3 Tips to Take Care of Your Dog During a Pandemic

3 Tips to Take Care of Your Dog During a Pandemic

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Your dogs dream has come true. You are stuck at home. There is no waiting at the door for 9 hours watching the handle for your return. However, following the protocol for social distancing and/or isolation may interfere with your dogs plans for all your quality time together. Keep the following tips in mind as we go through these trying times. Always check current guidelines to stay updated.

Ensure Your Dog Is Getting Adequate Physical and Mental Activity

If it is safe to do so and falls under the current protocols, you can still walk your dog if you follow the recommended social distancing measures. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after your walk and ensure you or your dog don’t encounter other people. Although it appears that dogs can’t catch the current coronavirus, if we are unknowingly carrying the virus and pet our dog, someone else who decides to pet your dog could pick it up. If you do go out walking, avoid high traffic areas and keep away from dog parks at this time.

Keep in mind that mental stimulation is just as important. Take this time to spend extra time playing games with your dog in the house. Hide treats (in moderation) for a scavenger hunt, play tug a war and enjoy those extra snuggles.

Keep Eating Habits and Mealtimes on Routine

Like most humans, dogs thrive on routine. Keeping their food and meals on your typical routine will give them the feeling of security and predictability. All our routines have been disrupted, so ensuring your keep your dogs on as much of a routine as possible with help them cope with the ongoing changes. Try not to give your dog too many treats while you’re at home, keeping them in optimal health will help all of you get through these times.

Supplies

As you have seen in the media there has been an unfortunate frantic frenzy to stock up on supplies for everyone. You do not need to rush to Costco and buy every bag of dog food on the floor. Ensuring you always have a two-week supply is a good measure to abide to. It is crucial that you have sufficient prescriptive medication for your pets along with any preventative medication (flea, tick and heart-worm medications) to keep your pet healthy during this time.

It is well known the benefit pets can have on our overall well-being. Enjoy that unconditional love of your pets right now, it is precious.  Keep an eye on our Facebook page for updates and current protocols on the services we are continuing to offer, such as dog walking, daycare and grooming for dogs.

Pet Sitter

Top 3 Reasons to Hire a Professional Pet Sitter

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Now that you’ve planned your spring vacation, you have all the vacation requests lined up, the kids have updated passports and you are dreaming of what beach you’re going to be engaging in some recuperation, it’s time to think about your beloved furry pet. There are many different options available for pet care and hiring a pet sitter to come into your home to take care of your dog is one of them. Here are a few factors to consider that make a pet sitter the best choice for your pets care.

Introvert or Social Butterfly

Some dogs just love to be around other dogs. They have been well socialized and would love nothing more than a 10-day non-stop play date. Other dogs, not so much. They are antisocial for varying reasons. Perhaps your dog is a recent rescue and has had past experiences with being with other dogs. Or possible your dog is a little older, and that puppy play is just too overwhelming. Then there’s those dogs that kind of forget they are dogs and turn their nose up at these four-legged creatures that like to go around sniffing each other.

If your dog is on the quieter side, or antisocial for any of the reasons above, having a pet sitter come into your home is a better option. They aren’t forced to engage in the rough play all day with the others and can enjoy their peace and quiet while still being taken care of.

Health Concerns

Some dogs have more specific health conditions or concerns that make having a pet sitter the best fit for care. If your dog takes regular medication, or is on a very specific diet, a pet sitter will be able to accommodate these needs more, as they are providing more personalized care. In addition, a pet sitter is a great choice for an elderly dog who needs a quieter pace. Lastly, if your dog is (like some of us humans) more prone to picking up illnesses such as kennel cough, they will not be exposed to other infected dogs if they remain in their own home therefore keeping them healthier.

Home Security

Depending on your housing situation, and how long you are gone for, having a pet sitter can serve many purposes. Having someone in and out of your home while you’re away, can serve as a deterrent for a potential burglary. In addition, perhaps you also have a little goldfish and hamster that needs enough food and water to get them through until your return. Expensive house plants that may need a dribble of water mid-week? Depending on your contract, having a pet sitter that is also able to take care of these tasks will keep your home running smoothly until your return.

Other Considerations

If you’ve decided a pet sitter is the best option for your pet care needs, it is important to decipher the difference between a professional pet sitter and a friend or someone you find after doing a quick “in search of” post on Facebook. Keep in mind that while your vacation is likely already breaking the bank, going for the most cost-effective pet sitter may not be the best choice. Depending on whether your dog has additional concerns, hiring a professional with pet first aid, and a background in animal training and behaviour will be a crucial factor to consider.

Pet City Canada is pleased to offer professional Pet Sitting Services. Contact us for more details!

Dogs Safe for Halloween

Excellent Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe During Halloween

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Holidays and special occasions can be stressful and dangerous for your pet! There are a few precautions you should follow to keep your dog safe and healthy as Halloween approaches. As more homes display Halloween decorations on cords and wires you may want to consider leaving your canine companion at home during trick-or-treating. If you choose to bring them with you, ensure you keep them safely beside you on a leash.

One Chocolate Won’t Hurt or Will It?

Dog Chocolate

  • All chocolate is a danger to your pet. The toxicity level is dependent on the amount consumed and the sweetener used. The artificial sweetener, Xylitol, is poisonous to dogs.
  • Have a safe place to store Halloween candy and chocolate well away from where your pet can reach them.
  • It’s not just chocolate you should be worried about. Sucker sticks, wrappers, fats, nuts, nut butters, and foil are all dangerous!
  • If you suspect your dog has eaten too many Halloween candies, contact the Pet Poison Control Center or your Veterinarian immediately.

My Dog Loves Going for Walks, but Is Halloween a Safe Time?

  • Most lit Jack-O-Lanterns are either on a low support or on ground level. Keep your pet’s wagging tail away from candle flames!
  • Children will be running from house to house, so if you have a dog that loves to chase or spooks easily keep him/her on a leash.
  • The best time to walk your dog is well before dinner; long before the ghosts and ghouls are gliding your streets.
  • Fireworks startle dogs and they run for safety. If you have your dog with you, the best idea is to walk your dog on a leash and keep it close to you.
  • Don’t leave your pets outside in the yard on Halloween! Unfortunately, there are documented cases of animal cruelty on or around October 31st.

I Love Halloween Costumes, so Does My Dog!Halloween Pets

  • You may think your pets love costumes, but do they? Flowing costumes, bright flashy costumes, and goodie bags may overwhelm your pet. The sights, sounds, and movements of Halloween can cause stress and anxiety for an already nervous dog.
  • If your dog does indeed love costumes then find one that doesn’t restrict movement, breathing, sight, or hearing. Have your pet wear the costume before Halloween for short periods at a time to become used to it. Never leave your pet unattended in a costume!

I Decorate My House like a Haunted House!

  • Decorations look fantastic any time of year, but they also bring along hazards! All decorations with cords, candles, cables, and cobwebs should be well out of reach of your pet.
  • If your dog runs for cover every time a motion decoration squeals and shakes, put it out in the yard.
  • Place a battery operated light in the Jack-O-Lantern instead of a candle.
  • Keep in mind that pumpkins and gourds will cause gastric upset if your dog ingests them.

My Dog Loves to Run to the Door at Every Knock!

  • With every knock or ring of the doorbell by an excited trick-or-treater, you will be fighting over foot-space with your canine as you both bolt for the door. It is advisable to have a safe room or crate to keep your pet in while kids are coming to your door. Leave a tasty dog bone or safe toy with your dog while he/she is alone.
  • Set up a baby or pet gate to keep your pet safely out of range of the door. Small children may be frightened by your dog rushing to greet them.
  • If your dog loves to bark every time a trick-or-treater arrives, you might get cranky with them. Keeping them in a closed room benefits you both!

If you feel your pet has lost out on all the fun Halloween brings, have a stash of Pet-friendly treats on hand.

Make an appointment with one of our certified Pet City Canada groomers and have your dog washed and groomed before the festivities start. Have a safe and happy Halloween!Dog Halloween

 

Homemade Pet Food

Top 3 Benefits of Making your Own Pet Food

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Deciding what to feed your fur baby can be a hot topic for discussion. As long as you have your pet’s best interests in mind, how you choose to feed your pet is a personal decision. From kibble, to raw meat only, to cooked homemade meals, or chunky meat in a can, there are many options out there.  There are certainly benefits to making your own pet food and here we will talk about what they are so you can make your own, informed decision.

  1. Nutrition

Because we all love our fur babies so much, providing the best nutrition possible to them is one reason to choose to make your own pet food. This is very similar to why many parents choose to make their own baby food. You know EXACTLY what is going into the food. Some pet foods are full of additives like chemicals to extend shelf life, while others have actual saw dust added for filler, commonly called Powder Cellulose. With homemade food, you typically make enough for a few days or freeze a big batch, with no concerns of adding additional chemicals to keep it fresh.

  1. Save Money

    Pet food

Does cooked ground turkey mixed with fresh vegetables and eggs sound more extravagant than a bag of dried kibble? You would think this would cost significantly more; however homemade pet food can actually save your pocket books! You don’t pay for the marketing or packaging of the commercial products, you save yourself a trip to the pet store and you likely already have all the ingredients on hand!

 

  1. Peace of Mind

In Canada, the pet food industry is not regulated. Therefore, unlike the Government warning us humans about food recalls, with pet food it is up to the manufacturer to issue such recalls.  Many choose to make their own pet food to always be aware of when there are concerns with the food their pet is ingesting. Many pet foods will include meat by-products, which is a term for anything humans don’t eat like undeveloped eggs, head, teeth, and even cancerous tissue!

Where to even start? If you are interested in giving it a try to see how your pet responds, there are many recipes out there to try, such as this Puppy Stew Recipes for dogs or Boiled Chicken Cat Food.

Cat food

If you choose that homemade pet food is right for your family, ensure you touch base with your vet to ensure you are aware of all the essential nutrients your pet requires, so you can have a plan on how to add these supplements to your meals. It’s important to know things like dogs can’t digest corn and grains aren’t a natural part of their diet. It is also crucial to be aware of what food to avoid for your pet, for example did you know that grapes are toxic for dogs? This knowledge will help you make the best decision for your pet(s)! Remember: this is a personal choice and if you decide not to create homemade meals for your pet, there are still a lot of good quality commercial options out there!

5 Health Issues affecting your Aging Dog

5 Health Issues that Affect Your Aging Dog

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The greatest, unconditional love of our life is our loyal canine companion! No one wants to imagine the day when our pet ages and is no longer a part of our family life.

By recognizing the signs of aging of your pet, you can promote a healthy transition for his/her aging process. Regardless of the breed and size of your dog the aging cycle is usually the same.

Aging Dog

Some common issues that affect your dog will be changes in: sight, hearing, mobility, activity, health, diet, and mood. Here are 5 of the more common signs and symptoms that your pet is aging:

  1. Health Concerns:

  • ‘Accidents’ may become more frequent as your pet isn’t able to control his/her bowel or bladder functions.
  • Breathing becomes slower and may increase quickly on exertion.
  • Dehydration which causes your pet’s skin and mouth to become dry.
  • Gums, teeth, and breath need to be monitored for overall health and treatment of infections.

  1. Changes in hearing and sight:

  • It is normal with aging for hearing and sight to decline slowly.
  • Don’t approach an aging dog quickly and startle them. They may snap to protect themselves thinking they will be harmed.
  • Always approach from the front of your pet as they may only see shadows.

  1. Withdraws from activity:

  • Slowly decrease level of activity, doesn’t want to go outdoors.
  • Loses playfulness and excitement.
  • Doesn’t coming running when you arrive home.
  • Lethargic and tends to sleep much more during the day, or day and night sleeping patterns reverse.

  1. Difficulty with mobility:

  • Takes longer to walk up and down stairs.
  • Difficulty jumping into and out of a vehicle.
  • Climbing up onto the bed or couch (if you let them)!
  • Slower and unsteady when standing up from lying down.
  • Joint pain and stiffness.

Mobility Issues in a dog

  1. Loss of appetite:

  • Your dog may become disinterested in food, and eat very little.
  • Their favorite treats may simply go unwanted.
  • They tend to drink much less.
  • They don’t beg for scraps.

A visit to your Veterinarian at the onset of health and behavioural changes is highly recommended. Your Veterinarian will give you advice and support on how to care for your aging pet.

Dog GroomerA groomer who regularly sees your pet will also notice subtle changes and alert you as they happen. Pet grooming is important for any dog; especially an aging one that needs closer monitoring for cleanliness and any health changes.

Contact PetCity Canada to book an appointment with one of our qualified pet groomers.

Pet City Canada

What You Should Know About Canine Vaccinations to Control Disease, Infection and Transmission!

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Knowing about some of the diseases and infections your dog is susceptible to will decrease the risk of illness and transmission. Many of the diseases and infections dogs can contract and spread can be avoided through keeping your pet’s vaccinations up to date.

Unfortunately, some of the diseases that can affect your dog can be transferred to you! Germs and diseases are transferred to people through dog bites, scratches, or contact with animal excrement, and are known as zoonotic diseases. Illnesses such as, rabies, toxocarilasis, brucellosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ringworm and round worm can cause concern for humans.

Pet Care

Not all canine diseases infect human beings but can be fatal to your pet. Some dog specific viruses, bacteria, and fungal infections are the parvovirus, distemper, heartworm, demodectic mange, kennel cough, dog tapeworm, leptospirosis, coccidioidomycosis, and canine herpesvirus.

Pet City CanadaThe types of symptoms your dog experiences are dependent on the illness they have contracted. A wide range of symptoms are gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, fever, cough, bloody diarrhea, dehydration, hair loss, pain, muscle weakness, and difficulty breathing, and possible death. Always seek the advice of a Veterinarian if your dog has any of these symptoms.

Viruses and bacterium are spread through infected airborne particles, direct contact of site infection, fecal oral transmission, or body excrement. To avoid transmission clean up urine, feces, or vomit immediately. Wash your hands after cleaning up after your pet! Keep your pet away from urine and feces left by other animals.

Many of the infectious diseases that affect dogs and humans can be minimized or avoided by keeping your pet’s vaccinations up to date. In fact, most doggy daycares require your pets vaccinations to be up to date prior to booking an appointment. Consult your Veterinarian for a recommended treatment and prevention plan.

Have your dog regularly groomed and clipped to monitor for skin, hair, and temperament changes. A professional groomer will also check your dog’s mouth, eyes and ears looking for any infections, inflammation, or abnormalities.Grooming

Please contact us at Pet City Canada to make an appointment to have your dog groomed. Our qualified groomers will be happy to assess and monitor your dog’s condition.

5 Things You Should Know if Your Dog is Aggressive

5 Things You Should Know if Your Dog is Aggressive

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The main causes of aggression in dogs are when they are protecting themselves or their pups from a threat, defending their territory/food, or protecting their owners. In some cases, aggression is a sign that your dog needs more exercise. There are precautions, you as the dog owner, can take to prevent injury.

1.Identify the signs your dog shows when becoming aggressive:

  • Makes a low, guttural, longer sound as a warning.
  • Bares its teeth and curl up its cheeks.
  • Squats slightly lower to the ground.
  • Makes growling, snarling, and/or snapping sounds.
  • Lunges forward towards another animal or person.
  • Nips, bites, punctures skin causing injury.

2. Know what triggered the aggressive response:Dog Aggression

  • Did something hurt your dog?
  • Was your dog injured or in pain before the aggressive behaviour?
  • Were you, their pups, or themselves in any danger?
  • Where were you when the aggressive behaviour started?
  • Have they had enough exercise today?

3. Be aware of what influences dog aggression:

  • Some breeds have a common trait of aggression, but not all dogs of that breed will automatically be aggressive. Some dog breeds that have aggressive tendencies are: American Pit Bull Terrier, Bull Mastiff, Rottweiler, German Shepherd, Dobermann Pinscher, Cane Corso.
  • How a dog is treated will affect their personality and disposition.
  • If a dog has had good socialization with other animals and people beforehand.
  • Health concerns: if a dog is deaf or has poor eye sight they may startle and snap or bite, or if they are pain or discomfort.

 4. Know what you can do to protect other animals and people from getting hurt:

  • A good place to start is enrolling your dog in an obedience training program.
  • Talk with your Veterinarian about causes and management of aggressive behaviours. You need to rule out any medical causes that are a factor.
  • Use a muzzle when your dog is in contact with other people or animals if aggression is a concern.
  • Put your dog in a crate or separate room before company arrives.
  • Visit parks that aren’t popular with other dog walkers.
  • Be very aware when small children want to ‘play’ with your dog!

5. Know what you should do if your dog becomes aggressive:Dog Agressive

  •  Have a first aid kit with you either in your vehicle or backpack and an old towel or blanket, in case an animal is bleeding.
  • Superficial and Puncture wounds need to be cleansed, apply a topical antibiotic ointment, and bandage. Deeper wounds will bleed (which carry out germs), monitor amount of blood loss,
    and seek medical attention.
  • Offer to pay for any medical expenses that are due to the injury.
  • Being at the receiving end of a dog’s aggressive behaviour is frightening. If your dog ever displays unwanted behaviour seek advice from a qualified professional immediately before serious injury occurs.

If you are concerned your pup isn’t getting enough exercise and is spending long days home alone, please contact us to learn more about the services we have that can support you!

Teaching an Old Dog New Tricks: How to Socialize an Anti-Social Dog

Teaching an Old Dog New Tricks: How to Socialize an Anti-Social Dog

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If owning an anti-social dog leaves you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or frustrated, you’re in good company! Dogs are usually outgoing, social, and inquisitive beings, but how do you deal with a dog that is fearful of new situations, or just simply unwilling to interact with others?

Believe it or not, training your anti-social dog starts with how YOU react to your pet! Here are a few pointers to help assist you in training an anti-social dog.

 

You Can Teach an Old Dog New Tricks!

Anti-Social Dog

Of course, the younger your dog is the easier it is to break bad habits; but you can teach an old dog new tricks!

Dogs are more receptive to training lessons between 3 and 12 weeks of age but with the right tools, you can be successful with training older dogs too.

Teaching any dog requires patience, practice, and consistency. Your commands need to be direct and simple. Once your pooch has mastered your first commands slowly increase your training. It is easier to train your dog if he/she listens well and comes to you when called. Continually practice all the commands you wish your pet to follow and give plenty of praise.

The secret to success is always being prepared with lots of treats.

 

Use a Leash or Harness Until Your Dog Becomes Social

Leash Your Dog

Have your dog on a leash or harness until you are confident that he/she will follow your commands; this gives you the control to remove your dog quickly if any threatening or aggressive situations happen.

If your dog feels uncomfortable remove him/her quickly to a quiet area until there are no further signs of distress. Back away a few feet and give praise if you sense and your dog is anxious about an approaching another dog or person.

If you think your dog will nip or bite others, try using a muzzle until your dog shows no further signs of aggression.

 

Keep Your Voice and Body Language Neutral and Direct

Most of us tend to become loud and frantic if our dog tears off baring teeth and barking. Now isn’t the time to scream and charge after Fido. Keeping yourself calm and composed will defuse a stressful encounter.

Dogs pick up on our fears and anxieties and will respond accordingly. Speak kindly and gently when giving commands but firmly enough so your dog knows you are in control.

Don’t yank your dog back harshly by the leash; this only startles and frightens your dog. Hold the leash firmly and talk gently.

 

Expose Your Dog Gradually to New Situations

Dog Walking

Don’t take your dog out walking once and expect him to master socialization. It takes time and short periods of exposure to new situations to help your dog become comfortable.

If your dog is nervous and shy, don’t force her to interact with other dogs until you see signs of readiness. You may decide to expose your dog slowly by walking outside the fence of a dog park for a few days first before taking your dog inside the enclosure.

Keep outings short to begin with and increase the duration of each trip when your dog is ready. You may have a dog that simply doesn’t like being with too many dogs at one time. Your dog will be the best one to let you know what it’s comfortable with.

Perhaps try socializing your dog with other dogs you are familiar with to start.

 

 

Dog Walking Groups or Doggie Day Care Can Keep Your Dog Socialized

Dog WalkingDogs are usually social, pack animals and learn from watching other animals in the group. Exposure is crucial in keeping your dog healthy and social.

Dogs need and thrive on healthy interactions from other animals and people, therefore, dog walking groups and doggie day care can provide this exposure.

Dog walkers and doggie daycare staff are trained with animal interactions and understand canine behaviours; this encourages a safe environment for socialization.

If everything you tried still doesn’t work and your dog remains stubborn and anti-social, you may want to consider dog training classes. Ask a professional dog grooming salon or your Veterinarian for reputable courses or local trainers.

Contact us at Pet City Canada for further information regarding our awesome Doggie Daycare. We’d love to help socialize your pet with new canine friends in our indoor and outdoor spaces. Once you’re registered, you can even book online!

5 Top Considerations When Clipping Your Dogs Nails

5 Top Considerations When Clipping Your Dog’s Nails

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Clipping your dog’s nails can be a stressful task if you are nervous about cutting them yourself. The first time clipping nails, most pet owners are afraid of injuring their pet. It is important to keep your pet’s nails short and manageable to maintain healthy paws and nail development. Ask your Veterinarian or pet groomer for the right tools to buy for the size of your dog. Here are some pointers to consider before you clip your pet’s nails for the first time.

Why is it important to keep your pet’s nails well groomed?

* To minimize the risk of nail bed infections, auto-immune disorders, and to monitor any abnormalities around the nail beds and paws.

* Maintain smooth, rounded ends; minimizing scratches on people’s skin and furniture damage.

* Shorter nails allow for better traction on pavement and flooring.

* Longer, un-kept nails can curl up and dig into the soft flesh of the pads.

* Un-kept, longer nails absorb friction and impact from the ground sending them back towards the nail beds causing sensitivity or pain.

When should you have your dog’s nails trimmed?

* Dog’s nails should be kept short enough to keep them from touching the ground while standing.Top 5 Considerations When Clipping Your Dogs Nails

* When you hear clicking of the nails on flooring.

* When nails become torn, split, or sharp.

* Check every week to see how long your pet’s nails are. Depending on the amount and type of exercise your pet gets will determine how quickly they need trimming.

* Trimming nails after bathing is a good time since the nails will be softer. Remember to inspect the dew claws since they aren’t worn down by exposure to the ground.

How do you trim your pet’s nails to prevent bleeding?

* It is important to clip more often and take off less nail each time to allow for the blood supply and nerves to shrink back away from the nail ends.

* Gently put pressure on the paw close to the nail bed to separate the nail from the others to see clearly where you are clipping.

* Look for the quick, (the pink area within the nail that has the nerves and blood vessels), never cut too close to this area. Cut on a 45 degree angle.

* Hold the paw near the nail gently but firmly, if you feel your pet pull away don’t clip, wait till your pet is still and comfortable.

* If you do accidentally draw blood apply a blood-clotting accelerant such as Kwik-Stop or ClotIt to slow down the bleeding. Always consult a Veterinarian if bleeding doesn’t stop quickly.

What are the tools you’ll need to clip your dog’s nails?

* You may want to consider using a dremel or nail grinder instead of clippers, or a combination of both tools.

* Buy a grinder that is quiet and has variable speeds. (Trim excess fur from around dog’s paws so it doesn’t get caught in any moving pieces).

* Clippers should be concave at the cutting edge, sharp, clean, and the right size for your dog.

* Scissor and plier-style cutters are easier to use than guillotine trimmers so experiment to find the right trimmer you are comfortable using.

* Emery boards to file sharp edges, if you don’t have a dremel.

* If your dog nips at you or gets upset, you may need a muzzle for protection.

* Lots of dog treats!!

How to reassure your pet during nailing clipping?

* Start clipping your pet’s nails when they are young every week or two, taking off small amounts of nail slowly and carefully. Make sure your dog is used to having his/her paws and nails touched.Top 5 Considerations When Clipping Your Dogs Nails

* Have treats ready for when your dog starts to get anxious. Take time to give lots of praise and petting. Stop for short periods if your dog is resisting the treatment.

* A spoonful of peanut butter on a plate will distract a puppy long enough to trim some nails if everything else fails! (Make sure peanut butter DOES NOT contain Xylitol).

If you have any reservations about how to go about clipping your dog’s nails, or are too nervous to attempt this yourself, contact Pet City Canada to book an appointment with our knowledgeable dog groomers.  Our qualified staff will groom your dog and clip their nails professionally and safely.

Top Reasons Your Dog Eats Long Grass and Throws It Up!

Top Reasons Your Dog Eats Grass [and Throws It Up!]

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Ever found your dog eating a buffet of long green grass, only later to find out he threw it all up? It seems very peculiar when a dog eats grass even though their food dish is full! As a pet owner you may be concerned that your dog is sick, hungry, or stressed. Rest assured that eating grass is considered a normal behaviour for dogs, however, it could mean your dog is self-medicating for a larger issue. You simply have to know your dog’s moods, habits, and health to be the expert with this situation.

Here are some common reasons dog’s eat grass:

Relieve Stomach and Digestion Pain

Top Reasons Your Dog Eats Long Grass and Throws It Up!Studies showthat less than 25% of dogs’ vomit after digesting grass. A review of published studies can’t conclude a one single reason as to why dogs ‘graze on grass’. So what brings on this canine behaviour? Some research suggests that a dog may have stomach upset, gas, and/or bloating, therefore eats grass to induce vomiting, and then feels better afterwards.

Other studies suggest this is how dogs’ self-regulate to treat intestinal worms or to increase digestion. It is said that dogs lack the gastric enzymes to break down grass fibres, however, they use the long strands to induce vomiting when their stomach is upset. One study reported that when a dog has motion sickness, it eats grass and vomits to alleviate symptoms of stomach upset as soon as it gets out of the vehicle!

Lack of Nutrients

A few studies have shown that a dog may be lacking chlorophyll or need a high fibre diet if they are regularly consuming grass. Long before dogs became domesticated they foraged for food; eating grasses, berries, fruits, and vegetables. So when our four legged friends eat grass today we shouldn’t be overly concerned unless you observe other health conditions and concerns. If you are worried about the quality of grass your canine friend may be ingesting, you can create a pet friendly grass plot in your yard!Top Reasons Your Dog Eats Long Grass and Throws It Up!

Just for Fun

Some dogs just find it fun or relaxing to graze grass. This is especially common for puppies who are looking for entertainment.

If your dog is always munching on the lawn you should consult a Veterinarian to rule out any medical or behavioural issues. With the use of herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers on outdoor gardens and lawns, you must be careful where your dog decides to chew their greens. Check with your local nursery or Animal Poison Control Center to familiarize yourself with toxic plants and grasses that grow in your yard or local parks.

Top Reasons Your Dog Eats Long Grass and Throws It Up!Wether your canine eats grass and vomits or not, she should be on a Veterinarian approved nutritional diet plus a regular parasite control program. If you are unable spend time with your dog outdoors or unfamiliar with the area, please contact Pet City Canada for professional dog walking services to keep your dog safe and healthy in local parks.