As a responsible, loving, and caring pet parent, you only want to give your furry buddies the best of nutrition, lifestyle, and entertainment. And the choice of food is one of the main aspects of proper nutrition. But with so many different options, it can get a bit confusing to sort the best from the rest. To help you, here are some choices among commonly consumed human foods safe for dogs.
Chicken and turkey
Chicken and turkey are both lean sources of protein and a better alternative over red meats like beef, pork, or lamb. But ensure the meats are cooked thoroughly and avoid using too much salt or seasoning as it may not be good for your pet’s digestive system. Many dog food brands also introduce lean proteins as their primary ingredient for wet and dry food recipes.
Seafood
Seafood options like tuna, salmon, and shrimp are human foods safe for dogs. But note that seafood must be given in moderation, and the fish must be cooked all the way to reduce the risk of infection. Salmon is the best source of protein, good fats, and essential amino acids. Tuna contains healthy omega-3 fatty acids that promote cardiovascular and eye health. Shrimp is also rich in antioxidants and essential vitamins while being low in calories.
Peanut and peanut butter
Peanuts are a healthy source of good fats that boost metabolic activity and promote overall health. But if you are planning to give peanut butter, ensure that the product is organic and does not contain any artificial sweeteners like xylitol. Consider crunchy or fine peanut butter that is unsalted and low in sugars or preservatives.
Assorted veggies
Cut veggies are a great snack over processed treats that you buy at the supermarket. Carrots, green beans, broccoli, cucumbers, and celery sticks are popular options that require minimal prep and can be given as regular tidbits. Most breeds can safely digest these veggies in their raw or cooked form, but it is advisable to consult a vet for smaller breeds.
Fresh fruits
Cut fruits are another good snack alternative for dogs. Ensure that the slices are palatable, and you remove all the cores, seeds, stems, or peels depending on the type of fruit. Popular options include apples, kiwi, blueberries, strawberries, cantaloupe, pineapple, and bananas.
Note that all human foods safe for dogs must be given in moderation to allow dogs time to adjust.
Popular dog food brands
Natural Balance® Dog food
Natural Balance® ranks among the top dog food brands in the country and features a number of recipes made with everyday and special restriction ingredients. Popular products include the Natural Balance® Limited Ingredients, Original Ultra, Synergy, and Natural Balance® Vegetarian. Recipes are grain-free, rich in fiber, proteins, carbohydrates, and available in flavorful wet and dry food options.
Purina ONE® chicken and rice dog food
Purina ONE® features a diverse mix of ingredients sourced naturally and sustainably for its wet and dry dog food recipes. The chicken and rice formula is one of the popular recipes made with 100% natural ingredients that promote healthy cardiovascular activity and muscle growth. The recipes are designed to boost immunity and promote a healthy coat.
Acana®
This Canadian dog food brand is owned and managed by Champion Pet Foods. It offers a variety of dry dog food formulas made from biologically appropriate natural pet food. Acana is famous for its grain-free dog foods. The brand has recently started grain-inclusive options as well. Some of its popular products are Acana’s Paleo Formula and Free-Run Poultry Formula. You can go for the 25lbs bag as it is available at a competitive price than other labels.
Dr. Marty
Dr. Marty is another reputable dog food brand. Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Essential Wellness is one of the brand’s top-rated dog foods. This formula, made with high-quality meats (turkey, beef, salmon, duck) and organs (beef liver, turkey liver, turkey heart, and other essential nutrients), is designed to boost energy, ease digestion, promote oral and skin health, and more. The product comes freeze-dried, which helps ensure your dog receives optimal nutrition. In addition to dog food, Dr. Marty also makes several dog food supplements to provide dogs with specific nutrients and help fight various health issues. These supplements include Shine & Luster (for seasonal allergy support), Free & Active (for hip and joint support), and Alpha Guard (for immunity support.)
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Tips for buying trundle beds
Read moreIf you want a bed that will save you space, but will not be too small, trundle beds are the best option. A trundle bed will suit the bigger families living in small quarters or those who have rented a new apartment, but want a bed that won’t make your room look clumsy. It is even very helpful when you have visitors in your house. But before buying a trundle bed you must have knowledge about certain things, which are listed here.
A trundle bed is a special modification of a normal bed in which a smaller bed can be inserted underneath a larger one. So with a single piece of furniture, you will get more than one sleeping space. It is very similar to bunk beds, but in this case, you can pull out that extra bed when you need it. At other times, it would just look like a normal twin-sized bed.
Why should you opt for a trundle bed?
If you want to save space, buy a trundle bed. You will get two beds in the same space as one. There are various shapes of trundle beds available in the market. You can opt for fascinating ones shaped in the form of a lounge which will, in turn, serve you both purposes. You can use it as a couch in the daytime and then take out the smaller bed when you need it.For whom are trundle beds best?
Trundle beds can be used by anyone. But due to the smaller size of the bed which stays underneath, it is best suited for teens and children. It also serves best for guests who stay overnight in your house. However, if you have someone in the house who has a back pain, then trundle beds are not the option for you. Also because of its closeness to the ground, it is not an option for elderly people who may have a problem of getting up on their own.Know about the material of your trundle bed
Trundle beds are available in various materials that are used in all other standard beds. They do not need any specific material. Trundle beds can be made of wood or even metal. Some brands even provide upholstered trundle beds. So it is best that you choose the material of your bed based on the other interior decorations of your house, also keeping your budget in mind.Are trundle beds available in all sizes?
Trundle beds are crafted in a way so as to be easily accommodated in compact spaces. But they are available in various sizes. The twin size is the most common one.Since, this is one bed that is available in all shapes, sizes, and colors, purchase a trundle bed that suits you the best and solves all your space issues.
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How to deal with itchy skin
Read moreYou may be suffering from itchy skin because of a number of reasons. From a flea bite to severe conditions like psoriasis, itchy skin can be caused by different medical conditions. The best way to understand it is by diagnosing the itchy skin symptoms. Consulting a doctor will be the ideal way to treat itchy skin symptoms and get a prognosis on measures to be taken to control the itchiness.
However, often it is not possible to consult a doctor. You must be aware of these procedures that will help you control itchiness.
Use a good quality moisturizing lotion
Apply a high quality or medicinal moisturizing lotion to the itchy area at least once a day.Use creams and gels that have cooling effect on your skin
Try to use creams and gels that are based on items like, cucumber, aloe vera, mint, and lemon that induce a cooling effect on the skin.Avoid things that make your skin itch more
Try to avoid using clothes or foods or conditioners that accentuate the itchiness of your skin.Apply anti-itch cream or lotion to the affected area
Anti-itch creams are easily available in a pharmaceutical store. Apply to the affected area at least 2-3 times daily.Don’t scratch
It is hard not to scratch when your skin is itching like hell, but try not to scratch it as it may lead to a nasty infection. Wear gloves if necessary.Apply a cold and wet compress
Wrap the affected area with a wet compress preferably using ice-cold or cold water.Bathe in different solutions
Prepare a bath by dissolving baking soda or finely ground oatmeal in lukewarm water. Soak your whole body in it for about 30 minutes. Wash it off with regular water and apply moisturizer.Itchy skin symptoms will abate if you follow these uncomplicated remedies. But if the itchiness persists, it is advisable to consult a doctor and let him/her take a look at your itchy skin symptoms.