Pets become an inseparable part of the family. This is why, many pet parents immediately seek insurance when they take over the responsibility of their new companion. Pet insurance is an ideal tool to recoup healthcare expenses incurred on the pet’s welfare. However, buying any insurance is a difficult task, so making mistakes is not uncommon during the process. Here are some of the mistakes one can avoid while buying pet insurance: Choosing the policy with the lowest premium While buying any type of insurance policy, one must know the age-old adage— the lowest premium does not equate to the best value. If buyers dither over the premium amount while purchasing policies and choose the cheapest one available, there are chances that the one they have purchased does not provide adequate coverage. Inevitably, this means that once this coverage is exhausted over, say, a treatment for the pet, owners will have to shell out the remaining healthcare fees separately. To avoid burning a hole in one’s pocket, pet owners must buy the policy with the best coverage, not the cheapest one available on the market. Buying insurance too late Several pet owners tend to purchase a policy after their loved one has a health problem.

It can be difficult for pet parents to spot signs of illness in their dogs, as these animals are skilled at hiding them. By the time symptoms become noticeable, the illness may have already progressed significantly. Dogs tend to display discomfort when the symptoms worsen, which could mean they have been sick for a while. Therefore, it’s important to be observant of any signs that may indicate your dog is unwell. Increased or decreased urination It’s important to watch out for signs such as difficulty urinating, changes in urine output, or blood in urine to determine if your dog is unwell. This is especially important for senior dogs. Bloody urine could indicate health problems such as bladder stones, urinary tract infections, blood disorders, or cancer. Frequent urination could be a sign of kidney problems. Low energy levels It’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s energy levels. If you notice that they are more lethargic or lazy than usual, it could be a sign that they are feeling under the weather. They may seem unusually tired or sluggish and may not be as playful or responsive as they normally are. If you observe any of these symptoms, taking your dog to the vet for a checkup is a good idea to ensure they are in good health.

Cats are natural but small predators. They believe showing signs of sickness makes them easy prey for other larger predators. That is why they tend to hide their discomfort when feeling unwell. If a cat you care for displays signs of ill health, that can be a major cause of worry, warranting immediate attention from a vet. Watch out for the following changes in behavior or signs that your cat is sick: Vomiting or diarrhea: While vomiting occasionally is not a concern, keep an eye out for the timing and frequency of vomiting and diarrhea, as this may require a trip to the veterinarian. Sudden changes in appetite, drinking, or eating habits: Changes in appetite and eating habits could result from or lead to hyperthyroidism, fatty liver disease, or hepatic lipidosis in cats. Noticeable weight changes: If your cat has been experiencing unexplained weight gain or loss, it may be time to visit the veterinarian. Breathing problems: If your cat is experiencing wheezing, rapid or raspy breathing, or shortness of breath, rush them to the veterinarian for an emergency check-up. Mood changes: If your friendly and confident cat begins to show signs of aggression or fear, you may want to have them checked.

Emotional support is one of the foundations of mental health and well-being. Recent studies suggest that 74% of pet owners believed their mental health improved after buying a pet. Thus, it is believed that emotional support from animals plays a therapeutic role in helping one navigate tough times. As of 2019, there are nearly 2,00,000 emotional support animals in the country. Here are the answers to some key questions on emotional support animals: What are emotional support animals? Emotional support animals are animals that provide comfort to individuals through companionship. Individuals with mental health conditions are typically able to manage their symptoms better in the company of such animals. What animals are typically classified as emotional support animals? While dogs and cats are typically classified as emotional support animals, other animals like ferrets, guinea pigs, and rabbits are also becoming popular in this category. Dogs Dogs are popularly referred to as a human’s best friends and for a good reason. Studies have shown that the company of dogs can reduce stress and anxiety and help manage depression and loneliness. Cats Many individuals find the company of cats to be soothing and comforting. Their stress-reducing effect can elevate one’s mood. A study has demonstrated that cat owners have better psychological health than individuals without pets.

Dogs are cherished members of our families, and their well-being is a top priority for all pet parents. Recognizing signs that your dog might be sick is essential for providing timely care and ensuring their health. While dogs can’t communicate their discomfort through words, they do display various physical and behavioral indicators that can alert you about their illness. Here are some common signs that your dog might be sick: Changes in Appetite Signs: A sudden loss of appetite or a significant decrease in food consumption. What to Do: Keep an eye on your dog’s eating habits, as a persistent lack of appetite could indicate underlying health issues. Consult your veterinarian if the change persists. Vomiting and Diarrhea Signs: Frequent vomiting or diarrhea, especially if the excreta contains blood or mucus. What to Do: Ensure your dog stays hydrated by providing small sips of water. Don’t give food for a few hours and then reintroduce a bland food regime. If vomiting or diarrhea continues or worsens, seek veterinary care. Lethargy Signs: A sudden or prolonged lack of energy, reluctance to move, or inability to engage in usual activities. What to Do: Pay attention to changes in your dog’s activity level.

Owning a pet can bring great joy, but it also comes with responsibilities, including veterinary care. While everyone wants the best for their furry family members, the cost of veterinary care can be significant. However, providing excellent care for pets doesn’t mean it has to drain one’s finances. The following article explores ten valuable tips to help one save money on veterinary bills while still providing excellent care for pets. Preventative care is key The old saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” holds true in this scenario too. One must ensure their pet receives the vaccinations as recommended by the veterinarian. These vaccinations can prevent common and often costly diseases. Preventive care also includes regular screening for pets. Regular check-ups Routine check-ups with the veterinarian are essential for a pet’s overall health. These vet visits can detect health issues early, saving on costly treatments. During check-ups, pet parents must discuss their pet’s food regimen, exercise, and any concerns they may have. Comparison shop for veterinary clinics Like with any service, prices for veterinary care can vary from one clinic to another. Take the time to compare prices and services offered by different clinics in the area.

As the warmer months approach, many pet owners and outdoor enthusiasts are gearing up for more time spent outdoors. However, with the great outdoors come unwanted pests like fleas and ticks, which can be a nuisance for humans and their furry companions. While chemical-based repellents are commonly used, there are natural alternatives that can help keep these pests at bay. One such alternative is using plants that naturally repel fleas and ticks. 1. Lavender Lavender is a natural flea and tick repellent. These insects are repelled by the strong fragrance of lavender, making them an excellent choice for gardens or indoor pots. Planting lavender in one’s garden or outdoor sitting areas can deter fleas and ticks from bothering inhabitants and their pets. 2. Rosemary This versatile herb acts as a natural pest repellent; its aromatic scent acts as a deterrent to fleas and ticks. One can plant rosemary in their garden or create a natural spray by boiling rosemary leaves and using the infused water as a pet-friendly flea and tick repellent. 3. Mint Like peppermint and spearmint, mint plants emit a strong scent that fleas and ticks find unpleasant. Planting mint around one’s garden or patio can help keep these pesky insects away.

Bully sticks, often touted as the ultimate chew-time companion for dogs, have secured their place as a beloved treat. These all-natural treats serve multiple needs in a little pup’s life. The primary purpose of bully sticks lies in satiating a dog’s instinctive need to chew. Chewing on bully sticks offers dogs a wholesome outlet for their energy and anxiety. Additionally, this gnawing action helps maintain healthy dental hygiene by reducing plaque and tartar buildup. 5 best bully sticks for little pups Pawstruck Bully Sticks One standout option for pups is the Pawstruck Bully Sticks, sourced from high-quality, free-range, grass-fed cattle. These single-ingredient treats contain no artificial additives or preservatives, ensuring a natural and healthy chewing experience. Available in various sizes, they cater to different breeds and chewing styles and are oven-baked to lock in flavor and nutrition. One of the reasons buyers prefer Pawstruck is because it is sold by weight instead of the number of sticks. This eliminates the problem caused by inconsistent sizing of the bully sticks. Nature Gnaws For those seeking an economical yet high-quality option, Nature Gnaws Natural Dog Chews fit the bill. Sourced from free-range, grass-fed cattle in South America, these treats are a single-ingredient delight with no added hormones, chemicals, or preservatives.