Keeping Your Senior Dog Happy in Old Age

As the years go by, you’ll come to find that your dog isn’t as limber as he used to be. With age, he won’t be as excitable as a young pup, but that doesn’t mean you should stop physical activity with him altogether. There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to dog wellness as your pet enters his golden years. Take the following tips into account to keep your old pal happy, active and comfortable. Teach your dog new tricks. It’s often said that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but have you ever tried? These animals are remarkably intelligent, even in old age. Just as it goes with people, mental stimulation is crucial to maintain cognitive function, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. To make sure your dog is just as sharp as he was as a puppy, teach him new tricks. Play new games with him to give his mind a little exercise.

Be mindful of your furry friend’s body. Just as it is with humans, elderly dogs go through changes with age that make them more susceptible to alterations in their environment, according to NPR. “They’re really like older people,” veterinary behaviorist Nicholas Dodman told the news source. “Older people are often the ones who are the victims of these freezing bouts or extremes of heat. They’re less able to thermoregulate. So we have to take account of that by making sure they have some kind of blanket-like coat or contraption on to keep them warm and not keep them out so long in cold weather. “To make sure your dog stays comfortable in old age, keep these factors in mind.

Take healthy preventative measures. Exercise and diet can help keep your dog happy and healthy for longer. Consider incorporating Hartz® Precision Nutrition™ Senior Dog Multivitamins and Hartz® Joint Care™ for Dogs into your pet’s routine to keep him active and happy over time. These will make sure your pet is still getting the nutrients he needs to age gracefully.Don’t skimp on walks and playtime with your dog as well – just because he’s older doesn’t mean he won’t enjoy going for an invigorating run! Keeping your pet active will also help reduce the risk of obesity and other health problems that may come with old age.

How do you ensure your senior companion is happy and healthy? This content is provided by the pet grooming experts at Hartz. Our professional staff is here to keep you educated on the proper grooming techniques while offering tips to keep your pet happy and healthy.

Understanding Your Cat Through Body Language

Cats are often inscrutable. The poet T.S. Eliot – a devoted cat lover who published more than a few lines of verse about his various feline companions over the years – once remarked in a poem that “You now have learned enough to see / That Cats are much like you and me.” Most cat owners probably couldn’t agree more, but would have to confess that just because they see themselves in their pets doesn’t mean they understand those kitties any better than the rest of us.

We generally know when a cat is hungry, curious, playful, yearning, tired and scared – but what does a flick of the tail mean, or an arching of the back? What do they really try to communicate by rubbing against your leg? The language of cats is all written in their slinky bodies – so here are some tips for decoding it.

1. The Ears. Just as with dogs, a cat relies heavily on its ears for sensory input. A relaxed cat will have its ears at the usual angle of slightly-to-the side, while a cat suddenly alert or curious will perk its ears straight up – catnip might do this. Twitching ears may indicate fear or nervousness. Ears that are laid flat against the back of the head are a classic sign of anger and aggression common to all cats, from the house tabby to a wild panther.
2. The Eyes. Cats have expressive eyes, especially if you pay close attention to pupil dilation. A relaxed or extremely happy cat purring on your lap will half-close or even entirely shut its eyes. According to Pet WebMD, to close one’s eyes in the presence of another is the ultimate sign of trust. A cat that is frightened or angry will stare intensely. Cats respond to human eye contact similarly and may flee when glared at by someone they’re not accustomed to. Blinking slowly at your cat lets your feline friend you are aware of his or her presence and pose no threat
3. The Body. We all know the physical sensation of a usually stiff and tense cat melting into our lap. When a cat is happy, it relaxes all its muscles and encourages petting. But be careful when a cat rolls onto its back and exposes its stomach – while this is a sign of affection and submissiveness in dogs, the same is not always true of a cat. Likewise, when a cat arches its back and fluffs up its fur (that iconic Halloween silhouette) it’s best to leave it be

Cats are a nuanced group of animals, and there is a multitude of ways to read a simple tail movement – generally, up means friendly, while down means anything from curious to irritate. But perhaps it’s this ambiguity that makes us love them so much. Like humans, cats are complicated

The Paws. According to the ASPCA a cats paws can tell you a lot about their mood. When your cat is kneading they are very content. A stroking paw is their way of giving you a hug, saying “I love you!” If your kitty is giving you some paw nagging they want you to speed things up

This article is brought to you by the pet behavior experts at Hartz. When it comes to training your dog and cat, our knowledge and experience is guaranteed to make the process easy, smooth and fun!

How does your cat show what he/she is thinking?

Kitten Rescued From Engine of Running Mercedes

One kitten from Brooklyn, New York, is a very lucky feline thanks to the quick work of Antonio M. Rosario, a professional photographer.

According to the Huffington Post, Rosario was driving with his wife when he came up alongside a Mercedes S550 that was missing its left front turn signal light. To Rosario’s astonishment, he noticed a small kitten’s head sticking out of the side of the vehicle and he quickly sprang into action to get the other driver’s attention. After the driver stopped, Rosario realized that he didn’t know how to open the car’s hood. “I can see the kitten sitting inside the housing where the turn signal lamp should be,” Rosario told the news source. “She’s staring at me and I reach in to grab her and she disappears further into the engine.”

By this time, a small crowd of people had gathered as they tried in earnest to get the feline out of the car. Unfortunately, both the driver of the car and the group of people did not know how to open the hood, so there was a distinct possibility that the heat of the engine could be a serious danger. Eventually, the group was able to get the hood open and then started the next task of luring the cat out of the engine block.

According to Today.com, Rosario took a piece of his wife’s breakfast scone and the kitten eventually poked her head out and dropped out of the tiny hole in the side of the engine. Rosario and his wife drove the cat straight to the vet, where she was found to be in good health, albeit with a minor case of worms.

After such an incredible experience, Rosario knew that he had to adopt the courageous cat, and he decided to name her “Mercedes” or “Mercy” for short. She is slowly but surely getting adjusted to the Rosario household, and her new six-year-old feline housemates, Hank and Eddie. Since her rescue, Mercy has become a bit of an internet sensation, as Rosario has been tracking her progress on his blog as people from around the world check in on the little cat. Thanks to quick thinking on the part of Rosario and his good heart, Mercy has a new lease on life and a wonderful new home to call her own.

For more information on Hartz flea Control products for cats and dogs, logon to http://www.hartzultraguard.com/
Source: http://blog.hartz.com/

3 Dog Sitting Tips to Help You Care for a Friend’s Pet

It’s the season for vacations and weekend getaways. You might have a friend or a family member who has recently asked you to take care of his or her furry companion while they are away on a trip. While you may be thrilled at the prospect of having a dog around for a few days, there is a certain amount of care and attention that must go into taking care of a pet. Here are some tips on how to dog sit for your loved one and ensure that everything goes smoothly:
Learn the routine: Every pet owner will likely tell you that his or her dog is used to a certain routine when it comes to everything from eating to walking.

CesarsWay.com reports that routines are part of what makes dogs tick. That being said, it’s important that you familiarize yourself with your temporary pet’s routine before you bring him home. Doing so can help you make sure the dog is comfortable in his new surroundings.


Treat your pets for fleas: If you have a cat or a dog at home and you intend on bringing in a new animal, it’s a good idea to treat your pets for fleas and ticks before introducing the other dog to your home. Make sure the visiting pet is protected as well.

Bring home familiar toys and treats: To make sure your friend or family member’s pet has a good time while away on his own little vacation, bring along his toys and treats from home to create a familiar environment.


In the end, taking these tips into consideration can make sure that your dog sitting arrangement goes smoothly. What other tips would you add to this list?


For more information on Hartz flea Control products for cats and dogs, logon to http://www.hartzultraguard.com/

Source: http://blog.hartz.com/

Five Ways Dogs Can Benefit Your Health

What’s better than having an amazing friend who’s always excited to see you, doesn’t argue about what to watch on TV, and loves you unconditionally? That amazing friend also happens to be a health booster, and not just because he forces you to go for a walk twice a day. Over the ages studies have observed how pets help lower blood pressure, ease stress, and lessen anxiety in owners. According to WebMD, pets help lower blood pressure, lessen anxiety, boost immunity, and can even help you get dates! It may sound too good to be true, but it’s not. Consider these five great reasons why dogs in particular can help improve and maintain your good health.

1. Routine. Dogs provide their owners with a consistent friendly presence, but they also give regularity to our lives, from morning and evening walks to meals and grooming. Caring for a four-legged friend reinforces a kind of responsibility that engenders comfortable familiarity – the right kind of routine – in our lives. The stabilizing effect is cumulative and can help lower anxiety in everyone from children to the elderly.

2. Play. Games and fun are essential parts of human nature, though we tend to leave them behind as we grow older. Dogs are there to remind us of the importance of play. A game of catch, tag (your dog will probably win), or just a tussle on the floor can be a hugely rejuvenating experience. You won’t necessarily feel like a kid again, – you’ll just feel more like yourself.

3. Immunities boost. Medical studies have shown the potential boosts that growing up with dogs can give to children’s resistance to allergies and asthma. Dogs don’t keep clean the way humans do, so kids growing up in a pet-friendly environment will have harmless but important exposure to bacteria that they might not otherwise get, which might end up helping them somewhere down the line. According to ABC News, owning a dog may even lessen your kids’ chances of getting the common cold!

4. Love. To owners, this may seem like a given, but to potential owners, it cannot be stressed enough. Dogs provide love and devotion that is both unqualified and unconditional. That sort of appreciation is impossible to overestimate.

5. Relationships. Be it a question about breed or behavior, dogs can be a natural conversation starter and can help many people ease out of social isolation or shyness. Fellow animal lovers will be sure to notice you and your companion!
Picking the right dog is an important part of pet adoption. Those with busier schedules or limited capability for play and exercise will want smaller breeds, like Pugs, that require fewer walks. Folks fond of the outdoors will want a dog eager to climb, jump, and swim – like the Labrador retriever. Find the dog that’s best for you and start feeling great – it’ll take no time at all.

This content is provided by the pet wellness experts at Hartz. We know that adopting a dog or cat is a huge commitment, so we’re here to help you feel confident and become the best pet parent you can be.

For more information on Hartz flea Control products for cats and dogs, logon to http://www.hartzultraguard.com/

Choosing the Right Dog for Your Family and Lifestyle

When you’ve made the decision to adopt a dog, finding one isn’t just as simple as walking into your local animal shelter and picking out the cutest smiling face. While your first impression and the feeling that you get when you interact with a canine for the first time is very important, you may also want to consider a few points beforehand to make an informed decision. Here are a few tips to get started.

Use online resources. According to Petfinder.com, it’s extremely beneficial to research rescue groups and animal shelters in your area. Pay careful attention to the descriptions of the dogs themselves – if the facility tends to use the same language over and over again, it probably means that they don’t know much about the animal

Checking to see if they have a Facebook page can be helpful when searching for success stories from the facility in question. This is also a good time to look into return policies, pet adoption procedures and other important information that will factor into your decision

Consider your lifestyle. If you come from an extremely active family, a working dog like a Labrador or a Golden Retriever will likely perfectly fit into your humble abode. If you’re a bit more laid-back, a smaller dog or an older canine may be more akin to your speed of living

Whatever the case may be, don’t get tied up into preconceived notions about breeds until you see the dog in action. Keep an open mind when meeting canines to find the right energy level and temperament for your family. Kaboose.com has a quiz that could be helpful when trying to determine for the right kind of dog for your family

Think about the dog’s age. Choosing between a younger and a full-grown dog is another major decision. While puppies are incredibly cute and irresistible, they are also a much bigger undertaking compared to adult canines in terms of behavioral training, house-breaking and socialization, reports the American Kennel Club

Adopting an adult dog can prove to be a great alternative to raising a puppy. Many shelter and rescue dogs are well-trained and simply just need a home. Some also tend to have minor behavior problems and often require continued puppy education in adulthood. Others have more significant problems such as fearfulness which can require months and months of dedicated rehabilitation. Be honest with yourself and consider how much responsibility you want to take on beforehand. Each dog is unique

This content is provided by the pet wellness experts at Hartz. We know that adopting a dog or cat is a huge commitment, so we’re here to help you feel confident and become the best pet parent you can be
Did you go through a selection process when deciding which pet to give a forever home? What’s something you wish you knew before making the big decision?

For more information on Hartz flea Control products for cats and dogs, logon to http://www.hartzultraguard.com/

Health Reasons to Spay or Neuter Your Pet

The spaying and neutering campaigns have been a consistent force in American life for decades in an effort to reduce the pet population. However, one of the many side effects of avoiding this standard practice could possibly put your canine at risk for myriad health problems. If you’ve recently adopted a dog and have been mulling over your options in terms of spaying and neutering, the following health problems could convince you to bring your pet into the vet for the procedure.

Male dogs can begin to experience a wealth of potential problems relating to their reproductive systems. According to the Dayton Daily News, un-neutered dogs can develop enlarged prostates that can cause difficulty during bathroom trips. This can also lead to infections and potential cancers and tumors that could be mitigated with a neutering procedure. Worse yet, un-neutered dogs have a tendency to mark their territory often, and tend to be more aggressive than their neutered counterparts.

Female dogs are also far more susceptible to certain cancers if they are not spayed during their lifetimes. According to PetFinder.com, females also experience heat cycles where they can urinate more frequently and howl for a period of four to five days. Mammary tumors can develop if a canine is allowed to reach her first heat cycle, and these cancers can spread throughout the body if they are left unchecked. Un-spayed females can also develop an emergency condition called pyometra, a uterine infection that could be potentially deadly. This can lead to all sorts of problems around your home and can lead to its fair share of messes as well.

Ultimately, the sooner you bring your canine into the vet to get spayed or neutered, the sooner you can decrease your companion’s risk for numerous cancers and other potentially deadly disorders. It can help you avoid many of the messy problems that are associated with your canine’s regular reproductive cycles and help curb much of the aggression that is associated with them. A spaying and neutering procedure is actually quite easy, and your pet will be back in tip-top shape in a week or so. This is one of the best investments you can make to improve pet wellness, and you can prevent a variety of disorders that could cause your canine extreme discomfort down the road.

Fixatfour says roughly 50% of all animals born are accidents. Spaying or neutering your pet at 4 months can prevent those accidents and help save millions of dogs and cats being killed in shelters each year. Check out their great shareable posters and web banners that can help spread this important message.

Still not convinced or have a friend you just can’t get to budge on this matter? Then head over to the ASPCA’s website to see their top 10 persuasive reasons to spay or neuter. Worried about the cost? Most cities have a low-cost program you can take advantage of. The ASPCA also has a locater for these services in your area.

For more information on Hartz flea Control products for cats and dogs, logon to http://www.hartzultraguard.com/

Keeping Your Cat Indoors During Summer

While it may be tempting to let your feline roam in the great outdoors and enjoy everything the warm weather has to offer, you may be putting your feline at great risk. Traditionally, most cat owners would let their feline venture around the neighborhood during the day and let their feline in at night, but a majority of veterinarians and pet wellness experts believe this is doing your cat a disservice. If you don’t know which decision to make, the following reasons may convince you to keep your cat indoors where he’s safe and sound all year long


Parasites


While indoor cats are still susceptible to parasites like fleas, ticks and mosquitoes, they are far less likely to run into an infested animal or carry one of these insects inside when they are indoors 24/7, reports the AmericanHumane.org. Worse yet, your feline could also contract diseases like feline leukemia, infectious peritonitis, distemper and a variety of other potentially life-threatening ailments if he comes in contact with another animal


Safety concerns


While passing cars may seem like the most obvious threat to your feline, there are a variety of lesser-known concerns that you may not have thought of. If you live in a heavily-wooded area, large animals like coyotes, raccoons, foxes and badgers could cause your feline serious trouble. Even if you live in an urban area, the threat of loose dogs or less-than-friendly feral cats could be another potential danger for your feline


Outdoor toxins


The summer weather comes with its own share of concerns for dog and cat owners alike. Many homeowners are putting down fertilizers and other chemicals that could be potentially poisonous for your cat. Additionally, foreign substances like antifreeze, motor oil and other harsh substances could be ingested and could also prove to be fatal

When you really get down to it, there’s no real reason to let your feline roam around outside when he has everything he needs indoors. The Humane Society of the United States suggests starting young with your indoor cat and give him plenty of stimulating toys and furniture to help him get used to his new confines. Keeping your feline indoors is one of the best ways to ensure cat wellness throughout your feline’s life, and you may just be lengthening his life span in the process

For more information on Hartz flea Control products for cats and dogs, logon to http://hartzfleacontrol.blogspot.com

Seasonal Professional Grooming for Your Pet

As the seasons change, you’re probably looking into a wide range of dog wellness concerns to ensure that your canine is happy and healthy in the new season. One of the tasks that should be at the top of your list is bringing your furry friend into the groomer for a seasonal session. This holds innumerable pet care benefits for your canine and it can help him stay comfortable as the mercury rises over the coming months.

Here are a few reasons why you should make that appointment very soon:

On-the-spot health check 

Groomers see a multitude of dogs over the course of a month, so they’ve seen just about everything that relates to a canine’s health. The learned eye of a groomer will be able to spot out skin growths, dry patches and other skin issues that you may have missed during your regular brushing. Groomers will also take a close look at your canine’s ears and teeth and will let you know if they spot anything that requires a vet’s attention. Bathing will also eliminate germs and dirt that your pup acquired from outside playtime.

Take care of those tangles 

Tangled or matted fur can be a huge problem for some canines, no matter how intense your brushing regimen may be. Unless you’re trimming your dog’s coat yourself, some breeds’ coats are prone to excessive tangling and matting that can be increasingly uncomfortable. This can become extremely itchy and can get caught on objects in your home, so it’s best to get these taken care of for your pooch’s well-being. Some dog breeds can also shed dander, tiny or microscopic dead skin flakes, which can cause allergies in humans when inhaled.

A summer trim

While your companion will lose a majority of the thick undercoat he produces in winter during his spring shedding, a full trim will go a long way toward keeping him comfortable throughout the summer. When the mercury and humidity start to rise, he will be far more comfortable when venturing outdoors or simply lounging around the house. After all, a long winter can leave your canine looking less than stellar, and your pet can feel the difference when he’s back to being handsome. Keeping the hair short around the eyes for long-haired breeds will also give them a better view.

A nail trim while at the groomer is also advised to prevent germs from accumulating inside of them. Trimmed nails are also important to help keep you and your home furniture safe.

Regular grooming is as much of a necessity for a dog as food, water, vaccinations, de-worming, and walks. Your dog will not only be clean and healthy but also be very pleasing to look at. Remember, a clean dog is a happy dog!

What are some of your favorite things about a cleaned up pup? Is it how they feel or smell afterwards? Share a photo of your freshly groomed pooch with us!

For more information on Hartz flea Control products for cats and dogs, logon to http://hartzfleacontrol.com

How to Keep Pets in Their Cages

Lindzee, one of our favorite pet people, provides these simple tips below to help keep your small animals safe!

“When I was around 10-years-old, my 5th grade teacher gave me our class pet – a hamster named Toby – to babysit for the summer. About a week into the summer, Toby vanished from his cage! I’m still not sure how he escaped, but I think he must have eventually gotten hungry because he reappeared in his cage safe and sound!

Small pets like Toby have an uncanny ability to follow their curiosity to unknown places beyond the walls of their habitats. Using their wit and wile, they often find themselves wandering the halls of your house, exposed to all the dangers that come with that territory. To help prevent this dangerous situation, as well as a long and frustrating search and rescue for you and your family, you should make sure you know how to keep your small animal, be it a rat or mouse or hamster, in his cage.

After discovering Toby was an escape artist, I took extra precautions to keep his adventurous spirit in check. These tips should help you do the same!”
Make sure your pet has a proper cage.

Bar Spacing -If you’re keeping your small pet in a wire cage, you need to ensure that the cage has the proper amount of space between the wires. Anything too wide and your furry friend will be able to wriggle its way through! For mice and hamsters, the spacing should be no greater than ¼ inch. For rat cages, this number is ½ inch. Guinea pig, rabbit and ferret cages should not have more than 1 inch of spacing. Using a tank as your small pet’s habitat is one way to keep from worrying about bar spacing.

Keep a Lid On it! -Your small pets may surprise you; no matter how high the sides of their cage or tank are, they always seem to be able to get to the top. For this reason, your cage should always have a lid. But sometimes even this won’t be enough! Many crafty pets (like Toby) can figure ways to pop open a loose lid. You should make sure your lid is very secure and maybe even consider reinforcing it. Keeping a dictionary on top would weigh it down and ensure your pet’s safety.

Check Every Corner – Many small pet cages are complex and have lots of features (tubes, wheels, hideouts, etc.) that could be loose or not secured properly. They could be covering potential escape routes for your small pet. If you have a cage like this, or even have a very simple cage, make sure to check every nook and cranny for potential weaknesses. One common weakness is the door, which can provide an escape route if loose or improperly secured.
Feed your pet carefully! If your small pet’s habitat has a door that is placed at cage floor level, you need to be watchful when opening it for feeding (or any other reason!) Small pets can be very fast and may dart by your hand before you can react.

Keep your pet away from larger animals. If you have cats or dogs as well as small pets, you should be extra careful with your cage! Predators can see your small pets as prey and may try to break into their cages. Even if they don’t catch anything, they can damage the cage and create escape routes.

Educate your children. Kids, much like my ten-year-old self, are often the perfect accomplice to a small pet escape artist. Children wanting to play with a small pet may not understand how easily they can be set free! Be sure to educate your child on keeping your small pet safe inside his home.

For more information on Hartz flea Controlproducts for cats and dogs, logon to http://hartzfleacontrol.blogspot.com

Hartz Flea & Hartz Flea And Tick Protects

The mild winter temperatures and the onset of spring have many campers eager to start the season a bit early this year with their canines in tow. Unfortunately, the balmy weather of winter in many parts of the country has made this one of the worst flea, tick and mosquito seasons in years, so you’ll have to make sure that your canine is protected from the many risks that come with camping in the wilderness. Before you make it to your favorite outdoor locale, keep the following health concerns in mind.

1. Heartworm prevention. Mosquitoes are the leading cause of heartworm infection in canines, and the early spring is when swarms of these bugs will be biting you and your canine. Topical drops like Hartz UltraGuard Pro Flea and Tick Drops for Dogs should be a major step in your spring regimen. These drops are placed at the skin level between a dog’s shoulder blades and down the length of his back to the tail. This will kill fleas, ticks and mosquitoes on contact for up to 30 days. Additionally, you should also look into tents with adequate netting to keep any of these pesky intruders out of your living quarters.

2. An emergency kit. Along with your standard first-aid kit, be sure to pack a bunch of dog-related medical supplies that will be available in the event of any mishap. According to the ASPCA, this should include everything from bandages, an extra leash, extra food, blankets, bottled water and a copy of your canine’s medical history. This will allow a veterinarian to give your furry friend optimal treatment, no matter the severity of his injuries.

3. Visual checks. Even with the best flea and tick prevention, it’s still extremely important that you inspect your canine’s skin and coat after each hike into the wilderness. There are a whole host of insects that can hitch a ride on your dog’s fur, so be sure to check the area around his neck, stomach and the base of his tail. This could be an easy way to spot a problem before it becomes a major issue.

Camping with your dog is a fun and rewarding experience, but it comes with its own share of risks. Make sure you keep these tips in mind before you and your four-legged friend spend quality time at the campsite.

For more information about Hartz Flea Control product visit on to http://hartzfleacontrol.blogspot.com/

Protecting Your Pooch From The Risk Of Lyme Disease This Spring And Summer

This past winter was undoubtedly one of the most mild in recent memory, which didn't do pet owners any favors. Since the winter frost never came to lessen the flea and tick populations, this season looks to have record numbers of these parasites. Ticks are especially prevalent this year, so to ensure that your pooch doesn't fall victim to Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses, it's vital that you know how to remove these bugs when spotted and the many quality Hartz products can be used to keep them at bay.


According to AuburnPub.com, ticks are known to inhabit long grasses and other bits of shrubbery that grow to about 18 to 24 inches high. This gives them the ability to latch onto a host which happens to be walking by. It's extremely important to give your canine a few visual checks when coming back in from the outdoors, particularly looking around his stomach, neck and legs. If you do happen to spot a tick, it's best to have a set of tweezers handy. Since the tick's head may be impacted in your dog's skin, grab the bug by the head and then lift gently upward. This will ensure that none is left behind, which can cause a risk to your furry friend.


Of course, there is also a wide selection of flea and tick products available that can give you peace of mind throughout the coming seasons. Hartz UltraGuard Pro Flea and Tick Treatment for Dogs and Puppies are wonderful options that can protect your companion from fleas, ticks and mosquitoes during any stage of their life cycle and keep them from coming back for up to 30 days. These topical drops are placed at the skin level between a dog's shoulder blades using Hartz's Pro-Glide® applicator, and then down the length of his back to the tail. This monthly treatment will keep your dog safe from a wide variety of outdoor risks throughout the height of flea and tick season.


With one of the worst flea and tick seasons on the horizon, you'll have to go the extra mile to protect your furry friend this year. Thankfully, there are many quality Hartz flea control products on the market that can make this task far easier and ensure animal wellness throughout the year.

Prepping Your Pooch Against Fleas And Ticks Before The Onset Of Camping Season

The mild winter temperatures and the onset of spring have many campers eager to start the season a bit early this year with their canines in tow. Unfortunately, the balmy weather of winter in many parts of the country has made this one of the worst flea, tick and mosquito seasons in years, so you'll have to make sure that your canine is protected from the many risks that come with camping in the wilderness. Before you make it to your favorite outdoor locale, keep the following health concerns in mind.

1. Heartworm prevention. Mosquitoes are the leading cause of heartworm infection in canines, and the early spring is when swarms of these bugs will be biting you and your canine. Topical drops like Hartz UltraGuard Pro Flea and Tick Drops for Dogs should be a major step in your spring regimen. These drops are placed at the skin level between a dog's shoulder blades and down the length of his back to the tail. This will kill fleas, ticks and mosquitoes on contact for up to 30 days. Additionally, you should also look into tents with adequate netting to keep any of these pesky intruders out of your living quarters.

2. An emergency kit. Along with your standard first-aid kit, be sure to pack a bunch of dog-related medical supplies that will be available in the event of any mishap. According to the ASPCA, this should include everything from bandages, an extra leash, extra food, blankets, bottled water and a copy of your canine's medical history. This will allow a veterinarian to give your furry friend optimal treatment, no matter the severity of his injuries.

3. Visual checks. Even with the best flea and tick prevention, it's still extremely important that you inspect your canine's skin and coat after each hike into the wilderness. There are a whole host of insects that can hitch a ride on your dog's fur, so be sure to check the area around his neck, stomach and the base of his tail. This could be an easy way to spot a problem before it becomes a major issue.

Camping with your dog is a fun and rewarding experience, but it comes with its own share of risks. Make sure you keep these tips in mind before you and your four-legged friend spend quality time at the campsite.

For more information about Hartz Flea Control products for pets, log on to http://hartzfleacontrol.tumblr.com/

Hartz® UltraGuard® Efficacy

At Hartz, our mission is to enhance the relationship between you and your pet, and we pledge to make this relationship more rewarding and fun for both of you. We are committed to providing you with effective and affordable products that eliminate fleas, ticks and mosquitoes to keep your pet pest-free. Hartz® UltraGuard® is committed to offering you flea and tick protection for less.

Hartz UltraGuard® products offer the most cost effective protection against adult fleas and ticks. However, to protect your pet and home environment against flea eggs, flea larvae and reinfestation, use Hartz® UltraGuard Pro® and Hartz® UltraGuard Plus products. These products contain insect growth regulators ( IGR) that not only kill fleas and ticks but also stop the flea life cycle by killing flea eggs and larvae. Insect growth regulators (IGR) halt current infestations and prevent future reinfestations. These products help to protect your pet and home environment from the nuisance of fleas and ticks.

For every visible adult flea there are many more flea eggs, larvae and pupae in the surrounding environment that you do not see. Treating infested areas as soon as the problem is recognized is vital in stopping the flea life cycle. Products like Hartz® UltraGuard Plus® Flea and Tick Carpet Powder, Home Spray and Foggers quickly kill fleas and ticks and stop the flea life cycle, halt current infestation and prevent future infestations.

Did you know that female fleas start producing eggs within 24-48 hours after taking their first bloodmeal and can lay 40-50 eggs per day. These eggs drop off the host onto carpeting, flooring, pet bedding, etc. and can quickly infest the home. Flea eggs and larvae are the first 2 of 4 stages in the flea life cycle. If these two are not terminated, the larvae will easily molt into pupae. Insect growth regulators (IGR) in Hartz® UltraGuard Pro® Hartz® UltraGuard Plus products kill flea eggs and larvae halting the flea life cycle.

The UltraGuard® Commitment

We are committed to providing the latest science to effectively eliminate fleas, ticks and mosquitoes and prevent them from biting or infesting pets and their surroundings.

We believe in affordable pest prevention for every pet. That is why Hartz® UltraGuard® Flea & Tick products are broadly available in your local stores. Convenience and affordability with uncompromised quality is our ongoing mission.

We recommend an integrated and complete approach to pest management. Our expertise in parasite protection ranges from on pet topical drops, shampoos, and collars to in-home sprays, carpet powders, full room foggers and in-yard sprays. Treating the whole problem is key to a pest-free environment.

At Hartz, we are committed to providing you with the necessary information to make educated, objective decisions about pest treatment products for your pet and home environment.

Top 3 Tips To Protect Your Canine From The Risk Of Heartworm

This winter's mild temperatures have made the coming spring and summer seasons look like a nightmare for dog owners, as fleas, ticks and mosquitoes will be out in droves. While infestations are certainly on the mind, many pet parents are far more concerned about the risk of heartworm. This potentially-deadly ailment is a parasite spread by mosquitoes that can reproduce in a canine's bloodstream and can cause blockage in the dog's heart. According to DogChannel.com, there are various ways to protect your canine from the risk of heartworm to give you peace of mind throughout the season.

1. A monthly heartworm medication. Even during the winter months, dogs should be given a monthly heartworm medication that can eliminate the larvae in the bloodstream that can gradually mature into a full-grown worm. Thankfully, most of the products on the market are in tablet form, so you can give it to your furry friend at the same time you apply a flea treatment to ensure that he's fully-protected.

2. Make regular veterinary visits. This spring is expected to be one of the worst years in recent memory in terms of parasites, so make an effort to regularly visit the vet and perform blood work. It is far easier to treat a potential heartworm infestation if the worms are caught early in their life cycle, and vets can catch these changes in a routine blood sample, according to PetMD. This is also a great chance to go over the many heartworm medication options that are out there to find the ideal choice for your canine.

3. Flea and tick treatments. Since heartworm is transferred by mosquitoes, using an effective topical treatment is another weapon in your arsenal. Hartz UltraGuard Pro Flea and Tick Drops for Dogs can help to eliminate fleas, ticks and mosquitoes on contact for up to 30 days. The topical drops are placed at the skin level between a dog's shoulder blades and down the length of his back to the tail to provide superior protection.

Heartworm is one of the most dangerous parasites that can afflict your furry friend, and this year looks to be one of the worst in terms of mosquito populations. Thankfully, there are plenty of quality topical products and medications that can prevent heartworm and keep your companion healthy and happy throughout the season.

Holiday Foods Your Pooch Should Avoid At All Costs

While Christmas may be over, you still probably have your fair share of holiday guests coming through and it can be easy to let your dog wellness preparations fall by the wayside during this time of year. After all, with friends and family coming and going, your pooch may get lost in the shuffle as you try and get dinner on the table and make sure your guests are comfortable. Worse yet, your loved ones may not know what kinds of foods are hazardous to canines, so be sure to keep your eye out for the following foods and keep them away from your pet.

1. Sugarfree gum. Many of today's most popular brands of sugarfree gum contain an artificial sweetener called xylitol, which can be poisonous if ingested in large amounts, according to PetEducation.com. It may cause a marked drop in blood sugar which can lead to vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy. While your friends and family probably won't be feeding your pooch sticks of gum, be sure to ask guests politely to close up their belongings and keep these sorts of products out of reach of your canine.

2. Cooked bones. While it may seem tempting to throw the leftover ham bone from your holiday dinner to the dog, this could cause a rash of health problems and may have to be removed surgically. A cooked bone has the chance of splintering during digestion, which can cause blockage or puncture his intestinal lining. Educate your guests about proper bone etiquette and encourage them to throw them away after eating. A good idea is to give your companion an uncooked bone before dinner so he'll have something to chew on and won't be inclined to beg for scraps.

3. Macadamia nuts. If you've whipped up a batch of delectable cooking, be absolutely sure that your pooch doesn't eat some of the leftover macadamia nuts. These nuts are known to cause muscle and central nervous system problems if ingested in large numbers, so be sure to keep them out of reach of your canine.

You have enough things to worry about during the holiday season, and a sick dog shouldn't be one of them! By educating yourself and your family with these simple pet care tips, you can ensure that your four-legged friend makes it through the holiday season without incident.

Hartz flea control offers pet parents many solutions to protect their pets and their homes from fleas. Hartz Flea Control provides comprehensive products to help you get rid of fleas.

Ticks Becoming An Increasing Problem In Northern States As Populations Continue To Thrive

While many dog owners are preparing for the winter weather and taking seasonal precautions, many of the bugs that you safeguard your dog against during the fall are hanging around much longer. Ticks have become an increasing problem for northern states which have experienced a rash of warm weather that has allowed the pets to linger. According to the Nashua Telegraph, there are a number of factors that play into the rise in fleas, further illustrating the need to use flea and tick products to prevent the spread of these parasites and the diseases they may carry.

In northern states, many of the animals that carry ticks, such as deer, moose, rodents and other fauna, have lost many of their natural predators. With the rising populations of these animals, it has lead to an increase in carriers for these insects, which allows them to disperse over a wider area. Of course, the warm weather has also contributed to the rise in tick populations, as the lack of cold weather that would normally eliminate their ranks has been hard to come by throughout much of the autumn.

With this in mind, fall is no time to fall behind on your tick prevention methods, and using topical drops is a fabulous way to provide a full spectrum of protection. Hartz UltraGuard Pro Flea and Tick Drops are the ideal choice that is placed at the skin level between your canine's shoulder blades and down the length of his back to the tail. This will kill fleas and ticks on contact for up to 30 days and is a quick and easy monthly regimen that can give you peace of mind during any season.

Treating your yard against ticks is also a wise option during a wet and mild autumn. Hartz UltraGuard Yard and Kennel Spray attaches directly to your hose to treat the areas where ticks flourish, as well as the outdoor spaces where your pet spends the majority of his time. These simple regimens can be valuable tools in preventing the spread of fleas and ticks and improving your companion's overall well-being.

Dog-Proofing Your House For The Arrival Of Valentine's Day

After New Year's Day, the next biggest holiday on the calendar is Valentine's Day, which is quite possibly the most dangerous time of the year for dog owners. With the copious amounts of chocolates, decorations and other small items that are strewn about your home during this time of year, your canine could get curious and decide to investigate. Since many of these materials can cause a range of health problems, it's best that you take a few dog wellness preventative steps to eliminate any risk that can be cause by objects that are left out. Keep the following tips in mind to protect your pooch when Valentine's Day rolls around.

2. Store chocolate in a safe place. Chocolates are a common sight around Valentine's Day, and ingesting even a few of these tasty treats can cause severe digestive pain and side effects and can even lead to nervous system damage, according to PetEducation.com. If you receive candy or if you're planning on giving it to a loved one, be sure to keep it in a high cabinet or anywhere outside the prying eyes of your canine.

2. Be mindful of sugar-free sweets. Even if you're going the healthy route for the holiday, foods with artificial sweeteners could be even worse for your canine. Xylitol is an sweetener that is found in many gums and candies, and it could cause your dog's blood sugar to drop drastically as well as cause myriad digestive symptoms. In high enough doses, it can even cause liver failure, so these items should never be left out where your companion can get to them.

3. Glue and paper products. If you're going to be making some homemade Valentine's cards for your friends and family, be sure to clean up everything afterwards to ensure that nothing is potentially ingested by your furry friend. Dogs won't think twice about chowing down on a piece of construction paper or chewing on a glue stick, so be sure to thoroughly clean up and give him an uncooked bone to work on while you're making holiday preparations.

Valentine's Day should be a time of spending time with your significant other, not worrying about your dog. Taking these steps will ensure that your pooch is happy and healthy throughout the holiday.

A wide range of pet care products are available for the treatment of flea & ticks on the dogs and cats. Hartz Flea Control products ensure a healthy and cheerful life of the pets.

Safeguard Your Furry Friend From The Ingestion Of Foreign Objects

Many pet owners have an especially curious dog or cat that will try to eat anything that's left out in the open. This can be a scary prospect for pet parents, as this can lead to thousands of dollars in veterinary costs and potential discomfort for your furry friend. According to CatChannel.com, Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. policyholders spent almost $5.2 million at the vet's office from January to November of this year treating their pets after they've ingested everything from cell phone cases to dental floss to a wedding ring!

The insurance company estimates that owners spent on average nearly $1,472 for surgery to remove these items from a pet's stomach, and even more if it made its way to the intestine. Luckily, you can prevent your pet from eating some of these household objects with a combination of animal wellness techniques and behavioral training.

First and foremost, eating foreign objects can be traced to sheer boredom as well as a lack of proper nutrition. If you own a pet, be sure to play with him at least a half hour a day to help him break out of the doldrums of being inside all day. Additionally, consider looking into a pet food that offers well-rounded nutrition. If your pet isn't receiving the right amount of nutrients in his diet, he will be more inclined to sample some of the random objects around your home. Look for products that use natural ingredients - they may cost a bit more, but they will ensure that your four-legged friend's needs are met.

Another tip is to invest in a few more pet toys for your companion and make a concerted effort to hide some of the small objects that may be lying around. For instance, give your cat a new scratching post or give your dog a new uncooked bone to munch on. This will help to give them something to do during the day when you're off at work, and they'll be less inclined to eat objects that are lying around.

Finally, it's important to train yourself to keep a close eye on your pet. Be mindful of the signs that your pet is interested in a certain object and make sure to hide it as soon as possible. With a little behavior modification, you and your pet can avoid an embarrassing trip to the vet's office!

Hartz Flea Control offers pet parents many solutions to protect their pets and their homes from fleas. Hartz Flea Control provides comprehensive products to help you get rid of fleas. From flea drops to flea treatments for the home and yard, Hartz has the solution for you.

Top 3 Tips To Become A Green Dog Owner

Sustainability is a huge concern for many individuals around the country, and dog owners in particular have a number of lifestyle changes they can practice that will improve dog wellness and reduce their carbon footprints. If you've been concerned about your canine's impact on the environment, there are many ways that you can help improve your environment and take tons of needless trash out of the waste stream, according to PetSide.com. With New Year's on the horizon, use the following tips to fulfill your resolution of becoming a sustainable dog owner.

1. Use biodegradable waste bags. The doggy waste problem in public places has become a huge problem, and municipalities are doing more than ever to encourage pet parents to do their part to reduce a potential health hazard. A solid investment that can help to remove tons of potential waste each year is to use a biodegradable waste bag. While many owners simply use a plastic bag to pick up their pooch's business, this will stay in a landfill for years. A biodegradable bag will help you do your part to clean up your community, while limiting your environmental impact.

2. Buy food in bulk. You can save money and reduce the amount of packaging that ends up in a local landfill by buying your canine's food in bulk. If you're worried about the freshness of your companion's food, consider putting it inside of a resealable plastic bin. When you're done with your dog's bag of food, don't throw it in the trash can, put it in the recycling bin! Since most communities now embrace single-stream recycling, you can probably include this bag with your regular recyclables to remove unneeded trash from your local landfills.

3. Durable toys. You probably don't think twice when you bring home a new toy for your pooch and he rips it to shreds in a few days, but this is inevitably going to end up in the trash can as well! When you buy toys, consider investing in uncooked bones or rawhide chews that can last a lot longer.

These eco-friendly tips can help to foster animal wellness in your home and give you peace of mind that your furry friend is making a minimal impact on the environment.

For more information on Hartz Flea Control products for cats and dogs, logon to http://hartzfleacontroltreatment.wordpress.com/

Northeastern Pet Groomers Seeing Continual Flea Problems Among Clients

December in Maine is traditionally one of the coldest months of the year, but the balmy weather this year has posed a significant problem to dog and cat owners alike. In Bethel, Maine, dog groomers and veterinarians have been experiencing a rash of flea infestations and they are encouraging pet parents to keep up with their monthly flea treatments throughout the winter to avoid parasite problems down the road, according to The Bethel Citizen.

Dog groomer Lauretta Varo who works at the Doggy and Kitty Salon in Bethel, Maine, has experienced plenty of problems early in the season ranging from flea infestations to tick issues.

"Fleas have been out of control, even with dogs who have been treated," Varo told the news source. "Normally fleas are gone from dogs by now."

While groomers recommend topical drops as a means of eliminating these pesky insects, a whole home solution is needed to fully protect your dog from the risk of an infestation. After all, the mild weather has allowed these bugs to hang around much longer than usual, and there's an increased risk that they could come indoors. If you're going to be spending a good amount of time in the great outdoors, give your furry friend a bath with flea shampoo such as Hartz UltraGuard Plus Flea and Tick Dog Shampoo. This is the ideal way to mitigate the problem at the first sight of fleas. Hartz Flea Control products will kill fleas, ticks and their larvae and keep them from coming back for up to a month. As an added bonus, the product is formulated with coconut extract which can nourish your dog's skin and coat, so you won't have to worry about harsh ingredients harming his skin.

A home flea spray is also a wise purchase for this extended flea season, and it can help to eliminate fleas in your home before it becomes a full-blown infestation. Hartz UltraGuard Flea and Tick Home Spray will kill these parasites on contact and keep them from coming back for up to seven months using an Insect Growth Regulator (IGR). This will inhibit the insect's life cycle and prevent it from reproducing and becoming a larger problem. Use it on pet beds, pillows and curtains to protect your entire home from an infestation.

This is one of the worst flea seasons in years, so make sure you and your companion are protected from the discomfort and exasperation of a potential flea problem.

Dog Groomers Can Help Spot Flea Problems Before They Spread

In the warmer parts of the United States and even in the milder areas of the country, fleas are still a huge problem. As the winter frost sets in, many of these pesky critters move indoors and are much more aggressive at this time of year. While keeping up with your flea prevention products is wise during the winter, taking a regular trip to the dog groomer can improve your dog's overall well-being, and he may be able to spot the initial signs of a flea infestation, so you can act accordingly.

Many dog groomers know the tell-tale signs of an infestation, and can spot fleas, eggs, larvae and their leftover filth as soon as they begin washing your pooch. Additionally, a groomer may also be able to notice flea bites, which can only be found at the skin level and could be a sign of a bigger problem in your household. Most professionals also have flea shampoo and other anti-flea products that will begin the process of eliminating these insects, so making an appointment is a wise choice for any pet owner during the winter.

A groomer's helpful eye could also come in handy to find any hot spots or signs of dry skin that may be apparent. This could be an indicator of allergies, poor nutrition and countless other factors that a trained eye can pick out. Simply put, grooming is a necessary factor in your canine's overall health, and it comes with its own unique benefits.

Of course, you don't want to deal with the embarrassment of bringing a flea-ridden pooch to your local groomer, so be sure to keep up with your monthly flea treatments. Hartz UltraGuard Pro Flea and Tick Drops are applied at the skin level in between your dog's shoulder blades and dispensed down the length of his back to the tail. This will kill fleas at any stage of their life cycle, as well as ticks and mosquitoes on contact for up to 30 days. This simple procedure will spare your four-legged friend and your home from the risk of a flea infestation.

Visiting your groomer can be a worthy complement to your flea care, and it could be a crucial step in spotting and eliminating fleas and their larvae before they have a chance to spread to the rest of your home.

For more information on Hartz Flea Control products for cats and dogs, logon to http://hartzfleacontroltreatment.wordpress.com/