SEASONAL ADVICE

Chocolate may be a treat for us, but for dogs, it’s a serious health risk. Even small amounts can cause severe problems, and as pet owners, it’s essential to understand why chocolate is so harmful and how to keep our dogs safe. 

Why Is Chocolate Harmful to Dogs?

Chocolate contains two chemical compounds that are toxic to dogs: theobromine and caffeine. While humans can process these substances quickly, dogs metabolize them much more slowly. This allows the toxins to build up in their system, potentially reaching dangerous levels.

The Healthful Pets Christmas Gift Guide for Dogs 2024

Dogs are family, and they deserve to be spoiled just like the rest of us. So, why not treat your four-legged friend to something that shows how much they mean to you this Christmas? At Healthful Pets, we have a great range of Christmas gifts for your dog, there’s something to suit everyone! Read on to explore our comprehensive guide to picking the paw-fect present for your pup.

Cats are part of the family, and they deserve to be spoiled just like the rest of us. So, why not treat your feline friend to something that shows how much they mean to you this Christmas?

Struggling for ideas for a christmas gift for your cat? Well, struggle no more! Here at Healthful Pets we have a variety of gifts that your cat will love. From treats and toys, to enrichment feeding bowls - we have everything that your cat could possibly want or need. 

At Christmas we need to be mindful of any harmful foods, toxic plants and decorations that can potentially make our pets sick. By being aware of these common dangers, you’ll keep your pet happy and out of harm’s way over the festive season. Read more to find out what they are and what you can do to avoid them...

Although Christmas is a happy, cheerful occasion for all the family, it’s also one of the busiest times of year for veterinarians across the world. We all love our Christmas traditions, but they can pose a serious risk to our pets.

At this time of the year especially, we need to be mindful of any harmful foods, toxic plants and decorations that can potentially make our pets sick. By being aware of these five common dangers, you’ll keep your pet happy and out of harm’s

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

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

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

Summer is behind us, and we’ll soon be walking our dogs in the gloomy mornings and evenings of autumn. But those strolls can come with a few challenges....

Visibility is a major concern for many dog owners heading out in the autumn and winter darkness. It can be more difficult for drivers to see you, and let’s face it, walking at night can sometimes be frightening for both us and our dogs.

So to help keep you and your dog safe on evening and morning walks, here are our top tips as those longer nights draw in.

Wear reflective gear: