Scientists synthesized information on insects in dog and cat food, then developed recommendations to advance insect-based ingredients.
Vital Essentials partners with NEMA.
Ever wish there was a holiday just for celebrating your pets? There is! National Love Your Pet Day is a holiday just for loving the fluff out of your furry friends and spreading awareness about animal rescue, too.
Check out our ultimate guide for celebrating National Love Your Pet Day, including how to celebrate it and how to pamper your special pup on this fabulous holiday!
What is National Love Your Pet Day?
Did you know that most households in the United States have pets? While dogs are the most popular furry fellow you’ll find at home, cats come in a close second. There are tons of other animals that make great pets too. National Love Your Pet Day is a holiday that celebrates pets of all kinds. Dogs, cats, birds, fish, horses… any and every pet is welcome! The holiday itself is a fantastic time to dedicate to the animals in your life.
Source: Andrew S – Unsplash
However, the holiday isn’t just for celebrating your furry friends– it’s for advocating animal adoption too. National Love Your Pet Day is the perfect time for shelters to advocate animal adoption.
When is National Love Your Pet Day?
National Love Your Pet Day occurs every year on February 20th. It’s like Valentine’s Day for your pets!
There’s also a National Pet Day that occurs each year on April 11th.
The History of National Love Your Pet Day
Pets have existed for millennia. What started as faithful wolves and cats domesticating themselves has now blossomed into a beautiful, loving relationship between animals and their humans. Although they aren’t always working as hunters or guard dogs, our pets still play an important role in our lives– they provide love and companionship as members of our families!
While we don’t really know when the February 20th version of the holiday was developed, we do know how April’s National Pet Day came to be. In 2006, pet-lover Colleen Paige launched an initiative to celebrate the pets in our lives and all they do for us. Her holiday quickly caught on among animal rescue advocates too, and the holiday is currently used to celebrate and advocate for animal rescue groups alongside our furry friends.
How to Celebrate National Love Your Pet Day
So, how can we celebrate National Love Your Pet Day with our pups? Here are three great ideas for observing the holiday:
Volunteer at a Shelter
One of the core aspects of National Love Your Pet Day (and National Pet Day) is supporting adoption and animal rescue. Volunteering at a local animal shelter and donating time, toys, food, and other goodies is a great way to spend National Love Your Pet Day helping other animals needing a home.
Some shelters also offer trap-neuter-return courses and other trapping courses to get stray animals off the street. If you have the time, we highly recommend investing your time in a TNR course to help keep outdoor animal populations safe!
Spread Awareness
If you’re not able to volunteer, that’s okay! Spreading awareness about the holiday and the benefits of adopting animals is another great way to observe National Love Your Pet Day. If you’ve got a rescue of your own, share their story on social media– everyone loves cute animal pictures, and you might just convince someone to adopt instead of going to a breeder.
Pamper the Fur Baby in Your Life
If you haven’t already, take some time on National Love Your Pet Day to celebrate your special pupper. Extra walkies, time at the dog park, a trip in the car, and extra-special treats are all excellent ways to show your doggo that you care. Plus, we’ve got you covered in the treat department! Check out these awesome goodies you can share with your dog this holiday season:
Doggie Delights
Gourmet, artisan cookies aren’t just for fancy people– we bring them to pets, too! Our Doggie Delights packs feature an assortment of artisan cookies, including macarons, wafer cookies, and flower cookies that are completely safe for dogs to eat. Enjoy a puppy tea party with these gorgeous spring-themed treats!
Get Some Cookies!
For fans of the classic cookie, we’ve got you covered too– our bakery makes fresh cookies every day for the bakery case, meaning we’ve got plenty of cookies around for you to grab a few handfuls! Our assortment packs come with a random set of cookies from our bakery case. If your pup has allergies, let us know, and we’ll be sure to pick out treats that are safe for their allergies!
Stay Allergy-Free
If we’re spreading pet awareness on National Love Your Pet Day, let’s spread some allergy awareness too! Just like us, dogs can have food allergies. That’s why we make special treats free of common allergens for your dog to enjoy! On our website, you can find categories for grain and wheat-free, nut-free, and yogurt-free treats.
For extra reference, all our meat and rawhide treats are free of the most common allergens. If you’re looking for something baked, our wheat-free bone treats are perfect for you!
Want to See some Awesome Pets? Check out These Dogs!
Looking for some pets to share with your friends and family? Check out these fantastic dogs while you’re at it!
Tuna The Chiweenie
Source: @tunameltsmyheart
Tuna is a senior Chiweenie with a bit of an overbite. His awkward looks make for hilarious pictures, and his human, Courtney, loves to share his shenanigans with the world! Tuna is currently working as an advocate for rescue dogs and dogs with special needs everywhere.
Norbert (the Author)
Source: @norbertthedog
An author, philanthropist, and registered therapy dog, Norbert has his paws full of important work. But that doesn’t mean he can’t take a break every now and then! You can find Norbert enjoying his free time with his human, Julie, on their Instagram!
Kabosu, an Internet Legend
Source: @kabosumama
If you’ve been on the internet since 2010, you’ve probably heard of doge. Doge’s actual name is Kabosu! She’s a 17-year-old shiba inu who lives with her human and three rescue cats in Japan. Kabosu’s been through a lot– after surviving leukemia in 2022, she’s enjoying a happy retirement and beautiful cherry blossoms with her mama.
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Pet food inflation in the U.S. declined year over year in March 2023 previous month, as did inflation for pet care, human food and the economy overall.
While these diets have gained popularity, there is still much the industry needs to understand.
Green tea is a powerhouse when it comes to human superfoods, but what about dogs? If you’d like to share this amazing drink with your doggo, here are some tips to prepare it safely:
What is Green Tea?
For those unfamiliar with the beverage, green tea is an herb derived from tea leaves picked earlier in the plant’s life cycle. Green tea leaves come from higher parts of the plant, while black tea leaves come from lower parts of the bush that have been allowed to oxidize.
Once dried and oxidized, tea leaves are most often steeped in water and served as a beverage.
What is the Difference Between Green Tea and Black Tea?
Although they come from the same plant, green and black tea are two entirely different substances. To start, black tea goes through a longer oxidization process, which gives it a more bitter flavor and higher levels of caffeine. Green tea, on the other hand, holds more of the tea plant’s natural antioxidants, which are often lost during the oxidization process. It also has a more mellow flavor.
Is Green Tea Good for Dogs?
Unlike black tea, green tea is safe for dogs in small amounts. While all tea leaves contain small amounts of caffeine, green tea has far less than black tea and also has plenty of antioxidants too! Green tea is safe for dogs to drink as a beverage in moderation. Before giving your dog green tea, always seek veterinary consultation.
Is Green Tea Extract Safe for Dogs?
Green tea extract is a common ingredient in many supplements, including ones for dogs. For example, Front of the Pack’s “The One” supplement contains green tea extract, an excellent source of vitamins and minerals for dogs needing a nutritional boost.
Is Green Tea Essential Oil Safe for Dogs?
There isn’t, however, much research on green tea essential oil. However, many essential oils harm animals, so I’d avoid using green tea essential oil for now.
Benefits of Green Tea For Dogs
So, what’s so great about green tea? The plant itself is filled with antioxidants derived from Catechin. When ingested, these antioxidants can:
- Reduce mild inflammation throughout the body
- Boost the immune system
- Manage joint pain
- Reduce red, itchy skin (Chamomile works great for this too!)
In addition to antioxidant benefits, green tea can also improve your dog’s dental health, digestive health, and overall coat health.
Risks of Giving Dogs Green Tea
I mentioned earlier how green tea is only suitable for dogs in small amounts. Like black tea, green tea also has trace amounts of caffeine, and our dogs are much more sensitive to the substance than we are. If your dog has too much green tea, they might experience bouts of insomnia and anxiety and potentially a caffeine overdose.
How to Serve Green Tea to Dogs
So, the key here is to give your dog just a little green tea to ensure they get those sweet, sweet antioxidants but not the caffeine that comes with the leaves. To do this, there are some things you can do to control how you serve your tea:
Best Brands of Green Tea for Dogs
For starters, choosing an organic and fully compostable tea brand is essential. Look for tea brands that use paper tea bags, or go with a loose-leaf tea if possible. That way, you won’t have to worry about microplastics in your doggy’s drink.
Best Recipes for Serving Green Tea for Dogs
Doctor Julie Schell from the Bow Bottom Veterinary Hospital has a great, simple recipe for a dog-friendly green tea. Unlike the other recipes we’ve shared, this one’s a bit easier, and you only need two ingredients: green tea and water.
First, place your tea bag in a liter of cold water. If possible, use a glass container to avoid plastic contamination. Then, let it steep for about fifteen minutes. Schell also says you can “use the tea bag after it has been used to make tea for yourself. It will still have enough strength to then brew 1 liter in cold water for your pets.”
To serve, mix 1/8th of a cup into your puppy’s food or pour a little into a bowl for them to drink.
Tips for Serving Green Tea to Dogs
You’ll have to take it slow to introduce new foods of any kind into your doggo’s diet. Start by introducing green tea to your puppy in small amounts, then work up to your veterinarian’s recommended dose. Remember to reward them after drinking some, and make sure you monitor their bathroom habits afterward. If you see your dog struggling to use the bathroom or having diarrhea, call your veterinarian immediately for extra help!
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? We’ve got answers! Check out our FAQ:
Can dogs drink green tea?
Yes, dogs can drink green tea in moderation.
Is green tea good for dogs?
Green tea contains antioxidants and other nutrients that can benefit dogs‘ health when given in moderation and doctor’s consent.
Is green tea bad for dogs?
Too much green tea can give your dog caffeine poisoning, so always check with a veterinarian before giving green tea to your dog.
How much green tea can I give my dog?
Giving dogs no more than 1-2 ounces of green tea per day is recommended, and only after consulting with a veterinarian.
What are the benefits of giving green tea to dogs?
Green tea may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, aid digestion, and promote dental health in dogs.
Are there any risks associated with giving green tea to dogs?
Giving too much green tea to dogs can cause caffeine toxicity, which can be harmful or even fatal, and it can also interfere with the absorption of certain medications.
Can green tea be used to treat certain health conditions in dogs?
While green tea may have some health benefits for dogs, it should not be used as a replacement for medical treatment prescribed by a veterinarian.
Can all dogs drink green tea?
It is best to consult with a veterinarian before giving green tea to dogs, especially if they have underlying health conditions or are taking medication.
Are there any alternative ways to provide the benefits of green tea to dogs?
Some alternative ways to provide the benefits of green tea to dogs include using green tea extract supplements or providing green tea-flavored treats formulated for dogs.
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Works Cited
- Colaizzi, Tina. Are Essential Oils Safe for Dogs and Cats? 24Petwatch. n.d.
- Dobias, Peter. Is Green Tea Toxic to Dogs? Peter Dobias.com. n.d.
- Green Tea For Dogs. Paws & Claws Animal Hospital.
- Hadjipateras, Elara. Is Green Tea Good for Dogs? Benefits of Matcha Green Tea for Dogs.
- Kanaka, Rocky. Best Dog Foods for Dogs Who Need To Gain Weight.
- Kanaka, Rocky. My Dog Has Red, Itchy Skin & Bumps – What’s the Problem?
- Kanaka, Rocky. Could Kefir Help Even Healthy Dogs Live Longer?
- Kanaka, Rocky. Expert-Approved Home Cooked Meals for Dogs.
- Kanaka, Rocky. All-natural remedies to soothe your dog’s itchy skin.
- Mardsen, Steve. Black and Green Tea. VCA Animal Hospitals. n.d.
- Schell, Julie. How to Make Green Tea for Your Dog or Cat. Bow Bottom Veterinary Hospital. n.d.
- The One (Product Page). Front of the Pack. n.d.
- White, Ella. Piche, Cathy. The Benefits of Green Tea for Dogs. Front of the Pack.
Mixed-breed dogs make up a massive portion of the United States’ pet population. Whether it’s designer mixes like yorkiepoos or a breed you can’t possibly begin to identify, mutts of all stripes are welcome on National Mutt Day, a holiday just for them. Here’s everything you need to know about this amazing holiday and how to celebrate it!
What is National Mutt Day?
National Mutt Day is exactly what it says on the tin: a holiday just for celebrating mixed-breed dogs. Generally known as “mutts,” these dogs make up a majority of the canine population, and if you’ve got a rescue pup of your own, chances are, you’ve got a mutt!
When is National Mutt Day?
Unlike most holidays, National Mutt Day occurs twice a year: on December 2nd and July 31st. That way, there’s plenty of time to celebrate dogs of all kinds and advocate for them year-round!
The History of National Mutt Day
Originally founded by Colleen Paige, National Mutt Day wasn’t made with a specific dog in mind. Instead, Paige wanted to create a day dedicated to spreading awareness about mixed-breed dogs and how many of them get left behind in shelters. The holiday continues to raise funds for animal rescue services and shelters where mixed-breed dogs are often abandoned.
Image Via: Ja San Miguel on Unsplash
How to Celebrate National Mutt Day
So, how can you celebrate National Mutt Day? Whether you’re participating in July’s Mutt Day or December’s, there are quite a few things you can do:
Volunteer
To start, volunteering your time at a local animal shelter is a great way to show how much you care for the mutts in your area. Animal shelters can always use an extra helping hand, whether it’s walking the dogs or answering phone calls at the front desk. Ensuring that shelter dogs get the care they deserve, especially during extremely hot and cold days is one of the best things you can do to honor the mutts in your life.
Fostering a shelter dog is another excellent way to volunteer too: it provides dogs with a loving home and gives special-needs pups a chance to receive vital care that shelter hosts otherwise wouldn’t be able to provide.
Donate
If you don’t have the time to donate, why not donate physical goods instead? Local animal shelters need blankets, toys, food, and supplies for their dogs to stay happy while they wait for a forever family. Ask how you can donate to your local animal shelter or veterinary clinic by giving them a call– a representative will let you know what the shelter needs and how to give it to them.
Celebrate the Mutt in Your Life
If you’ve got a mutt of your own, National Mutt Day is the perfect time to celebrate them, too! These four fantastic treats are must-haves for any doggo on their special day:
Get Some Jerky
Who doesn’t love jerky? These savory snacks make great day-long treats that your puppy will drool over! Whether they’re a chicken fan or a beef fiend, your pupper will love these amazing digestive treats.
Cool off with Ice Cream!
If you live somewhere hot, celebrating National Mutt Day with a cool bowl of puppy ice cream is exactly what you need! This sweet treat is perfectly safe for dogs. To prepare it, mix a scoop of ice cream powder with water, and then stick it in the freezer overnight for a delicious Mutt Day morning!
The Underrated Oatmeal
Most people tend to overlook mutts, just like how they overlook oatmeal treats! Give your pup a delicious, nutritious treat this National Mutt Day with our fantastic oatmeal bites. These tiny cookies are great guilt-free treats to snack on throughout the day!
Mutter Butter and other PB Treats
It wouldn’t be national mutt day without our classic Mutter Butter Cookies, made with real peanut butter and baked with your dog in mind. These cookies are pretty simple, too– their main ingredient is dog-safe peanut butter, but you’ll also find a delicious hint of applesauce in them too. We bake fresh batches of Mutter Butters every day.
Pay us a Visit!
Can’t decide what to grab for Fido? Don’t worry! We keep our bakery case stocked full of fresh treats every day. Feel free to come in with your dog and let them choose!
Works Cited
They keep buying…and buying…and buying.
Particle size may not affect protein or fat digestibility in poultry by-product meals used as dog food ingredients. Likewise, by-product meal particle size doesn’t seem to affect fecal quality or palatability.
Perhaps because of the pandemic and generational attitudes, the importance of brand names to pet food owners declined during the past few years.