dog health

Happy 250th Birthday, America! Folks around the country are preparing for their annual cookouts, picnics and BBQs to be shared with family and friends. Outdoor feasts are a summer staple, and a dog’s dream. “So much yummy food,” says Fido, “and all within reach in my backyard!”

Luckily, there are a number of Fourth of July foods that you can share with your furry family member. We’ve compiled a dog-friendly BBQ menu to help you put together that special summer bowl just for your pup. These tips will also help you keep an eye out for dangerous foods that dogs should NOT eat on the Fourth (or any other day).

As always, pay attention to ingredients, keep servings of the “good” people food small, and don’t leave the food or trash unattended – these are some of the steps to making this a safe and healthy holiday for your dog!

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Fireworks combine awe-inspiring visuals with pulse-pounding sound to create dramatic, can’t miss effects. Yet while we “ooh” and “aah” at these colorful explosions, our animals are often more frightened than enlightened.

In this week’s post, DogWatch has compiled information from dog experts across the country to help you prepare your dog for the holiday fireworks shows. We have also looked into another related summer-themed fear common among pets – thunderstorms – and will share those tips with you as well. Your dog may never love fireworks as much as you do, but you can still help him or her stay calm and happy on this most exciting day of the summer. Read post »

You may have seen stories in the news recently about dogs who suddenly died after swimming in lakes, ponds or rivers containing blue-green algae. To avoid a similar tragedy happening to your pet, we’ve compiled the following information about this poisonous algae and what you can do to protect your pets. Read post »

Picking the perfect houseplant is hard enough, but finding a plant safe for your pets can make it even harder. We’ve pulled together a list of seven beautiful, varied and popular houseplants that are non-toxic to cats and dogs. Check it out, and add some flora to your already fauna-friendly home!  Read post »