Bully sticks are a popular snack option that many pet parents give their dogs. These are single-ingredient treats or dog chews made from high-protein beef muscle, the pizzle of a bull. However, many concerns are associated with bully sticks, which has been worrisome for many and caused their popularity to decline. Pet parents need to understand the dangers of bully sticks and how they can be safely given to one’s pets. Dangers of bully sticks 1. Bacterial contamination One of the biggest risks associated with bully sticks comes from bacterial contamination, leading to upset stomachs, vomiting, and diarrhea. This can be quite disconcerting for dog parents. This worry has been more prevalent since 2018, when the FDA recalled thousands of bully sticks due to salmonella concerns. Other dangerous bacteria that have also been found on bully sticks include Clostridium difficile, Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Escherichia coli . Let’s break this down a little. Most bully sticks are minimally processed, “ all-natural ” products. This means that harmful bacteria continue to thrive on them, which can make their way to the pet’s insides. Processes such as irradiation, baking, and the use of chemicals generally help get rid of these bacteria. However, the appeal of bully sticks, by and large, is their naturality, which does not leave room for any such processing.

Finding the right dog food can be tricky because many brands and varieties are on the market. New pet owners might need extra help sifting through the options and picking the most suitable one. A good way to simplify the process is to learn about the popular types of dog food, such as kibble or dry food, canned food, and semi-moist food. Knowing the types can help individuals make well-informed decisions. Kibble or dry food Dry food is popular for being economical. Many people pick this type for their pets when on a budget. Dry dog food also has a longer storage time. One can use the same pack for several months without keeping it in the refrigerator. Another advantage of buying dry dog food is that it is healthy for a dog’s teeth. Chewing the crunchy kibble lowers the risk of tartar buildup and keeps their teeth strong. Since there are many options for dry dog food, it is important to check the list of ingredients. One must pick a brand that uses wholesome and nutritious ingredients that do not put the dog’s health at risk. One can know which ingredients the package uses by reading the label printed on it.

Pet parents do everything it takes to ensure their dog is in good shape. They play with them, engage them in various fun exercises, prepare nutritious meals to boost their strength, and do so much more. But one thing many struggle with is the constant attacks by ticks and fleas. Although certain pet collars help control infestations caused by these parasites, they must be used correctly for the best outcome. Getting a poor fit Any collar for pet dogs, including a flea and tick collar, must fit properly. If it is too tight, it may cause skin irritation, hurt the dog, and even leave it gasping for air. On the other hand, a loose collar may fall off or have no contact with the pet’s skin, which is necessary to repel pests and insects. If unsure whether the size is right, pet parents must check if two fingers can pass between the collar and the dog’s neck. Of course, some collars are adjustable, so if the dog’s neck is thin or broad, one could easily adjust the fastener. That way, the collar will sit as tight as possible without causing inconvenience. Everything should be fine if the pet’s neck is 35 cm in volume and the collar is adjustable up to 40 cm.