We’re officially into 2025, and many of us are working hard to stick to our New Year’s resolutions. Changing out habits for self-improvement can be for more than just humans. Pets benefit just as much from setting goals for their health, happiness, and well-being.
Why Are Setting Resolutions for Pets Beneficial?
Like us, our pets need focus and attention on their health and wellness. Creating resolutions for them is a great way to monitor and improve their overall well-being, from diet to dental care and physical activity. These resolutions help keep your pets physically healthy and strengthen the emotional connection between you and your furry friend.
Dental Hygiene: Keep Those Teeth Sparkling!
Dental hygiene is a critical part of your pet’s overall health. Just like humans, dogs (and cats!) can develop plaque and tartar on their teeth. Left untreated, it can lead to painful gum disease and even tooth loss. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to help prevent dental issues in pets. Not all pets enjoy getting their teeth brushed, but there are alternatives, such as dental treats, oral care food, and water gels, that help maintain your pet’s oral health.
A dental exam at the vet is the first step in creating a healthy oral care plan. If your pet needs a professional cleaning, your vet will help set that up, and from there, you can establish a home care routine to maintain their pearly whites. Remember, healthy teeth lead to a healthier pet overall!
Exercise: Keep Them Active and Fit
Just like humans, pets can experience joint issues, reduced mobility, and a shorter lifespan due to being overweight. Exercise should be a priority in your pet’s New Year’s resolutions.
Regular walks, playtime, and outdoor adventures are not only fun but essential for your pet’s overall health. Whether it’s chasing a ball in the backyard or going for a daily stroll around the block, exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and supports joint health. Start slowly and gradually increase their activity level, especially if they’ve been less active during winter.
Diet: Nourish Their Bodies the Right Way
It’s easy to spoil our pets with extra snacks and table scraps, but this can lead to unwanted weight gain and long-term health issues. Overweight pets are at a higher risk of heart disease, diabetes, and even certain cancers. One of the best ways to combat this is by providing a balanced diet.
Stick to a high-quality pet food, if you are unsure where to start, the Expert at Feeds’n Needs can help you find the right food for your pet.
Nutrition: Boost Their Health with Supplements
Ensuring your pet’s diet is nutritionally balanced is key, but you can take their health a step further by adding supplements to their daily routine. Products like Thrive supplements can support various aspects of your pet’s health, from digestive health to joint support, skin and coat issues, and more.
By incorporating the right supplements, you can enhance their diet and make sure they’re getting the nutrients. If you’re unsure where to start, stop by Feeds’n Needs and chat with one of our Experts who can recommend the best supplements for your pet’s specific needs.
When making changes to your pet’s routine, it’s important to start slow. Abrupt changes can be stressful for your pet, so allow them time to adjust. Whether introducing a new food, adding supplements, or starting a new exercise routine, gradual changes will ensure a smooth transition and greater success in maintaining these new habits.
Make 2025 a year of health and wellness for your furry friends, and enjoy the journey together. After all, a healthy pet means a happier, more active life for both of you!
Let’s make this year the best one yet—for you and your pets!
5 Things to do With Your Pet at Christmas
The holiday season is a time for spending quality moments with loved ones, but don’t forget about the furry members of your family! Pets can sometimes feel overwhelmed by all the guests, new smells, and tempting (but dangerous) decorations. However, Christmas is the perfect opportunity to bond with your pet and include them in the festive fun. Here are five things to do with your pet this holiday season:
- Take a Holiday Lights Walk with Your Dog
Like us, dogs are often fascinated by the twinkling lights and colourful displays during the holiday season. Take your dog for a stroll around your neighbourhood to enjoy the decorations together. Remember that it might be too cold for a long walk, so try to keep it local or invest in some protective gear like booties and a jacket for your dog, which are available at your local Feeds’n Needs. - Create Festive Games for Your Pet
Every pet is different, so take some time to find indoor activities that will engage your furry friend. Here are a few festive game ideas for both dogs and cats:
Indoor Games for Dogs:
Tug-of-War: A classic game, just make sure to use a toy that’s gentle on your dog’s teeth!
Toy Naming: Teach your dog the names of their toys, and reward them with a dog-friendly Christmas treat when they fetch the right one.
Hide and Seek: After teaching your dog to stay, hide somewhere in the house and call them to find you. Be ready to shower them with praise when they succeed!
Indoor Games for Cats:
Christmas Puzzle: Turn a cardboard box into a fun puzzle by cutting holes and filling it with treats, catnip, or toys. Watch your cat’s excitement as they figure out how to get the goodies!
Fetch: Believe it or not, many cats love playing fetch! Toss a catnip-filled toy and encourage them to bring it back. It may take some time, but most cats will eventually learn that the game only continues if they bring it back. - Play in the Snow
Many pets love to play in the snow. Dogs, in particular, enjoy frolicking in the winter wonderland. Whether it’s your backyard, a local park, or a walking trail, let your dog experience the joy of running in the snow. Not all pets, however, enjoy the cold, and that’s perfectly fine.
Indoor cats and rabbits should be on a harness and leash to prevent them from running away if they get too scared. Keep an eye on their behaviour, and if the outdoors is too cold and scary for them, take them back inside immediately, where it’s warm and cozy. - Try a Festive Costume
Some pets love getting dressed up for the holidays, while others may be a little more skeptical. If your pet is open to it, dress them in a festive outfit like a sweater, bandana, or holiday-themed hat. Start with something simple, and if they’re comfortable, work your way up to more elaborate costumes. Just remember to be patient and keep an eye on how they’re reacting to ensure they’re happy. - Snap Holiday Photos with Santa
Capture your pet’s festive spirit by taking a photo with Santa! Here are some tips to help you get the perfect shot:- Introduce them to Santa slowly and calmly.
- Be part of the picture or have one person directing your pet.
- Treats will help!
- Have patience.
- Exercise before the photo to tire them out.
- Squeaky toys are great to get them to look at the camera.
- If all else fails, capture your pet behaving naturally.
We hope these activities bring some extra joy to your holiday season and help you bond with your pet. Wishing you and your furry friends a safe, happy, and paw-some Christmas!
10 Christmas Gifts for Your Dog
This holiday season, don’t forget to spoil your furry friend with a special gift! As you shop for friends and family, take some time to find the perfect present for your pup. Whether it’s a new toy, tasty treats, or something else entirely, there’s no shortage of great gift options for dogs at Feeds’n Needs!
To help you choose, we’ve rounded up the top 10 best dog gift ideas from Feeds’n Needs that are sure to bring joy to your pet this Christmas:
- Kongs
For dogs of all ages and chewing habits, Kongs are a must-have! Fill them with tasty treats or Kong Easy Treat filling to keep your dog engaged and entertained longer. - Collar & Leash
Available in many styles, sizes and colors, you’re sure to find the perfect new set for your dog. Consider adding an LED Nighthowl necklace for added safety on nighttime walks! - Plush Toy
Is your dog a fan of playtime? Surprise them with a new plush toy! Choose from our wide variety of sizes and designs to match your dog’s personality. - A Cozy New Bed
Spoil your dog with a comfy new bed! Our stores offer an assortment of sizes and styles, so you can find the perfect one for your dog to curl up in. - Dog Tag
What better to go with a new collar and leash than a new dog tag?! (Not all locations have engraver in-store, but tags can be ordered through other stores) - Supplements
Show your dog you care by gifting them health-boosting supplements. We recommend Thrive Herring Oil for its many benefits like promoting skin and coat health. - Treats
Treat them right by spoiling them with their favorite snacks and chews! Tartar busters and beef jerky are fan favorites year after year! - Grooming Supplies
Help your dog look and feel their best with new grooming essentials like shampoo or a brush to leave their coat silky soft and smelling fabulous. - Food & Water Bowls
From elevated bowls to slow feeders, we offer a wide selection of options to suit every dog’s needs and eating habits. - Bosco & Roxy Cookies
Who doesn’t love indulging in some tasty cookies at Christmas time? Bosco and Roxy makes cookies made specifically for dogs that they’re sure to drool over!
When selecting gifts, consider your dog’s size, age, and preferences. Some dogs may prefer toys they can chew, while others might enjoy interactive toys that challenge their minds. Visit your local Feeds’n Needs and our Experts will help you find that perfect gift for your pooch!
Dog Grooming Tips for Winter
While most dogs love playing in the snow, the cold and ice can be harsh on their fur and skin. Winter dog grooming is just as important as any other time of the year, possibly even more important. Here are some simple tips to help keep your dog comfortable and safe throughout the colder season.
Protect Paws
Ice and salt can irritate your dog’s paw pads. After outdoor walks, rinse their paws with warm water to remove any debris and prevent irritation. If your dog does not mind, you can put on dog socks or boots to protect their paws from the cold.
If their paw pads become cracked or chapped, apply a paw balm for added protection. You can even apply balm before walks for an extra layer of defense. Just remember to wash it off when you return inside to remove any buildup embedded in the balm.
Trim Nails Often
Cold temperatures, snow, and low humidity can make your dog’s nails more brittle, increasing the likelihood of breaks. Broken nails can be painful, even if they don’t bleed. Keeping your dog’s nails short all winter is the best way to keep them from breaking.
Protect Your Pups Nose
Your dog’s nose may need some extra attention during the winter months. Cold air can dry out their noses, causing cracks or discomfort and even impact their sense of smell. Use a special nose balm (or a combined paw-and-nose balm) to keep your dog’s nose soft and moist throughout the colder season.
Maintain Their Coat
It’s a common misconception that dogs should avoid haircuts in the winter. In reality, dogs can maintain their regular grooming routine year-round. Whether you do it yourself or visit a professional groomer, regular trims help keep your dog’s coat in top shape.
To help combat shedding and matting, brush your dog at least once a week (or daily for some breeds). Brushing is just as important. Make it a habit to brush your dog at least weekly (or daily for some breeds) to prevent mats and tangles. Brushing also helps distribute natural oils, which moisturize and protect the skin and coat. A well-maintained coat will help keep your dog warm and insulated during chilly walks.
Use Conditioner
Winter air can dry out your dog’s skin and coat, leading to dandruff, irritation, and discomfort. Regular baths help remove dirt and irritants, but follow up with a conditioner to replenish lost oils. This will soothe dry, itchy skin and help keep their fur soft and healthy.
Use a Dog Sweater or Jacket
A dog sweater or jacket can be a great investment if your dog will be outside for extended periods and has a thin or short coat. They will help keep your dog cozy during walks or outside playtime.
Following these grooming tips can help ensure your dog stays comfortable, healthy, and happy all winter!
DIY Pumpkin Dog Treats
Fall calls for pumpkin flavor everything! Our furry friends should be able to indulge in the pumpkin treats, as pumpkin is a superfood for dogs. Besides being a natural stomach soother, pumpkin also helps to remove excess water in a dog’s digestive tract. DIY Pumpkin Dog Treats are easy to make at home and contain healthy ingredients. Your pup will love these homemade treats! Check out the recipe below.
Ingredients:
3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (old-fashioned, not the quick-cooking kind)
1 cup pumpkin puree, unsweetened (do not use pie filling)
2 large eggs (see note for alternatives)
Optional: whole-wheat or all-purpose flour, as needed for rolling
Instructions
Prep. Preheat oven to 350º F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.
Mix dough. Add oats to a clean and dry food processor. Process oats on high speed for approximately 2 minutes until they resemble coarse flour. Add pumpkin puree and eggs to the processor and pulse until the mixture forms a stiff dough.
Shape treats. To make bone-shaped treats, flour a clean work surface, and roll out the dough until about 1/4-inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to press the treats and place them on the baking sheet. They won’t expand or rise much, so the treats can lay snug. For round treats, use a small cookie scoop to dollop dough balls onto the parchment. Press each ball down with a fork, creating cross-hatch marks.
Bake. Bake the treats for 20-30 minutes or until the treats have stiffened up in texture. These treats won’t pick up much browning color. Cool completely before storing and giving to your pup!
Storing. Since these treats are made with fresh ingredients, store them in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container or freeze them in a zip-tight bag for up to a month.
Notes
Eggs: If your dog is allergic to eggs, you can replace them with 1 cup of mashed bananas or applesauce.
Bonus Ingredients (to spoil your dog!)
-
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter (non-xylitol), reduce pumpkin puree by 1/4 cup
-
- 3-4 bacon strips, chopped – no recipe alterations needed
-
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon, for smells your dog can’t resist
By learning how to make homemade dog treats, you can customize treats they will love to your dog’s personal taste and needs. Happy baking!
Halloween Safety Tips for Pet Parents
With Halloween right around the corner, pet parents need to be extra vigilant to ensure their furry friends stay safe and happy during the festivities. From wacky costumes to spooky decorations and the excitement of trick-or-treaters coming and going, it can be easy for your pet to feel overwhelmed or find themselves in trouble. In this blog, we are sharing our expert advice on how you can keep your pets safe this Howl-O-Ween season!
Treats – Keep Them out of Pets Reach
Remember that not all human food is safe for our pets to consume. Chocolate is very toxic to dogs and cats, and if ingested, can cause severe symptoms or death. Additionally, many candies contain xylitol, a natural alternative to sugar, often used in sugar-free sweets and chewing gum. Xylitol is highly toxic to pets, and even a small amount can cause liver failure or prove to be fatal. To prevent our beloved companions from accidentally ingesting these harmful sweets, keep all candies and chocolates out of their reach. Furthermore, make sure you throw your candy wrappers in the trash when finished to prevent curious pets from ingesting them.
Decorations – Are They Pet-Friendly?
While putting up spooky decorations is a fun way to join the Halloween festivities, it’s important to remember that these chilling ghosts and goblins are novel objects to our pets and can be quite scary to them if not introduced properly. Always allow your pets to explore new things at their own pace and reward them with treats for their bravery. In addition to potentially causing anxiety, some decorations can prove to be hazardous to pets as well. Make sure all decorations are put up securely so they can’t be easily torn down or chewed on by pets, and if you have jack-o-lanterns set out, try using LED candles to prevent fire hazards if a pet knocks one over.
Costumes – Should Your Pet Wear One?
What better way to get your pets in on the Halloween fun than to dress them up in a cute costume? If your pet has never worn a costume before, it’s important to approach it slowly and read their body language as you go. Watch for body cues like flattened ears, yawning, tongue flicks, and startled jumps that may indicate your pet is uncomfortable. Having clothing put on can be very anxiety-inducing for a cat or dog, so never force them to wear something if they seem uncomfortable. Let them smell the costume and get familiar with it before putting it on, and start by only having them wear it for short periods leading up to Halloween night. Be sure to reward them with treats and never scold them for being frightened or trying to wiggle away. If you choose to dress your pet up, pick a costume that won’t limit their mobility or cover their eyes, and try to avoid costumes with dangly bits that could be easily chewed off or ingested. If you want to get your pet involved without wearing a costume, there are alternatives like Halloween-themed collars, leashes and bandanas that they may feel more comfortable wearing.
Trick or Treating – Staying Safe in The House or on The Streets
In The House – If you are staying home to hand out candy to trick-or-treaters, keep your pet’s safety in mind when preparing for Halloween night. How will your pet react to all the excitement of doorbells chiming and strangers approaching? Anxious pets may feel more comfortable being away from all the action in a dedicated, safe space where they can relax. Create a den for them in a quiet room with their favorite bed and toys where they will be safe and unable to escape from the house if they get spooked. Alternatively, leave a bowl of treats on your porch for the trick-or-treaters to prevent the doorbell from ringing and disturbing anxious pets.
On The Streets – If you plan to take your pet trick-or-treating with you, take the proper precautions to keep them safe amidst the hustle and bustle of foot traffic and spooky costumes. Ensure they are fitted with a secure collar or harness, and keep them on a tight lead close to your body while you are out. Attach an up-to-date pet ID tag to their collar before you go so that in the event they get lost in the commotion, they can be quickly returned to you when found. Also, consider having them wear reflective gear while out so that they can be easily spotted in the dark. If you have a particularly anxious dog but still want to take them trick-or-treating, it may be best to take them out earlier in the evening before it gets too dark and the streets become packed with the older trick-or-treaters.
Following our advice, you can ensure your pet has a fun and safe Howl-O-Ween season with you. Stop by your local Feeds’n Needs to pick up supplies like reflective collars and leashes, treats for rewarding bravery and more! While you’re there, why not get a custom pet ID tag made to ensure that you’re ready for the big night! From all of us at Feeds’n Needs, Happy Halloween and stay safe out there!
For more expert advice and fall favorites, check out our other posts!
Top 5 Favourite Pumpkin Products for Fall
How to Pick the Right Harness for Your Dog
Helping Your Dog When You Are Out
Hidden Sugars in Dog Food
How Hidden Sugar in Your Dog’s Food Can Affect Their Health
Did you know that there is a hidden ingredient in most processed dog foods that can seriously affect their health? That’s right, your dog may be consuming large amounts of sugar and starch without you even realizing it! In this blog, we will uncover the truth about hidden sugar in dog food and its impact on pet’s health.
The Role of Starch in Processed Dog Foods
According to AAFCO (Association of Food Control Officials), there is no minimum amount of carbohydrates required for dog food, and this is because they are not required for your dog’s health. So, if this is the case, why would pet food companies still put starch in their processed kibble? The answer is simple – it’s necessary for the process used to produce the kibble. When exposed to heat and moisture, starch gelatinizes and helps to bind the food together when it’s made into its final form.
The Hidden Ingredient – Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are sugar molecules that come in the form of sugars (simple carbohydrates), starch, and fibre. When carbohydrates are eaten, the digestive system breaks them down into glucose. Glucose is sugar in the blood which the body can use for energy.
Understanding The Glycemic Load
The glycemic load of food refers to how much that food will raise blood sugar levels after it is eaten. When the glycemic load of food is high, it can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, which triggers the production of insulin in the pancreas. Insulin is produced to move sugar from the blood into cells, which lowers blood glucose levels. The speed at which food is digested can impact how quickly blood glucose levels spike, triggering insulin production. It’s worth noting that carbohydrates may be digested slower if the food is high in protein and fat, meaning that blood sugar won’t rapidly spike, and insulin won’t be produced.
The Impact of a High Glycemic Load
Insulin Spikes & Obesity – As we previously discussed, when your pet eats food with a high glycemic load, it can cause a rapid spike in blood glucose levels, leading to insulin production. Insulin works to lower blood glucose levels by moving sugar from the blood and into the cells of the body, where it can be used for energy or stored as fat to be used later. Over time, eating high glycemic foods can increase blood glucose levels to be higher than your dog needs for energy, and will end up being stored as fat that is never used. This can lead to obesity and, in severe cases, can lead to insulin resistance and diabetes.
Gut Health – Harmful bacteria thrive on sugar, so when your dog eats a high-carbohydrate diet, these harmful bacteria can start to outnumber the good bacteria. This imbalance of bacteria can lead to many issues like leaky gut syndrome, autoimmune diseases, and malnutrition. Since the good bacteria in your dog’s body are responsible for making many vitamins and minerals in the intestines, when harmful bacteria outnumber the good, it can cause malnutrition, despite your dog eating a healthy amount of food in a day.
Yeast Infections – Yeast, a type of fungus, also thrives on sugar, so when your dog eats a high-carb diet causing an imbalance of bacteria, it can cause the yeast to colonize and grow out of control. This overgrowth of yeast can lead to infections which can be either local (present in one area of the body), or systemic (spread throughout the body). These yeast infections are commonly misdiagnosed as allergies or food sensitivities.
How to Calculate the Glycemic Load of Dog Food
Since carbohydrate content isn’t required to be listed on dog food packaging, how do you figure out how much is in the food? Calculating the glycemic load of a food is simple. Just look at the guaranteed analysis on the bag and add the total percentage of fat, moisture, protein, and ash (Ash is usually between 5-8%; use 7% if not listed). Once you’ve added these numbers, subtract that total from 100%.
- Ex: 11% fat + 12% moisture + 35% protein + 7% ash = 65
Now calculate 100 – 65 = Glycemic load of 35%
Glycemic Load Levels:
High – 20+ glycemic load
Medium – 11-19 glycemic load
Low – 0-10 glycemic load
How Can You Find a Low-Glycemic Dog Food?
Since carbohydrates are necessary for dry kibble production, finding one with a low glycemic load can be difficult. An excellent choice for the lowest possible GL would be to feed a raw diet as they don’t require any starch for production. Feeds’n Needs is proud to offer Big Country Raw pet food at all our retail locations. Another option is to choose a food high in protein and fat, such as Acana or Orijen pet foods. The high amount of protein helps prevent your dog’s blood glucose and insulin levels from spiking. Choosing a food with the lowest possible glycemic load can prevent many potential health concerns, so it’s worth taking the extra time to calculate the percentage when looking into a new food for your dog.
If you’ve made it this far, congratulations! You now have a better understanding of the complexity of hidden sugars in dog food. Having this knowledge is critical to making informed decisions when it comes to choosing a food that is best for your pet and their health. Stop by your local Feeds’n Needs to chat with one of our experts about our different food options and let us help you choose the perfect one for your canine companion!
Eager to learn more about pet health and nutrition? Check out these blogs!
Benefits of a Raw Diet
Pet Obesity Awareness
Pet Seasonal Allergies
Sources:
Healthy Foods for Diabetic Dogs | Dogabetix
Do Dogs Need Carbs? | Dog Food Advisor
Hidden Sugars in Dog Food: The Silent Health Threat – Human & Pets (humanandpets.com)
Is The Sugar in Your Dogs Food Slowly Killing Them? (acabonacfarms.com)
How Hidden Sugars In Your Dog’s Food Are Making Them Sick (theluckypup.com)
Low-Glycemic Dog Food by Canine Nutritionist | The Canine Nutritionist
Tips for Hiking With Your Dog
Going hiking with your dog is a fantastic way to get exercise, bond with your canine companion, and enjoy the beauty of nature. To ensure you have a fun and safe hike, you should know a few things before you hit the trails. In this blog, we’re sharing our top tips for hiking with your dog!
Research Trails Before You Go
Before you set out on your hike, it’s important to do some research before you go. Make sure that the trail you have chosen to hike is dog-friendly, and if so, know their leash laws. While most trails do allow dogs, many of them still require that dogs remain leashed at all times. We also recommend looking into any potential hazards that you may encounter on the trail, such as toxic or irritating plants like poison ivy or foxtails, as well as any wild animals that are known to inhabit the area.
Pre-Condition Your Dog
If you have a particular hike you want to tackle with your dog, make sure that they will be up for the challenge. Consider things like your dog’s age, breed, health and fitness level and use your best judgement to determine whether your dog is fit to go on a hike with you. If you have a goal in mind to complete a certain hike that your dog may not be ready for yet, pre-condition them by starting with shorter, easier hikes and slowly working your way up to longer, more challenging hikes with them.
Stay On-Trail and be Respectful
While hiking, it’s important to respect the wildlife and nature around you by staying on the marked trail. Keep your dog on a leash or 15-20″ long line to ensure that you are always in control of them when passing fellow hikers or in the event they encounter a wild animal. Allowing your dog to run free off the trail can disrupt fragile ecosystems and potentially damage endangered plants while also putting your dog at risk of encountering a predator. Always remember that the trail is a shared place, so be respectful and enjoy it!
*Expert Tip—Consider adding a bell to your dog’s collar or leash to signal your presence to fellow hikers and nearby wildlife, especially when hiking in the fall when bears and other predators are known to be more active.
Bring Lots of Water and Snacks
Hiking can be hard work, especially during the warmer months when heat stroke is a serious concern for active dogs outdoors. No matter the season, bringing fresh water on your hike is essential to keep you and your pet hydrated. Stop often on your hike to offer your dog some water and a snack to help them maintain their stamina and praise them for being a great hiking buddy! Collapsible dog bowls are perfect for taking on a hike, and many of them have a clip to attach to your hiking pack! Don’t allow your dog to drink from any puddles or streams along the hike, as they can be contaminated with things like giardia and blue-green algae, which can be harmful. Only allow them to drink the water you brought with you. Another important thing to remember is to not feed your dog a large meal right before or after hiking, as it can cause bloat. Feed them at least one hour before or 30 minutes after the hike to prevent stomach upset.
Leave No Trace
Being respectful of the environment also includes cleaning up after your dog. Make sure to pack lots of poop bags and properly dispose of waste in a garbage can. Canine waste can be harmful to ecosystems if not picked up, so it’s important to always clean up and leave the land as you found it.
First Aid Checks
Be on the safe side and prepare for every scenario by packing a first aid kit for your dog to take with you on the hike. Include things like gauze bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and a tick remover in your kit. If you’re travelling further away for your hike, research the local veterinarians in that area so that in case of an emergency, you’ll know where to go. While hiking, remember to regularly check in with your dog and ensure they’re still doing okay. When you finish your hike, take time to do a thorough look over your dog, checking for things like scratches, lacerations, paw injuries, ticks, etc.
Hiking Gear for Dogs
Last but not least, there are a few pieces of equipment you may want to consider bringing with you on your hike: Boots to protect your dog’s paws from hot pavement or rough terrain, a cooling vest or bandana to help keep them from overheating on the hike, and an up-to-date pet ID tag to put on their collar in the event they get separated from you on the trail.
Stop by your local Feeds’n Needs to get geared up for your hike with your trusty companion; we have everything you need, from dog boots and poop bags to water bottles and high protein treats to keep their energy up on the trail! Be safe and happy hiking!
Sources:
6 Tips For Hiking with Your Dog | Canada Pooch
10 Tips for Hiking with Your Dog – Showit Blog (happyhoundsdogtraining.ca)
10 Trail Tips for Hiking With Dogs | Fear Free Happy Homes
10 Tips for Camping and Hiking with a Dog | Therm-a-Rest Blog (thermarest.com)
Hiking With Your Dog In Nova Scotia : The Do’s & Don’ts | EAST COAST DOG
5 Essential Tips for Hiking with Your Dog This Fall: A Guide to Safe & Scenic Trails – Em & Me Studio (emandmestudio.com)
How to Pick the Right Harness for Your Dog
With so many different harness styles available, deciding which type is right for your dog can be difficult. At Feeds‘n Needs, we understand that each dog is unique and may have different needs than others. With this in mind, we created this simple chart to help you figure out which harness style may be best suited for your pup!
Stop by your local Feeds‘n Needs to see our selection of quality harnesses, collars, leashes and more! Our Experts will be more than happy to help you find the perfect harness for your furry friend!
Check out these related blog posts!
Tips to Prevent Leash Pulling
New Pet Essentials
Road Trip Safety for Your Dog
Tips for Camping with Your Dog
Camping with your dog can be an enriching experience with adventure and bonding opportunities. However, it requires careful planning and preparation to ensure you and your furry friend have a safe and enjoyable trip. In this blog, we’ll explore the essential steps you must take when heading into the great outdoors with your canine companion. We’ve got you covered, from packing the gear to understanding campsite etiquette. So, grab your leash and get ready for an unforgettable camping journey with your dog!
Find Pet-Friendly Campsites & Activities
Before you can plan your camping trip, you need to find out if your campground allows dogs and, if so, if there are any specific rules they may have, such as how many dogs are permitted at a campsite, leash laws, if there are designated K9 potty areas, etc.
Additionally, you should check if the hiking trails or attractions you have planned for your trip allow dogs. Leashed dogs are usually permitted; however, checking beforehand and planning your trip from there is always best.
Pack The Right Camping Gear
When camping with dogs, packing the right gear is critical for ensuring your trip is a success. Let’s break down some of the basic essentials:
Tent—Make sure your tent is big enough for everyone to sleep comfortably. When deciding what size tent to bring, consider the size of your dog (or dogs) and how many people will be camping with you.
Floor Mats—Dogs have sharp claws that could potentially poke holes in your tent flooring. Lining your tent floor with inexpensive indoor/outdoor floor mats can prevent holes and make tent cleanup much easier!
Sleep Setup—The key to a great night’s rest while camping is ensuring everyone has a comfortable place to sleep! If you’re not keen on sharing a bed with your dog, give them their own place to sleep – whether it be a dog bed from home, their own inflatable sleeping pad or a cot with blankets. Make sure they’ll be able to keep warm if the temperature drops overnight and bring a cooling pad for them in case it gets hot. Find your dog a cozy bed to keep them comfy at Feeds’n Needs!
* Pro Tip—Ensure your dog gets lots of exercise during the day to help tire them out for bedtime!
Tie-Outs—Since most campgrounds require dogs to be on a leash at all times, a tie-out for the campsite makes it easy to keep your dog from running off without you having to hold a leash. Tie-outs can be attached to ground stakes or a tree (if there are any on your campsite), or you can create a “zipline” by attaching a tie out to 2 trees and clipping another tie out to it; that way, your dog has more freedom to move about the campsite. Consider placing your dog’s bed or camp chair outside so they can rest comfortably off the ground. Stop by your local Feeds ‘n Needs and check out our selection of tie-outs and ground stakes!
* Disclaimer—Never leave your dog tied up for prolonged periods of time or unsupervised at the campsite.
Food, Water & Accessories—Portion out each meal your dog will eat while camping in Ziploc baggies to make mealtime quick and easy – especially when you’re on the go! Store the baggies of food in a rolltop storage bag or airtight container to keep unwanted critters away from it. Collapsable food and water bowls are great for camping as they take up little space, and some can even clip to your backpack! Be sure to bring lots of drinking water for you and your dog, and try to avoid letting them drink from streams or puddles as they can be host to disease.
* Pro Tip – In the event you run out of clean drinking water, you can purify water from rivers, lakes, or streams by boiling it and making sure it stays at a rolling boil for at least one minute.
Leashes, Collars & ID—Make sure you pack your pet’s collar, leash, and harness before you go. Consider packing an extra collar and leash as a backup. Additionally, make sure your pet’s collar has an up-to-date ID tag. If they’re microchipped, ensure that information is also up to date. If you have a GPS-tracking collar for your dog, you can bring that along, too. If your dog gets lost while on your trip, making sure they can be identified when found is important. Be prepared by getting your pet ID tags made at Feeds’ n Needs! (Select Locations)
First Aid & Safety—Their safety is a top priority when camping or doing anything outdoors with your dog! Before you leave for your trip, research where the nearest 24-hour emergency vet is and write down their contact information. It is also recommended that you bring a doggie first aid kit with you. You can purchase these or easily make your own, including things like gauze and self-adhering wound wrap, antibacterial wipes or spray, tweezers, a tick remover, hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting if your dog ingests anything harmful, children’s Benadryl for allergic reactions (ask your vet about dosage), and any medications prescribed by your veterinarian. It may also be a good idea to include special paperwork such as your dog’s vaccination records and proof of ownership with your first aid kit in case you need it. Check out the selection of animal health and first aid supplies at your local Feeds ‘n Needs and start building your own K9 first aid kit!
Other Things to Pack:
- Poop Bags (Lots!)
- Dog Treats to reward good behaviour
- Dog Toys to keep them occupied at the campsite
- Dog backpack so your dog can help carry their own supplies
- Bug repellant (Dog safe)
- Lighting (headlamps, glow collar to see your dog at night)
- Cooling vest to keep your pooch cool in the heat
- Raincoat for your dog in case it rains
- Dog boots to protect their paws from rough terrain, hot pavement, or hot sand
- Towel to dry your dog off if they get wet or dirty
Practice & Prepare Before You Go
Being well-prepared for your trip before you leave is the best way to ensure you have everything you need once you get there. Make a list of all the supplies you need to bring and double check that you’ve got everything before you head out. If your dog has never been camping with you before, they may benefit from some practice at home. Set up your tent in your backyard and camp out for the night with your dog to get them used to the sounds and experience of being in a tent. You can also plan a few day trips hiking or adventuring with your dog to get them better prepared for the big camping trip! At the end of the day, patience will be essential when taking your dog camping. New surroundings and smells can overwhelm them, so give them time to adjust and reward them with lots of treats and praise along the way!
Camping Etiquette
Once you arrive at the campground, it is important to be respectful of your fellow campers and hikers. Being mindful of your dog’s barking at late hours, respecting leash laws, and picking up after your dog are all ways to practice good camping etiquette while on your trip.
Camping with your dog can be a fantastic adventure. With the right preparation and our expert advice in mind, you and your furry friend are sure to enjoy a safe, fun-filled trip, making memories to last a lifetime! Stop by one of our 14 Feeds ‘n Needs locations across the Maritimes to pick up some of these K9 camping essentials! Stay safe and happy camping!
Ready to explore more expert advice topics? Check out these similar posts!
Road Trip Safety for Your Dog
Animal Welfare During a Heat Wave
Water Safety for Dogs
Sources:
25 Camping With Dogs Tips, Tricks, and Top Gear (countryliving.com)
Camping With Dogs – A Beginner’s Guide | GoPetFriendly.com
A guide to camping with your dog – She Gets Around
How to Camp With Your Dog: What To Know and What To Bring (rover.com)
How to Make a First Aid Kit for Dogs, Cats & Other Pets | Tractor Supply Co.
