Monthly Archives: November 2024

What is enrichment for dogs?

Enrichment can be defined as the 'act of improving or enhancing the quality or value of something'. For your dog, enrichment often means thinking outside of the box to provide them with stimulating activities that engage their mind, body and senses. 

As the days are short and the nights are cold we know that winter is well and truly here. This time of year means that you have to be especially careful with older dogs with arthritis and other joint problems. How do you keep your dog active this winter?

Making the Most of Winter Walks 

For the older dog who is gradually getting stiff or has arthritis, has other joint problems or has  suffered a slip or a fall or injured joints; then consider a joint supplement or relieve the pain of bruising or pulled muscles and ligaments with a soothing herbal lotion.

At Healthful Pets we sell a range

We all want the best for our dogs, and the treats we give them are no exception. But with so many products available, how do you choose which ones are the best? In this blog, we'll explore what goes into a 'good' dog treat and how to select the right treat for your dog, along with some favourite picks from our range!

Choosing a treat for your four-legged friend is an important decision, one that can be made harder by the huge selection available to choose from nowadays. The right treat can go a long way in providing positive reinforcement for behaviour, such as training tricks and obedience, to supporting your dog's health by promoting a balanced diet.

When selecting a natural treat for your dog, it's important to always consider your dog's specific needs, whether

As the weather starts to get colder, it’s important that we remain aware of the potential hazards winter can bring. In this blog, we’re going to take a detailed look at pet paw care during the colder months, as many don’t realise just how harsh the winter environment can be on our pet’s sensitive paws. 

Why is Winter So Harsh on Our Pet’s Paws?

So, what is it about winter that puts our pet’s precious paw pads at risk?

First of all, snow and debris can easily get caught in your pet’s paws, especially if they are a long-haired breed. This can cause balls of snow and ice to form in and around your pet’s paw pads, which can be incredibly painful.

The inclement winter weather coupled with central heating can be very damaging and drying to your dog and cat’s coat which can look dull and lifeless. See how your dog can survive the wintry weather!

Here we have some tips for winter dog grooming practices to ensure your pets are kept warm, dry and comfortable which is crucial for overall general good health.

Staying Warm and Dry: 

Older dogs, puppies and short haired dogs may benefit from wearing a coat when out walking on cold days and any

Taking the dog for a walk through the glorious summer days is something we all adore. But when autumn comes along with its lashings of rain, it’s not always fun and games. Here are a few tips to help you embrace and even enjoy those soggy walks with your pooch.

For some people, walking in wet weather is the main downside of owning a dog and often becomes a dreaded chore. And while you could be lucky with a dog that prefers to stay indoors until the rain stops, others love a good romp around in puddles. Meaning you’re dragged outside in the cold, wind and rain whether you like it or not!

But your rainy dog walks don’t have to be a nightmare. Preparing yourself both mentally and physically will have a huge impact on how you view those rainy strolls. Here are a few tips to help you embrace

Karnlea was founded by Lara McCullough, a pet lover from Northern Ireland. Following the sale of her successful pet supplement business - prompting Lara to start a new chapter with the launch of Karnlea. Let's look at her range of supplements and see how they may work for you? 

Bone Broths

Karnlea Bone Broth was born in 2021 when Lara, the founder, realised the need for a bone broth that could be kept in a cupboard or on the shelf, freeing up valuable freezer space for our pet's food.

Karnlea were the first company to bring a cupboard-friendly broth out in the UK and Ireland. 

Have You Considered Using a Paw Balm for its Soothing and Protective Effects?

Paw Balm, if used regularly, will keep your pet’s pads in the best possible condition. It will also leave them less susceptible to damage from hard as well as cold and hot surfaces.

Healthy dogs have spongy and hydrated paws. In the summer the hot pavement can be incredibly hard on dogs’ paw pads and in the winter paws come into contact with elements such as ice, grit and salt, which can result in rough, irritated and cracked pads, causing possible discomfort.

At Healthful Pets we sell a range of