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Do you ever wonder if your pet can actually understand what you’re saying when you talk to them? They tilt their head and make direct eye contact as if they’re not just hearing you, but are listening  to you? Or when you’re acting extra emotional and they look at you, move closer and then just gaze into your eyes?  It’s hard to imagine that our pets are actual “mind readers” but studies  have shown that they are capable of having empathy and can pick up on feeling what we’re feeling. Pretty cool, right? But, also a little unnerving at times.  Both dogs and cats are empathetic to human emotions.   Dogs pick up on depression and anxiety through their keen senses in detecting human stress responses. They can pick up on symptoms, such as sadness, stress, fear, and increased heart rate. When your dog does pick up on painful or unwanted emotions, they often respond accordingly—for instance, by providing reassuring nuzzles and sticking by your side. Cats have the ability to recognize and react to human emotions. They can mirror or reflect the emotions of their owners. Cats also perceive and respond to human emotional states through observing body language and vocal cues. Cats and dogs are particularly empathetic and responsive to human emotions through our tone of voice.  “Research comparing the brain function of dogs and humans found that dogs have "voice areas" in their brains located in the same region as humans. And in both species, this part of the brain is adept at understanding the subtleties between our voice tones that express our different emotions.” Cats can be just as empathetic as dogs, and will behave in certain (sometimes peculiar) ways in response to our moods and voice tones.  According to cats.com , when this happens, some felines will stick close to you to make sure you're okay. Or they might ignore you because your sadness brings them discomfort. Especially during times of loud noises, like crying or arguing. Some cats will even try to distract you by meowing loudly to mimic you, scoot around your legs, or jump on you unexpectedly.  While we don’t ever intend or want for our stress related moments to affect our pets, sometimes this is unavoidable. They are family and almost always present in most family home moments, even when we don’t always wish them to be.  Obviously, as much as we try to avoid exposing our pets to when we’re feeling these intense feelings, it happens. And inevitably, they pick up what we're feeling, through instinct.   When this happens, how can we destress our pets?  Our Pets On The Bay Pack has some shares about what we do to comfort our pets in these moments:  A little snuggle attention goes a long way.  Gently approach them and use soothing words. Snuggle up and hug them to let them know they are loved and safe.  Walk It Away. Sometimes, a change of scenery, a little fresh air and exercise is all it takes to get your pet (and yourself) feeling right again.  Couch Potato Time.  Spending time together lounging on the couch or in a fave resting place is a fabulous way for you and your fur baby to decompress. Grab the blanket, maybe (both) your favorite snacks and just chill.  Turn on Some Tunes.  Soft music or a noise machine (like waterfalls) help cleanse a room from the lingering sounds that may have stressed them. Running water, birds chirping quietly, and/or even the enjoyment of total silence… where you can both sit back and just be for a moment. Our pets are domesticated because we choose to bring them into our homes and lives and make them family. They learn some of our humaness-good and not so good and then they try to feel this. They don’t always understand us, but they try to. We can only try to understand their emotions and comfort them back.   Next time you’re feeling the feels and your pet gives you the head tilt and barks, or meows loudly and then gives you a paw swipe, turn to them and just say “I hear you, I feel you.”  *The information and research materials used for this blog were cited from Pets On The Bay, link.springer.com , rover.com , brilliatio.com , cbsnews.com and cats.com .

Oh Mats! No matter how much a parent brushes their pet’s fur, mats can happen. There’s no shame in this. It's more common than you would think, especially for breeds with curly hair, long hair, thin hair and double coat types.  What is a Mat? A clumping of hair that can contain tangles, dirt and dead skin.  Why does Matting happen? Tangled hair- when the hair wraps around itself and becomes tangled Dirty skin and fur- when dead skin cells build up on the skin and gets caught in the fur  Seasonal shedding- when excess undercoat grows out and causes over shedding  Friction - when the hair rubs with other parts of the body (under the arms, on the legs, behind the ears, around the neck, and at base of the tail) Moisture- when the fur gets wet from bathing, swimming, rain and it isn't dried properly Parasites and insects- when hair is exposed to bugs that bite and/or infest on the skin and fur (particularly fleas) Allergies- when dogs chronically lick and itch  Lack of brushing- when loose hair isn't regularly brushed out According to preventivevet.com , “In extreme cases, the dog's coat will become "pelted" — when matting is very tight to the skin, preventing proper airflow…Matting and pelting prevent proper temperature regulation, cause skin irritation, hide parasites like fleas or other nasties, and cause extreme discomfort and pain for the dog.” How to Prevent Matting?  Mats can be extremely painful, and if ignored, can lead to skin irritation and more serious skin and coat conditions. Mats should be addressed immediately before they grow and become too hard to remove without shaving.  At Pets On The Bay, our Pet Stylists recommend the following in mat prevention: 1- Combing & Brushing Regular at home combing and brushing (at least every few days). This is absolutely necessary for dogs with coat types that have hair that is prone to matting; curly, thin, long hair and double coated. These breeds include all Poodles, Doodles, Bishon, Yorkies, ShihTzu and Cocker Spaniels. Recommended At Home Grooming Tools:  Combs Andis 68550 Stainless-Steel Comb for Knots, Mats & Loose Hair Removal - Effective Dematting Tool – Silver, 7-1/2-Inch /Amazon / $9 Chris Christensen 000 7.5 in. Greyhound Style Fine/Coarse Colored Butter Comb  / Amazon  $39.99 Slicker Brushes Miracle Coat Slicker Dog Brush, Small / Amazon  Small $14.64 Large $18.99 Chris Christensen Big K Dog Slicker Brush for Dogs / Amazon Small $56.99 Medium $62.99 Large $65.99 Pin Brushes OodelLife Pet Grooming Detangler Pin Dog Brush For Shedding and Removing Loose Fur / Amazon / $12.99  Chris Christensen Dog Brush, 27 mm Oval Pin Brush, Original Series  Amazon / $37 Read more about how to brush your Goldendoodle properly to prevent matting 2- Professional Grooming Services Mat prone dog breeds and pets with loose and/or shedding undercoat hair are more likely to form mats especially when not brushed or bathed regularly. Our Pet Stylists recommend the following professional grooming services:  Furry Baby Deshed Brushing & Shampoo Treatment  During our signature Bliss Bath, a deshedding shampoo is used with an exfoliating scrubber that helps release the undercoat of your dog. Followed by an extra nourishing conditioner and an additional, thorough brushing of the coat. Then, a final brushing during the blow dry and blow out with finishing spray.   Unfortunately, if a dog gets bathed or wet after the matting has begun, moisture to the fur only causes mats to get tighter and therefore harder to remove. In this case, an alternative treatment would be suggested.  Furry Baby Dematting Brushing & Shampoo Treatment  Before our signature Bliss Bath, a gentle de-matting is done with a breed specific comb and brush.  During the bath, a nourishing shampoo is used for both shampoo rinses, followed by an extra moisturizing conditioner. The coat is treated with a detangling spray for the blow dry and blow out, and then a soothing finishing spray. Recommended for dogs with mild to moderate matting.   In a nutshell, to properly care for your dog’s skin and coat, regular bathing and brushing is always recommended. Breeds with curly hair, long hair, thin hair and double coat types need specific care and our Pet Stylists suggest regular at home brushing and combing. Professional grooming services at least every 4-8 weeks, depending on coat growth and matting tendency, is also recommended in keeping your pup’s fur healthy.  Reserve your spa treatment online

"Every small business is a story of risk, resilience, and the belief that something great can grow from something small." -Anonymous The small businesses of Venetian Bay each have a story that became us. Every story is the reason why we a re compassionate  and committed to being here for our community . We care about our clients and customers and appreciate your patronage and constant support. Genuinely.  We have compassion  about sustaining our businesses for you and to be able to continue to provide the services and products that you need.  We are committed  to being part of a welcoming, convenient and thriving central marketplace that contributes to our community .   Behind the small businesses in Venetian Bay,  there are many stories worth knowing.  This is Our Story... In the spring of 2021, we started a small family business.  As residents of Venetian Bay, we had a vision to create a boutique store that offered exceptional pet nutrition and wellness products to our community. A familiar and fun place where pet families could shop locally and conveniently for their furry babies. Somewhere for neighbors and animal lovers to connect.  Jordan (with Jack, Rusty & Daisy)  Tracy (with Jack & Rusty)  Recognizing that our neighborhood needed more than just premium products for our pet families, we decided to expand our vision, and we designed our store with an upscale grooming salon and wellness spa in mind.  Intent on providing only the best services to our community, we enrolled in a pet grooming school and immersed ourselves in knowing all that we could about the pet industry. We wanted to change it for the better.  During the construction of our store, we faced many challenges, and it took us way longer to open than we anticipated. Taking on a project like ours took patience, perseverance, and just enough resilience to believe we could, actually, make this happen.  Due to political stumbling blocks and resistance, we almost gave up. But we didn’t and instead, we actually changed the legislature in Volusia County regarding grooming salon zoning.  Thank you for having patience and for continuing to believe in us. Why did we persist? For the pets! Tracy (with Bella) Over three years of risk, resilience and believing that we could make something great from something small...we did it!  Welcome to  Before After Before After Before After It took us over three years to bring this vision to reality, and we were so excited when we finally opened our doors to the community in January of 2024. Art (Head Contractor), Angela (Family Friend), Tracy Breanna, Tracy & Emily Almost a year after opening, and we’re proud and grateful to announce that we have a fabulous team of pack members. We each have our own unique talents in the pet care industry. All have helped to create the caring and exclusive business that we have become.  Emily ( with Grizzly & Copper) Aleesha ( with Pixel & Honey) Also, special thanks to Kelsey & Sara, and all the other team members who have helped us on our journey. Thank YOU .  Through the community support, we have had the pleasure to pamper over 350 pets. We pride ourselves on giving each pet the best grooming experience in a caring, safe and comfortable setting. We strive to do our absolute awesomeness to serve you and your furry family members. Paws Of Fame Claws Of Fame Thank you for believing in us and caring for our community pets together! We are excited about continuing our story with you:)  Daisy ( PETS mascot) Click Below & Follow Our Story Each month, we will be highlighting a small business of Venetian Bay. Their story, who they are, why they care about doing business in our community and how they stay committed, what inspires them to keep their compassion, and how they strive to continue to make our community better. Please feel free to share our stories in social media and through conversations with fellow neighbors and friends. Together, let’s keep the small businesses of Venetian Bay welcoming, convenient and a thriving central marketplace that contributes to our community .  Compassion. Commitment. Community.

5 Quick Winter Grooming Tips  Our mild winters in Central Florida can be a nice break from the summer heat, but as the weather gets colder, your pet’s grooming schedule may also need some changes. Here are some quick tips for keeping their coat, skin and paws healthy and nourished this winter.   1- Regular Grooming  Depending on the coat type and skin care needs of your dog, we suggest keeping a regular grooming routine at least every 6-8 weeks.  During the colder months, regular grooming also helps to prevent matting, which can trap moisture, cause irritation and lead to more serious skin and coat conditions. For double coated dogs, and breeds with coats that are prone to matting and that need consistent brushing, professional grooming is recommended at least every four weeks.  Terrier coated type dogs have less hair that doesn’t require scissoring or clippers, but these breeds still need regular bathing. We suggest giving them baths at least every 4-6 weeks to keep the skin clean, moisturized and free of dander.  2- Skin & Coat Specific Bathing  Bathing with a shampoo and conditioner that is specific to your pet’s skin and coat needs, helps them maintain clean, moisturized skin and fluffy fur. A specialty coat appropriate conditioner further protects their skin and coat from winter exposure.  Using an all-natural shampoo that properly cleans, followed by a moisturizing conditioner will help release the healthy oils back into their skin and coat.  PETS Picks: In our salon, we use a professional line of all natural shampoos and conditioners called Nature’s Specialties. They come in a variety of different kinds according to the specific pet coat type and skin care needs. One of our most popular specialty treatments is with the Sheazam Shea Butter Shampoo  & Sheamora Shea Butter & Argan Oil Conditioner . 3- Proper Drying Over bathing all breeds any time of year, particularly in the winter, can cause dry and flaky skin that contributes to a buildup of too much dander and a funky odor to their coat.  To prevent any skin irritations and/or coat conditions, make sure they are completely dry after bathing, and all moisture in the fur is blown out.  With regards to matting, if a dog gets bathed or wet after the matting has begun, moisture to the fur only causes more mats that get tighter and therefore harder to remove.  PET’S Picks:  A professional high velocity dryer is best for blowing out your pet’s coat, but for a fast and effective at-home dryer, we recommend the Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer .  4- Brushing   For dogs with furry coat types, regular brushing is always recommended, especially during the winter. Brushing removes loose and dead hair, stimulates blood circulation and helps prevent matting. It also assists with de-shedding and keeps your dog’s skin and coat healthy. Without brushing, the undercoat of double-coated breed types can easily become impac ted with excessive tangles.  PETS Picks:  A good brush and comb are all you really need to keep your dog’s coat tangle and matt free. Our groomers recommend the following tools to aid in brushing at home:  Comb- Andis 68550 Stainless-Steel Comb for Knots, Mats & Loose Hair Removal - Effective Dematting Tool – Silver, 7-1/2-Inch /Amazon / $9 Slicker Brush- Chris Christensen Big K Dog Slicker Brush for Dogs Amazon / Small $56.99 Medium $62.99 Large $65.99 Read Our Blog about Mats and Brushing   5- Seasonal Considerations  The cold winter air dries out a dog’s skin and can even cause cracks in their paw pads. Using a paw balm after drying is a great way to keep their paws nourished.   CBD Balm and Oils can also be used to moisturize your pet’s paws and nose that may be more sensitive in the winter months.  PETS Picks:   Penelope’s Bloom CBD Balm  is beneficial for hydrating dry, cracked paws and skin, and provides a protective barrier against harsh conditions. If the cold weather is keeping your pet indoors or from having less walks, regular nail trims can keep those claws less sharp and help prevent the quicks from becoming too long. Shorter quicks allow  the nails to grow healthy and even helps your pet feel certain sensations better. At Pets On The Bay, we accept walk in and last-minute nail trim and buff appointments if our schedule permits. Above all, during the winter season and all year round, keeping to a regular bathing and/or grooming routine is a must. Having good communication with your groomer is also vitally important in helping you keep your pet’s skin and coat healthy and maintained. Likety-Split!

Living in Florida, our pets are exposed to way more environmental allergens than in other climates. Between the warm weather, exposure to the hot sun, denser grasses and vegetation, and threats of insects, these all take a toll on our pet’s skin and fur. These make them more prone to skin and coat conditions and allergies. What Is a Pet Allergy?  According to an article from urgentpet.com , “An allergy occurs when a dog or cat’s immune system overreacts to substances that are usually harmless. These substances, known as allergens, can trigger an allergic response when inhaled, ingested, or come into contact with the pet’s skin. During this reaction, their body mistakenly identifies these normal environmental substances as threats, leading to a variety of physical symptoms. The severity of these reactions can vary greatly, ranging from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening conditions.” What are the different types of pet allergies? 1 Direct contact to allergens-  such as pyrethrins found in flea collars, pesticides used on the lawn, grasses, materials such as wool or synthetics used in carpets or bedding, etc.  Symptoms: skin irritation and itching at the points of contact, usually the feet and stomach. Signs if your dog is allergic to grass Learn more how to protect your pet from in and around the home pesticides 2 Insect bite allergy-  the inflammatory response to the bite or sting of an insect (including fleas, blackflies, deerflies, horseflies, mosquitoes, ants, bees, hornets and wasps, and arachnids such as spiders and ticks) Flea saliva is the most common insect allergen in dogs and cats.  A Veterinary Specialist from cats.com writes: “This may be called ‘flea allergy’ or ‘flea allergic dermatitis’ (FAD). Flea allergies are thought to be the cause of around a third of skin problems in cats, and some cats are so sensitive they may react even if you haven’t seen a flea on them.” Symptoms: minor local irritation from fleabites. Severe local itching causing hair loss. A secondary bacterial infection may develop in the broken skin.  Pets On The Bay recommendations: aside from in-home flea and tick treatment, we suggest a more holistic approach to treating and preventing insect allergies in dogs and cats. To treat further spreading we suggest professional bathing and then regular baths to prevent chronic skin irritations and problems. This includes our Signature Bliss Bath & Brush service with a flea treatment add on using all natural topical spray before the bath, then an all natural specialty flea shampoo. We follow the treatment with a moisturizing conditioner to put the healthy oils back into the skin and coat. 3 Inhalant Allergy-  seasonal irritants such as tree pollens (cedar, ash, oak, etc.), grass pollens, weed pollens (ragweed), molds, mildew, and house dust mites. Others such as molds, mildew, and house dust mites occur year-round.  Symptoms: itchy skin, face rubbing, feet licking, body scratching. Pets On The Bay Recommendations:  regular professional bathing and grooming is necessary for certain dog breeds and when pet parents are busy, unable or choose not to do this at home. Although too much bathing can lead to dry, flaky skin and coat problems. Depending on the breed and coat type of your dog, monthly and bi-monthly baths and grooms are recommended to further treat and/or prevent skin and coat problems. For minor skin conditions: this includes our Signature Bliss Bath & Brush service with a specialty shampoo and conditioner add on with nurturing ingredients such Tee Tree Oil, Oatmeal & Aloe.  For preventative care: this includes our Signature Bliss Bath & Brush service with a specialty shampoo and conditioner add on such as Shea Butter and Argan Oil.  View all our spa services for cats & dogs 4 Skin Contact Allergy or Food Allergy- food hypersensitivity from any protein or carbohydrate component of food. It most commonly develops in response to protein of the food of a particular food origin; dairy products, beef, wheat gluten, chicken, chicken eggs, lamb, and soy.  Symptoms: itching, digestive disorders, and respiratory distress.  General allergy symptoms to look for in your pet:  Scratching and biting their coat or skin Red, inflamed, or infected skin Excessive shedding Compulsive paw licking in dogs Boot scoots or licking their anal glands Chronic ear infections or red, waxy ears (common for dogs who are prone to ear problems in the first place) Respiratory issues, such as difficulty breathing, coughing, or wheezing (more common in cats) Diagnosis  Your veterinarian may perform a variety of tests, including: Skin tests: Skin tests involve injecting small amounts of allergens into your pet’s skin and observing their reaction. Skin tests can help identify the specific allergens that are causing your dog’s allergic reactions. Blood tests: Blood tests can measure the levels of antibodies in your pet’s blood in response to different allergens. Blood tests can help identify the specific allergens that are causing your pet’s allergic reactions. “With cats, if food allergies have been ruled out and it is determined that they are suffering from some sort of environmental allergy, blood tests or skin tests are usually performed using subcutaneous injections to test for a response. In some cases, referral to a veterinary dermatologist may be necessary, especially if your clinic doesn’t have the appropriate equipment for skin tests, or if your cat’s case is difficult.”- Dr. Joanna Woodnutt, MRCVS Treatment  A local Florida vet hospital suggests the following possible treatments they use to treat allergies:  Medications, including antihistamines like benadryl can reduce the impact of itchy skin.  Injectable or oral steroids work quickly to reduce painful scratching.  Non-steroidal medications can be used to control itching. Fatty Acids can deliver powerful anti-inflammatory benefits to pets with allergies, but their impact may take between 1-3 months. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can be administered in chewable tablet, liquid form, powder or in capsule. Read more about pet allergy treatment options Learn AKC recommends on how to prevent allergies in your pets   It can be an itchy scratchy situation when your pet develops allergies. Above all, prevention and detection are key in avoiding allergies before they become chronic. When they do persist, and your pet seems to suffer constantly from them, there are many different treatment options available. Just knowing you have a great care team in place (you, your groomer, and your vet) makes the itchy scratchies much more bearable for you and your furry baby. Resources adapted from petallianceorlando.org , wfla.com , akc.com , vester.com ,  edis.ifas.ufl.edu, acmecanine.com, urgentpet.com

This Thanksgiving, and throughout the holiday season, your pet will most likely be exposed to more than their fair share of nibbles. Of course, you want to feed them nutritious food, but if they are receiving more than usual or different types of food, it could cause them digestion issues. Some of these hand outs, especially from other family and friends, who don’t know their specific diet, may be excessive and even be toxic for them. Here’s some pet friendly food tips for getting through this holiday season…   Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs & Cats 1. Turkey Turkey is safe for dogs and cats who have no poultry allergies. Prepare lean cuts chopped into bite-sized pieces. Pets don’t need their food heated after it’s cooked, and can be safely served at room temperature. Heating their food simply makes it more appealing to their sense of smell.  Avoid giving them turkey skin or bones, seasonings and sauces or gravies. Too much fatty stuff can lead to obesity and pancreatitis, and the bones can splinter and damage the dog’s mouth and digestive tract. Seasonings, including salt, can lead to toxicity, so you’ll also need to avoid processed turkey. Homemade Recipes: Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner- The Works! Homemade Ground Turkey with Vegetables Store Bought Picks: Grain Free Thanksgiving Day Canned Wet Food Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Dinner Morsels – Grain Free, Protein Rich Cat & Kitten Food – Tummy Ticklin’ Turkey Recipe  2. Pumpkin Pumpkin is safe and considered healthy for dogs and cats.  Avoid any pumpkin with added spices, sugar, or artificial sweeteners (especially not xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs and cats). Canned or fresh pumpkin is good as long as the canned version isn’t pre-seasoned, and definitely don’t give pumpkin pie to your pet! Homemade Recipe: Pumpkin Puree Store Bought Pick: Weruva Pumpkin Patch Up! Pumpkin Pouches for Dogs & Cats Carnivore Cravings Tuna & Pumpkin 3. Sweet Potatoes Sweet potatoes are safe and they are full of nutrients and vitamins.  Avoid potatoes that aren't cooked, and only give them a small amount, without any seasonings or butter. However, if your dog is diabetic, less active, or overweight, you may want to limit the amount of sweet potatoes you give them because they have a high glycemic index. Homemade Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes Store Bought Pick: Chip’s Naturals Sweet Taters  Can Cats Eat Sweet Potatoes?  4. Green Beans Green beans are safe and full of vitamins, fiber, and manganese. They are considered healthy vegetables if served raw or cooked plain (steamed or canned). Avoid serving with butter and salt or in a casserole with any other condiments. Homemade Recipe: Green Bean & Chicken Crunchies Store Bought Pick: Greenies Smart Topper Chicken, Green Beans & Sweet Potatoes Recipe Grain-Free Wet Dog Food Topper Applaws Natural Wet Cat Food- Chicken Breast with Carrots and Green Beans in Broth 5 Vegetables Cats Can Eat 5. Cranberries Plain cranberries are safe as long as they’re offered in moderation.  Avoid cranberry sauce and juice because they are not good for dogs or cats due to all the sugar. Homemade Recipe: Cranberry Dog Treats Store Bought Pick:  Addiction Homestyle Venison & Cranberry Dinner Raw Dehydrated Dog Food Cran You Say Chicken- Shameless Pets Crunchy Cat Treats with Cranberries 6. Corn Corn is a safe veggie for dogs and according to Dr. Jason W. Gagné , DVM, DACVIM, board certified veterinary nutritionist, “When it’s properly cooked, corn provides a highly digestible source of carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, and protein that pets need.” Avoid adding butter or salt, and don’t give your dog an entire cob. That can prove to be a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockage. Read more about feeding corn to dogs Homemade Recipe: Peanut Butter Popcorn Store Bought Pick: The Farmers Dog  Can Cats Digest Corn?   7. Cheese Cheese is a tasty treat for dogs, especially lower-fat choices like cottage cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, swiss, and cheddar.  Avoid dairy if your dog is lactose intolerant. Aim for low-fat cheeses if you’re also concerned about your dog’s weight. Homemade Recipe: Cheddar Dog Treats Store Bought Pick: Wagwell Freeze Dried Cheese Treats Can Cats Eat Cheese? 8. Apples If you’re planning on making a tasty apple pie, forgo the pie for your dog, and give them plain apple slices. Apple is healthy and tasty for canines, but ensure that you don’t give your pet any of the core, especially not the seeds. Apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide, which won’t harm your dog unless they eat too many. But it’s best to err on the side of caution. Homemade Recipe: Apple Pie Dog Treats Store Bought Pick: Nulo Gently-Cooked Meals Pork & Apple Recipe Wet Dog Food Farmina N&D Pumpkin Wild Boar, Pumpkin & Apple Canned Cat Food  9. Bread A small amount of plain bread is safe for dogs unless they have a grain allergy. Any bread that you give your pup should not have any added ingredients, such as raisins, seeds, or nuts. Canines don’t get many nutritional benefits from bread, anyway, so it should only be an occasional snack. Homemade Recipe: Pumpkin Bread For Dogs Spinach Loaf For Cats 10. Carrots & Peas These are safe vegetables for both dogs and cats.  Always, avoid putting salt and butter, seasonings or condiments on them when serving. Homemade Recipe:  Carrot & Pea Balls Store Bought Picks: Chicken with Peas and Carrots Treats for Dogs Love, Nala Tuna Flaked with Carrot & Green Pea Recipe in Broth Adult Grain-Free Wet Cat Food Definite Foods To Avoid Turkey bones, skin, and gravy Stuffing Casseroles Mashed potatoes Creamed peas Chocolate, cookies, pies, and sweets (as well as anything “sugar-free” or containing xylitol, which can be fatal for dogs) Alcoholic beverages Raisins and grapes Onions, scallions, and garlic Ham Yeast dough Fatty foods Foods containing spices Whatever you decide to cook, bake and serve your pet this holiday season…have a paws-atively yummy one!  Resources courtesy of petsonthebay.com , Dogster.com , akc.org , rover.com , dogfix.com , pawspetcare@home.com , petmd.com , chewy.com , and gofromm.com Images licensed from Adobe Stock

“A dog’s natural instinct is to protect their home or to alert you that a stranger has arrived, while cats typically prefer a quiet environment with their family. Trick-or-treaters continually knocking on the door or ringing the bell can be very stressful to both dogs and cats.”  - humanesociety.org Here are some safety tips and tricks on taking the terror out of your pet's Halloween: Halloween Treats- chocolate, raisins, candy and treats with xylitol (a common sugar substitute found in sugar-free candies and gum) can be toxic to your pet.  Halloween Decorations- keep them out of your pet’s reach; jack-o-lanterns, candles and other decor can be interesting to your pet, but also dangerous.  Human Costumes- keep all human costume pieces away from pets, along with glow sticks, decorations, batteries, and other holiday items. When chewed, glow stick items can release liquid that tastes really bad and can make pets drool excessively or act strangely (though it isn’t likely to be harmful). Other costume parts and decorations might cause choking, internal injury, or illness.  Pet Costumes- avoid pet costumes that don’t meet the following standards; fits properly and is comfortable, doesn't have any pieces that easily can be chewed off or cause choking, doesn't block your pet's sight, hearing, breathing, mouth, or movement.  Avoid outdoors with your pet- On Halloween, there are a lot more people on the streets and that, combined with strange costumes, can spook pets and cause them to bolt. Create a safe space indoors- leave treats or toys in an area in your home that you know they frequent or will feel comfortable in. Check in on them from time to time throughout Halloween night, especially after doorbell rings and after visitors have approached the house. ID your pet- these can be a lifesaver in finding a lost pet on Halloween—or any day of the year! Tags don’t have to be boring, either. There are plenty of fun, cute and even Halloween-themed pet IDs to pick from. If you need to take your pet out after dark, make sure he or she wears a reflective collar, is securely leashed and has proper identification attached. Happy Halloween from Pets On The Bay! Resources courtesy of humanesociety.org , amva.org , aspca.org

By instinct, kittens are taught by their moms to self-groom.  According to Hillspet.com , cats groom themselves not only to keep clean, but for several other health reasons: To regulate body temperature To keep their coat clean and smooth by distributing natural skin oils To stimulate circulation To cool themselves down through evaporation of saliva To eliminate parasites, infection, and allergies To prevent hairballs  Displacement behavior: If your cat feels embarrassed, anxious, or as though she’s in a conflict, she may lick to calm herself. Healthy felines should have a shiny, smooth coat with clear skin underneath. But some cats can’t properly clean themselves and have dry, brittle fur with flaky skin.  In an article from petslovetoknow.com , they state that fur and skin conditions may be caused by allergies, fleas, mites, fungus (ringworm), acne, wounds and abscesses, dermatitis, ulcers, excessive shedding and furballs.   Common signs that your cat might have a skin condition or allergy are fur loss, rashes and irritations on the skin, fleas, and poor health in general. Professional grooming can be a preventative solution to managing cat fur and skin conditions. A Professional Feline Groomer can help keep a cat’s fur consistently brushed, free of mats and their skin clean and nourished. A regular grooming schedule reduces hairballs that can cause dangerous blockages in a cat’s intestinal tract, which in some cases, requires surgery.  Whitney Bullock of The Charleston Cat Groomer in Charleston, SC says,  “When they lick themselves, they’re just licking. They’re not cleaning themselves, but they are ingesting fur.” When is grooming necessary?  Writer Paul White and Certified Veterinarian Marissa Morton from Petsleaf.com recommend seeking professional cat grooming services when your cat: has long or thick fur, and it may require regular maintenance to keep it healthy and free from tangles and matting has matting, tangles, or excessive shedding is senior and/or has mobility issues At Pets On The Bay, Emily is our Professional Feline Groomer. She has been grooming for over 20+ years and even has three cats of her own. To book a cat grooming service with Emily, she is available mornings starting at 7am Tuesday to Friday. Contact 386-690-1288 or request online at petsonthebay.com

Why Are Some Pets Afraid of Fireworks?   “It can be the smell. It can be the noise and the flashes of the light,” says Woodstown, New Jersey-based Dr. Judy Morgan, DVM,  Your dog may “tremble, shake, shiver, howl, and bark — some of them get frantic.” How to know if your pup is stressed?  There are a number of warning signs to indicate that your pet has fear or anxiety towards fireworks: Trembling or shaking Restlessness, such as pacing Destructiveness Hiding Panting or lip smacking Attention seeking behavior Whining or barking Trying to escape Loss of house training Unwilling to go outside after hearing fireworks Vomiting or diarrhea Many cats are afraid of the loud noises that fireworks make. The sudden bangs, whooshes and flashes of light can feel like a threat that might cause them harm, and their natural response is to run away and hide somewhere safe.   How to prevent a stressful fireworks experience for your pets? Keep them away from fireworks events Don’t leave them outside during fireworks shows Make a safe haven for them to chill in before, during and after  Create a SAFE  haven with alternate sounds, anti-anxiety tools, a feel good environment, and exercise.  S ound Turn on a fan, TV, sound machine  or some music to help mask the sounds of the fireworks.  “There’s some classical music called ‘Through a Dog’s Ear’ that has been shown to have calming effects for dogs,” says Jenn Stanley, certified behavior consultant and professional dog trainer. To help them desensitize to the sound of fireworks, get them used to listening to that particular sound. Download a recording of fireworks and play it slowly over time in preparation for the event. Simulate the sound and play it at different levels of volumes, then taking breaks with intermittent moments of silence.  “One of the best ways to keep your cat calm during fireworks is to get them used to the sound – from a young age, if possible,” says Dr Julie Ashton, veterinary behaviorist. A nti- anxiety Tools Dress them in a snug fitting shirt or anxiety vest. Veterinarian Lindsay Butzer, DVM, says that by applying constant pressure, anxiety vests are able to relieve anxiety and induce a calming effect for nervous pups. View 5 vet approved anxiety vests for cats and dogs here F eel good environment Provide a feel-good space for your pet away from windows and doors. Make this space in an interior room, if possible and stay close to them and/or check on them to keep them feeling comforted. If not possible, keep the curtains and blinds closed.  If your pet is regularly crated or uses a carrier to sleep, placing a blanket over the crate or carrier can keep the space dimly lit and more calming. Surround them with their favorite toys, blankets and comfort objects.    “If you make a feel-good space for your cat, but they choose not to be there, don’t force it. They might have chosen their own space, and that’s absolutely fine to do,” says Dr. Julie. Make sure your cat’s space has easy access to their food, water and litter box.  Give your pets their favorite treats in moderation. CBD Chews and treats help relieve excess anxiety and give them something else to focus on. Make sure to feed them prior to the event so they have plenty of time to digest.  At Pets On The Bay, we recommend Penelope’s Bloom CBD treats and chews for anxiety and stress. Our family shop dog, Daisy, loves the CBD infused peanut butter! Browse all our CBD products here   E xercise Walk them before the event to make sure they relieve themselves and get plenty of exercise to help them feel sleepy and content.  This 4th of July, here’s to creating a stress-free fireworks night for you and your pets!   Some information for this blog courtesy of American Kennel Association, ASPCA, Guidedogs.org.uk , and 24petwatch.com

Dogs love to chew.  Chewing has many positive benefits to a pup’s health too- it exercises jaw muscles, cleans their teeth, and can help relieve anxiety or frustration by giving them something enjoyable to focus on. What they chew is what matters. But what chew to choose? Soft chew, hard chew, bone, or dental stick? Before knowing what chew to choose, first understand your dog’s chewing style, preferences and what best suits their dental health needs. What to look for in an edible dog chew? hardness, durability, long-lasting, size, and natural ingredients. Types of Edible Dog Chews Bully Sticks Unlike rawhide, bully sticks, sometimes known as pizzle sticks, are easily digestible. Single-ingredient chews made from beef and lamb muscle, bully sticks range in thicknesses and lengths. They also come braided and shaped for an extra-long chew. They do not splinter. Instead, the end of the stick becomes soft and acts like a toothbrush as your dog chews. Other varieties include beef and lamb tripe, oxtail, beef and lamb collagen sticks, and hare sausages. Antlers Antlers are all-natural chews that can come from a variety of animals, including deer or elk. Antlers for dogs come in a range of sizes and shapes and are incredibly long-lasting because they are so hard. However, their hardness can also make them a risky choice. Always supervise your dog while they chew. Yak Cheese Chews These are hard blocks of dried cheese made with yak or cow milk, salt, and lime juice. The lactose content is low, so dogs generally digest them well, and they are hard enough to be long-lasting. As with other chews, only give your dog a block large enough that they can’t eat whole. Take away the yak chew as soon as it gets small enough to pose a hazard. Did you know? Small pieces of yak cheese chews can be put into the microwave for short bursts of time until they “puff” and can be easily crunched up as a treat once cooled. Tendons and Other Animal Parts From beef trachea to lamb tripe, hare burgers and chicken feet, different animal parts are also a more natural dog chew. Tendon chews are a safer choice, since they’re low in fat and high in protein and collagen. Fish skin chews, such as salmon twists and freeze-dried sardines smell fishy, but they are a great source of omega three fatty acids. What chew to choose? Chews Wild! All our chews at Pets On The Bay are sourced locally from Chews Wild LLC and made with only farm fresh, all natural ingredients. Thanks, Chews Wild for helping us care for our community pets together! Visit our online boutique to browse all our edible dog chews! The content for this blog was adapted from a post on The American Kennel Club website.