Pets are family and keeping them safe is a top priority. One of the easiest ways to protect them is with a custom ID tag.
At Feeds’n Needs, we offer personalized pet ID tags at all our Maritime locations.
Why ID Tags Matter
Even the best-trained pets can wander. Microchips help, but they need a scanner. An ID tag gives instant access to your contact info, making it easier for someone to help your pet get home fast.
What to Include on Your Pet’s Tag
When customizing your tag, make sure to include:
- Your pet’s name
- Your phone number (primary contact)
- Address
- Any special care instructions (e.g., “Needs medication”)
Key Considerations When Choosing a Tag
- Lightweight for comfort
- Bright colors for visibility
- A great backup to microchips
Visit Feeds’n Needs Today
As your local Animal Experts, we’re here to help every lost pet find their way home. Stop by Feeds’n Needs to get your custom tag; it’s a small step that makes a big difference.
What to do When Your Dog Gets Skunked
It’s a scenario no pet owner wants to face: your dog comes bounding back from the yard, tail wagging… and smelling absolutely awful. Yep, they’ve been skunked.
Skunks are usually peaceful creatures, but when they feel threatened, they don’t hesitate to unleash their powerful defense mechanism — a foul-smelling spray that can linger for days. If your dog has had a run-in with one, here’s what you need to know to handle the situation calmly and effectively.
Ensure Your Dog is Okay
Skunk spray isn’t just smelly — it can cause physical discomfort and, in rare cases, health issues. Here are a few things to check right away:
- Eyes: If your dog was sprayed in the face, their eyes might be red or irritated. Flush them gently with clean water or pet-safe eye drops.
- Mouth: If the spray got into their mouth, rinse thoroughly with water to help remove the taste and odor.
- Wounds or Bites: Look for any signs of injury. If your dog was bitten, especially by a potential skunk with rabis, contact your vet immediately.
- Unusual Symptoms: Watch for signs like lethargy, pale gums, or dark-colored urine. These could indicate a rare reaction affecting red blood cells and should be checked by a vet.
Keep the Stink Outside
As tempting as it is to rush your dog indoors, resist the urge. Skunk odor can quickly spread through your home and cling to furniture, carpets, and clothing. Keep your dog outside while you assess the situation and prepare to clean them up.
How to Remove Skunk Smell from Your Dog
Feeds’n Needs carries products to help remove skunk smell, but you can also whip up a DIY solution that’s surprisingly effective. Here’s a tried-and-true homemade remedy:
Ingredients:
- 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide
- ¼ cup baking soda
- 1 teaspoon liquid dish soap
Instructions:
- Mix the ingredients in a bowl (do not store — it can build pressure).
- Apply the mixture to your dog’s fur, avoiding the eyes and ears.
- Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
- Follow up with a full bath using pet shampoo and conditioner.
Note: This mixture may lighten dark fur temporarily and can damage fabrics, so use with care.
Alternative Option: Vinegar Rinse
If you don’t have hydrogen peroxide on hand, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Apply and rinse as above.
If DIY isn’t your thing, Feeds’n Needs carries a range of skunk odor removal products, including:
- Skouts Honor® Skunk Odor Eliminator
- Nature’s Miracle Skunk Odor Remover Spray & Shampoo
- Loona Pet Atomizer
- De-Skunk Odor Destroying Shampoo
Availability may vary by location, so check with your local store.
Special Care for the Face
When treating your dog’s face, be extra cautious. Avoid getting any cleaning solution near their eyes, ears, or nose. Use a damp cloth to gently wipe the affected areas, and rinse with water if needed. If irritation persists, contact your vet.
Prevention Tips: Keep Skunks Away
The best way to deal with skunk spray? Avoid it altogether. Here are some tips to make your yard less inviting to skunks:
- Secure food sources: Store pet food and bird seed in sealed containers.
- Block hiding spots: Close off access to decks, sheds, and wood piles.
- Use deterrents: Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can scare skunks away.
- Discourage denning: Stuff suspected holes with leaves or paper, or sprinkle kitty litter nearby.
Conclusion
Getting skunked is never fun — for you or your dog. But with a little patience, the right cleaning method, and a watchful eye for any health concerns, your pup will be back to their usual self in no time. And next time they go sniffing around the yard, hopefully they’ll think twice before getting too close to a skunk.
UV Safety for Pets
Warm weather means more time outdoors, but while we enjoy the sunshine, it’s important to remember our pets need protection from harmful UV rays too. Sun exposure can be beneficial in small doses—but without proper precautions, pets can suffer sunburns and even face long-term skin issues, including cancer. Luckily, a few simple steps can keep your furry companions safe while they soak up the sun.
Can Pets Get a Sunburn?
Yes, they can—and not just hairless breeds. Any animal can get sunburned, especially in spots where fur is sparse, such as the nose, ears, belly, and around surgical sites. Light-colored or thin-coated pets are more vulnerable.
Even indoor cats who love to nap in sunny windows aren’t fully safe—standard glass doesn’t block all UV rays, so they can still get burned.
What Does a Sunburn Look Like on a Pet?
A sunburn on pets appears much like it does on humans: red, dry, sensitive skin that may crack or peel. Your pet might flinch when touched, lick or scratch at the area, or show signs of discomfort. Severe burns can lead to blisters or even fever, so it’s important not to ignore the warning signs.
Treating a Sunburn
Minor sunburns typically heal on their own, but it’s best to consult your vet if the area is red, painful, or if your pet seems distressed. Treatment often includes cleaning the area, applying a soothing ointment, and possibly trimming fur around the burn to help it heal.
Sun Safety Tips for Pets
To keep your pet safe under the sun:
- Use vet-approved sunscreen on vulnerable areas (never use human sunscreen—it can be toxic to pets).
- Opt for sun-protective pet clothing if your pet tolerates it.
- Plan walks and playtime for early morning or evening when the sun is less intense.
- Seek shade on outings and keep pets cool and hydrated.
- Install UV-blocking window film or shades if your indoor pet loves to bask in sunbeams.
Always check with your veterinarian for recommended sunscreen products and how to apply them safely.
Skin Cancer Risks
Repeated sunburn can increase the risk of skin cancer in pets, particularly squamous cell carcinoma. Regularly check your pet’s skin for any unusual lumps, bumps, red spots, or flaky patches. Early detection makes a significant difference.
If you notice anything concerning, schedule a veterinary exam promptly. Not every change is dangerous, but it’s always better to be safe.
Hot Spots: Another Summer Skin Concern
In warmer months, pets are also more prone to hot spots—raw, inflamed patches caused by constant licking, scratching, or biting. These can be triggered by allergies, insect bites, or matted fur and often become infected quickly.
Treatment involves trimming the hair around the area, cleaning the skin, and applying medications.
Just like us, pets need sun protection. With a little planning and attention, you can help your four-legged friends enjoy the sunny days safely—whether they’re lounging by the window or running around in the yard.
Dog-Friendly Pupsicle
Summer is here, and the temperatures are high — which means your pup might be looking for a tasty way to beat the heat! Why not treat them to a refreshing, homemade dog-friendly pupsicle? It’s super simple to make and guaranteed to have your furry friend jumping for joy!
What You’ll Need:
1–2 cups of goat’s milk (we recommend Big Country Raw, available at Feeds’n Needs)
4 standard 6″ bully sticks (also available at Feeds’n Needs)
Your pup’s favourite treat
Popsicle mold of your choice
How to Make It:
Step 1: Place your dog’s favourite treat inside the popsicle mold.
Step 2: Pour in the goat’s milk to fill the mold, then insert a bully stick as the “popsicle stick.” Secure the top and pop it into the freezer.
Step 3: Once frozen solid, remove the mold and run it under warm water for a few seconds to help release the pupsicle.
Step 4: Serve it to your dog and watch them go wild! (Pro tip: enjoy this treat outdoors to avoid any sticky mess inside.)
Extra Protein Boost
Want to make this treat even more nutritious? Add some of your pet’s raw food to the mix! Simply thaw or rehydrate the meat, puree it, and pack it into the popsicle mold along with the goat’s milk.
These dog-friendly pupsicles are a fun, healthy way to help your pup stay cool and hydrated all summer long!
Canada Day Pet Safety Tips
Happy Canada Day! Nothing beats a day filled with travel, food, fireworks, and fun — we look forward to it all year long. But while we celebrate, it’s important to remember that this time of year can also pose risks for our pets.
From loud fireworks to tempting picnic foods, pets can encounter many hazards during the festivities. Here are some essential tips to help keep your four-legged family members safe and healthy this Canada Day:
- Prepare for Crowds and Gatherings
If your pet isn’t used to crowds, new environments and large get-togethers can be stressful. They might react in unexpected ways or get into mischief. Keep your pet on a leash or safely contained to help avoid accidents or escapes.
- Be Careful with Food
Barbecues and picnics are a summer highlight, but leftover table scraps, bones, and food wrappers can be dangerous for pets. Sudden diet changes or accidental snacking on garbage can lead to stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, or even more serious conditions like bowel obstruction. Keep human food away from curious noses and dispose of garbage securely.
- Manage Hot Weather Risks
Summer weather, swimming, and bug bites can trigger hot spots, especially in breeds prone to skin issues. Rinse off sand and towel-dry your pet after swimming to help prevent skin irritation. Also, be mindful of pools — pets can accidentally fall in and struggle to get out.
Heat stroke is another serious risk. Pets can only pant and sweat a little through their paw pads, making them very susceptible to overheating. Brachycephalic breeds (with pushed-in faces, like Bulldogs and Boxers) are at even higher risk. Make sure your pet has plenty of water, access to shade or air conditioning, and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day. Cooling mats or damp towels can help — but remember, an overheated pet needs immediate veterinary care. Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle.
- Firework Safety
Fireworks are a big part of Canada Day, but they can be terrifying for pets. Here are some firework safety strategies:
- Walk your dog early in the day to avoid firework displays later. Afternoon fireworks aren’t unheard of, so aim for the morning if you can.
- Bring pets inside well before dusk to keep them safe from loud noises and sudden bursts of light.
- Keep patio doors closed to prevent pets from bolting outside in fear.
- If your dog is normally kenneled, monitor them closely for distress — panicking dogs can injure themselves trying to escape.
- Consider setting up a safe, quiet spot for nervous pets, like a basement or a soundproof room, with a TV or radio on to mask the noise.
- Stay Aware and Monitor
Even with precautions in place, it’s important to keep an eye on your pet throughout the day. Fireworks, unusual food, and hot weather can all change your pet’s behavior in unexpected ways. Check in with them frequently to make sure they’re comfortable and calm.
- Enjoy Responsibly
Canada Day should be fun for everyone — humans and pets alike! By taking these simple precautions, you’ll help make the celebrations safe, happy, and stress-free for your furry companions.
From all of us at Feeds’n Needs, we wish you and your entire family — fur family included — a wonderful, safe, and happy Canada Day!
Flea Control for Your Pets
Fleas are more than just a nuisance — they can cause serious health problems for your pets and infest your home before you even know it. Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned pro, understanding how to prevent, treat, and eliminate fleas is essential for keeping your furry companions happy and healthy.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how dogs and cats get get fleas, what to do if your pet has them, and how to prevent them.
Why Flea Prevention Matters
Flea infestations aren’t just uncomfortable — they can pose real health risks to your pets. Even a few fleas can multiply rapidly and cause:
Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD)
Some pets are allergic to flea saliva, and just one bite can lead to severe itching, hair loss, scabbing, and even skin infections.
Tapeworms
When pets groom themselves and accidentally ingest an infected flea, they can develop tapeworms, which can lead to weight loss and nutritional deficiencies.
Anemia
Fleas feed on your pet’s blood — and in large numbers, they can cause flea-bite anemia, a serious condition especially dangerous for puppies, kittens, or older pets.
How Do Pets Get Fleas?
Understanding how fleas make their way onto your pets is key to prevention. Here are the most common sources:
Other Animals
Playdates with other pets, dog parks, and even walks around the neighborhood can lead to flea exposure.
Your Home
Fleas can hitch a ride on humans, clothing, or visitors, then lay eggs in carpets, bedding, and upholstery.
Pet-Focused Places
Doggy daycares, grooming salons, boarding facilities, and shelters can all harbor fleas if proper prevention isn’t in place.
Outdoor Environments
Yards, parks, and trails are flea hotspots — especially during warm months when fleas thrive.
What To Do If Your Pet Has Fleas
If you suspect a flea infestation, don’t panic — but do act fast:
Call Your Vet
Your veterinarian can confirm the infestation and recommend the most effective treatment. Options may include oral medications, topical treatments, or flea collars.
Bathe Your Pet
A vet-approved flea shampoo can help kill fleas on contact. Use lukewarm water and be thorough — especially around the neck and tail. Feeds’n Needs has a variety of flea shampoos to help get rid of fleas!
Use a Flea Comb
Flea combs are specially designed to remove adult fleas and flea dirt from your pet’s fur.
Getting Rid of Fleas in Your Home
Fleas don’t stay on your pet — they infest your home, too. To break the cycle, you need a multi-step approach:
Treat Every Pet
Even if only one pet seems affected, treat all animals in the household. Talk to your local Feeds’n Needs Expert about safe options for each pet, especially if you have cats and dogs.
Vacuum Daily
Vacuum carpets, rugs, baseboards, and under furniture thoroughly and frequently. Empty your vacuum outside to prevent re-infestation.
Wash Everything
Wash pet bedding, blankets, and any soft surfaces your pet touches. Use hot water and a pet-safe detergent.
Flea Prevention Tips & Tricks
Prevention is the most powerful tool you have. Once you’re flea-free, here’s how to stay that way:
Stay Consistent With Treatments
Follow year-round flea preventatives. Options include monthly topicals, oral medications, flea collars, and more. Don’t skip doses! We have lots of flea preventative options at Feeds’n Needs for dogs and cats!
Bathe Regularly
Routine bathing can help you spot fleas early and keep your pet’s skin healthy. Use a flea-repellent shampoo if your vet recommends it.
Check for Signs
Keep an eye out for excessive scratching or flea “dirt” — tiny black specks in your pet’s fur that resemble pepper.
Be Extra Vigilant in Warm Weather
Fleas love warmth and humidity. Peak flea season is spring through fall, but year-round prevention is recommended in most regions.
Flea infestations can be overwhelming, but they’re completely manageable with the right approach. Prevention is always easier than treatment, and a consistent plan — in partnership with your vet — will go a long way in keeping your pets safe.
Whether you’re dealing with fleas now or just looking to stay one step ahead, remember: staying proactive is the best defense. Your pets will thank you — with tail wags, happy purrs, and flea-free cuddles.
Brushing Your Puppy’s Teeth
Just like humans, puppies need dental care! Teaching your puppy to get used to having their teeth brushed early on helps establish good habits for their dental health. Preventative measures should begin when they are young. Start brushing their teeth after they get their adult teeth, usually around 6 months old, to help them adjust to the process.
Why Start Early?
Builds a Habit
Introducing brushing when they’re young helps your puppy get comfortable with it. If you wait too long, brushing may feel strange or uncomfortable for them.
Prevents Dental Issues
By the age of 2, 80% of dogs show signs of gum disease. Brushing regularly helps prevent plaque buildup and reduces the risk of dental problems later.
What Happens if You Don’t Brush?
Not brushing your puppy’s teeth can lead to gum disease, infections, tooth loss, and other health issues. Signs of dental trouble include bad breath, swollen gums, difficulty chewing, and more. If your puppy shows these signs, contact your vet.
Tips for Brushing Your Puppy’s Teeth
- Be Patient
Start slow by rubbing dog-safe toothpaste on your puppy’s gums with your finger. Once they’re comfortable with the taste, introduce a toothbrush. Always praise them to make it a positive experience. - Use Dog-Specific Products
Never use human toothpaste or toothbrushes. Stick to products made for dogs to ensure their safety. - Chew Toys Help
Puppies love to chew, and it’s great for their teeth! Use dental chews or toys to help reduce plaque buildup. - Consider Supplements
Talk to your vet about adding dental supplements or vitamins to your puppy’s diet to support their dental health. - Regular Vet Checkups
Ensure your puppy gets a dental exam twice a year, and a cleaning if necessary. Bad breath could indicate a dental issue.
Starting a dental care routine early gives your puppy the best chance for a healthy mouth. With the right products and routine, your pup can enjoy a lifetime of smiles!
Dental Care Treats
Pets adore treats, and dental treats are a fantastic way to promote oral health. They help fight bad breath, combat plaque and tartar buildup, and can even prevent periodontal disease, keeping your pet’s mouth clean and healthy.
How Do Dental Treats Work?
Dental treats work in two key ways: mechanical action and enzymatic action.
Mechanical Action: This is the physical scraping that occurs when your pet chews on the treat. The texture of the treat rubs against your pet’s teeth and gums, helping to remove plaque and tartar—similar to how brushing works for humans.
Enzymatic Action: This refers to the special ingredients in the treats that help fight plaque and tartar buildup. These ingredients work much like toothpaste or mouthwash for humans. They break down the harmful buildup in your pet’s mouth, providing an added layer of protection.
It’s important to note that while dental treats are an excellent preventive measure, they are most effective when combined with regular brushing and professional cleanings by your vet. However, for pets who aren’t keen on having their teeth brushed, dental treats are a great alternative for maintaining cleaner, healthier teeth.
Top 5 Dental Treats for Your Pet
- Greenies Dental Treats: With a chewy texture that cleans teeth and supports healthy gums, Greenies are made with natural ingredients, plus added vitamins and minerals. They’re safe and easy to digest for both dogs and cats.
- Chew A Bulls Dental Ring: This unique dental chew is designed to gently remove plaque while massaging your dog’s gums. It also includes cumin, which aids digestion and gives the chew a pleasant scent.
- Tartar Buster Dog Bones: These bones help remove tartar buildup and plaque, leaving your dog’s teeth cleaner and whiter. They also freshen your dog’s breath, making for a healthier mouth overall.
- Oven-Baked Dental Treats: These crunchy treats are made with natural, functional ingredients like spearmint, parsley, pumpkin, and green tea extract. Slowly oven-baked to preserve nutrients, they help break down plaque and tartar with every bite, keeping teeth clean and breath fresh.
- Vetgies Healthy Dog Treats: These treats not only help maintain healthy teeth and gums, but also prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They’re perfect for keeping your pet engaged while supporting their oral health.
With these top dental treats, you can help your pet enjoy a cleaner, healthier smile!
How to Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Your Dog
Our pets give us unconditional love every day of the year, so why not return the favour on Valentine’s Day? This year, take the opportunity to express just how much your furry friend means to you. Here are some of our favourite ways to make the day extra special for your dog:
1. Give Them a Valentine’s Day Gift
Treat your dog to something they’ll love! Head to your favorite pet store, like Feeds’n Needs, and let them pick out a new toy (or a few!). They will be so excited to go home and play with their new toy with you.
2. Plan a Special Valentine’s Meal
Dogs like eating at the same time as their pet parents! Plan to sit down to eat a meal at the same time as your pet. Your dog will appreciate the extra attention.
3. Make Them Special Valentine’s Treats
Show your love by baking your dog some heart-shaped treats! Choose their favorite flavors and get creative in the kitchen. Try out these tasty DIY Pumpkin Dog Treats. They’ll be sure to savor every bite!
4. Create Valentine’s Day Keep Sake Artwork
Why not make a lasting memory with your dog? Use pet-safe clay to make a paw print impression or have them walk across a canvas with pet-safe paint on their paws to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. You can even personalize a treat jar with their name, filling it with their favourite treats from Feeds’n Needs. Your dog will love this thoughtful gesture (and the treats, of course!).
5. Quality Time Together
Sometimes, the best gift is simply your time. Whether you’re taking a walk through the snowy outdoors, playing at the dog park, or curling up on the couch for a cozy movie night, your dog will cherish the time spent with you. Quality moments are the heart of any great Valentine’s celebration.
Wishing you and your furry friend a very Happy Valentine’s Day from your Experts at Feeds’n Needs!
Beating The January Blues with Your Pet
Now that life has started to slow down again, we are snapped back to the reality of shorter days, cold temperatures and a lack of sunlight. January is often referred to as the most depressing month of the year, with “Blue Monday” dubbed the saddest day. Fortunately for us pet lovers, our furry companions can significantly help beat the January blues! Here is our list of things you can do with your pets to bring you some joy this winter:
Get Some Sun
It is recommended that humans get 5-30 minutes of sunlight several times per week to remain healthy. Vitamin D is also essential for the health of our pets, and a great way to ensure you’re both getting the amount you need is by getting outside for a mid-day walk each day! With the sunlight hours being so short in the winter, making it a priority to get outside and soak up some sunshine will help boost your mood.
Exercise
When you exercise, your brain releases endorphins responsible for your happiness. Evidence shows that even 10 minutes of light exercise, such as walking or stretching, can help boost energy levels, alertness and mood. Exercise isn’t just great for you; it’s also essential for your pet’s well-being! Going for a walk each day or playing a game of fetch in the yard are great ways for you and your pet to exercise and release those happy endorphins!
Nutrition
We all know that eating healthy, nutritious food is great for our physical health, but did you know that it is also essential for our mental well-being? Some vital mood-boosting nutrients that you can incorporate into your and your pet’s diet are:
Omega 3’s – Healthy fats are vital for helping our brains to function and manage our moods. A great source of omega-3 fatty acids is fish and fish oils. Incorporate this into your pet’s diet with supplements like Thrive herring oil, available at Feeds’n Needs!
Magnesium – Helps support healthy brain growth and development, including our memory and ability to learn and form new connections. Magnesium is found in leafy greens like curly kale and broccoli, and it is an excellent supplement to incorporate into your winter diet.
B Vitamins – These vitamins play an essential role in the production of chemicals that affect our mood and other brain functions. Foods such as beef, chicken and liver are rich in B vitamins. If you’re looking for a supplement incorporating B vitamins, magnesium, and more into your pet’s diet, Omega Alpha’s OptiPet Multi is the perfect supplement. It is available at your local Feeds’n Needs!
Bond With Your Pet
When we bond and connect with others, such as a loved one or pet, the happiness hormone oxytocin is released, boosting our mood. Bonding with our pets is a terrific way to deepen our connection with them and foster feelings of happiness and love. There are many ways you can bond with your pets, but here are some of our favourites:
Teach Them a New Trick – Spend time training your pet a cool new trick!
Play Games – Games like Hide ‘n Treat, where you hide your pet’s favourite treats around the house for them to seek out, provide mental stimulation and is a great opportunity for them to work for their food, nurturing their natural instincts to hunt.
Interactive Toys – These puzzle-style toys offer great mental stimulation. They can help reduce boredom-related habits like chewing and barking.
Cuddles – We saved the best for last! Nothing beats cuddling up with your furry friend on a cold winter day.
Make Homemade Treats
One fun activity we love doing with our pets on a cold, snowy day is making them DIY healthy treats! Check out our recipe for DIY Pumpkin Dog Treats.
Random Acts of Kindness
Studies have shown that performing simple acts of kindness can boost self-esteem, reduce stress, and increase happiness. This time of year can be especially difficult, so spread some happiness wherever you go, whether it be paying a stranger a compliment or helping at your local animal shelter. These gestures can significantly impact the receiver while bringing you some cheer at the same time!
Whether it’s getting outside for a walk, indulging in a snuggle session, or trying out new activities together, spending quality time with your furry friend can lift your spirits and bring a sense of warmth to the season. Embrace the joy your pet brings and use this time to bond, play, and create memories that will help chase away those January blues. Remember: a happy pet often leads to a happier you!
