5 Safe & Healthy Ways to Spoil Pets

Here at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center we sometimes feel like all we ever say is “No!” But here are five happy ways we say “Yes!” to pet owners.

These safe, healthy and vet-approved tips can be shared with your clients so they can show their furry friends extra love.

1) This Dog is Made for Walkin’

Dogs love new smells, meeting new people, going outside, barking at leaves. When dogs are taken for a walk they usually return happy and calm. Plus, there is the added benefit of exercise for the human companion!

2) Yummies for Their Tummies

Your clients can make inexpensive and healthy treats—think pumpkin, carrot, sweet potato. One favorite of many dogs is a frozen Kong filled with peanut butter. (Just be sure clients know to avoid garlic, onions, grapes, and raisins!)

3) Time to Get Cozy

If they have not already taken over the family bed (or even if they have), having a nice soft bed of their own can be wonderful for pets. Suggest to your clients that they try out heated cat beds—also a wonderful way to spoil pets with arthritis.

4) Pearly Whites

We know that dogs and cats get toothaches too. You’ve likely recommended to clients that they brush their pets’ teeth daily, but there are other options you can share as well like teeth-cleaning treats and foods, rinses and water additives.

5) Head of the Class

Pets can sometimes be too smart for their own good! But those smarts can be channeled into basic training, then advanced obedience classes or even agility. And sociable pets may be very welcome visitors at nursing homes or hospitals that have those programs.

More Lovin’

Remind pet owners about the need for identification, since millions of pets get lost each year. Pretty collars with tags and microchips are common methods of identification. Your clients may enjoy putting an orange collar on their cats to indicate they are "kitty convicts" and don't belong outside. There are also now collars with GPS!