Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini dry dog food is tailored nutrition for Small & Mini dogs while being gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day 1
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Supports brain health and beautiful fur in mature cats
Gourmet daily nutrition, carefully made. Tasty chunks with chicken & beef in a decadent gravy. Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur.
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Water is the most important nutrient of all and essential for life. Animals can lose almost all their fat and half their protein and still survive, but if they lose 15% of their water, it will mean death.
Where you store your cat and dog food can make a big difference in the quality and freshness once it is opened. Here are some common questions and recommendations for optimal storage for all of Hill’s dry and canned cat and dog food.
As the temperature climbs, you're probably on the hunt for ways to keep yourself and your four-legged friend cool. You know nothing refreshes you quite like a dip in the water, but you've never gone swimming with your dog before — you're not even sure whether they know how to swim! Luckily, teaching a dog to swim isn't too difficult. Here's everything you need to know to be your dog's summer swim coach.
Before you rush into the pool with your pooch, you'll want to do some research. Start by learning as much as you can about what genetics predict about your dog's relationship to the water. Read up on their breed (or combination of breeds) to find out the likelihood they'll take to the water. Some breeds are more eager to swim than others for a variety of reasons, ranging from size to build to temperament.
Some breeds, such as Labrador retrievers and Newfoundlands, are as comfortable in the water as on land. These dogs were bred for working in water, so they're ideal swimming companions. Other breeds, however, such as dachshunds and Scottish terriers, are weaker swimmers by nature. Brachycephalic dogs, such as pugs, are also typically unable to swim, says the ASPCA.
You don't want to start your dog off in deep or dangerous water. Any body of water with little to no current and plenty of shallows, like a quiet lake, is a great place to start teaching a dog to swim. However, your best bet is to begin with a kiddie pool.
Follow these steps to get your dog swimming:
Once your dog is comfortable, you're ready to practice swimming! Be sure to head somewhere safe where you can quickly bring them ashore if they get overwhelmed or tired. Also, make sure to check any laws or restrictions for public areas. Some beaches and lakes don't allow dogs, and one of the quickest ways to ruin your fun day in the sun is to get turned away upon arriving with your pup.
Keep in mind that not all dogs love water. Pay attention to their reaction — if they clearly don't like it, then they're not meant to be your swimming buddy. Don't force your dog to swim if they don't want to.
If you've decided to join in on the fun and swim with your dog, make sure to use caution. Be careful of your dogs nails — a dog doing the doggy-paddle that swims up to you can easily unintentionally scratch you. Also, if you're planning on swimming with a larger dog, make sure that you always follow recommended swimming safety guidelines, like using appropriate floatation devices in deeper waters. A larger dog that wants to cuddle in the water can make it more difficult for you to swim, putting your own health at risk.
The benefits of swimming with your dog are well worth the time it takes to teach them. Once your pooch has mastered the doggy paddle, you can try new activities with your water-loving pup, whether you're at the beach or by a pool. With a little patience and practice, your best (pet) friend will be ready for some splashy summer fun.
If teaching your dog to swim still seems overwhelming, professional swimming lessons are always an option. Dog spas, groomers, pet supply stores and veterinarians may be able to help you identify resources in your area. Talk to your vet if you have any questions or concerns about teaching your dog to swim. When in doubt, the kiddie pool is always an option for helping your dog cool off during a hot summer day.
Erin Ollila believes in the power of words and how a message can inform—and even transform—its intended audience. Her writing can be found all over the internet and in print, and includes interviews, ghostwriting, blog posts, and creative nonfiction. Erin is a geek for SEO and all things social media. She graduated from Fairfield University with an M.F.A. in Creative Writing. Reach out to her on Twitter @ReinventingErin or learn more about her at http://erinollila.com.
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day 1
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini dry dog food is tailored nutrition for Small & Mini dogs while being gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini dogs
Learn how today's wet dog food blends have gotten a face lift, and how you'll provide your dog the nutrition he needs in the form he loves.
Selecting the right food for your puppy is a key to quality nutrition and a long, healthy life., Learn more about how to select the right puppy food.
Extra pounds can cause problems for your dog's overall health. Learn the signs that your dog might be overweight, and what you can do to manage its weight.
As small and toy breed dogs age, their nutritional needs change.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.