Search Results for: environmental enrichment – Page 4

Atopic dermatitis in dogs is one of the most common causes of ongoing itching, redness, and skin irritation. This allergic skin disease can significantly affect your dog’s comfort and quality of life — but with the right management, it can be controlled. What Is Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs? Atopic dermatitis is an allergic skin condition that occurs when a dog’s immune system overreacts to allergens....

A snuffle mat is an enrichment activity designed to tap into your dog's sense of smell, providing mental and physical stimulation. The action of sniffing out a treat is hugely satisfying and self-rewarding for your dog (just like barking, but not as noisy). Some dogs just can’t get into interactive toys, which can be noisy or too difficult, so a snuffle mat can be an...

If you have seen the movie Oddball then you’ll know how the beautiful Maremma dogs ended up becoming guardians of the Warrnambool Middle Island Penguin Colony. If you don’t, the short story is that a local chicken farmer, Swampy Marsh, suggested Maremma guardian dogs could be used to protect the local colony of penguins that were under threat from foxes during the breeding season, after...

There are a number of reasons and causes for dogs with itchy skin, including poor diet, flea and environmental allergies. And, although environmental allergens for pets will vary by region and climate, some of the most common causes of dogs with itchy skin include pollen, moulds, animal dander, cleaning solutions and medication. To help combat skin allergies in your dog, download our FREE 40 page...

Keeping cats happy with a safe and enriching environment is as important to their mental and physical wellbeing as it is for our dogs, to help keep their brains and bodies active, as well as reducing stress and anxiety. Dr Keshuan Chow, a Feline Medicine Specialist explains what this looks like for cats. Cats are less domesticated than many other pets or domestic species, therefore,...

Dogs with sensitive skin is a common issue many owners deal with and is often attributed to a food allergy. While dogs can be allergic to foods, most of the allergies relate to things in the environment, such as grass, dust and fleas. However, even if your dog does have sensitive skin due to these environmental allergens, their diet can still play an important role...

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier comes from the Staffordshire region of England. They were originally bred from crossing Bulldogs and other terrier breeds for bull and bear baiting, until the practice was banned in the UK in the 1830s. Affectionally known as the English Staffy, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is one of Australia’s most popular breeds. Temperament The Staffordshire Bull Terrier shares its lineage with the...

If you have a dog that loves retrieving balls and toys from the water, then make sure you check out the Rogz floating toys and balls to help provide a safer alternative to keeping your dog active and entertained. Dangers of swallowing water Many people don’t realise that swallowing too much water can be dangerous for dogs, especially if they are constantly putting their head...

When it comes to ensuring our dogs have the best chance to live a long and healthy life, there are some key lifestyle factors that influence this. This includes feeding for dog life stages to ensure they are getting the changing nutrients they need. Of course, like us, genetics plays a role, but so too does daily exercise, reducing emotional and environmental stress, exposure to...

All dogs have some level of prey drive, but it does manifest differently depending on the dog breed. What is prey drive in dogs Prey drive is an innate instinct in dogs, inherited from their ancestors, to hunt and capture prey. It's a powerful force that motivates dogs to chase, catch, and sometimes even retrieve objects. Being terrier crosses, both Darcy and Vindi have a...