"Purr-fect Pet Parenting: Tips, Advice"

5 Common Tick-Borne Diseases in Dogs

5 Common Tick-Borne Diseases in Dogs

As the summer season rolls in, so does the joy of outdoor adventures with our furry friends. Whether playing in the park or going on vacation, our pets love exploring nature...

5 Common Tick-Borne Diseases in Dogs

As the summer season rolls in, so does the joy of outdoor adventures with our furry friends. Whether playing in the park or going on vacation, our pets love exploring nature with us. However, the lush greenery is a perfect hideaway for ticks and fleas. They pose a significant health risk to our beloved dogs and cats. Understanding these diseases and taking preventive measures is crucial for keeping our pets safe and healthy.  Tick-Borne Diseases These tiny parasites can transmit several pathogens that cause tick-borne diseases (TBDs) through their bites. Here are some of the most common tick-borne diseases in dogs and cats:    1. Ehrlichiosis/Tick Fever  Ehrlichiosis occurs if the dog’s immune system fails to eliminate the protozoa transmitted by ticks. Such dogs show signs of fever, nasal bleeding, vision problems, or neurological disorders. Other signs may include limping, respiratory distress, and weight loss. Keeping your pooch protected against ticks is the most effective means of prevention. If treated in the early stage, most dogs return to normal soon. Remember, Ehrlichiosis is not contagious; only dogs bitten by the ticks can contract it. 2. Anaplasmosis Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease that causes joint pain, fever, lethargy, lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, or respiratory issues. If a dog is diagnosed with anaplasmosis, strict tick control measures should be taken to prevent further damage. Fluid therapy along with antibiotic treatment is carried out by medical experts to cure the disease. Keep your dog tick protected to prevent this disease.  3. Babesiosis Babesiosis is transmitted through ticks and infects red blood cells, leading to anaemia. Dogs with poor tick control are at a higher risk of developing babesiosis. Its symptoms include abnormal dark urine, fever, weakness, pale mucous membranes, depression, swollen lymph nodes, and an enlarged spleen. Considering the severity of the disease, treatment differs from antibiotics to blood transfusions. Consult your doctor immediately on spotting these symptoms after tick removal.  4. Tick Bite Paralysis Tick paralysis is a loss of voluntary muscle movement caused due to toxins present in tick saliva. It shows signs such as trouble in standing or sitting, partial/complete loss of muscle movements, loss of reflexes, and dilation of pupils. Unlike other tick-borne diseases, fever and flu symptoms are rare. With supportive medical aid, this disease can be diagnosed and cured. So, consult your veterinarian if you suspect the symptoms of Paralysis.  5. Lyme Disease Ticks release a bacteria called *Borrelia burgdorferi*, which causes Lyme disease. The common symptoms of Lyme Disease include fever, loss of appetite, swollen joints, swollen lymph nodes, and lethargy. As a precautionary measure, get your dog vaccinated to protect them from Lyme Disease. Moreover, timely removal and prevention of ticks are necessary to avoid this disease. Since it is caused due to bacteria, the treatment includes antibiotics prescribed by your veterinary doctor.  Also check out: How to Prevent, Treat and Detect ticks in dogs Key Takeaway  Despite preventive efforts, pets can still contract tick-borne diseases. Early detection and treatment are crucial to avoid the severity of tick-borne diseases. If you notice any signs of illness, consult your veterinarian immediately. Clinical diagnosis can help you identify the disease and with appropriate treatment. By using Tick Free, you can reduce the risk posed by ticks to our pets. Stay informed, use preventive products, and maintain vigilance to ensure the safety of your furry friend. Let’s work together to keep them healthy and tick-free! FAQs for 5 Common Tick-Borne Diseases in Dogs Can dogs recover from tick disease? After receiving timely veterinary treatment, most dogs recover from tick-borne diseases within a week. However, symptoms like jaundice, kidney failure, and neurological disorders might be concerning in the long run.    How to treat a tick bite on a dog? Eczo Pet is a natural skin healing cream for dogs, which can help to relieve the itching and irritation around the site of tick bite. It is free of harmful chemicals and remains gentle on the skin.  What kills ticks on dogs immediately? Tick free spray is a natural tick repellent for dogs that helps to get rid off ticks within 5-10 minutes. It slows down the nervous system of ticks by paralysing them, thus loosening their latch and aiding in easy removal of ticks by combing them.    

Ticks in Dogs: Detection, Prevention and Treatment

Ticks in Dogs: Detection, Prevention and Treatment

Are you a pet parent worried about ticks attacking your fur baby? Ticks and Fleas are most active during the summer season. Besides itching, they can cause fever, lethargy, loss...

Ticks in Dogs: Detection, Prevention and Treatment

Are you a pet parent worried about ticks attacking your fur baby? Ticks and Fleas are most active during the summer season. Besides itching, they can cause fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and joint pain. However, taking proactive measures can keep your pet safe from ticks. Check out the blog on ‘Ticks in Dogs: Prevention, Detection and Treatment’ and know everything you need to know about ticks and fleas.   How to detect ticks in pets? Check for ticks regularly on your pet’s body. Run your fingers slowly over your dog's entire body. If you feel a bump or swollen area, part the fur in that area to take a closer look. The easiest way to remove the tick is by grasping it close to the skin with tweezers and gently pulling it out.  How to prevent ticks in dogs?  Provide tips for preventing ticks from infesting dogs, such as: Timely Checks: After your dog has been outside, especially in grassy areas, thoroughly check their fur for ticks. Tick Repellents: Use pet-safe tick preventive products such as Tick Free, which is a 100% natural spray to prevent ticks in pets.  Tick Control: Maintain the surroundings by trimming the grass regularly, and removing litter where ticks may be present.  Avoid Tick-Prone Areas: Avoid areas susceptible to ticks, such as tall grassy fields and walk on cleared paths. Regular Grooming: Grooming regularly removes loose fur and dirt where ticks may hide, while making it easier to spot ticks. How to remove ticks in dogs?  Check out the step-by-step instructions for safely removing ticks from pets: Use tick-removal tools such as tweezers, gloves, rubbing alcohol, and a small container with a lid. Find a well-lit area to easily see the tick and use tweezers to grasp the tick close to your dog's skin. Pull out the tick gently. Do not twist or jerk the tick, to prevent it from breaking and remain embedded in your dog's skin. Place the tick in a small container with rubbing alcohol to kill it. Do not crush the tick as it can release bacteria. Aftercare Tips for Ticks  After the removal of ticks, the bite site might swell up. This inflammation is usually mild and often disappears within a week. However, if the swelling is significantly large, discharging, or painful, immediately consult a doctor.  Clean the area: To prevent further infection, use an antiseptic solution or mild soap and water to clean the area where the tick was attached. Watch for infection: Check for signs of redness, swelling or discharge. Contact your veterinarian if you find any of these signs. Prevent future infestations: Use tick repellents or medications as preventive measures to protect your pet from future tick infestations. Regular tick checks: Make it a habit to check your pet for ticks regularly, especially if they spend time outdoors in areas. Watch for symptoms: Monitor for symptoms of tick-borne diseases such as lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, and joint swelling a week after tick removal.  What is the treatment for ticks in dogs? Ticks and fleas in dogs can be treated using Bye Bugs Advanced Kit. This kit comprises Tick Free spray, Tick Free Shampooch and CanniVin Supplement. Tick Free spray is a preventive and curative medicine for ticks. It helps in the easy removal of ticks and repels ticks when used before outside activities. Shampooch is a herbal dog tick shampoo that helps to cleanse the fur while keeping the ticks away. Lastly, CanniVin is a haircare supplement that nourishes the skin internally while preventing further damage to the skin. So, order Bye Bugs Advance to protect your pet from ticks! 

Summer Care: Addressing Common Concerns of Pet Parents

Summer Care: Addressing Common Concerns of Pet ...

Heat stroke, cracked paws, tick bite, and dehydration need your immediate attention! These are some of the common problems faced by dogs during the summer season. If neglected, it can...

Summer Care: Addressing Common Concerns of Pet ...

Heat stroke, cracked paws, tick bite, and dehydration need your immediate attention! These are some of the common problems faced by dogs during the summer season. If neglected, it can be fatal. So keeping in mind the special needs of every dog, we have compiled a list of summer care tips for dogs. Check out the blog on ‘Summer Care: Addressing Common Concerns of Pet Parents’ and keep your pet heat-protected this summer.    1. Why hydration is necessary for dogs?  Hydration should be the priority of pet parents, especially during the summer season. It helps to regulate your dog’s body temperature, prevent dehydration, support the functioning of organs, maintain electrolyte balance and prevent urinary diseases. Therefore, provide them with easy access to clean water, both indoors and outdoors. Seek veterinary help if you suspect dehydration.  2. Is it safe to apply sunscreen on dogs?  Human sunscreen contains toxic chemicals that dogs can lick off their fur. So, use Cool Pet which is a moisturising sunscreen for dogs. It is made using 100% natural ingredients and is free of harmful chemicals, making it safe for dogs and cats. This dog sunscreen not only protects the skin from sun damage but also moisturises irritated skin and cracked paws.  3. What is the best grooming routine for dogs in summer?   Regular grooming helps your dog stay cool during the summer months. Brush their coat to remove dead fur, which can trap heat close to the skin. Trim their fur and DO NOT completely shave off the coat, as it prevents sunburn and overheating. Use Shampooch, a natural dog shampoo that prevents hairfall, dryness and promotes healthy and hydrated skin.  4. What to feed dogs during summer?  Besides water, provide hydrating food such as watermelon, cucumber, coconut water, mango, yogurt, etc. Consider feeding smaller, more frequent meals to support digestion. Mix a small amount of summer food with your dog's ongoing meal and gradually increase the proportion of summer food. Also, check out: Top 10 Summer Treats for Dogs.  5. What are the signs of heatstroke in dogs? Excessive panting, rapid heartbeat, high body temperature, and loss of consciousness are signs of heatstroke that need immediate attention. Instantly move your pet to a cooler area, offer water and lower their body temperature. Then, get them to a veterinarian as soon as possible for further treatment. Other common signs include cracked paws, drooling, red gums/tongue, lethargy, dry nose or skin. Cool Pet can be used regularly to treat and prevent most of these issues.  6. How to prevent Ticks during summer?  During the summer season, ticks are most active and pose a higher risk of attacking your pet. To prevent tick bites, Bye Bugs Advanced is the perfect solution. It effectively fights against ticks and aids in the easy removal of ticks. This natural combo also helps to reduce hairfall caused by ticks and gives a shiny, healthy coat to your dog. 7. Why is it unsafe to leave pets in parked cars?  Cars heat up rapidly and reach dangerous levels of more than 42 degrees. It is highly unsafe to leave your dog in the car, even for a short period. Keeping the windows closed cuts off the air supply, reduces ventilation, and causes suffocation. On the contrary, opening the windows does not lower the hot temperature inside. Dogs trapped in the car can succumb to heatstroke within minutes. Thus, DO NOT leave your pet inside a parked car under any circumstance.  Fur Ball Story Says: Step up for the Strays!!  The high temperature outside poses a serious threat not just to our pets but to the streeties as well. In this harsh time, they need you the most. So, be their savior with these simple tips: Provide food and water not just to dogs, but to cows, birds, monkeys and other creatures too.  To escape the intense summer heat, animals may rest under your car’s shade. Take a look before you drive.  Provide shaded and cool areas to prevent them from heatstroke.  Summer is often the mating season for many animals. Connect with local organisations to get the strays neutered.

Therapy Dogs and Their Magical Healing Powers

Therapy Dogs and Their Magical Healing Powers

The invaluable connection between humans and dogs exists since ancient times. From being our loyal friends to guardian angels, dogs have played multifaceted roles for the mankind. Therapy dogs, however,...

Therapy Dogs and Their Magical Healing Powers

The invaluable connection between humans and dogs exists since ancient times. From being our loyal friends to guardian angels, dogs have played multifaceted roles for the mankind. Therapy dogs, however, take this connection to a whole new level. They are specially trained to provide emotional support, comfort, and companionship to individuals facing mental challenges. These furry heroes possess an extraordinary gift: the power to heal, lighten up moods and carry a bunch of joy. Simply petting and hugging them can be a great stress buster that takes us away from our woes. In this blog, learn about therapy dogs and their magical healing powers. What is a Therapy Dog? In a world full of stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges, there still exists a remarkable source of comfort and solace - therapy dogs. These are specially-trained dogs to provide affection, comfort and support to people in multiple settings. From visiting a senior in assisted living to helping corporate employees destress, therapy dogs undoubtedly illuminate the lives of people in the dark. Animal Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is the term used for such dog therapies. The ultimate goal of this animal intervention is to improve the patient's social, emotional, or cognitive functioning. Therapy Dogs in Action  These incredible canines can be seen giving therapies to work their magic at various places. Here are some places you might find therapy dogs making a difference. Corporate Offices: For employees hustling between tight deadlines and work-life responsibilities, therapy dogs help them relax and unwind. Medical Setups: Hospitals and nursing homes are the best-known venues for therapy dogs where they visit different patients to destress them. Disaster Response: Therapy dogs are deployed to disaster-stricken areas to provide comfort to survivors and relief workers, helping ease the pain of loss. Rehabilitation Centers: They assist the affected individuals in physical and occupational therapy by motivating them to engage in activities and exercises. The Magical Healing Powers  What sets therapy dogs apart is their ability to offer unconditional love and unwavering companionship. Their presence alone can have an incredible impact on people's emotional and physical well-being. Here's how therapy dogs show their magical healing powers: Curing Diseases  Pet therapy has a proven track record of resolving physical as well as mental ailments. It helps in lowering blood pressure, enhances cardiovascular health in humans, promotes joint mobility and motor abilities and improves individual or aided movement. Besides, it helps treat patients diagnosed with depression, bipolar disorder, autism, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and Alzheimer's disease.  Mental Wellness  Interacting with therapy dogs lowers stress hormones, reduces anxiety, and releases feel-good hormones like endorphins and oxytocin. Such interactions increase mood-boosting hormones and decrease stress hormones in humans. Moreover, some of the mental and psychiatric disorders are known to respond well to therapy dogs. Mood Upliftment  Spending time with a therapy dog can lift spirits, improve mood, and provide a sense of comfort. It induces happiness, relieves sorrow, promotes greater self-esteem and positively impacts a person’s perspective on life. Enhanced Socialization Therapy dogs help us to enhance our verbal communication, strengthen social skills and boost self-esteem. They improve interactions with people around, participate in activities, and combat feelings of isolation.  Fur Ball Story's Special  Therapy dogs possess a unique and magical ability to bring comfort, healing, and joy to those in need. Their presence transcends words, offering a silent but powerful form of support to individuals facing life's challenges. These remarkable dogs, along with their dedicated handlers, remind us of the profound impact that love, compassion, and connection can have on our lives. Fur Ball Story’s Therapy Dog- Angel, has helped various individuals heal by simply being around them. She has been trained to stay calm and help people heal through their traumas. You can connect with us to meet her!  Also, check out: Corporate Dog Therapy Sessions by Fur Ball Story  

Summer Delights: 10 Easy Homemade Treats for Dogs

Summer Delights: 10 Easy Homemade Treats for Dogs

Get ready to make this summer the most refreshing and delightful time for your beloved pet! Elevate their summer game by indulging in healthy snacks for dogs. These simple recipes...

Summer Delights: 10 Easy Homemade Treats for Dogs

Get ready to make this summer the most refreshing and delightful time for your beloved pet! Elevate their summer game by indulging in healthy snacks for dogs. These simple recipes not only offer a delightful taste but also ensure a refreshing experience for your pet. Preparing these dog treats is super easy. All you need is a few readily available ingredients. Check out below these DIY recipes for your pooch:  1. Coconut Water Popsicles What can be more refreshing than Coconut Water? Simply pour unsweetened coconut water into a popsicle mould. Top it with finely chopped strawberries, blueberries, apples, or any other favourite fruit of your dog. Freeze until solid for a hydrating and refreshing summer treat. Health Benefits - Coconut Water is a natural hydrating agent that provides nutrients, electrolytes and antioxidant. It improves skin, coat, digestion, energy levels and more.  2. Peanut Butter Popsicles Mix plain yogurt with xylitol-free peanut butter and pour the mixture into popsicle moulds. Freeze the Peanut Butter Popsicle and serve it to your pooch. The creamy texture will surely delight their taste buds and leave them refreshed. Health Benefits - Peanut butter contains magnesium, manganese, phosphorus and other nutrients that aid energy production and metabolize proteins and carbohydrates. 3. One-Ingredient Recipe  Frozen green beans, carrots, chunks of banana, strawberries, and peaches can be given as quick-frozen treats. They not only best refreshments for dogs, but also is good for teething puppies. This healthy go-to snack for your pet is a must try! Health Benefits - Fruits and Vegetables are enriched with several vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Just make sure that the fruit/vegetable you choose are safe for dogs.  4. Frozen Kog Toys To prepare this dog treat, fill a Kong toy with mashed banana or canned pumpkin puree and freeze until solid. Watch as your dog enjoys the challenge of licking out the frozen treat. It will keep them cool and entertained for a while. Health Benefits - Kong Toys are a great source of sensory stimulation. Adding healthy munchies to it perfectly boosts the internal health of dogs.  5. Fruity Ice Cream  Blend ripe bananas with unsweetened coconut milk or yogurt to form a smooth paste. You can add a spoonful of peanut butter or other dog-friendly fruits for extra flavor. Now freeze the mixture in a bowl and scoop out like an ice cream once frozen. Health Benefits - Fruits are enriched with antioxidants, fibers and are low in calories. They are good for your dog's physical and mental wellness. 6. Frozen Fruit Cubes Chop a few dog-friendly fruits like watermelon, strawberries, blueberries, or bananas. Place them in an ice tray with water/yogurt/low-sodium chicken broth. Treat your pet with these frozen fruit cubes and help them rejuvenate on a hot sunny day. Health Benefits - Frozen Fruit Cubes naturally boost the nutrition game of your pet. Each fruit offers its own benefit, thus aiding in different body functions.  7. Fish/Chicken Chunks  Mix water with low-sodium chicken broth or tuna water from canned tuna packed in water. Freeze the mixture in ice cube trays and serve directly to your dog. This homemade dog snack keeps your pooch hydrated and cool. Health Benefits - Fish/Chicken Broth is rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals. It promotes the health of joints and gut and provides hydration.  8. Blended Coconut  Use a blender or food processor to puree watermelon, ripe banana, or sweet potato. Add coconut milk to the paste and freeze in an ice cube tray or silicone mold. Serve it directly to your pet and see them drooling over this delight.  Health Benefits - Coconut milk strengthens the immune system, freshens the breath, and adds shine to the coat.  9. Yogurt Drops  This one-ingredient recipe requires nothing but yogurt. Place coin-sized yogurt onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Prefer using Greek yogurt for an extra protein boost. These Yogurt Drops are a simple and refreshing treat option for dogs.  Health Benefits - Yogurt is high in probiotics, calcium and protein content. It aids digestion, eases upset stomach, boosts immunity, and improves skin health.  10.  Fresh Vegetable Juice Extract fresh juice of dog-friendly vegetables like beetroots, carrots, or spinach. Avoid store-bought juices with added salt or sugar. It not only hydrates your dog but also balances out the nutrient loss during the hot summer months. Health Benefits - Juices of vegetables boost your dog’s vitamin intake, deliver plenty of nutrients and taste great to your furry friend. Remember, you should only use dog-friendly ingredients and avoid adding sweeteners, especially those containing xylitol. Moderation is key to maintaining a balanced diet for your furry friend. Hope you enjoy making these tasty treats for your pup!

Summer Escape: Top 5 Destinations in India to Travel with your Pet this Summer

Top 5 Destinations in India to Travel with your...

If you are looking for the best destinations to travel with your canine companion, look no further! We have crafted a complete bucket list for you. From popular dining spots to...

Top 5 Destinations in India to Travel with your...

If you are looking for the best destinations to travel with your canine companion, look no further! We have crafted a complete bucket list for you. From popular dining spots to must-visit places, we have covered everything you need to know before planning a vacation with your pet. So, seize your pet's leash and get ready to explore the Top 5 Pet-Friendly Travel Destinations in India with us!     1. Manali   Located in the heart of Himalayas, Manali is a perfect paradise to witness serene valleys, snow-draped mountains and lush forests with your fur baby. Enjoy leisurely walks and trekking adventures amidst pine forests. You can find numerous pet-friendly cafes, ambient eateries, convenient shops, homestays and hostels that ensure a comfortable stay. Must-Visit Places in Manali: Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Old Manali, Kasol, Jibhi, Beas River, Malana, and Naggar  Pet-friendly Hotels in Manali: Snow Palam Resort, Orchards House, Hotel Himalayan Heights, Safarnama Homestay, Casa Daffodil and more  Famous Cafes in Manali: Cafe Stories N More, Fat Plate, Cafe Mitti, Bogchi Cafe, and Outside-in Cafe 2. Kasauli    Kasauli’s pet-friendly stays and unwinding environment make it an ideal destination for travelling with pets. This town offers a variety of cosy hotels and lodges, catering to different budgets and preferences of the guests. Explore foggy lanes, delightful cafes, designed avenues and blooming gardens when in Kasauli.   Must-Visit Places in Kasauli: Manki Point, Mall Road, Gilbert trail, Baba Balak Nath Temple, Gurkha Fort and more Pet-friendly Hotels in Kasauli: Ramada by Wyndham, The Chateau, WelcomHeritage Glenview Resorts Famous Dining Spots in Kasauli: Kasauli Brewery, Kasauli Club, Hangout, Rooftop Bar, Rudra Cafe 3.Ooty  Traveling to Ooty with your pet can be a delightful experience considering the scenic beauty and pleasant climate of this hill station. Recognised as Queen of Hill Stations, it serves as a top-rated tourist destination in India. There are many places to visit in Ooty and also many tourist places near Ooty that will make a memorable trip for you. Must-Visit Places in Ooty: Doddabetta Peak, Coonoor, Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, Ketti Valley, Kodaikanal, and Shola Forest  Pet-friendly Hotels in Ooty: The Silent Retreat Farm, Hotel Charring Cross, Tulips Elkhil Resort, Sterling Ooty, and Greenwood Hill Cottage  Popular Eateries in Ooty: Le Cafe, Buddies Cafe, Nasa’s Food Court, Hopscotch, Savoury Hotel and more  4. Rishikesh  Known as the World Capital of Yoga and Meditation, Rishikesh promises a rejuvenating retreat for pet parents and their companions. Explore the heavenly Ghats of Ganga with your pet and witness a relaxing stay blended with comfort and hospitality.  Must-Visit Places in Rishikesh: Narendra Nagar, Chopta, Patho Village, Kanatal Pet-friendly Hotels in Rishikesh: The Palms Resort, Namastexplorer, Soul Haven, Hotel Tapovanam, Kalakriti Homestay, etc.   Famous Cafes in Rishikesh: The Beatles, K Farms Cafe, Mini Friendly, Freedom Cafe, goSTOPS, and more  5. Coorg  "The Scotland of India" aka Coorg is popular for its lush landscapes, scenic plantations, lakeside views, and pleasant climate, making it a perfect travel destination for pets. The hills and forests provide excellent opportunities for trekking, camping, and numerous other recreational activities. Must-Visit Places in Coorg: Abbey Falls, Harangi Dam Backwaters, Dubare Elephant Camp, Mandalpati, and Namdroling Monastery,  Pet-friendly Hotels in Coorg: Aurika Luxury, Evergreen County, Whispering Woods, Jungle Stay, Ecobreeze Homestay, and Dreams Home Estate  Places to Eat in Coorg: Birchwood Retreat, 1854 Coffee Collective Cafe, Riverside Coffee Co, The Bliss Coorg and more.  Pro Tip  Pets are at a higher risk of anxiety and indigestion issues during travel because of changes in their environment. Moreover, motion sickness is also common in cats and dogs. So, if you planning a trip with your pet, remember to carry along Bark on Board Travel Kit. It consists of Ayurvedic Medicines to combat these issues and ensure the health of your pet throughout the vacation.  Key Takeaway  Whether Scottland of India or the mountains of Manali, these destinations are a great escape from the bustling city life. However, before you embark on your trip, remember to confirm the pet policies and check for any local guidelines for travelling with pets. With proper planning, these top-rated vacation places can help you create unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags for the most anticipated journey with your fur baby!