Why Your Dog’s Ears Stink and What To Do; By Leigh Burkett, DVM. Reviewed by Michael Kearley, DVM10/21/2025 Have you noticed that your dog’s ears stink? Are you wondering why your dog's ears smell?
If so, there may be a problem in your pup’s ears. These issues can range from ear wax buildup to ear infections. Let’s explore everything you need to know about odor in a dog's ears—from what causes the smell to tips for cleaning and preventing ear issues. Why Do My Dog's Ears Stink? There are a few different things that can cause your dog’s ears to stink. Let’s look at some of the most common causes of odor in a dog’s ears.
How To Get Rid of Smelly Dog Ears For most dogs, routine cleaning of your dog's ear(s) can be the best first step for helping get rid of the odor. For dogs with excess ear hair—which can trap odors and ear wax—you may want to consult a groomer and have some of your dog’s ear hair removed. If the odor continues or is accompanied by other symptoms associated with an ear infection (redness, head shaking/scratching, or pain), don’t clean your dog's ear(s) on your own. This can decrease the efficacy of proper diagnosis in the veterinary office and can cause your dog more pain. Use caution and seek veterinary guidance for the best ear cleaners. Dogs suffering from ear infections can have an underlying ear drum rupture (though uncommon) and certain chemicals shouldn’t be used with this condition. Should You Clean Your Dog’s Ears? Dogs have an ear-cleaning mechanism that will naturally keep their ears clean. This means that ear cleaning at home should only be performed under these circumstances:
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Most pet parents have two goals when they set off for a walk with their dog: elimination and exercise.
While both are critical to maintaining a happy and healthy dog, limiting your pup to those basic elements skips an important part of the canine experience—engaging your dog’s sense of smell. In large part, our dogs “see” the world through scent, and allowing them to interact with their environment through their noses taps into an often-overlooked processing tool. While some pet parents may want to hurry their pup along during a stroll, it’s important to know why sniffing enrichment is important to dogs, and how to take a scent walk with them successfully. Key Takeaways
How Dogs Understand Scents Not only do dogs have hundreds of millions of scent receptors as compared to our six million, they also devote approximately 40 times more brain volume to decoding smells than we do. This means that dogs are able to understand scent in a way that’s difficult for us to comprehend. A dog’s sense of smell can be loosely compared to human sight. Dogs smell to gain context of their environment, which includes the unique signature of other beings that have traveled that route before them, as well as elements that are abstract, like the passage of time or pending weather changes (yes, dogs can sense storms coming). A Dog's Need To Sniff Is Often Taken for Granted A dog can smell much more than humans, and while we know dogs need exercise and socialization to lead healthy lives, we’ve taken longer to understand the importance of smell for dogs. Dogs can be trained to sniff out bombs and missing people; they can locate the scat of endangered animals over land, air, and water; and they can even detect certain cancers in humans. The scope of their abilities is almost beyond comprehension, which makes the accidental ways in which we discourage our dogs’ sniffing all the more unfortunate. How To Take a Scent Walk With Your Dog You can engage your dog’s scenting abilities by taking them on a smell or scent walk. A scent walk changes the focus of the walk from miles covered to odors logged, which probably requires a different mindset for most pet parents. Instead of having a specific destination, the route of a scent walk meanders as your dog absorbs and processes the scents along the way. It’s easy to take a scent walk with your dog following these guidelines: Simply set off on a path with your dog on a leash. A long leash can give your dog a bit more freedom for sniff walks in less-populated areas. When your dog stops for a sniff, let them; don’t immediately pull them away. Be fully engaged, which means put away your phone and pay attention to your dog. Be patient while your dog engages with their nose; tune in to what your dog is doing and learn to understand how much they enjoy the freedom of sniffing. You’ll also likely gain new insights into your dog’s behavior when you take a scent walk: Is your dog a drive-by sniffer, eager to inhale as many new scents as possible? Or does your dog hunker down and dedicate themselves to smelling one location with great intensity? As you stroll, allow your dog to select the path and the amount of time they spend on each odor, but remember to keep leash manners in mind and don’t let your dog pull you along. The Benefits of Dog Sniffing on Walks Scent walks mentally stimulate dogs by allowing them to engage their powerful sense of smell. That said, pet parents don’t always have the time to devote to nose-to-the-ground walks. You can determine which walks you want to make scent walks, and which ones are routine (when your dog is on a tighter schedule). It’s important to teach your pup the difference between typical exercise walks, late night potty trips, and walks with other canine friends without needing to stop and sniff the world along the way. Scent Walks for Dogs FAQs What are scent walks for dogs? Scent walks are walks that you take with your dog where you allow them to sniff and explore objects along their path without a specific destination. How long does a scent trail last for a dog? Scent trails can last anywhere from a few hours to weeks, although many scents will start to fade within those first few hours or so. Is letting your dog sniff on walks good for them? Dogs get a lot of mental stimulation from sniffing, and it can even expend energy the same way physical exercise does, so it’s good for both your dog’s mind and their body. Are sniff walks tiring for dogs? The mental energy used during sniff walks can certainly make your dog tired, but in a good way! Sniff walks are just as effective as physical exercise at expending pent-up energy and decreasing behaviors like destructive chewing or excessive digging. Of course, if your dog is otherwise ill, elderly, or has limited mobility, it’s best to monitor them closely on sniff walks so that they do not become overly exhausted. WRITTEN BY: Victoria Schade, CPDT-KA, Animal Trainer Senior dogs are often overlooked in shelters, compared to younger dogs and puppies. However, dogs in their golden years have much to offer and can complement your family if simply given the chance. There are many benefits to choosing a senior pup, and it’s important to consider them during your dog adoption journey. Key Takeaways
What Age Is a Dog a Considered a Senior? In general, “senior” dogs are considered 7 years of age or older. More specifically, senior status is 7 years of age for medium- and large-sized dogs. Because small breeds have longer lifespans, they approach senior status around 11 years of age. However, giant breed dogs are considered seniors when they are around 5 years old, due to their shorter lifespans. Why You Should Adopt a Senior Dog Senior Dogs are Often Overlooked Senior dogs are often overlooked in shelters because most people looking to adopt are searching for an energetic puppy to take home. Approximately 5.8 million dogs enter U.S. shelters each year, with a large portion being senior dogs. However, only 25% of seniors get adopted compared to 60% for younger dogs and puppies. People can be more apprehensive about adopting a senior dog for many reasons. For one, senior dogs may come with health issues that need long-term management, which increases the cost for care. Similarly, because seniors have less life left, pet parents may be nervous about having to consider their quality of life and potential difficult decisions to be made soon after the adoption. Older dogs can also come with unknown histories, which can cause concern for how they may fit into the family. It’s important to note that senior dogs still have much to offer in their later years, and providing a safe and loving home could be the ultimate gift from a pet parent. They Can Still Learn New Tricks Senior dogs are often already housebroken and well-trained. However, you can still teach an old dog new tricks! Senior dogs are generally eager and willing to learn, and if they aren’t housebroken, you can still teach them. Teaching them new skills, such as putting a toy back in the toy bin or pawing a door when they need to go outside, also helps keep their cognitive function sharper and provides a sense of purpose. Because adoptable dogs often have unknown or incomplete backstories, pet parents should expect an adjustment phase and the need to teach rules or behaviors to fit their household. They Offer a More Relaxed Environment Senior dogs are generally calmer and more relaxed due to their older age. Families used to living a more relaxed lifestyle, but who still want to add a canine companion, can benefit from choosing a senior dog. They Still Have So Much Love to Give Age is just a number. Senior dogs are filled with love and deserve to live out their remaining years in a safe, loving home. By choosing to adopt a senior dog, you can provide that second chance to them. They Are Full-Grown Many dogs in shelters are not yet grown, and their anticipated height and weight is generally estimated. However, senior dogs are already full-grown, which means pet parents know exactly what to expect. Their Temperaments Are Known Pet parents know the dog’s temperament when adopting a senior. Senior dogs also have generally outgrown puppy behaviors, like chewing, so this is less of a concern for potential adopters. Considerations for Adopting a Senior Dog When adopting a senior dog, it’s important to schedule a veterinarian visit as soon as you can. This identifies any underlying health conditions early so that any long-term management can be discussed. Ensuring your home has all the necessary items for your new senior pup makes the transition from the shelter less stressful. For example, if your senior dog has any mobility issues, it’s important to block off stairs with a pet gate to keep them safe. Using dog stairs or a ramp can help your new pup get in and out of a car and up on couches or beds with ease. Other common senior products that may be helpful to have on hand include senior dog toys like a KONG, elevated food bowls, and an orthopedic dog bed. Placing rugs on slippery floors can also help your senior dog walk without slipping. Generally, monthly preventatives for fleas, ticks, and heartworms are started while a dog is at the shelter. However, if they are not, you’ll want to immediately start those medications, such as Bravecto and Interceptor Plus, to keep your dog protected. How To Find a Senior Dog Near You To find a senior dog near you, look up local rescues in your area. If you’re looking to adopt a specific breed, such as a Golden Retriever or a Pug, search for breed-specific shelters. Many rescues will even transport dogs across state lines. You can also visit your local shelter and speak with the staff about any senior dogs who have been recently surrendered and are looking for new homes. Adopting a Senior Dog FAQs Where is the best place to get a senior dog? The best place to get a senior dog is at your local shelter. Many senior pups enter shelters each day, and they have a much lower adoption rate than younger dogs. Is adopting a senior dog worth it? Yes! Senior dogs have so much to offer families and if given the chance, they will warm your heart and provide unconditional love. What is the 3-3-3 rule when adopting a dog? This rule refers to your dog’s adjustment to their new home. It generally takes dogs three days to initially adjust to your home, followed by around three weeks of bonding and getting used to your lifestyle and daily routine. It then takes about three months for your dog to build trust and really settle in. WRITTEN BY Brittany Kleszynski, DVMVeterinarian Dr. Brittany Kleszynski is a veterinarian and freelance medical writer who specializes in creating meaningful content that engages readers... No pet parent wants their dog to be in pain. But because dogs instinctively try to hide their pain and they can’t tell us when they are hurting, it’s up to us to recognize the subtle signs and to get them the help they need.
Many behaviors and physical changes can indicate that a dog is in pain. Learn how to recognize the signs of pain in dogs, what causes it, what you can do to help, and how to discuss your concerns with your vet. Health Tools Not sure whether to see a vet? Answer a few questions about your pet's symptom, and our vet-created Symptom Checker will give you the most likely causes and next steps. Signs a Dog Is in Pain Dogs feel pain just like humans do, but they don’t always show it in the same ways. A dog’s pain can become evident through physical symptoms, behavioral changes, and/or mobility issues. These might be subtle, so stay vigilant and never be afraid to ask your vet about anything that might signal that your dog is in pain. Physical Symptoms When a dog is experiencing pain, you might notice subtle physical signs or changes in their body language and how they carry themselves. Here are a few physical signs of pain in dogs:
A dog in pain tends to behave differently than what’s usual for them. Just like us, dogs tend to be crankier when they are experiencing pain. Here are a few behavioral signs that might indicate that your pet is experiencing pain:
If a dog has sustained an injury or is dealing with arthritis, you may notice changes in their mobility. Here are common signs of pain in dogs that affect how dogs get around:
What Causes Pain in Dogs? There are two types of pain: acute and chronic. Something that just happened, like an injury or illness, causes acute pain. Things that have been going on longer, like arthritis or dental disease, cause chronic pain. Anything that damages cells or creates inflammation can cause pain in dogs, including:
If you think your dog is suffering, know that there are a lot of different things you can do to help them feel better. Here are some steps you can take to help your dog cope with pain and work toward relief. 1. Make a Vet AppointmentFirst, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to figure out what the problem is. If your dog is in severe pain or has other symptoms, get them to a veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian will need to perform a physical exam and run some diagnostic tests. To pinpoint the problem, your vet may need to do X-rays, blood tests, or an ultrasound. 2. Stop or Modify Physical ActivitiesIf your pet is only showing signs of pain during an activity, avoid it until you can talk to your veterinarian. Your vet will be able to help you figure out how to best help your pet, whether it’s stopping that activity altogether or establishing modifications that will minimize pain. Simple pain-reducing modifications to common activities can include:
Many pet owners give these little extras as rewards -- or to show their love for their dogs or cats -- without thinking about the number of calories that are in each handout. Snacks like these may be one reason why more than half of pets in the U.S. weigh too much.
If you want to be smart about giving your dog or cat treats, follow some guidelines to avoid adding too many calories to their diet. Limit Treats Just like cookies don’t have enough nutrients to be the bulk of your diet, pet treats aren’t healthy enough for dogs or cats to be a large part of what they eat. That’s because these products aren’t made with the same balanced nutrition that goes into the type of pet food that you serve them at mealtime. Pets shouldn’t get more than 10% of their daily calories from treats. This includes table scraps or food you might use to give your pet medicine, since these things aren’t designed for a healthy dog or cat’s diet. Your vet can tell you the total number of calories your pet needs each day, and you can figure out what 10% of that amount is. To see how many calories are in treats, look on the package. (If there are no calories listed, don’t buy that treat.) How Often to Give Treats Some people give treats to train a pet or reward good behavior. Others use them to show their love or to strengthen their bond with the animal. There’s no rule about how often you can dole them out, as long as you limit treats to 10% of their daily calories. Some owners choose to give one large biscuit each day. Others give a handful of kibble (perhaps 20 or 30 pieces) over the course of the day, one or two pieces at a time. Giving no treats is fine, too. Remember that cats and dogs do well with other rewards and signs of affection, like extra playtime with you or words of praise. Table Scraps You may like to treat your pets to a few bites from the dinner table. If you forget to count those calories in your pet’s diet, they can gain too much weight. Keep bites from the table as small as your pinky fingernail so the food doesn’t have too many calories per mouthful. Sometimes, feeding your pet table scraps can lead to begging, because they know that food can be a reward. If a pet begs and you give them food, they’ll think that it’s a reward for what they did, so they’ll beg again. If you have trouble saying no to those big eyes or whines and meows, put your pet in a different room when you eat. Or try serving them their meal at the same time that you eat yours, so they don’t feel left out. As long as you keep the portions in check, it’s fine to offer some human food to your pet. But dogs and cats should never eat:
What Is a Dog Emergency Kit?
A dog emergency kit should have everything you might need in the event of natural disasters such as tornadoes, flooding, earthquakes, wildfires, or hurricanes. That includes food and bowls, medications, first aid items, medical documents, and other supplies. With a well-packed kit, you can make it through a crisis knowing you have what you need to care for your pet despite the circumstances. A disaster will always be traumatic, but emergency kits can make it easier to take the next steps. Your pet disaster kit can also serve as a dog first aid kit, which is helpful to have on hand for more localized emergencies. Use your dog emergency kit as needed, or any time you need to treat an injury before you can get your pet to the vet. Just remember to restock anything you use up. Having a kit packed and ready to go is a crucial part of pet disaster preparedness. When and if the event strikes, there will be no time to delay. Creating your emergency dog kit now helps ensure the future safety of your pup. What To Pack in Your Dog Emergency Kit A well-equipped dog emergency kit provides everything you might need to take care of your four-legged family members when you’re removed from your normal routine. Think about your regular routines and make a list of each item you use. Then, use the following list to supplement and build out a disaster kit for your dog. Food, Water, and Medicine In the event of an emergency, even fresh water could be difficult to find, and getting your dog’s medications filled may be even more challenging. Make sure you have enough dog food, water, and medications to last at least two weeks. Be sure to include the following items in your dog’s emergency kit.
Your kit should include an extra of anything your dog might need in an average week. It can help to keep a running list of what you use throughout the day with your dog. Use that list as your foundation and consult the following list of essentials to make sure you cover the basics.
Pet parents are always on the lookout for accessories to make activities like going on walks or hiking with their dog better. While retractable leashes might seem appealing for their ability to extend and retract at the press of a button, they might not be the safest for your dog. What Is a Retractable Leash?The retractable leash is made of a plastic handle that contains a spring-loaded spool of a thin rope, a flat tape, or a combination of the two. The line is coiled around the spool and controlled by a button on the handle. The button controls the line’s length. When unlocked, it allows the line to extend and retract freely. In the locked position, the leash’s length is fixed regardless of tension or slack. The end of the leash has a traditional clip that attaches to a dog collar or dog harness. Are Retractable Leashes Bad?When choosing a leash for your dog, retractable leashes have risks and safety issues to consider. 1. They Can Lead To Injuries The line cannot be retracted when there’s tension. If something happens, like if your dog lunges into the street, and you must pull your dog back, you may have no choice but to grab the leash with your bare hands. But, because it’s so thin, the line is difficult to secure, and it can slide through your hands and easily cause a burn or cut on your hand. If you lock the leash as the dog is running, it can cause an abrupt stop. This can cause the dog to jerk back on the leash and result in an injury to the neck or throat, which could result in neck pain or, in severe cases, a ruptured disk in the neck. Injury to the windpipe or trachea can also cause the dog to cough or have trouble breathing. If your pet is in pain or having trouble breathing, visit the vet immediately. 2. They Can Malfunction or Break A button, a torsion spring, and a plastic spool are the only things between your dog and dangerous situations. With a retractable leash, there’s a risk that the internal mechanism could jam or break, allowing the leash to become detached. Once the mechanism jams, pet parents will be unable to retract the leash, giving their dog the ability to run ahead. The dog could also snap the line if they get enough momentum. This can be especially dangerous when walking in high-traffic areas. You also run the risk of losing your dog if they are able to take off without your control. 3. They Can Get Tangled Slack and tension must be actively managed when using a retractable leash, and the line can easily become tangled. This makes on-leash interaction difficult. For example, if you encounter another person with a friendly dog, your pup could run in a circle and wrap the line around them, possibly injuring one or both dogs. 4. They’re Hard To See These lines are difficult to see because they are thin and dark. Having slack on the leash that is just a few inches from the ground is a tripping hazard; pet parents and friendly strangers could fall. 5. They Are Easily Dropped The design of the retractable leash’s handle can also be problematic. Some have thick handles and no extra grip. They are easily dropped and the noise of the hard plastic handle hitting the ground can easily spook timid pups. A scared dog may run, dragging the handle behind them, thinking they are being chased. 6. They’re Not a Good Fit for Frightened Dogs Fearful dogs are especially at risk; they can become scared if they accidentally tangle themselves in the leash. They may try to run or escape by backing out of their collar. And in the event of a dropped handle, these dogs could be frightened by the loud noise and run to try to get away. 7. They Can Reinforce Pulling There’s a misconception that retractable leashes prevent pulling by giving dogs more freedom. The opposite is true. When dogs are walked on retractable leashes, the tendency is to release more of the line when the dog starts to pull forward. When the line is released at the first sign of tension, pulling is reinforced and the dog learns that pulling works to get more freedom. Once the dog is at the end of the line, they will become frustrated and will pull harder. This is an impossible situation for pet parents because they are both out of line and have no way to retract the lead. What Is the Best Alternative to a Retractable Leash? In general, look for a dog leash made of a thicker material like nylon or neoprene that comes in a fixed length. Thicker leashes won’t cut into bare or furry skin. The best leash for your dog is based on your situation. For urban areas, select a leash length that will keep your dog closer to you, like a 4-foot or 6-foot leash. The closer they are, the easier it is to reinforce them to walk near you. Leashes with traffic handles can also be helpful in busy areas to keep your dog close. We love our pets, and it’s understandable that we want to show our love through food. But this can lead to some unwanted pounds packing on to our pets. If some extra weight snuck up on your dog recently, some adjustments may be necessary.
Here are some common mistakes pet parents make when it comes to keeping their dogs healthy, and how you can help your pup get back to an ideal weight. 1. You're ‘Guestimating’ How Much to FeedMeasuring your pet’s food is the first step to make sure they are getting the right amount. “When I ask pet parents how much they feed, most have no idea,” says Dr. Judy Morgan, DVM. “When I use a measuring cup and actually show them what 1 cup of food looks like, they are amazed.” If you're using an old cup, fistful, or bowl to scoop out the food, Dr. Morgan suggests switching to a measuring cup before you make any other changes. Read the bag to find out how much you should be feeding your dog based on their ideal weight, or ask your vet if you're not sure. Then use a proper measuring cup so you can feed the correct amount every time. Leaving food out all day can also lead to overeating. If you're gone for long periods of time during the day, consider using a portion control programmable feeder, like the Patpet automatic pet feeder, so your dog still has access to food—but only in the right amounts. 2. Forgetting To Count Treats as Calories Some store-bought dog treats can be very high in calories, so just a few treats can cause weight gain. “I routinely see treats, especially dog biscuits, make up more than one-third of a dog’s overall daily caloric needs,” says Dr. Justin Shmalberg, DVM. And pet parents don’t always remember to subtract those calories from how much food they’re feeding. It’s also important to be mindful of how many extra treats your dog might be getting during training. Treats are a great way to provide your dog with positive reinforcement, but even little training treats can add up quickly. In general, you don’t want more than 10% of a pet’s daily calories coming from treats. And those treat calories must be accounted for in your daily calorie targets, says Dr. Shmalberg. “You can use a bigger treat so long as you break it up and you are aware of the overall number of calories in each treat, so you can keep track of what you’re feeding,” he says. When choosing treats, Dr. Morgan says to read labels to find a treat that's low in calories. 3. Your Dog Isn’t Getting Enough Exercise Exercise can take many forms, from walking to jogging to playing fetch or Frisbee in the backyard. Exercise is an important part of a dog’s physical and mental health. Many problems, including weight gain, can occur if a pet is not getting enough exercise. For many pet parents, walking is the easiest and most reliable way to exercise their pup, and most dogs do well with a daily 20- to 30-minute walk. Remember: While exercise can help keep you and your pup lean, it’s not always enough to combat extra weight your pet is already carrying. Work with your veterinarian to craft the right exercise and weight loss plan for your pet. 4. Not Feeding the Best Food for Your Dog Finding the right food for your pet can be tricky, and it’s always recommended to consult your vet to help you choose the best dog food. However, a good rule of thumb is to look for a well-balanced, high-quality dog food approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). You should also feed your dog according to their life stage: puppy, adult, or senior. If your pet needs to lose a moderate or significant amount of weight, over-the-counter weight loss diets or “light” options and exercise may not be enough. In those cases, veterinary diets may be needed to help your pup shed the pounds. Veterinary weight loss diets are backed by research studies and proven to help pets lose weight. Some common veterinary diets to discuss with your vet include Hill’s® Metabolic, which works with your pet’s individual metabolism to help them lose weight, and Royal Canin® Satiety, which helps dogs feel fuller and participate in less begging behavior. 5. Feeding Table Scraps Table scraps and human food are, as a general rule, high in calories and fat. In addition to causing clinical signs like vomiting and diarrhea, which can progress to gastroenteritis or pancreatitis, eating human food can contribute significantly to a dog’s weight problem. Commercially available pet food diets are balanced for dogs and better choice to keep them happy and healthy. By Diana Bocco The start of a new year is the perfect time for reflection and goal-setting—and not just for us. This year, try setting resolutions for your pets.
Making New Year’s resolutions with your pet’s health and happiness in mind improves their life in the process. You don’t need to do anything drastic—many pet-centered resolutions are about making small, meaningful changes that add up to a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life. Here are 10 easy resolutions that can help make 2025 even brighter for you and your pet. 1. Prioritize Preventive Care Use the new year as a reminder to book an annual (or biannual) wellness exam, discuss dental cleanings, and make sure your pet’s parasite prevention is up to date. “Regular vet checkups help detect potential health issues before they become emergencies,” says Veronica Villanueva, DVM, medical director of VEG Anaheim Hills in Anaheim, California. “And staying on top of vaccinations and parasite control prevents illnesses and infections.” But preventative care doesn’t just take place at the vet clinic. At-home practices like brushing your dog’s or cat’s teeth are the best way to prevent health issues, such as dental disease, from developing. The same goes for year-round parasite prevention to protect pets from fleas, ticks, and heartworms. Talk to your vet about the best flea and tick medication for your cat or dog. 2. Exercise More Exercise is key to your pet’s physical and mental well-being. For dogs, going on walks every day, playing games of fetch, or trying a new canine sport are all great ways for them to get more exercise. Exercise also benefits cats. Playing with your cat using feather wands or string toys mimics a cat’s natural hunting instincts, giving them both physical exercise and mental stimulation. You can even train your kitty to walk outside on a harness and leash, or invest in a cat exercise wheel, which is similar to a wheel hamsters or mice use. 3. Upgrade Enrichment Time Exercise and enrichment are closely related, and enrichment isn’t just about keeping your pet busy—it’s about proper mental stimulation and encouraging natural behaviors. Improving enrichment can be as easy as incorporating slow feeders or puzzle toys into your pet’s mealtime routine, says pet trainer Susan Nilson, PCBC-A. “These tools engage your dog's thinking brain by making them work for their food,” she says. “When dogs focus on solving mental challenges, they're less likely to feel scared, stressed, or anxious.” For our feline friends, cat trees, scratching posts, and window perches provide outlets for energy and mental stimulation. “Research tells us that most cats naturally gravitate toward vertical scratching options,” Nilson says. “But some cats prefer horizontal or diagonal scratching options, often with softer materials like cardboard or carpet.” Cat parents may need to do some trial and error to see which type of pet furniture their kitty prefers. For multi-cat households, Nilson says a multi-level cat tree is well worth the investment. It adds vertical space and provides enough scratching real estate and resting options for everyone. 4. Add More Toys to the Mix Toys are vital for your pet’s mental and physical well-being, and a well-chosen selection can transform your pet’s daily routine. For cats, toys that mimic prey behaviors, like wands and motorized toys, are particularly beneficial. “Give your cat an outlet for their natural predatory instincts by providing toys that match their unique hunting style,” says Nilson. Playing with these can keep cats sharp, content, and less prone to boredom-related issues, such as pacing, excessive meowing, and biting. Dogs also benefit from a diverse toy selection. Try having a mix of durable chew toys, squeaky plushes, and treat-dispensing puzzles to keep your pup on their toes. These encourage problem-solving and prevent boredom, especially for high-energy breeds. Rotate your pet’s toys every so often to keep your pet interested and engaged. 5. Improve Their Nutrition A well-balanced diet is a top priority for your pet’s overall health, and not all pet foods are created equal. Depending on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and health, their diet may change over the years. Senior pets may benefit from food tailored to joint health, while younger active pups may need a higher calorie content to keep up their energy levels. Your vet is your best resource when choosing food for your dog or cat. 6. Stay On Top of Grooming Regular grooming maintains your pet's health—not just their appearance. Brushing your dog or cat’s coat helps promote natural oils, reduces shedding, and prevents mats from forming. And while cats are excellent self-groomers, longhaired breeds may still need help keeping their coats tangle-free. Grooming also helps prevent hairballs in cats. Bathing is another important aspect of grooming, though the frequency depends on your pet's breed, lifestyle, health, and coat type. Dogs that love romping through muddy fields may need regular baths, while cats may only get an occasional wipe-down. Don’t forget areas like nails, ears, and teeth, which have their own maintenance needs. 7. Prepare for Emergencies Emergencies are unpredictable, but being prepared can make a huge difference in how you handle them. Dr. Villanueva says it’s important to have a plan. “This can include making a pet first aid kit, familiarizing yourself with nearby emergency veterinary hospitals, and having an evacuation plan in case of natural disasters or accidents,” she says. Your pet emergency plan should also include your pet’s medical records, vaccination history, and microchip information. Make sure to keep your vet’s contact information handy, too, in case your pet becomes hurt or sick. 8. Pet-Proof Your Home Making your home safe and comfortable for your pets is part of being a responsible pet parent. “Take time to assess your living space for any potential hazards, such as toxic foods, choking hazards, or other items that could be dangerous if ingested,” Dr. Villanueva says. Safely storing these items can help prevent accidents and give you peace of mind. Beyond safety, your home should also cater to your pet’s comfort. Cats, for example, often feel more secure when they have spaces to retreat to and relax, like covered beds. Nilson suggests optimizing litter boxes for your cat’s comfort, too. “The right litter box makes a huge difference in your cat's comfort and willingness to use it consistently,” she says. Litter boxes should be at least 1.5 times your cat's length. For multi-cat households, Nilson says to follow the golden rule: one box per cat, plus an extra. Dogs also need their own safe, comfortable spaces. A designated dog bed or dog crate can act as a personal “safe zone” where they can decompress. Maybe use the new year as an excuse to update or add to their bedding. 9. Adjust for Your Pet’s Age Senior pets have unique needs that change as they age. Adjustments like orthopedic bedding, ramps for furniture, or low-entry litter boxes can make life easier for older pets. Older pets also benefit from more frequent veterinary checkups to watch for age-related conditions, including arthritis, dental disease, or cognitive issues. And though aging pets may slow down, don’t let that fool you—they still need enrichment and bonding time with their humans. Spend time with them doing gentle activities, like leisurely walks or easy play sessions that aren’t too hard on older joints, to keep their minds sharp and spirits high. 10. Advocate for Your Pets Your pet can’t tell you if something is wrong. They rely on you to be their voice, and that responsibility goes beyond their basic care. Whether you’re visiting the vet, looking into dietary concerns, or dealing with behavior problems, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Trust your instincts. If something’s off with your furry friend, you’re often the first to notice. WRITTEN BY Emily Johnson Freelance Writer The holidays are a time for food, friends, family, and fun. What’s not to like? Sadly, for many of our clients’ pets the holidays just mean fear, anxiety, and stress. Starting with Halloween and continuing through December and the New Year, the holidays we love bring a lot of changes to the environment and our schedules, changes that can lead to distress for pets. Following is a list of just a few holiday associated triggers that might cause fear, anxiety, or stress (FAS) in pets:
Do make plans ahead of time for where your pet will be when you have visitors, and don’t force them into any situations where they appear at all uncomfortable. With some planning and a little help from ADAPTIL and FELIWAY, every pet can have a Happy Holiday season! This article was reviewed/edited by board-certified veterinary behaviorist Dr. Kenneth Martin and/or veterinary technician specialist in behavior Debbie Martin, LVT. This article was brought to you in collaboration with our friends at Ceva. |
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