 75-80% old food. This smaller increment will allow your pet’s digestive system to better adjust to the new food.
From here, gradually increase the fraction of new food and decrease the old food over the course of 10-14 days, pausing for 2-3 days at each new ratio. Here is an example:
Cats are likely to refuse a new food without a slow introduction.
It’s important to note that this example may not work for every pet. Pets with a sensitive digestive system, for example, may need to start with as little as 10% new food, or pause for longer intervals between each step. Our team can hep guide you throughout your transition.
During the transition, it’s essential to keep a close eye on your pet’s reactions and adjust accordingly. If you notice any signs of mild digestive upset, don’t panic. Simply reduce the amount of new food slightly and proceed at a slower pace. Additionally, incorporating probiotics or digestive enzymes, such as goat milk or bone broth, can provide beneficial gut support and aid in easing the transition.
Why is a gradual transition important? Rapid switches in diet can shock your pet’s digestive system, leading to gastrointestinal distress. In some animals (especially cats) a rapid transition can also create food aversion. By allowing time for adaptation, you give your pet’s gut the opportunity to adjust to the new food’s ingredients and nutrient composition. This approach promotes a smoother transition and reduces the likelihood of stomach upset, diarrhea, or other digestive issues.
When it comes to transitioning your pet’s food, patience and attentiveness are key. By following the “start low and go slow” method, observing your pet’s reactions, and making adjustments as needed, you can help them adapt to their new diet with ease and ensure their overall well-being.
Remember, every pet is unique, so the transition process may vary. What works for one may not work for another. Stay attuned to your pet’s needs, consult with your veterinarian, and provide the care and attention necessary for a successful and comfortable food transition. Our team is always available to help guide you through your pet’s new food introduction.
Percy and his owners are the latest winners of a NPP Prize Pack! Thanks for encouraging others to support local business. YOU could be the next winner!
Step 1: Grab a magnet for free with any toy purchase.
Step 2: Slap it on your car!
Step 3: Snap a pic and post it on social media with the hashtag #NPPspotted
Everything you need to celebrate Birthdays, Gotcha Days, and Adoption Days! Make sure your dog’s special day is one to remember with some extra love (and cookies)!
Thanks to all your responses to our feeding survey!
[vc_single_image image=”5706″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][vc_single_image image=”5705″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”]The “other” responses were organized into broader categories in this graph:[vc_single_image image=”5723″ img_size=”large”]Thank you to everyone who participated in our survey! Follow us as we dive deeper into your concerns!
DIY Dog Wash closes one hour prior to store close.
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