Live Well
The official Blog of Wellness Natural Pet Food

As the holiday season approaches, our furry companions deserve a special treat that not only tantalizes their taste buds but also keeps their tails wagging with joy. Say hello to a delightful and easy-to-make indulgence for your four-legged friends – our dog-friendly Frozen Yogurt Peanut Butter Bark! This no-bake recipe is not only a breeze to prepare but is also a fantastic way to show your pup some extra love during this festive time. ⅔ cup plain Greek yogurt 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter 10-12 Wellness Old Mother Hubbard P-Nuttier Winter Fun treats ⅓ cup mixed frozen berries Feel free to add any other dog-safe toppings that your dog enjoys, such as diced apples, shredded carrots, or sliced bananas. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LEXNfxLP5g Frozen Yogurt Peanut Butter Bark Recipe 1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside. 2. In a small mixing bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and peanut butter until creamy and well combined. 3. Spread the yogurt and peanut butter mixture into a thin, even layer, about 1/8th inch thick, on the parchment paper lined baking sheet. 4. Gently press the Old Mother Hubbard treats and frozen berries into the yogurt mixture. 5. Freeze for at least 2 hours, or until the yogurt is frozen solid. 6. Break up into large chunks with your hands. Make sure to tag us in your Wellness Old Mother Hubbard pup bakery treats on Instagram and TikTok!

Wellness Pet Company celebrated Halloween this year with our 2nd Annual #TrickorTreatThemWell Costume Contest. We put out a call for submissions of pictures of your furry friends in their best Halloween attire, and we got so many great entries! Thank you to all who submitted your pawesome photos! The results are in, and we’re pleased to announce the winners of each category that will receive a spooktacular prize! Congratulations to all the winners! Looking forward to seeing what you all have up your sleeve for next year! Dog Category: Dogs: Birdie & Bogey Costume: Peaky Barkers Cat Category: Cat: Bongo Costume: “Revenge on last year’s lobster costume” Pet & Pet Parent Category: Human: Lynn Guerrero Dogs: Dodger & Mochi Costume: In-N-Out Burger

This year, go one step beyond telling your dog thank you around the Thanksgiving table—show them with a gratitude walk, or a walking meditation, before and/or after the big meal. Easy, just walk like your dog. When a dog’s on a walk, they’re on a walk. Mind, body—nose, especially! It’s admirable, really. They don’t have their doggy phones out. They aren’t distracted by anything other than everything currently around them. The sights, sounds, smells (oh, the smells!), the ground beneath their paws. We could all stand to take our dog’s lead when it comes to how we walk. And there’s no better time to start than with our dogs and gratitude on Thanksgiving! 1. Be fully present with your dog. They may not look like the portrait of a peaceful meditating dog with their wildly panting tongue flapping about, but you can be sure your dog is in the moment and experiencing what’s around them in every possible sense. Do the same (with or without your tongue out). 2. Share 3 things you’re grateful for—silently or out loud to your pup. The 3 things can be about your dog, the meditating walk, life in general, or this year’s doggy Thanksgiving day in particular. Mix it up every walk. 3. Tell your dog thank you when you get home. You’ve just shared a pretty special time together, improving the health and happiness of your hearts, bodies, and minds. Not to mention,

Finally! The post your pup has been waiting for all year. Let’s talk about how to safely and satisfyingly include one of the hungriest members of the family in one of the most delicious days of the year: Thanksgiving with pets! When Thanksgiving rolls around, two of the main attractions we think of on the table are ham and turkey. So it comes as no surprise that some of the main questions pet parents have when cooking Thanksgiving with dogs are…can dogs eat ham? Or can dogs eat turkey bones? Your dog, of course, would say, “Meat and bones? Um, yes and yes.” But unfortunately for Fido, that salty ham and splintering cooked turkey bone are off the menu when it comes to recommended Thanksgiving pet safety tips. Fortunately for your furry friend, there are plenty of ways they can safely participate in the family meal. We’ll help make sure of it—with these dog friendly Thanksgiving recipes. Ground turkey 93/7, raw, unseasoned: ¼ cup White potatoes, raw, peeled and cut into 1-2 inch chunks: ¼ cup Carrots, raw and cut into 1-2 inch chunks: ¼ cup Brussels sprouts, raw, quartered: ¼ cup Pork tenderloin, raw, cut into 1-2 inch chunks: ¼ cup Sweet potatoes, raw, peeled and cut into 1-2 inch chunks: ¼ cup Green beans, raw, cut into 1-2 inch long segments: ¼ cup Butternut squash, raw, cut into 1-2 inch chunks: ¼ cup Peel the white/sweet potatoes, and

When it comes to taking care of your kitty and making sure that they have everything they need to live a happy and healthy life, cat hydration is high on the list of factors to consider. Feeding them high moisture cat food, even if they primarily eat kibble, can offer numerous benefits to their overall health and wellbeing. Cats evolved from desert-dwelling ancestors and have a low thirst drive, which means they naturally obtain a significant portion of their hydration from the food they consume. A high-moisture diet helps to maintain proper hydration levels, which is essential for maintaining proper bodily functions, including digestion, temperature regulation, and urinary tract health. Adding moisture to a cat’s diet, such as feeding them Wellness® wet cat food cans or pouches, it helps address their natural hydration needs more effectively compared to a strict dry kibble diet. Here are some potential benefits of wet cat food: Hydration: Adequate hydration is crucial for preventing dehydration. Have you ever noticed that your cat is not all that into drinking their water? Cats are not instinctively drawn to drink water like some other animals, which can lead to mild dehydration when consuming only dry kibble. Cats on a high- moisture diet consume more water through their food, helping compensate for their lower inclination to drink water directly from a bowl. A high-moisture diet helps to maintain proper hydration levels, which is essential for maintaining proper bodily functions,

It’s Spooky Season and one of our favorite things about this time of year (other than all things pumpkin) is planning the most important pet outfit of the season: Halloween costumes for dogs, cats, and ourselves. But, mostly, our dogs and cats! Like any good outfit, you want a dog or pet cat Halloween costume to do three things: 1. Make a Statement – Timeless or of the times. Super cute or super scary. Pick a vibe that fits your pet’s style and personality, and go with it. 2. Be Cute But Comfy – Consider the size, materials, and durability of the costume—and make sure it doesn’t restrict any movements, like walking, going potty, or eating and drinking. 3. Turn Heads – Whether that’s making people howl with laughter, squeal with delight, or possibly even jump with furr-ight, make it a sight they won’t soon forget. Now that we know what we’re trying to achieve with the ultimate Halloween costumes for dogs and cats, let’s talk inspiration and really get those ideas flowing. It can be as simple as Halloween masks for dogs or cats, or as fully committed as full-body cat or dog and owner Halloween costumes. Either way, we’re talking dressed-up cats and dogs—so you know it’s sure to be pawsitively purrfect. But here are a few ideas across several different cat-egories for dog or cat Halloween costumes that are sure to be the talk of the town.

Fall is in the air, and so is the irresistible aroma of all things pumpkin (pupkin!) spice and apples galore—even when it comes to doggie treats. Whether your pup goes for dog treats made with pumpkin or ones just shaped like pumpkins, there’s nothing basic about these festive treats. In fact, they’re not only wickedly cute, but also happen to be quite good for the gut and your furry friend’s overall health and happiness. These three ingredients, whether together or on their own, can make for a cozy fall recipe no matter who is digging in. They’re also each packed with a surprising number of nutritional benefits that make them an especially appealing option in baked treats for dogs. Pumpkin – Full of fiber, can ease digestion, contains several important vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A, E, and C, and potassium and iron. (We’re talkin’ fresh or canned pumpkin, although canned actually has more fiber and nutrients compared to fresh pumpkin—just be sure it’s 100% pureed pumpkin for dogs with no added salt, spices, sugar, pumpkin pie mix, or other irritating additives.) Peanut Butter – A great source of protein, B and E vitamins, and healthy fats that support healthy eyes, muscles, and skin. (Natural, unsalted peanut butter with peanuts listed as the only ingredient is best.) Apples – Packed full of fiber to aid in digestion and nutrients like vitamins A and C, plus antioxidants to boost immune

A snow day seems like a fun opportunity to frolic with your dog in the snow and have a good time enjoying winter with your pet. But your dog might not be built for long periods playing in the snow and could experience frostbite or hypothermia. Read on to get pet winter safety tips and find out more about how long it’s safe for your dog to play in the snow. Short-haired breeds and small dogs shouldn’t play in the snow for a prolonged period without wearing gear to keep them warm. They’re losing body heat much faster than breeds that have their own built-in winter coats. If you’re wondering, ‘Does my dog need a coat in the snow?’ and you have a short-haired breed, small dog or older dog, chances are that you should putcold-weather gear like a coat or sweater on them before going on a walk or playing outside. If you need a heavy coat, gloves, hat and a scarf to go outside, chances are, your dog needs an extra layer. Overall, you should probably limit the time your dog plays in the snow to about 30 minutes but be on the lookout for signs of discomfort like shivering or staying by you and seem like they want to go home. Yes, if your dog is outside for a prolonged period in freezing temperatures—and particularly if they get wet—your dog can get frostbite, especially on an exposed

Fall is the season for pumpkin-flavored everything. While us humans get to enjoy Pumpkin Spiced Lattes, pumpkin beers, pumpkin breads, and tons of pumpkin-flavored desserts. But why should we have all the fun? It’s time to let our four-legged family members in on the fun with pumpkin-flavored dog treats and snacks. If you have canned pumpkin on hand, it’s easy to bake a fall dog treat for your pup. Pumpkin is a healthy vegetable for dogs because it’s high in fiber and nutrients, like potassium, iron and vitamins A, C, and E. Since we love dog cupcakes a.k.a. pupcakes around here – and our dogs, do too – we’re sharing a pumpkin dog pupcake recipe to commemorate one of these beloved fall flavors. Top this fall dessert for dogs with a seasonal treat like Wellness Old Mother Hubbard Fall Favorite biscuit and watch your dog make it disappear in minutes. Magic! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DrXwv2ReIQQ 1 1/2 Cups Whole Wheat Flour 1/2 Tsp. Baking Soda 1 Cup Canned Pumpkin Puree (note: not the kind for pumpkin pie filling) 2 Eggs 1/2 Cup Vegetable Oil 1/4 Cup Water 1 Tablespoon of Vanilla 12-15 Wellness Old Mother Hubbard Fall Favorite biscuits 1 Tablespoon of Honey (optional) 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. 2. Line a 12-cup muffin tin tray with liners 3. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour and baking soda 4. In a separate bowl, whisk pumpkin, eggs, honey, oil and water until the mixture is blended

For many cats, it’s as simple as cracking open the canned food—and they’ll happily come running! But whether you’ve got a perky or a picky eater on your hands, it’s important to take it slow when adding or transitioning to wet cat food. (Their tummies will thank you, even if their meow is saying, “More, more, more”!) Here are a few tips to help ensure a smooth change in diet and keep your cat happy and healthy when the canned food comes out. When you first offer it, try adding the wet food to your cat’s diet as a treat—and make it feel like a treat, too! Put a heaped teaspoon in a saucer or on a small plate, and let your cat enjoy (just make sure it isn’t left out all day). You can also try adding a teaspoon as a “topping” (the cherry on top!) to their usual dry food. Your best bet on temperature is to stick to room temperature. Not too hot, not too cold! Hopefully, just right. But if your kitty’s still turning their nose up at even the best wet cat food, and you need to get that cute little nose’s attention, you can try placing the unopened can in a bowl of warm water prior to serving to gently warm it and enhance its aroma. Just make sure it’s only lukewarm and not hot when serving. Last but certainly not least, it’s worth

Detecting dental disease in dogs early is important to prevent its progression and ensure your pet’s wellbeing. Less than one-half (44%) of Gen Z and Millennial pet parents say they could list the signs of periodontal disease in dogs to their veterinarian, which include discoloration, broken or loose teeth, super stinky breath, reduced appetite, and inflamed gums. Dog dental health can impact overall health and in turn, all you do together. By incorporating a daily dental chew for dogs like WHIMZEES by Wellness, pet parents can ensure they’re treating their dogs well by supporting their healthy smile and helping them live happier and healthier lives together. Want to learn more? Here are some common signs of dental disease in dogs: Bad Breath (Halitosis) – Persistent bad breath in dogs is one of the most noticeable and very common signs of dental issues in dogs. The foul odor is caused by the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth, which can be unpleasant for both the dog and the pet parent. While some dogs may have occasional bad breath, a consistently foul odor from the mouth could indicate more serious dental problems in dogs. Drooling – Excessive drooling or drooling that is different from your dog’s normal behavior may be a sign of oral discomfort. Difficulty Eating or Reluctance to Eat – Dogs with dental problems may have trouble chewing or may be reluctant to eat altogether due to pain while eating.

Now that you know how cleaning a dog’s teeth can improve their overall well-being, it’s time to explore how to keep a dog’s teeth healthy—both at home and with the help of your veterinarian. After a dog eats, a lot more is going on than just digestion, especially inside their mouth. Plaque—a sticky film full of bacteria that develops from a mixture of leftover food particles and saliva—builds up on teeth and under gums, which can eventually lead to tartar buildup. Plaque and tartar accumulation can lead to bad breath, discoloration of teeth, teeth sensitivity, gum recession, gum disease in dogs, dog tooth decay, and eventual loss of the tooth. So how can you remove plaque from a dog’s teeth? Plaque can be removed with brushing, while tartar needs dental cleaning to remove. This is why brushing a dog’s teeth daily is ideal for healthy dog gums and teeth. If you are unable to brush your dog’s teeth every day, just do the best you can! Even once or twice a week is better than not at all. While the mechanical action of brushing is the most beneficial for removing plaque and cleaning a dog’s teeth, dog-specific toothpaste with flavors that dogs enjoy, or with functional ingredients that help keep off plaque, may provide additional benefits—or at least help provide dogs with a more enjoyable experience. (Chicken toothpaste, anyone?) If your dog isn’t one to open wide when the toothbrush