Let’s Talk Turkey

Let’s Talk Turkey

Thanksgiving is fast approaching. This means family, friends, traditions, and an abundance of tasty food. If you're like me, one family member you also share this time with is your dog. As much as we love our dog’s, it is important to keep in mind that some human dishes are not safe for them to consume. Below is a list of Thanksgiving foods to keep from your dog (or cat). So, if you don’t want to spend your holiday at the vet's office, do your best not to fall for those adorable faces and keep these foods on your plate and out of their mouth.

Just Say No

When your dog comes begging play is safe when offering them table scraps.

• Turkey- this bird is a great source of protein to offer them but give them well-cooked pieces that are boneless. Raw turkey can contain salmonella and be dangerous to your pet. Also, remove skin and excess fat from any pieces given to them. Boneless meat is as important, bones can cause vomiting and obstructing the bowel of both dogs and cats. 
• Any dish, such as stuffing, made with onions, garlic, leeks, scallions can be harmful in large quantities causing toxic anemia. Avoid giving these dishes to your pet.
• Other dishes not to give your cat or dog would be ones that are made with grapes or raisins. This fruit alone is toxic to pets, even mixed in a dish is harmful causing kidney failure in dogs that can be fatal. 
• When it comes to desserts, it is best to limit the amount of sugar you give your dog. Pumpkin pie and cranberry sauce are okay to give in moderation. Another thing to keep from your pet is artificial sweeteners like Xylitol. It is great you are making healthier choices for your family, but these sweeteners can be deadly to your pets. 
• Another obvious dessert choice to keep from cats and dogs is chocolate. While pumpkin pie is the most popular dessert choice served, chocolate dishes are also hit the serving table. And some chocolate desserts are made with baking chocolate that is also harmful to pets. 
• One last thing, don’t let your pet overindulge on any dish. You don’t want your cat or dog to spend the rest of the holiday with an upset stomach, diarrhea, vomiting, or worse on the vet's table. 

We want everyone to have a safe holiday including your pets. If your cat or dog ingests any of these foods, don’t hesitate to call your veterinarian right away. Also be sure that your guest understands the importance of not giving your pets any table scraps.

Diamonds in the Ruff Pet Boarding in Abilene

The holidays are busy times of shopping and traveling. If you are looking for a safe and reliable facility to board your pet this Thanksgiving, contact Diamonds in the Ruff. We have plenty of room for your cat or dog to play, sleep, and interact with other pets. Visit us at www.diamondsintheruffpetboarding.com or call 325-695-2931 and schedule a walk through our facility.

Do You Have a Scared, Timid Dog?

Do You Have a Scared, Timid Dog? 

If you have a dog that is scared, timid or sometimes antisocial around other dogs and people, it could be that they may need to be socialized a little more. This does not mean that you have a dog with behavioral issues or that there’s something wrong with them. It just means that they need a little extra love and care when it comes to socialization outside of their own family and home. Many dogs can be trained to be kind, considerate, and sweet as long as they are given a chance by being around other people and other animals. Many people try to take their dogs to the dog park which sometimes ends in utter failure because the dogs are being pushed and forced into an atmosphere that they are uncomfortable with. A dog park can be very scary and intimidating for a dog that already suffers from social anxiety issues. The best thing to do is to slowly immerse your dog into socializing with other people and dogs. Dog parks do not really offer much security or protection so your dog may feel more irritable when taken to a dog park. If a dog is not comfortable at a dog park, it can create a dangerous atmosphere for them and for the other dogs and people around.

You May Want to Try Doggy Daycare

Doggie daycare is a wonderful alternative to a dog park because your dog will recognize familiar faces every time they go to doggie daycare. This helps to create a comfortable environment for them. Doggie daycare is also beneficial because it is run by people who have a love for animals and who will take the time and have the patience to help your dog through this process. Your dog will not be forced or put into situations that they are not comfortable with. They will be able to determine when they are ready to socialize. This small step can be the defining factor in the success rate of your dog's socialization skills. Some dogs need a little more time to be able to adjust to their surroundings and to other dogs around them. And at doggie daycare, they will have this chance on their own terms.

Doggie Daycare in Abilene, Texas

If you were looking for a wonderful place which offers a great doggie daycare in Abilene, then contact a staff member at Diamonds in the Ruff. Our dedicated staff will make sure that your dog learns to behave around other dogs and feel comfortable while they are there. You will notice a happier healthier dog each day you pick them up from us. Call and schedule an appointment today at 325-695-2931 or visit us at www.diamondsintheruffpetboardimg.com for more information about our services.