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Just like humans, dogs and cats have unique eating habits. Some have light appetites and are prone to undereating, while others wolf their food down too quickly for their own good. If you’re dealing with an under-eater, a slow feeder bowl could cause more problems than it solves, but adequate eaters can benefit regardless of how quickly they eat.

If your pet spends a lot of time alone and has no animal companions, slow feeder bowls can add entertainment to the day and provide mental stimulation. Your pet will have the time of its life overcoming the different obstacles involved, which can reduce anxiety and encourage neater eating. If you’re tired of having to sweep after every mealtime, this is your solution.

What is a Slow Feeder Bowl?

Slow feeder bowls incorporate various obstacles, forcing your pet to find how best to access his food. They come in a range of difficulty levels to cater to even the smartest pets. Some use obstacles, while others use maze designs or use flaps that your pet must raise in order to eat. Their unique anti-gulping design reduces choking and encourages your pet to work harder for his food. Puzzle feeders can alleviate a range of problems, from excessive barking to overeating. That said, not all feeders suit all pets. Complex puzzles might be appropriate for a Siamese cat or border collie, but they can be difficult to master by less intelligent pets. It’s best to start with basic obstacles before working up to more complex designs.

The Benefits

• Some slow feeder bowls keep your pet’s kibble underneath a flap, protecting it from birds and rodents.
• Anti-gulp designs encourage your pet to drink without swallowing air.
• Puzzle bowls can alleviate several symptoms of boredom and anxiety, from barking to pacing to furniture chewing.
• The problem-solving feature in these products mimics the natural instincts of your pet.
• A well-designed slow feeder encourages your pet to eat more slowly, reducing the symptoms of bloating.
• Slower eating habits give your pet time to establish satiety, encouraging weight loss.
• Your pet is less likely to make a mess with this kind of product
• A flap-based water bowl design will keep debris out of your pet’s water.
• These products reduce the risk of choking.

Speak with a Veterinarian About Slow-Feeder Bowls

Slow feeder bowls can reduce the risk of choking, gas, and abdominal discomfort for cats and dogs. Voracious eaters often suffer from uncomfortable bloating and obesity. If the dog or cat in your life gulps down excessive air at mealtime, slow feeder bowls will address both problems while turning mealtimes into a raucous, gamified version of its former self. If you’re still unsure whether the animal in your life can benefit from this kind of product, speak to our Germantown vets by calling 240-252-7467.

FAQ

What are the pitfalls of a slow feeder bowl?

Cheap, plastic slow feeders are often too soft for voracious chewers, so your dog might swallow small sections of the bowl. A poorly-designed slow feeder can also be messier than an ordinary bowl.

Are slow feeder bowls bad for a dog’s teeth?

If your dog is an enthusiastic eater, a slow feeder could cause chips. However, if you have a polite eater, you shouldn’t experience any dental woes.

What is GDV?

Gastric dilation or volvulus is a form of stomach distension caused by gulping down air. This condition is serious and must be addressed aggressively. Slow feeder bowls are a useful preventative measure.

Traveling is fun, and it can be even better when you bring your pet along for the adventure. However, there’s a lot you need to prepare for if you’re thinking about adding your furry friend to the trip. It’s best to be proactive and start the process well in advance before your travels to ensure your trip is a success. This process can be tricky and confusing, so we’ve constructed a go-to guide to make it easier!

Cargo Traveling

When bringing your pet on your trip, one traveling option is for your pet to travel in the cargo area of the plane. If opting for this option, you’ll want to ensure the kennel is well prepared for takeoff. For larger dogs, it could be tempting to get a kennel with wheels for easier transportation, but we recommend against this as we don’t want your dog to roll off an inclined conveyor belt in transit.

You’ll also want to make sure the crate has water and food bowls attached to the door where the airline crew will have easy access for refills. To be extra cautious, you can provide extra dry food in a freezer bag and attach it to the side of the crate just in case.

If your dog or cat isn’t well adjusted to their crate yet, we recommend getting them comfortable with it weeks before your flight. This helps decrease any anxiety or stress they may have during the flight. You can keep the kennel open for them, add some treats inside, or put in some familiar smells like one of your worn T-shirts.

In-Cabin & Service Pets

Every airline will have different restrictions and regulations for traveling in-cabin with your pet. Please check ahead of time with your airline of choice to ensure you make the proper arrangements.

Having the proper crate to fly in the cabin is crucial. The crate should be large enough for your pet to stand up and turn around in while also fitting under your seat. You’ll need a maximum size for hard-sided kennels of 17.5 inches long by 12 inches wide by 7.5 inches high, or 18 inches long by 11 inches wide by 11 inches high for a soft-sided kennel.

Service and emotional support pets will need proper documentation to be allowed in the cabin as such. They will need a letter from your physician submitted to the airline no later than 48 hours before your flight. Check with your airline, but for the most part, this letter should state the reason for the service pet and provide the medical license of the animal. Such pets will be allowed on your lap or by your feet.

Health & Safety Precautions

Some airlines will require proper documentation of your pet’s vaccination record or a certificate of good health. As mentioned above, contact your airline to confirm what documentation you’ll need. Regardless, you might want to have these documents on hand just in case.

You’ll also need to check out the entrance regulations for the country or city you’ll be entering. You may need to quarantine your pet or provide specific documentation upon entry to certain international flights. The sooner you find out these details, the sooner you can schedule any appointments with your local vet.

Make sure your pet has any medication they need before the flight, and if they suffer from anxiety, you may want to provide them with anxiety medication.

Remember to go on a long walk with your furry friend so that they can do their “business” before the flight. Some airports have pet elimination areas where you can take them in-between flights. If possible, select flights with no stops to make it easier on your pet.

You know what’s best for your pet, so if at any point you feel you’re being forced to do something that doesn’t feel right by a crew member or gate agent, ask to speak to a supervisor immediately.

Finally, make sure to pack all of your furry pal’s essentials, including food, water, treats, and favorite toys.

Want more information or need a professional vet to help with vaccinations? Give Germantown Vet a call at 240-252-7467 to schedule an appointment!

Have you ever heard the expression “dogs eat anything”? If you own a dog, you know firsthand that from time to time, they get curious and occasionally try to ingest something that they shouldn’t.

We’ve all heard the stories of a dog having to be rushed to the ER to have their stomach pumped ― or of a dog who ate a foreign object, passed it, and was back to normal immediately after. But there’s no way to know which outcome is likely for your dog, so what should you do when they eat something they shouldn’t? Should you take him/her to the vet or wait to see if it passes? Check out what our veterinary experts have to say.

For emergency vet services, contact Germantown Vet online or call us at 240-252-7467.

Signs Your Dog Ate Something Foreign

If your dog is exhibiting any of the following symptoms, it may mean that they have likely ingested something foreign or toxic:

• Vomiting or gagging
• Painful abdomen
• Lack of appetite
• Lethargy
• Changes in typical behavior
• Changes in bowels (diarrhea, constipation, etc.)

Go to The Vet Immediately

If your dog ingests a foreign object, you should take them to the vet right away. If your normal vet is unavailable, call a 24-hour emergency animal clinic and describe the situation. The best thing to do is to allow the professionals to properly assess the situation.

Owners should not wait to see if the object will pass on its own. Do not try to induce vomiting, as there are some foreign bodies that can cause just as much harm coming back out.

How to Prevent Your Dog From Eating Foreign Objects

The best way to keep your dog from ingesting foreign objects is to take preventive measures. One of the easiest things to do if an owner knows that their dog is prone to eating certain foreign objects is to not allow access to them.

It’s also advisable to “dog-proof” your house to limit access to objects. It’s similar to having a baby. When you have a baby, you have to be diligent about keeping doors closed and keeping things off the floor and out of the baby’s reach. When you have a dog that likes to consume everything, you need to do the exact same thing.

If you have any further questions on how to respond when your dog eats something they shouldn’t or on how to “dog-proof” your home, contact our experts at Germantown Vet ― call us at 240-252-7467.

We are all facing unprecedented changes in our work lives, social lives, and family lives during this shelter-in-place response to the coronavirus pandemic. This situation is very difficult for everyone; however, many do not realize the unique challenges pet owners face.

Germantown Vet understands that your furry companions are also affected by the outbreak and that you have to ensure their needs are met during this difficult time.

If you’re worried about whether your pet can get the coronavirus or have any other questions about your pet’s health, contact Germantown Vet online or call our trusted veterinarians at 240-252-7467 today.

How to Care for Your Pet During COVID-19

Many people are enjoying spending more quality time with their furry friends now that we’re staying in at home. However, spending time outside in public with our pets (like at parks) may be more difficult.

To ensure your pet is getting the mental and physical stimulation from the outdoors that he or she needs to thrive during this time, you should consider different ways to keep him or her moving and engaged. Here are some ways to keep your pet moving:

• Play “hide and seek” with your pet
• Build an indoor obstacle course
• Train your pet to use the treadmill

Training Opportunities

Do you have extra time on your hands due to the coronavirus? Now is a good time to use your skills in positive reinforcement training. With some treats and rewards, you can teach even your old pup some new tricks.

Puzzle Toys

During this time, you can also order some puzzle toys online to get your pet thinking. Mental stimulation can help your pet manage the anxiety that comes with learning a new routine, managing with less exercise, and dealing with residual stress from the family during these difficult times.

Indoor Exercise

For some people, going outdoors for regular playtime is impossible during the spread of coronavirus. Now is the time to consider some creative ways to get your pet moving – even if you’re cooped up in your house or apartment. Indoor exercise is a win for everyone, both pets and family.

Look Out for Your Pet During COVID-19

Our pets rely on us at all times, but especially during this difficult time in society. Whether you’re simply looking for ways to keep your pet busy and happy or your pet is handling a sickness or emergency, our team at Germantown Vet is here for you.

Contact our team online or call our vets at 240-252-7467. Germantown Vet applauds your efforts to help your pet(s) make it through the coronavirus pandemic safely.