August 2020 -

August 31, 2020October 19, 2020

Why Dogs make great companions

Man’s best friend

One of the many ways dogs make great companions is their ability to bond with humans. In other words, dogs are pack animals and we become part of their pack. There are strong bonds between a dog and its owner. Pets can almost sense your mood and react. Often if I’m having a bad day my buddy is right there to cheer me up. . And honestly, its really hard to stay in a bad mood when they are around. We are a part of their family as much as they are a part of ours. Dogs especially convey the mutual friendship.

Best Exercise Buddy

I don’t know about you, but if I am home about 630pm at night the four-legged friend reminds me that it is a great time to go for a walk. Firstly, there is pacing and sniffing then finally a definitive bark or three. There really is no way around it. A quick dash to the back yard to bark at a squirrel on the fence, or a fast “doing some business” is just not going to satisfy. SOmetimes it is like having a personal trainer. No matter how my day was or what bad mood I have brought home, I take the dog for a walk. A quick 15-20 walk around the block is usually enough to clear my head and improve my mood, relax my shoulders and loosen my tight hips. She is motivating. How can you say no to that fuzzy face? We can stay fit, build muscle and stay strong together. In conclusion, a walk together is great way to bond and exercise.

Together we have adventures around the neighborhood. I know which lawns are the best and most likely will get rolled on. We have also met neighbors I would never have known if it wasn’t for the encouraging and enthusiastic walking buddy.

Mental health

We all know that one of the best ways to bring ourselves up is to lift up those around us. A great way to important to our own mental health to be of service. It feels good to care for other living beings. Especially when a pet like a dog reciprocates with their unconditional loyalty and love. Having a dog as part of the family is a rewarding experience. Just by being a companion dogs can provide great emotional support. Some dogs even make it official as an emotional support animal.

Quite often when I am feeling depressed, or anxious the four-legged furry one is within earshot, lately, by my side. She is ready to entertain and make me smile. Dogs seem to have a hidden agenda to cheer their human up, as great companions. They are excellent listeners and the perfect keeper of secrets.Yes, I talk to her like she is my best friend. She has helped me dry my tears upon occasion and let me hug her when there was no one around. Despite that dogs like to hog the bed like a 2 year old, it is a comforting to just know she is snoozing on the bed with me. I am reminded I am not alone. Clearly, having a dog helps combat loneliness, depression, and anxiety and that is excellent way to take care of your mental health.

Play

Dogs remind us of the importance of play. Several times a day I am lead over to the toy bucket. A quick game of fetch or tackle the bunny (stuffed) brings so much joy. When I see the dog having fun I also begin to relax and have fun. Joy is contagious even between species. Let’s face it, dogs make us laugh. They are simple “live in the moment ” creatures. Besides , who doesn’t love playing ball or a game of catch to break up the day ? It is important to remember to play and connect with other, even pets. It’s not about winning or losing the game, It is about the connection, the excitment, and the bonding with loved ones. Play is a great way to interact. It’s fun to get to know your dogs personality. Who knew each dog has their favorite toy ?

As you can see there are many ways dogs are considered great friends. It is comforting to have a buddy that shows unconditional love. A four-legged friend is forever loyal. If you have ever adopted from a shelter, it can be hypothesized that dogs are just as likely to choose their human for many of the same reasons. As humans we know dogs make the best companions , I hope dogs feel the same way about us.

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August 28, 2020November 10, 2020

Things You Didn’t Know About German Shepherds

Taking the dog for a walk we always run into a lot of different breeds. We have several german shepherds in the neighborhood. I have yet to actually meet the dogs in person, they are quick to bark to protect their homes. The sound like a great protector, the perfect guard dog. They have an authoritative bark, especially from behind the fence.

The German Shepherd is a dog that never goes unnoticed. either for its noble appearance or its attentive expressions. This is a popular breed around the world, continues to collect admirers of all cultures, ages, and styles. Originally called Alsatian or an Alsatian Wolf Dog, they rank as one of the smartest breeds. They love to work and make their owners proud. They were one of the first breeds used as a seeing eye/service dog.

German shepherds, as you will soon discover has many exciting facts about their interesting history, charming personality. In this article, we want to invite you to know some curiosities for the German Shepherd you may not have known before. So get comfortable grab a cup of tea and keep reading.

Tea Spectral and reading blogs make for a great afternoon.

German Shepherd made for herding

We currently associate the German Shepherd as a police dog, rescue dog, guide dog, or excellent guardian of your home and protector of your family. The beginning of this beautiful breed started in the late 1800s. Originally, they were developed to herd in the fields of Germany. Cavalry Captain Max Emil Frederick von Stephanitz dedicated his time to creating a breed for work in the field that also had a noble appearance. Inspired by Thuringian shepherds from the North with the Wurtemberg shepherds of the South, after careful breeding, the first german shepherd Horand von Grathfreth was born. Germany soon noticed german shepherds intelligence, agility, physical stamina, and loyalty other countries quickly noticed too.

They are remarkably smart and loyal

German shepherds rank third in the smartest dogs in the world. Any guess for the first place? Border Collie, then Poodle (of course). Firstly, german shepherds are alert, balanced, safe, and extremely loyal characters. They live an average of 10-12 years, and a healthy diet and active lifestyle keep them healthy. It is common to see them working as a police dog or as a seeing-eye companion. Secondly, they are extremely trainable and strive to please their master. It is in their genetic makeup to want to perform difficult tasks, accept challenges, and be physically active. In other words, they need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to be happy and productive. However, they make excellent protectors and family companion dogs.

They are part of the most popular dog breeds in the world

This dog has been, for many years, one of the most popular and beloved dogs in the world. Probably this stems from his “perfect combo,” which combines a regal appearance, remarkable intelligence, high sensitivity, and reliable and obedient temperament. They are extremely smart and loyal to their owners and family. They were officially known as the Alsatian in the UK from after the First World War until 1977 when its name was changed back to German Shepherd.

The German Shepherd has been a hit on film and TV

Rin Tin Tin is the protagonist of the adventure ” The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin” which has most likely been the no one top famous German Shepherd in the television world. This 1954 TV series in the United States most definitely popularized the breed. In more recent years, who can forget the handsome hero in I am Legend ? or my other personal childhood favorite film from the 1980s K-9 Lastly, they make great stars for film and television.

German Shepherds have participated in both World Wars

This dog is the few breeds that have accompanied the German army in the two world wars in which the country has been involved. When World War I broke out, the breed was still relatively young, and the German authorities were not so sure of its performance in this context. Soon they proved their worth.
During the harsh war years, these brave dogs help deliver messages, locate wounded soldiers, and patrol with officers. always on alertness to the appearance of foes. Even Allied soldiers returned to their countries with great admiration and whimsical stories about German Shepherds’ capabilities. Eventually, outside of Germany, the German Shepherd gained popularity all over the world.

Another interesting fact about German shepherds

The first dogs trained to assist blind people were four German Shepherds: Judy, Meta, Folly, and Flash. They were released to veterans of the First World War on October 6, 1931, in Merseyside.
The world’s primary guide dog school, called “The Seeing Eye,” was created in the United States, and its co-founder, Morris Frank, traveled between his native country and Canada to promote the use of these trained dogs. Truly a beloved breed.

In conclusion, German Shepherds have an interesting and colorful history. They are a dedicated working dog with lots of love and loyalty to offer, even today in the world full of technology.

If you are thinking about adding a German Sheppard to your household, Check out The German Sheppard Handbook. You can sign up for free to receive a free mini-course.

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August 24, 2020December 22, 2020

Fetch the Ball the Best Indestructible ball

Dogs love simple balls. They are fun to catch and chase and chew. The best ball for job depends on breed, age and how much of a chewer your pup is.

I love spending time with my furry friends but I don’t enjoy constantly spending money replacing the balls that don’t survive an afternoon of fun. Does your dog need a virtually indestructible ball too? Let’s look at the dog balls on the market and see which one is the most reliable.

Indestructible Dog toys specifically: THE BASIC BALL

Many dogs love a simple game of fetch. Additionally, it is a great way to bond and get some exercise together. However, there are many different types of basic dog balls, different sizes and materials. Additionally, every pup has their favorite.

Here are my top recommendations for the best “mostly” indestructible options out there.

This is Gnawsome 4.5” Spiky Squeak & Light Ball Dog Toy

For curious pups, this ball is the best. It is made of food-grade, BPA free,TPR material aka “thermoplastic rubber”. TPR is a perfect material for dog toys. It has properties of both plastic and rubber, lightweight, and has good tear strength. It is weather-resistant and great for outdoor play. The Gnawsome is interactive. This fun ball both lights up and has a squeaky noise, specially made with care to ensure the safety of your pet. The Squeaker stays put inside. And let’s face it…. gnawsome is fun to say…

It comes in different sizes for your pup and a variety of colors. The smallest is 2.5″ perfect for small breeds; the largest size is 4.5 perfect for big breeds. This gnawsome ball has a great reputation for withstanding a lot of play from aggressive chewers. The only con we can see, is that occasionally the light stops working prematurely. It is loud as well, for your dog that is exciting and fun, but if you, your kids or other pets are sensitive to loud squeaky toys, there are still other options for that perfect simple ball.

Chuck It Ultra Ball

Unlike the gnawsome balls, the Chuck it ultra is smooth, highly visible, and made of rubber. These balls have a very high bounce, perfect for an active dog. It is suitable for both land and water play. The Chuck it Ultra is a perfect fit for it’s matching launcher. The launcher is not necessary however, it adds to the fun and interaction. Once a pet has retrieved the slobbery ball, the fetcher can be attached and the pet can fetch the ball without you getting dirty with dog slobber. Eww! The Chuck it Ultra balls are suitable for water play and pools. These toys float. However, if squeezed or chewed underwater, it may fill up with water and sink. It is important to keep an eye on pets at the lake or pool anyways.

Kong Extreme Ball

Kong has a good reputation for making well-made dog toys. These bad boys are made of natural rubber. They do bounce, however like many Kong toys, it has a hole in it to hide treats, so floating not so much. It is made with an aggressive chewer in mind and is considered “puncture-resistant”. Despite being globally sourced, they are made in the USA. Kong toys also have a 60-day satisfaction guarantee. The kong balls come in different sizes to fit your dog’s needs. This ball durable and with a hidden treat like peanut butter, or detastix, even when the game of chase is over, it still can provide an activity for at least a few minutes

Jolly Pets Soccer Ball Floating-Bouncing Dog Toy

This is a pretty cool soccer ball for your dog. Perfect for all your herders out there too, like the Goldendoodle at home. This sized ball is the right size to be pushed around and chased. It is also doesn’t deflate… It does not deflate. Magic! It is larger than a fetch ball but still comes in two sizes, 6″ and 8″. It also floats. Perfect for a fun day at the lake or beach tossing a retrieving a ball around with Fido. This product is made in the USA, and has a manufactures guarantee as well.

Here are my top choices of balls for your happy dog. It seems clear all dogs love to play and chase balls. One’s that light up and squeak are especially fun. However, the fun only lasts as long as the ball. Durability is a definite selling point for these toys. These products have been enjoyed by many pet owners, keep in mind though dogs are pretty strong and excitable. It always advised that when introducing a new toy to stay with them to make sure they can’t get hurt. Even a rubber ball can get destroyed by an eager chewer. Although we think this list is pretty solid. One of the joys in having a pet is a bonding experience. I hope you get to try out some of these toys and find your best indestructible ball for your dog and have an awesome game of fetch.

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August 20, 2020January 20, 2022

Surprisingly some nuts are poisonous to dogs

Sometimes dogs can try to grab your attention so you can give them a bit of your food.

But are nuts safe for dogs? Most are NOT safe. For example, macadamia nuts can be toxic. English Walnuts are ok, however, Black walnuts and the other parts of the plant are poisonous to dogs. Although peanut butter has a nut in its name, it is actually a legume, so peanuts and peanut butter are safe as long as they don’t contain a sweetener. Nuts are high in calories and some pose a choking hazard. There are better special treats to choose from

Dogs and cats are always interested in whatever I eat. But this is not always the right choice. Despite being very similar to us anatomically, they have a different digestive system than ours. They cannot always digest the food that we enjoy. We must remember that dogs are carnivorous animals, although we have accustomed them to a diet with more vegetables.

Focusing on the topic, there are various types of nuts, and not all are equally safe for dogs or cats. So what nuts can dogs eat? First, let’s talk about the dangers and explain which nuts are definitely toxic and poisonous to dogs.

In general, nuts are not the most advisable food for dogs to eat. They have a high content of phosphorus and usually also contain high levels of fats. An excess of phosphorus can cause stones in the bladder. If we feed our dog with commercial pet food, they already get a sufficient supply of phosphorus and other nutrients and vitamins they need. . Now, if we offer our dog a homemade diet, then we can regulate the contribution of phosphorus ourselves.

So can you feed your dog nuts? YES with caution. some nuts are o.k., without the shell, in minimal quantities and very occasionally yes, as long as there is no allergy, of course. Ingesting the walnut without peeling could provoke an intestinal obstruction in the animal, which may even require surgical intervention in the worst case.

When are nuts toxic to dogs ?

It has been observed that the black walnut can have juglone, a toxic substance that can be harmful It is found exclusively in the leaves and stems of the plant or the cover of the walnut, not the nut inside. That is why, in addition to avoiding a possible obstruction, it is so important to give your dog shelled nuts.

In general, giving a dog a nut does not usually lead to an allergic process. However, as we have mentioned, you should be especially careful with macadamia nuts, as they are very toxic to them, and can cause neurological problems.

In case of allergy to this dried fruit, the animal will most likely experience a series of symptoms common to all food allergies, such as:

Redness and itchiness

Choking feeling

Inflammation of the mouth and eyelids

Always review the ingredients of human snacks that we share with our pets animals, We must also be careful while taking a walk on the street or hiking with our dog because if he eats a walnut that has fallen to the ground, it could be moldy and also toxic to the animal.

Macadamia nuts are a BIG NO!

Macadamia nuts are toxic and NOT SAFE for dogs. Although exactly what compounds make them toxic to them is not yet known. If your dog has eaten one or two macadamia nuts, it could have mild to severe hind leg weakness, with poisoning being more critical when more than seven macadamia nuts are ingested. The severe symptoms of macadamia nut poisoning in dogs are these, from most to least common:

Weakness

Depression

Vomiting

Ataxia (muscle control difficulty)

Tremors

Hyperthermia

Symptoms usually appear 12 hours after ingestion and, although this can be very scary, they typically disappear 24 or 48 hours after ingestion. However, it is always advisable to consult the vet.

What about Peanut Butter ?

Peanut butter is not actually a nut. Are you surprised? It is actually a legume and can be an enjoyable healthy treat for your pup. However many brands contain the artificial sweetener Xylitol. IT IS HIGHLY TOXIC TO DOGS AND CATS Even a small amount can cause disorientation and even seizure. A larger dose of xylitol causes severe, irreversible liver damage, or worse. So please read your labels before giving your furry friend some peanut butter. At home, I try to avoid bringing Xylitol into the house for us humans there are other sugar-free sweeteners. For example, monkfruit is less likely to be dangerous for your pets and my preferred alternative sweeter.

August 20, 2020August 20, 2020

About me and A Wandering Pet

Welcome to A Wandering Pet. My name is Jamie and Pizza (or PizzatheWonderCat) is my faithful feline companion. We currently live in Southern California. Together we safely wander around the internet looking things all about pets.

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A Wandering Pet begins

Like so many others people in the world right now, I lost my job and my kitchen in March 2020. One week I had a growing personal chef business called A Wandering Chef, the next week my kitchen closed down and my clients went away, as many lost their income too. Spring 2020 was a very uncertain time. I began spending a lot of time at home with Pizza cat. I have always enjoyed writing a researching. Deciding it was time to start a new chapter in my life, I began researching new ways to make money. The pets at home provide a lot of comfort and joy for me during this interesting time. It feels natural to learn, write and share awesome informative fun things I am learning with this pet blog. I hope you enjoy and feel free to comment .

How I met my Pet Rescue

It was spring and kitten season. I had wanted a kitten for a while and was at my local shelter at just the right time. I had looked at all the adoptable cats of all ages. Then it happened.

A few minutes before closing the shelter they brought out a small litter of fluffy kittens. I asked if there was a male? I held him up and in a second flat was ready to make a lifelong commitment. One look and I was smitten Seriously, look at that little face.

He was so small, under two pounds. I was able to pick up the next day from the shelter. He needed his vaccinations and microchip In California shelters they sterilize kittens at 2 lbs or six weeks. Given his weight, he was probably not quite 6 weeks old. So tiny, yet mighty. I needed to help him gain a little weight. That was about ten years ago.

Naming the Kitten

Yes, Pizza is a unique name for a grey tabby. Well, besides my little feline love, food is my first passion. I was a personal chef/caterer for many years. I am particularly fond of Italian food and at the time I was enjoying a lot of Cheese Pizza. It was a silly nickname that I later decided was appropriate. He is an indoor-only cat and has been for his entire life.

Although he is 10 years old, he continues to be an active curious cat. His long 12 “, “tail of doom” get him in trouble for time to time, he in part uses it to knock things over. He will eagerly try snack on whatever you have on your plate. I like to hypothesize that he came from a long line of feral cats and his hunting instincts for survival are strong. He also enjoys only licking water from his paws, vs. just drinking out of the bowl., a habit he has had his entire life.

We have moved multiple times over his lifetime and he had happily adjusted each time. As long as we were together, he has been happy. I have been blessed to have such a good pet. He has been well mannered and uses the kitty box and his many cardboard scratching pots. Our current household also has a dog. Both are seniors, neither has lived in the same living quarters with other animals. I’m happy to say, three years later, they at least tolerate each other. Even an old dog and an old cat can learn new tricks. Perhaps they just like my bed, but either way, there is peace.

I hope you enjoy your stay here. I want you and your wandering pet to have a seat and learn some new stuff and have fun. Pizza and the household dog are my inspiration. Pets really add a lot of love to your life.

August 14, 2020October 6, 2020

Best Hi Tech Christmas Gifts for Pet Owners

Shopping for your Hi Tech Christmas Gifts for Pet Owners? Yet Believe it or not, the holidays are right around the corner.

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Let’s look at some of the best hi-tech Christmas gifts for pets. and their owners. Nowadays, pets are a fundamental part of the family nuclei for hundreds of people around the world and large technology companies know this, which is why a wide variety of gadgets and apps have been developed for pet owners who want to offer their furry friends a better quality of life.

According to data generated through researches in the United States, it is deduced that six out of ten homes have pets; Furthermore, the market for pet-related products and services, in the country, has experienced constant growth in the last four years. With this data, it is impossible to deny that pets play and will continue to play important roles in every pet lover’s lives. Therefore, let’s talk about the latest in home automation and technology for pets.

Smart pet camera systems.

Furbo smart camera is a stimulation system that aims to help comfort your pets in the absence of their owners. This device is a WiFi Pet Camera with two-way communications with a capacity of distributing treats. What a great holiday hi-tech gift for pet lovers who work outside the home!

There are many choices, however the Furbo smart camera has many positive features over the competition. However, be aware many of the super cool features require a monthly “Furbo Dog Nanny” subscription from $9.99 per month.

Let’s talk about its basic features.

The basic features are great especially if your goal is to just be able to see and interact with your dog while you are out or at work.

The Furbo pet camera has a blue and yellow lights that your dog can see and learn to recognize. It doesn’t take long for a curious pup to notice when a treat is on its way.

1080p Full HD with 160-degree wide-angle and night mode. The camera allows you to see your dog even if he is right under the Furbo. A definite advantage over other pet cams of the market.

2-Way Audio allow you to hear your pet and allows him to hear you.

Fun Treat Tossing- It’s compartment is smaller than its competitors and only holds approx 3/4 cup of treats, however, the Furbo only tossed one or two treats at a time consistently, where other similar products toss more. It can be fun for you to remotely reward your dog for good behavior.

Barking Alert – It has a basic feature that will alert your phone app when your dog barks. Furbo ap on your phone alerts you of the barking.

It is compact and has a sleek design, and micro usb cord that is discreet. The lid is secure and Fido will have a hard time opening it.

The Optional Furbo Dog Nanny subscription offers more comprehensive alert notifications (including whining, howling, activity, dog selfie alerts, people alert, and other household alarms) I can see where this would be a useful tool for a new dog or one with separation anxiety. However, read the fine print.

Speakers to calm anxious animals

Strange and very loud noises can trigger an anxiety attack in cats and dogs; for that reason, there is everything from soothing vests to talking to help the animal during these times.

iCalmPet is one of the best-known companies dedicated to creating and distributing speakers and relaxing music for pets. They have devices for dogs and cats – iCalmDog and iCalmCat, respectively – that play specifically selected music produced to generate relaxation for your animals. This company did years of technical research to determine the best music to calm your pets. Great care was taken to observe both cats and dogs and find music suited to their ears. It has been proven to be a wonderful alternative option to drugs . Many happy pets have enjoy this calming soothing music through thunderstorms and firework displays. iCalm pet comes preloaded with calming music and the on to purchase additional microchips. It is the size of a tennis ball, therefore portable. It also has Bluetooth so you can also stream your favorite music streaming platform.

Smart food bowls

Despite the large number of people actively living with pets, the reality is that many of those pets spend several hours of the day alone at home. For that reason, many companies have created a wide variety of gadgets that can provide them with part of the care they need during the day. One of those new technological products is smart bowls or feeders.

The Wopet is relatively new on the market. It is a perfect top holiday hi-tech gifts for pets. I know my pet is always concerned with mealtime. The Wopet is an automatic feeder that is controlled by a phone app. Some fun features include personalized messages for your pet when it’s time to eat and smartphone programming. It is designed for small dry food only making it perfect for either dog or cat. It has a battery back up option in case of a power outage.

Pet Trackers

Losing your pet is one of the owners’ biggest fears. A pet’s microchip is not a tracker. However, today there are many options for dog trackers. Sometimes dogs often far out of our reach in parks or cats that tend to escape through windows. Trackers are useful to keep you pet safe.

Some of the most notable options are Whistle GPS Pet Tracker, which through the app, alerts you when your pet has left your home and tells you how to locate it.

Pet Cameras

Seeing what pets see is a mystery that has fascinated owners for years and years; however, with cameras for dogs and cats, it is now possible to know what they see, where they are going, and what intrigues them so much. Although a GO Pro is not specifically for pets, there are a variety of harnesses that allow it to be used with pets. So If you have a Go Pro or if it on YOUR holiday list. Maybe consider this Fetch harness through which you can see exactly what your pet observes. If you want to see what your furry friend sees from his perspective, this is very fun.

Smart toys for Dogs

Within the wide list of toys for dogs and cats, you can find the following: laser cat toys, with which you have the option of choosing adjustable patterns and timers for the hours of play; there is also the IFetch 1 (for small dogs)and Ifetch 2 Large dogs) a fun interactive ball launcher. This automatic launcher can provide pets with a lot of fun. It doesn’t take long before Fido understands how to reload the ball himself. Though marketed primarily to dog owners, I’m sure some felines would be equally entertained.

These are some of the gadget options you can acquire for your best friend’s well-being, which is your favorite? Hopefully, these reviews will help you decide which Best Hi Tech Christmas Gifts for Pet Owners belong on their Christmas list.