Category: Pets

More people are renting than any time since 1965. This means low-impact pets like hamsters and other smaller critters are becoming the ideal companion animal. But ensuring you have a healthy, happy hamster is just as important as taking care of any other pet.

Whether it’s your first pet or your fiftieth, hamsters are a cute, friendly addition to any family. As well as being small and inexpensive, they’re also easy to maintain and care for, provided you know what you’re doing.

Here are 6 hamster care tips to ensure your little ball of fur is living its best life.

1. Healthy Eating

Happy hamsters are well-fed hamsters, but quality is just as important as quantity!

Hamsters are much like kids, they’ll always go for the tasty, fatty foods first. But just because all the sunflower seeds disappear first doesn’t mean they should be eating nothing but them. It’d be a bit like feeding a child nothing but chocolate because they go for that first.

Hamsters should be fed a well-balanced diet. That includes fruits and vegetables.

Fresh vegetables like carrots, broccoli, cucumber, spinach, squash are ideal because they’re similar to what they might eat in the wild.

Fresh fruits like apples, bananas, pears, grapes, and most berries are great as treats. Just remember never to give your hamster citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, or limes. Citrus fruits are too acidic for hamsters and will hurt them.

Whole-grain breads and cereals should be included as part of a balanced hamster diet. Protein is also a must.

Moderation and variety are the main things to keep in mind when feeding your hamster.

2. Proper Bedding

Quality bedding is essential for keeping your hamster healthy and your own nose happy.

Cedar bedding should be avoided as it can cause skin irritation in your hamster. You also shouldn’t use pine, newspaper, cat litter, or corn cob bedding. Any bedding that’s overly fluffy or scented should also be avoided.

The best hamster beddings are non-toxic and made from natural fibers. One of the few types of wood that’s safe for use as hamster bedding is aspen. Aspen shavings are generally cheaper than specialty hamster bedding but it’s often not as soft or absorbent as hamster-specific bedding.

You should clean your hamster’s cage and replace bedding on a weekly basis. An unclean cage can cause buildups of bacteria that can make your hamster sick. It’s also a one-stop-shop to a stinky cage.

3. Spacious Cage

Picking the right cage for your hamster is all-important for their health and happiness.

Hamsters require spacious cages. Large hamster cages should measure 12 inches wide by 18 inches long by 12 inches high at the very least, but bigger is always better.

Hamsters are known to chew, so most hamster cages come with either wire or plastic bars. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on the bars of your hamster’s cage to make sure they’re not wearing down. If your hamster escapes then they could get lost or hurt so it’s much better to catch any escape acts before they happen.

If your hamster is prone to chewing through their cage then you can choose an aquarium-style enclosure. Just make sure to monitor the aquarium for fluctuations in temperature as they can heat up easily.

4. Cage Location

Hamsters don’t deal well with temperature extremes so the location of your cage is just as important as the cage itself.

Keep their cage out of direct sunlight to avoid high temperatures during the day. Their cage should also be out of the way of heaters or air conditioners to avoid the temperature extremes of both.

If you choose an aquarium style enclosure for your hamster then make sure it’s out of the sun and isn’t heating up too much during the day.

It’s also a good idea to keep your hamster’s cage up off the ground. This will ensure accidental kicks or jostling are kept to a minimum. If your family includes small children this will also keep them up out of the way of small prying hands.

5. Excercise

Hamsters are naturally active animals and need a lot of exercise to keep them healthy. A happy hamster is an energetic hamster.

Make sure your hamster has a wheel to help them stay active. Even if their cage is particularly large, a wheel is still essential.

If you want to give your hamster a little more variety and it’s safe to do so, then investing in a hamster ball so they can run around outside their cage is also a great idea.

As well as a hamster wheel, your hamster should also have plenty of toys. Plastic ladders and tubes encourage climbing and exploring which will keep your hamster’s body and mind active.

Other small toys for chewing will also help keep your hamster from turning their sights to the bars of their enclosure.

6. Careful Companionship

If you’re wanting more than one hamster then it’s best to get them both at the same time. Hamsters aren’t very social creatures, particularly if their companions are introduced later in life.

If you do add a new hamster to the family, spend several days introducing them to each other. Keep them in separate cages where they can see each other from a distance to let them acclimatize. Once they’ve upgraded to sharing a cage, keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t fight.

Make sure the hamsters you’re introducing are the same sex! Unless you want 3 to 18 babies every 30 days, you don’t want a pair able to breed.

A Happy Hamster Is a Healthy Hamster

Hamsters are the ideal pet for apartment dwellers. Not only are they cheap and easy to maintain, they’re also suited to smaller spaces and quieter lifestyles.

By feeding your hamster a balanced diet, ensuring they have the right environment, and introducing new companions carefully, your hamster will be living its best life. And a happy hamster is the best sort of companion.

Looking to immortalize your best friend with a pet portrait? Read about how pet photography is all about loving your pet.

Want to save money and keep your pet healthier? Then you’ll want to start making your own dog food.

Making your own dog food at home is an easy, affordable way to make sure your pet is getting the best. Instead of paying for overpriced brand names full of additives, you can provide food at a much lower cost.

This is a great choice for dogs with dietary restrictions, picky eaters, or any beloved pet whose diet you’re concerned about. Making your own dog food is easier than you might think, too.

Keep reading for everything you need to get started.

Why Start Making Your Own Dog Food?

You may be wondering if it’s really worth it to cook for your dog. There are actually a lot of compelling reasons to make the change away from commercial dog food.

It’s tempting to think that the bags of pet food you find at stores are healthy, good choices. However, the reality is that pet food isn’t regulated the way human food is.

There are a few rules and standards, thanks to the FDA and the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). But these rules for pet food aren’t very strict, and they also aren’t very well enforced.

Because of this oversight, companies can put just about whatever they want into your pet’s food.

Have you heard about pet food recalls? These happen often because companies use ingredients that aren’t good for pets. Then they’re forced to recall the products later when problems start.

When you make your pet’s food at home, you can add more nutrients while avoiding the preservatives in store-bought food. You can tailor the mix to your dog’s needs. And yes, you can even save money.

This is a great choice for dogs with allergies, IBS, or other common issues affected by diet. It’s also ideal for dogs that have responsibilities they’ll need to be alert, focused and healthy for.

Today, our dogs may be more than just companions. Many people keep dogs who help them in their day-to-day life. Someone who lives alone in the city might keep a dog for protection, while other people may have an emotional support animal (to get your dog certified, check out Certapet for ESAs).

All dogs need healthy, high-quality food, but these dogs may benefit from it even more than others. Now, let’s get into how to start making your own dog food.

How to Make Dog Food at Home

In order to successfully make your dog’s food, you’ll just need to follow a few basic rules.

Some dogs may need extra-special diets, such as a grain-free diet. However, if your pup doesn’t have any restrictions on their diet, a good ratio to keep in mind is 50 percent protein, 25 percent vegetables, and 25 percent grain.

Another ratio that also works is 40-60 percent protein or raw meat, 20-30 percent starches (cooked), and 20-30 percent raw fruits and vegetables.

You’ll need to check which foods are safe for dogs to eat before getting started. Most of us know that dogs can’t eat chocolate, but you may be surprised to learn about the other ingredients that are toxic to dogs, such as onions.

Finally, you should add certain supplements to the mix, since food on its own doesn’t always have everything a dog needs to stay healthy.

Tips for Making Your Dog’s Food

Now, here are our top tips for making your own dog food.

1. Use a Great Recipe

Your dog’s food is only as good as the recipe you use. Follow the ratios above to get a good blend, and make sure you choose high-quality, nutritious ingredients.

Make sure each recipe you choose has protein, fats, calcium, essential fatty acids, and carbs in it. The best recipes will come from professional animal nutritionists or veterinarians. Remember: just because your dog likes it doesn’t mean it’s good for them.

2. Follow the Recipe

When you good for yourself, you may love to substitute other ingredients and make various adjustments. However, when you cook for your dog, you shouldn’t improvise. Instead, follow the recipe exactly as it’s written.

Making even small changes to the recipe can have effects you don’t want. For example, removing the skin from a chicken before cooking it can change its nutritional value.

Substituting ingredients can also throw off the nutritional balance. Find reliable recipes, and then follow them perfectly every time.

3. Get a Food Scale

To get the ratios right, you’ll need to accurately measure the food you use. A food scale is the most reliable way to do this.

Measuring cups aren’t always accurate, especially for certain ingredients like meat. A food scale is the best way to make sure you’re actually feeding the proper amount each time.

4. Cook Foods Thoroughly

Some foods, such as certain meats and vegetables, can be fed raw.

However, for those foods that need to be cooked, you should be sure to cook them all the way. If you don’t, harmful bacteria could make your dog sick.

5. Add Supplements

To provide the proper nutritional balance, you’ll need to add some extra supplements to your dog’s meals. No matter how good the recipe is, it will probably still lack a few essential nutrients.

Calcium is an example of something dogs need that isn’t often found in their food in high quantities. A pet nutritionist can help you decide what supplements you’ll need.

6. Don’t Add Too Many Carbs

Excess carbs can cause your dog to gain weight or even develop allergies. Some experts don’t think that carbs are necessary for a dog’s diet at all.

Consult with a veterinarian or nutritionist to decide what’s best for your dog.

7. Check the Results

After making your own dog food for a few weeks, schedule a vet visit to make sure the diet is working well.

Watch your dog’s behavior and weight for any changes.

Ready to Start Making Your Own Dog Food?

If you follow these tips, you can easily change your pup’s diet for the better.

Interested in other ways to save money by making things at home? Check out our DIY tips here.

Your dog is apart of your family; therefore, you want your dog to join you for all of your adventures.

Exploring a new city? What better companion to have than your dog. Maybe you’re moving to a new home and your dog is high on your moving priorities.

If you plan on traveling with your dog, you need to plan carefully. Traveling with a dog means keeping their safety in mind and traveling under acceptable conditions.

In certain cases, traveling with a dog is more expensive than boarding up your dog or hiring a dog sitter.

Read these 8 tips on dog travel before doggo joins you on your next excursion.

1. Visit the Vet

Make sure you bring the dog in for a check-up before you embark on dog travel. Inform the vet you’re going on vacation and are planning on bringing your dog.

Here’s what the vet will look for:

• Making sure your dog is up-to-date with all vaccinations
• Deliver a health certification (is required for air travel)
• Check their medical records and any medications prescribed

Even though the health certification is the only required document, bring their shot records and prescriptions to be safe. All airlines are different and they have different requirements for bringing pets on planes.

And always bring food and water. Feed your dog regularly with similar feeding times and duration that you do while at home.

2. Choose the Right Crate

A crate is the safest method of dog travel.

A crate also comes in handy when you stay in someone’s home or have to be in a hotel. You can buy a crate from almost any pet store; however, you have to be sure you’re choosing the right crate.

Here are some pointers when buying a crate:

• The dog should be able to stand, sit, and lie down in the crate
• Make sure it’s made of a strong material and there are handles on the crate
• Check if the bottom is leak-proof
• The crate is fully ventilated
• Place ‘live animal’ marking on the crate plus your name, address, and phone number.

You should also add some of their favorite stuff inside of the crate. These include a favorite blanket and a favorite toy. Find a way to always have water for the dog to drink, such as a water bottle.

3. Identification Tag

When you’re in unfamiliar territory, the chances of your dog running away increase.

In case this happens, make sure your dog can always be properly identified.

The best way is an ID tag hanging from its collar. On this tag, write your name, address, and phone number. You should also write the dog’s name and try to include proof of rabies shot.

If you want to increase your chances of finding your dog, implant a microchip before you leave.

Always have a picture of your dog on you. This way, you can show strangers or make ‘missing dog’ posters.

4. Travel By Car Instead of Air

Your dog is already used to the car. You know how excited your dog gets when you drive it to the park, the beach, or the dog bar. When you travel by car, your dog will be far happier instead of traveling on a plane.

Traveling by plane can be scary for a dog. They’re locked in a crate. They’re away from you and aren’t familiar with their surroundings. And there are extra costs associated with air dog travel.

Just remember: if you’re on the interstate or a major road, leave the dog in a crate or keep the windows rolled up.

And always stop to let your dog go to the bathroom and drink water.

Feel free to walk your dog when you stop for gas or food. Last but certainly not least, never leave your dog unattended in the car with the windows rolled up. If you’re traveling over the summer, doing this can be life-threatening.

5. Look for a Dog-Friendly Hotel

If you’re on a long road trip or backpacking, you’ll want to stay at a hotel. Always be sure the hotel is dog-friendly.

When you find a dog-friendly hotel, be sure to respect the property and other guests. Make sure the dog isn’t barking a lot and they don’t have an accident inside of the room. If the dog makes a mess, clean it so the staff doesn’t have to.

Try to be with the dog as much as possible. If left alone, they could become anxious and destroy the room.

Are you not 100% sure you can trust your dog in a hotel room? Ty the Dog Guy offers training and coaching.

6. Take Your Dog on a Cruise

There are dog-friendly cruise lines. Some even provide special accommodations for dogs, such as a lounge and free dog food. But before bringing your dog on any cruise ship, make sure you read the guidelines before boarding the ship.

7. Always Keep Your Dog Calm

Traveling can be excited — some dogs enjoy the thrill of being somewhere new, but others can easily become scared or uncomfortable. Even if your dog is more adventurous, always bring a little token of home.

A blanket and their favorite toy are great travel entertainment for your dog.
Is your dog still stressed out? Give your dog some love. Regularly pet your dog to reassure it. As long as you’re there, your dog will be fine.

8. How to Explore New Surroundings with a Dog

Traveling is exciting but can be overwhelming. You feel out of comfort zone, and so does your dog.

But exploration could also be good for your dog; they love seeing new surroundings, sniffing new items, and hearing the different commotion.

While you’re taking your adventure in, don’t forget about your dog.

Make sure they’re not eating foreign objects and aren’t terrorizing anyone. If your dog seems stressed, take the dog back to the hotel or car.

Have Fun with Dog Travel

Your next vacation will be so much more fun with your dog companion at your side. Understand your dog is more vulnerable to a lot of different issues when away from home. Always keep your dog comfortable and happy.

You want to have a fun trip, and you should make the trip equally fun for your dog.

If you want more advice for your pets and children, read our blog.

Ah, the joys of being a puppy parent. Cuddling up to a sweet pooch is priceless, but the cost of having a dog can add up.

For example, getting a dog groomed can cost between $30 – $80.

Don’t spend a fortune on grooming when you can do it for less. Here’s how you can save money on puppy grooming:

1. Do All of It Yourself

Who knows? You might have a knack for puppy grooming! You can save money by rolling up your sleeves to groom your pup yourself.

Try watching some videos on YouTube or taking a class to learn the ropes. If your dog has a simpler cut, it won’t be too hard

The biggest perk? You get to see how adorable your puppy looks while it’s drenched in shampoo!

2. Do Some of It Yourself

If the idea of razors scares you, start small. If you just give your dog a bath at home, you can save money at the grooming salon. You can also do other small things like clipping their nails in advance

Cut out any tangles or mats in their fur before you send them in. Some grooming salons charge by the hour.

Do as much as you can, only use the professionals for the things that you can’t do yourself.

3. Get a Deal

Sometimes, you have to pay to get your dog professionally groomed. The key is not paying full price! Browse discount websites to look for puppy grooming discounts or deals.

Sign up for loyalty programs at local salons, they might send coupons via email that can save you some bucks.

4. Find a Student Groomer

Dog groomers have to start somewhere! Student groomers who are looking to build portfolios are always looking for new dogs to work on.

You could save major cash by letting a student groomer or hobbyist groom your dog. You can find them on sites like Craigslist or local animal care schools.

You can also ask around for other owners’ recommendations. Word of mouth is the best way to find someone you can trust.

5. Get Simple Cuts

If you have a high-maintenance dog, consider getting simpler cuts. Fido doesn’t always have to get the most fabulous cut.

Save the expensive cuts for special occasions. Get an inexpensive, low cut for every day.

Every now and then, treat your pup to the glam special. But for most grooming appointments, less is more.

6. Visit Less Frequently

Next time you go to the grooming salon, consider getting a shorter cut than usual. This will buy you more time between visits.

A pair of dog clippers will go a long way. Shave a half of an inch of fur between appointments. A little work along the way will save you more work later on.

In colder months, you want to be careful not to let your pooch sleep outside. Dry, cold air can dry out their skin. This means more visits (and money) to the salon.

So, where can my dog sleep?

Bring them inside to cozy up during cold weather!

Puppy Grooming for Any Budget

Using these tips is just one of the things pet owners can do to cut back on spending.

Being on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t afford to spoil your dog. Pamper your pup without the extra perks. Your wallet will thank you later.

Learn more ways to save money on pets.

It’s obvious that children love animals. From toys to clothing to movies, animals are everywhere!

Even more than animals in general, kids love their pets.

There’s a reason why veterinarian is always a top answer when kids are asked what they want to be when they grow up.

Getting pets for kids can benefit them in so many ways. In this article, we’re breaking down the top five reasons why.

5 Benefits of Pets For Kids

Pets teach kids valuable lessons and life skills. Plus, they just make them so happy. What’s cuter than kids and puppies together?

Here are the best of those lessons, life skills, and joys!

1. Companionship

It’s no secret that pets and their owners experience a special bond. This bond gives both parties a sense of companionship. This companionship can be particularly comforting for kids.

It’s been proven that pets help reduce stress levels, likely because of their non-judgmental affection.

Kids are comfortable in front of their pets, even when it comes to developing skills like reading.

Reading to pets can help kids feel more confident when reading aloud. It helps shelter pets feel less anxious too.

2. Socialization

Interacting with pets helps kids learn how to socialize with humans too.

Kids, especially infants and toddlers, often find a connection with pets that is much easier to navigate than the complicated social world of humans.

Studies show that kids with pets often develop higher levels of self-esteem. This is likely due to the sense of competency that results from successfully taking care of another being.

3. Responsibility

It is important for kids to learn the effects of their actions, specifically the importance of responsibility.

Assigning a child with the responsibility of caring for their pet gives them the appreciation that they won’t get from completing other chores: the animal’s love.

The fun aspects, like play time and meal time, are great for young kids to take on. As they get older, it’s also good for a kid to learn the less fun responsibilities, like cleaning up after the pet. This helps to teach them to put in the work for the things they love in life.

4. Nurturing

Having to remember to care for another living being is a great lesson for a child’s developing mind and developing ego.

Kids who learn to instinctually care for a pet at a young age have a leg up in developing their sense of empathy.

Plus, the practice of being a caregiver builds instincts that we keep for a lifetime.

5. Family Bond

A pet that the whole family cares for can help strengthen the bond between family members.

Families grow closer with the shared experiences centered around the pet.

Even if a pet isn’t conducive to your lifestyle, animal centered activities can still help the family bond.

For example, a trip to an Interactive Aquarium can give the whole family new shared experiences outside of the day-to-day activities of school and work.

There You Have It!

Pets for kids can be a great developmental tool and a great way to make them happy all in one.

For more articles on kids and parenting, click here.