This Weeks Edition

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Worried about vet bills?

We’ve helped make it simple for pet parents to submit a claim and get reimbursed for eligible vet bills in just a few days.*

1. Visit any licensed vet

2. Submit your claim online or in the app

3. Get cash back for eligible vet bills

Get my free quote

*Jan 2023 – Sep 2023 administrator claims data.
Independent and paid ad from Spot. Waiting periods, annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit limits and exclusions may apply. For all terms visit spotpetins.com/sample-policy. Products, schedules, discounts, and rates may vary and are subject to change. More information available at checkout.
Insurance plans are underwritten by either Independence American Insurance Company (NAIC 1126581. A Delaware insurance company located at 11333 N. Scottsdale Rd, Ste. 160, Scottsdale, AZ 85254) or United States Fire Insurance Company (NAIC #21113. Morristown, NJ), and are produced by Spot Pel Insurance Services, LLC. (NPN If 192463il5. 990 Biscayne Blvd Suite 603, Miami, FL 33132. CA License 116000188).

 Dog Thoughts

Adolescence in dogs can be just as tricky as it is in humans! From around 6 months to 2 years old, your once obedient puppy may become stubborn, defiant, and more independent. But don’t worry—this is a natural part of your dog's growth, and with patience, you can navigate this phase successfully.

What’s Happening to Your Dog?

During adolescence, dogs experience physical and hormonal changes that can make them more challenging to train. They may test boundaries, ignore commands, and act out in ways they haven’t before. This phase is critical for reinforcing the training you’ve done during puppyhood.

Key Training Tips:

1. Consistency is Key: Now more than ever, it’s crucial to stick to your commands and rules. If you’ve been allowing certain behaviors (like jumping on the couch), your adolescent dog will exploit these inconsistencies. Keep rules clear and always follow through with your expectations.

2. Increase Physical Activity: Adolescent dogs are bursting with energy, and if they’re not getting enough exercise, they may develop bad behaviors like chewing, barking, or digging. Aim for at least 60-90 minutes of exercise each day, depending on the breed.

3. Mental Stimulation: Training shouldn’t just be about physical activities. Puzzles, treat-dispensing toys, and obedience drills keep your dog’s mind active and can help curb undesirable behaviors.

4. Positive Reinforcement: Reward-based training is still the most effective method. Use praise, treats, and playtime to encourage good behavior. Avoid harsh punishments, as they can lead to fear and anxiety in your dog.

5. Socialization: Adolescents may become wary of strangers or other dogs. Regular exposure to new environments, people, and dogs will help them stay friendly and well-adjusted.

Remember, patience is essential during this time. This is a temporary phase, and with the right approach, your dog will emerge as a well-behaved adult.

Exercise & Entertainment

Dogs and Swimming: The Ultimate Guide to a Safe Splash

Not all dogs are natural swimmers, but with the right encouragement, most pups can learn to love the water. Whether you're planning a beach day or just want to introduce your dog to the pool, here's how to ensure a safe and fun experience for your four-legged friend.

Benefits of Swimming for Dogs:

1. Low-Impact Exercise: Swimming is an excellent form of exercise for dogs, particularly for breeds prone to joint issues like hip dysplasia or arthritis. The water's buoyancy takes the strain off their joints, making it a great low-impact activity.

2. Mental Stimulation: Water activities engage your dog’s mind as well as their body. Chasing toys, paddling through waves, or even learning to navigate around floating obstacles can be mentally enriching.

3. Cooling Off: In hot weather, swimming is a perfect way for your dog to cool down. It helps regulate body temperature and provides a safe alternative to overheating during walks or runs.

Safety First:

1. Start Slowly: If your dog is new to swimming, don't throw them in the deep end—literally! Start in shallow water where your dog can easily touch the bottom and feel secure. Gradually encourage them to paddle deeper, but always stay close by.

2. Use a Life Vest: Even if your dog is a strong swimmer, using a life vest is a good idea—especially for small breeds, elderly dogs, or breeds with less buoyancy, like bulldogs or dachshunds.

3. Avoid Strong Currents: Whether you’re at the beach, a lake, or a river, avoid areas with strong currents. Stick to calm waters where your dog can swim safely without being carried away by the tide.

Aftercare:

After swimming, always rinse your dog off to remove chlorine, salt, or lake bacteria from their coat. Pay extra attention to drying their ears, as excess moisture can lead to infections.

With the proper introduction and safety precautions, swimming can become one of your dog's favorite activities!

Nutrition & Diet

The Benefits of Fresh Cooked Food from Commercial Suppliers: Is It Worth the Hype?

As more dog owners become aware of their pets' dietary needs, the demand for fresh, cooked food from commercial suppliers has surged. These meals, often delivered straight to your door, are marketed as healthier alternatives to traditional kibble. But are they truly better for your dog?

What Is Fresh Cooked Dog Food?

Fresh cooked dog food is made from human-grade ingredients, cooked at low temperatures to retain nutrients, and packaged in pre-portioned meals. Companies like The Farmer’s Dog, Ollie, and Nom Nom have led the charge in delivering meals made with real meat, vegetables, and grains.

The Benefits:

1. Better Nutritional Content: Traditional kibble often contains fillers and artificial preservatives. Fresh cooked meals, however, provide a balanced diet of proteins, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables. This can lead to improved digestion, shinier coats, and more energy for your dog.

2. Fewer Allergens: Many dogs suffer from food allergies to common ingredients like chicken or corn. Fresh cooked meals allow for greater customization and can help you avoid ingredients that trigger allergies in your pup.

3. Improved Digestion: Fresh food tends to be easier on your dog’s digestive system. It’s less processed, which means your dog absorbs more nutrients and passes fewer undigested fillers.

4. Weight Management: Portion control is simpler with fresh food. Many services provide pre-measured packages tailored to your dog’s size and activity level, reducing the risk of overfeeding.

What to Consider:

While the benefits are clear, fresh cooked meals from commercial suppliers can be pricey. Depending on your dog’s size, feeding fresh food can cost anywhere from $2 to $10 per day. For budget-conscious owners, mixing fresh food with traditional kibble is a viable option.

At the end of the day, the decision to switch to fresh cooked meals should be based on your dog’s individual needs and your financial situation. A balanced diet, whether through kibble, fresh food, or a mix, is key to keeping your dog healthy and happy.

Dog-Proofing Your Home: Keep Your Pup Safe and Your House Intact

Welcoming a dog into your home brings endless joy, but it also comes with a few challenges, especially when it comes to protecting both your pet and your property. From chewing furniture to raiding the trash, dogs—especially curious puppies—can get into all sorts of trouble. Here’s a guide to dog-proofing your home to keep everyone happy.

Start with the Basics:

1. Secure Hazardous Items: Just like you would baby-proof a house, you need to secure dangerous items such as cleaning products, medications, and small objects that could be choking hazards. Use child-proof locks for low cabinets or move dangerous items out of reach.

2. Hide Electrical Cords: Dogs, especially teething puppies, love to chew on cords. This can be extremely dangerous if they bite through the insulation. Hide or cover cords with protective sleeves, or block them off from your dog's access.

3. Block Off Restricted Areas: Gates can be helpful if you want to keep your dog out of specific rooms or areas of the house. For instance, you might want to block access to the kitchen where food smells could lead to counter-surfing or trash-digging.

Furniture and Décor Protection:

1. Cover Furniture: If your dog is a heavy shedder or prone to accidents, protect your furniture with washable covers. Leather couches are easier to wipe down, while microfiber tends to be more stain-resistant.

2. Chew-Proof Your Décor: Keep valuable or breakable items out of reach. If your dog is prone to chewing, opt for indestructible chew toys and rotate them to keep your dog interested.

Outdoor Spaces:

Your yard should be just as dog-proofed as the inside of your house. Ensure fences are secure, without gaps where your dog can slip out. Remove any plants that are toxic to dogs, such as azaleas, tulips, and sago palms.

Trash and Food Safety:

Dogs have an impressive sense of smell, and your trash can may be a constant temptation. Use bins with locking lids, or place trash in a cabinet to prevent your dog from digging through and finding harmful items like chicken bones or chocolate wrappers.

By taking these precautions, you’ll create a safe and stress-free environment for both your dog and your home!

Worried about vet bills?

We’ve helped make it simple for pet parents to submit a claim and get reimbursed for eligible vet bills in just a few days.*

1. Visit any licensed vet

2. Submit your claim online or in the app

3. Get cash back for eligible vet bills

Get my free quote

*Jan 2023 – Sep 2023 administrator claims data.
Independent and paid ad from Spot. Waiting periods, annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit limits and exclusions may apply. For all terms visit spotpetins.com/sample-policy. Products, schedules, discounts, and rates may vary and are subject to change. More information available at checkout.
Insurance plans are underwritten by either Independence American Insurance Company (NAIC 1126581. A Delaware insurance company located at 11333 N. Scottsdale Rd, Ste. 160, Scottsdale, AZ 85254) or United States Fire Insurance Company (NAIC #21113. Morristown, NJ), and are produced by Spot Pel Insurance Services, LLC. (NPN If 192463il5. 990 Biscayne Blvd Suite 603, Miami, FL 33132. CA License 116000188).

Video of the week

Click the image below for dogs who love watching TV

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Wishing you a fun packed week with your dog , see you next week!

 Phil