NutriSource Blogs

On any given day, you may notice that Fluffy continually seeks out a beam of light in which to sunbathe for her afternoon nap. Similarly, Fido may find the warmest, sunniest patch in your yard in which to lay down and relax after a long walk or a morning of play.

Why? Like humans, many animals simply like the soothing feel of the sun on their skin and fur. But there are likely other reasons related to their physiology and their instincts for self-preservation.

Here are some of the most common reasons dogs and cats like to lay in the sun.

Dogs think nothing of leaping up onto the bed, the sofa or into the car so they can get close to their favorite people. However, if your dog seems to need a lot more coaxing to join you, that’s a sign that making the jump is a painful prospect for your best friend. Or, if your dog’s short legs and small stature require Superman-like leaps, they could very well end up injuring a knee or paw, especially if they’re landing on a hard surface, like cement. Bottom line, jumping on and off a higher perch is a high-load activity that can be hard on your dog’s joints, causing inflammation or even injury. That’s where providing a ramp or a set of pet stairs can help your pet move about safely and comfortably.

Boston Terriers are handsome, loyal, packed with personality and love nothing more in life than to tag along with their humans. This makes Bostons an ideal doggy companion for just about any lifestyle. Whether your family is active and always on the go, or if couch potato best describes your weekend style, it’s hard to go wrong with this amazing breed. Thinking about getting one? We rounded up some facts and advice to help you decide.

Thinking of adding to your fur family? Adding a dog or cat sibling can end up being the best thing you ever did for your pet. Many cats and dogs benefit from having another animal in the house, because when the humans are too busy for a nap or play session, someone else is around.

Not all dogs are food motivated during training, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find one that doesn’t scamper with excitement when they hear the rustle of the treat bag. Dogs have a well-earned reputation for obsession with eating, which makes pet treats a powerfully effective tool to communicate approval to your dog. When you think of it that way, treats can do a lot to build the human-canine bond. As rewarding as they are to the dog, the human also gets a hit of rewarding serotonin for making that furball so glad.

For a pet parent, throwing a shindig for your dog presents the perfect excuse to celebrate another year together. It can be as big or low key as you choose. You could host a gathering to celebrate (complete with cute photos of your dog wearing a birthday hat), or quietly give your dog a special meal; there’s no wrong way to turn it into a special occasion.

When your cat uses their claws to scratch your favorite sofa, it’s annoying. But resist the urge to take it personally. No, they’re not adding unwanted texture to the table legs to get revenge for a recent vet visit. Even the smartest cat probably fails to understand that cat etchings just don’t go with our decor. Because we connect with our animals so deeply, it can be easy to assign human-like motives where none exist.

When cats show signs of a sensitive stomach, pet parents can pretty easily become complacent. Perhaps we get used to seeing them cough up hairballs every couple weeks, leading us to believe stomach irritation is just part of being a cat. But cat puke, when it doesn’t have any signs of hairball, can be a symptom of something more serious.

Cats have a well-earned reputation for needing their beauty rest. The average feline gets in 15 hours of sleep a day. However, kittens and elderly cats put in as much as 20 hours a day.

Leashes are fine for most dogs. But there are times when you might want to switch to a harness. A harness can take pressure off the dog’s neck and help him breathe more easily. The right harness can also be a training aid if your dog needs better leash manners.

As warmer weather arrives, life is good for your dog. She’s spending more time outdoors. Her human is more than up for longer walks. And she can hang out in the backyard, getting her nose down into the landscape. But then again, you notice she’s not quite herself. She’s constantly pawing at her face and licking her paws, and no matter what you say and do, you can’t convince her to stop. Those are classic signs of seasonal allergies.

What’s better than a hike with your best friend? That ultra fresh air, feeling healthy, maybe shedding a few pounds while taking in stunning views and spending time together spark joy for humans and canines alike. Before you head out, use this guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable day in the great outdoors for everyone.

Living life inside is great for your cat’s long-term health and longevity, and indoor plant play fulfills many feline instincts. Outdoors, a cat will certainly check out and nibble at an appealing plant they find on their rounds, even though they’re considered carnivores.

As the weather warms and you head outside to have some fun with your dog, that extra scratching and fur biting brings a timely reminder: It’s flea season.

What makes life with your dog or cat so great? You might say it’s the unconditional love, the fact they’re always glad to see you, the hilarious antics. Turns out living with pets comes with an impressive list of benefits to our mental health and overall wellness.

Cats are beloved family members. When they live indoors where the risk of injury, infection and death are many times lower, a cat can take a special spot in your life for as many as 20 years.

Dogs are people magnets. When you’re out for a walk, and your companion has an adorable furry face and is oozing charm, the dog enthusiasts that cross your path can’t help but stop to say hello. Even grumpy dogs that bark at everyone can attract new friends.

In the eyes and hearts of pet parents, dogs are full-fledged members of the family. For that reason, they care more than ever about what’s in that bag of dry dog food or in that tin of meat and gravy.