Owning a Pet in the Philippines: Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to pet ownership, there are a lot of things to consider. Pets can be a lot of work, and they require a lot of responsibility, such as feeding, walking, and exercising them. They also need to be taken to the vet for regular check-ups and vaccinations. But despite all these things, owning a pet can be a very rewarding experience. Pets can provide us with love, laughter, and an undying bond that we get to keep forever.

If you’re thinking about becoming a pet owner, or you’re relatively new to pet ownership, then this guide is for you!

We’ll cover everything you need to know about owning a pet in the Philippines, from the different types of pets available, to the practical dos and don’ts, as well as the potential costs involved.

To start on your journey to pet ownership, you’ll first need a cute, little munchkin to take care of – and one of the best ways to get find a furball to love is through pet adoption in the Philippines.

Read this section below by Yza Tolentino, originally published back on November 13, 2016, about adopting pets:

A Step-by-step Guide on Pet Adoption in the Philippines

Pet parents can attest that coming home to a happy ball of fur can help take the stress of the day away. Seeing your dog run towards you for a big hug once you opened the front door is just what you need after a day of worrying about deadlines. The little paws of your cat massaging your head while you lie down in your couch can make you forget about your mean boss or terror teacher.

Not a pet parent?

No worries, there are lots of pets waiting to be adopted in local animal shelters. Here’s a step-by-step guide on pet adoption in the Philippines.

1. Fill up the application form.

The application form contains basic information inquiries and questions that will help the advocates get to know more about you.

You can usually download the forms from websites of the shelter you’re eyeing. Once filled up, bring it to the adoption center for processing.

2. Meet and greet the animals.

Once your application has been processed, you will be given the chance to meet the animals in the shelter and hopefully find your new furry friend.

3. Ace the interviews.

You will have to go through a series of two to three interviews which will serve as the basis of your abilities as a pet parent and will also help the shelter in finding the perfect pet for you.

Don’t worry, the interviews will depend on your preferred schedule.

4. Pass the home visit.

An ocular visit to your home will be done by the advocates in order to make sure that you have a pet-friendly environment.

5. Visit your chosen adoptee.

Before taking your chosen pet home, the shelter will schedule you to visit your adoptee for at least three times to ensure your compatibility.

6. Take your new pet home.

It’s finally time to take your baby ball of fur home. Before releasing, you’ll have to pay an adoption fee. Php 500 for cats and P 1,000 for dogs which covers spaying/neutering, vaccinations, deworming, and basic obedience training.

Follow these six steps and you won’t only have a loving pet, but you’ll also get to save a life. Always remember, why shop when you can adopt?

Have you adopted a pet before? Share your adoption experience in the comments.

The Popular Types of Pets You Can Easily Find for Adoption

There are a variety of pets that people can find for adoption in the Philippines. Some of the most popular ones include dogs, cats, and rabbits.

Here’s why:

Dogs for the Most Loyal Besties

Dogs are one of the most popular pets in the world. They make great companions and are known for their loyalty and obedience.

There are several animal shelters in the Philippines that have dogs available for adoption. Some of the most common dog breeds that can be found in shelters include everyone’s favorite bantay, the Aspins, and others mixed with breeds like Golden Retrievers, Bulldogs, Labradors, and Jack Russells.

Kitties for the Prettiest Pets

Cats are also very popular pets and make great companions for those who lead a busy lifestyle. They are independent animals that don’t require a lot of attention, which makes them perfect for working professionals or students.

Cats can be easily found for adoption at local animal shelters throughout the Philippines. The most common breeds of cats that are up for adoption include local orange, black, and white cats, alongside other breeds such as Siamese cats, Persian cats, Manx cats, and American shorthairs.

Bunnies for the Fluffiest Furballs  

Rabbits are also a popular pet choice and make great indoor pets. They are very social animals and enjoy playing and interacting with their owners. Rabbits can also be found at local animal shelters throughout the Philippines and come in a variety of breeds, including lop-eared rabbits, dwarf rabbits, nether land dwarfs, and holland lops.

That being said, there are also unique and “non-traditional” animals that you can keep as a pet. Some examples include:

• Reptiles (Turtles, snakes, lizards, bearded dragons)
• Amphibians (Frogs, toads)
• Birds (Parrots, cockatiels, lovebirds)
• Rodents (Hamsters, gerbils, Guinea pigs)
• Insects (Scorpions, ants, tarantulas)

Before you decide to adopt a pet, it’s important that you do your research and find an animal that is a good fit for your lifestyle and personality. Once you’ve found the perfect pet, be sure to visit your local animal shelter to give them a forever home.

Here’s an article by Rattus Yu, originally published online on April 25, 2015, talking about the ten reasons Mickey Mouse makes for an awesome buddy:

No to Dogs and Cats? 10 Surprising Reasons You Should Own a Pet Rat

Rats may be one of the most feared and reviled creatures in history, but people sure are missing out on a lot of lovely things about PET RATS!

For pet rat lovers like me, they are one of the coolest pets one can ever have. They’re bright, witty, and have adorable personalities unknown to most people. Please allow me to share some surprising revelations about pet rats.

Did you know that I used to freak out whenever I saw a rat, even if it was a few meters away doing no harm to me? This is because I was full of misconceptions about them.

By January of 2009, I saw a cute white rat in a shop with its head coated black (this marking is called “hooded”) and for some reason, I was drawn to him out of adoration.

After dreaming about Fasolt (the name I gave him) for days, I finally ran back to the store and took him home. Three months later, my phobia was fully overcome. Rats are not vicious after all and this made me feel guilty for all the negative thoughts about them throughout the years! One more reason they made an impact in my life was that I became a blogger because of them.

There are myths surrounding pet rats, and as a proud pet rat lover, let me share some surprising facts about them.

10. Rats are recruited to detect tuberculosis and landmines.

In Africa, rats are recruited to detect landmines and tuberculosis under the efforts of APOPO. They have been proven to be accurate and are considered to be the most affordable way of detecting TB. Imagine: countless lives were made better with the aid of rats. Rat is man’s best friend!

Image source: APOPO

9. United Colors of “Rattus norvegicus.”

Pet rats, white lab rats and wild rats in the streets belong to a species called “Brown Rat” (Rattus norvegicus). In the wild, Brown Rats have a reddish brown coat color called “agouti” (pron: a-goo-tee). The first record of wild rats being kept as pets were from 18^th Century Europe. After generations of breeding, several genetic mutations have appeared — and now we have a wide range of rat colors and markings. Some of you may not have heard yet, but there are interesting colors like orange and blue rats!

This bright golden orange coat is called Amber or Silver Fawn.

8. After 8 centuries of persecution, rats are now being acquitted as the cause of the Black Plague.

A recent paper by Prof. Stenseth states that rats were not the cause of the Black Plague. To sum up his paper, it was not an ideal weather condition for rats to thrive and reproduce at that time, and they could not have been the cause of the outbreak. His theory is that it was spread by another rodent, the gerbil and has assembled a team to investigate further on this matter.

Nothing can be more awesome that a mother’s love.

7. Rats are a little OC (obsessive-compulsive) when it comes to cleanliness.

Rats love to keep themselves clean and would probably bat your favorite pets in the Cleanliness/Grooming Department. They spend hours, if not most of the day, keeping themselves clean. Unknown to many, they even have good toilet habits, choosing to allocate specific corners of their home for pee and poo.

Image source: PetResearch.net

6. Rodney, the world’s longest-lived rat at 7 years and 4 months.

Rats have an average lifespan of 24 months. According to Guinness World Record, however, ‘Rodney‘ is the oldest rat to have lived until 7 years and 4 months. Goro is by far the oldest living rat I have to reach 30 months as of March 2015. I’ve been feeding them foods that are rich in glucosamine and chondroitin, such as leftover chicken bones. This proved to improve their health.

Goro the rat turned 30 months old recently! A toast to longevity and good health.

5. Rats love parties and birthday celebrations!

Rats are picky eaters and have the same cravings like we humans do…

they’re especially vulnerable to the allure of sweets and junk food! They’re basically my eating buddies, getting a share of everything I eat. Isn’t that a good life? According to a study, Mac and Cheese tops the list of a rat’s favorite foods, while broccoli is their least favorite.

Fasolt, my first ever rat… celebrating his second birthday back in 2011.

4. A rat’s tail is a quilted piece of artwork.

Did you know that a rat’s tail serves as an extra limb which they use to keep them in balance? It also serves to regulate their body temperature. Most people would be reviled by the sight of a rat’s tail.

Back in college, I’d bring them to school for exhibit. People were mostly fascinated, and when I surveyed what they thought about rats — most of them said it was the tail that brought them chills. When I asked them to hold the rat, their perception changed from fear to adoration.

See? They’re really beautiful if you’d just give them a chance and take a closer look

Pandanus is a “roan.” His coat is all grey, and as he aged it gradually faded into white. “Roan” is a term used for fading coat color.

3. Pet rats are free of leptospirosis and rabies

It’s unfair to say that a rat has lepto or rabies “just because they’re rats.” Leptospirosis happens when creatures, such as farm animals, come into contact with contaminated sources. Rabies is unheard of in pet rats. I’ve been handling pet rats for 6 years, and there was never an incident of disease. If there was anything contagious from pet rats, it’s the good feeling one gets from their cuteness!

This was me and Thoriel back in August 2014 at GMA studio, before the interview.

2. There’s a temple in India dedicated to the worship of rats.

In India, the Karni Mata Temple houses a horde of rats which the visitors consider as sacred. Rats there are well fed and sheltered. If there would be a heaven for rats, it’s this place. An albino rat is rare, but when spotted there it is believed to be auspicious or a sign of good luck.

Artwork by Cathy Klemente

1. It is a mere myth that rats are temperamental and bear grudges.

In the Chinese zodiac, the rat is the first sign in the zodiac and has been highly regarded as very intelligent creature. Rats are not temperamental or vicious, but they are easily excited and very playful with the owners. They love to be tickled and to ride on your shoulder while out for a walk. They also won’t hesitate to run up to a stranger and greet them with a warm lick (aka ‘rat kisses’). They’re one of the friendliest creatures around if I may say so.

Siegmund perched high up at the door. Rats love to see the world like that.

BONUS: Rats love to cook!

Particularly in France, there’s a rat famed for mentoring a budding chef. But don’t quote me on that! ?

Rats deserve our love and care, too! If you would just take some time to look at them and give them a chance, you’d really understand why they’re one of the most popular pets to have around. They’re gorgeously beautiful, low maintenance pets and aren’t difficult to handle. They also thrive well with other pets like cats, dogs and fellow rodents. Hope this enlightens you about the friendly nature of pet rats.

See you around!

Found this gorgeous rat profile photo from the web years ago.

Note to would-be buyers: All pet owners should be responsible toward their pets and evaluate everything carefully before getting one. Although pet rats are a hardy species and a low maintenance pet, they have specific needs. Please take special attention and research on their dietary, homing and maintenance needs first before getting one. Rats also need I of affection and human interaction since they are very social creatures.

I’m Rattus Yu, founder of Pet Rats Philippines in September 2009. Our goal is to create awareness about rats, and that they deserve our love and care too. Please do check us out to learn more about pet rats.

Check out these links for more pet rat information:

www.ladyrattus.com

facebook.com/PetRatsPH

facebook.com/groups/PetRatsPhils

youtube.com/RattusChoki

So, if dogs, cats, or rabbits aren’t the pets for you, now you know that rats can make for awesome and lovely house pets, too!

Taking Care of Your Pets and a List of Items New Pet Owners Need to Have

When you’re ready to add a new furry friend to your family, shopping for pet items is essential. But before you go out and buy anything, be aware of what items you’ll need.

A lot of the items on this list may seem like common sense, but it’s always good to be prepared. Below are some of the most important things you’ll need for your new pet.

• Food – Different kinds of animals have different dietary needs, so it’s important to do your research on what your new pet should be eating. Make sure to buy food that meets your pet’s nutritional requirements.
• Water – This one is a no-brainer, but make sure to have a steady supply of clean water for your pet at all times.
• Bedding – Pets need a comfortable place to sleep, so get them a soft bed or some other type of bedding they can snuggle up in.
• Toys – Pets love toys, especially when they’re just starting out in a new home. Make sure to get your pet plenty of fun toys to keep them entertained.
• Crate or Kennel – If you’re not going to be home all the time or if you have other pets, it might be a good idea to get your new pet their own crate or kennel. This will give them a safe place to stay while you’re away.
• Medical Supplies – It’s always a good idea to have some medical supplies on hand in case of an emergency. This includes things like bandages, antibiotic ointment, and flea/tick medication.

Now that you know what items you need, it’s time to go shopping! Just remember to be prepared and do your research first so you know exactly what each item is for and how it can benefit your new pet.

To help make shopping for pet items easier, here’s a guide that we prepared back on October 2, 2020:

Getting a new pet? Here are 10 things you’ll need for them!

Getting a new pet is an exciting journey for anyone who’s never had one before. It’s fun but also a responsibility and you need certain essentials when it comes to caring for them. You can’t just leave them be and expect them to care for themselves!

Luckily, Shopee has the perfect selection of pet essentials.

10. Frontline Plus Spot On for Dog & Cat Flea Removal

Does your furry friend suffer from fleas? Here’s the thing to get rid of them. Each box is for pets of different weights and sizes so be sure to choose the right one! It’s also waterproof so it’s perfect for little pets who love to swim!

Get it here.

9. Leak-proof training pads.

Potty training can be a real pain especially when you’re just starting out. Protect those floors and carpets with these training pads for your new pet! They’re leak-proof so you don’t have to worry about any mess.

Get it here.

8. Toothpaste for cats

For your cat’s dental hygiene, this is the toothpaste to get. It’s even milk-flavored which your cat will love! Just be gentle when cleaning their teeth, especially for the first time, as they might not be used to the new tool and all.

Get it here.

7. Large leak-proof training pads (for big furiends!)

For those bigger doggos, you’ll definitely need bigger training pads. The earlier entry is for your little friends, but this one is for the big bois and girls. Protect your flooring, your carpets, and your bedsheets by training your new friend with these pads!

Get it here.

6. Male dog diaper wraps

In case the pads are too much to handle, these wraps will do the trick. They’re gentle and wrap securely around your little dog friend. They don’t leak either! The straps are non-itch and won’t disturb your dog either.

Get it here.

5. Tooth and gum finger wipes

If toothbrushes are too intimidating for your pets, these finger wipes might be gentler and easier for them to get used to. Simply pop one on your finger and get to scrubbing your pet’s teeth and gums. Be gentle and careful and assure them of how good they are after!

Get it here.

4. Anti-parasitic deodorizing powder

This all-natural solution to keeping away bad odor from pets also repels pests with the added ingredient of citronella. So dispel odors while keeping external parasites away, too!

Get it here.

3. Tick buster spray

If your pet is suffering from ticks, try this product out. It safely removes and repels ticks. According to the product description, it is “formulated not just to repel or kill ticks but to ERADICATE them all.”

Get it here.

2. Large-scale aquarium air pump

We’re here for the fish lovers, too! In case you’ve got an aquarium that’s a little bigger and requires more airflow, this is the pump for you.

Get it here.

1. Pet care Christmas bundle

A bundle that’ll be a perfect gift for your pet! It includes shampoo, some pet cologne, and other care products that are perfect for your furry friend. Who says pets can’t get Christmas gifts, too?

Get it here.

What will you be buying? Let us know!

So, apart from these essential pet care items, there’s one more thing that you might need once you commit to becoming a fully-fledged pet owner. And in case you didn’t know, you can now get pet insurance in Manila for your beloved fur baby, too!

Check out this article from April 3, 2022, written by Sky Gavin:

You Can Now Get Insurance for Your Pets in Manila

Did you know that owning a dog in the Philippines roughly costs PhP12,000 to PhP50,000 a year? This means providing the right essentials like food, regular check-ups with your vet, and grooming, but also preparing for contingencies.

But whether you’re an experienced pet parent or a newly christened one, taking care of another living being can take a big chunk out of your finances. As a responsible pet owner, you need to plan ahead for what your fur baby might need because the commitment to look after them is long-term.

But fret not—in a time where one can avail of services with just a tap or a click, you can also keep your pet (and your finances) ready for whatever happens so you have one less thing to worry about.

Founded by pet parents with a similar dilemma, Life By Petto is the first app-based, pet health plan service that provides affordable subscriptions to support health and wellness services from partner veterinarians, clinics, and hospitals within Metro Manila.

Life by Petto aims to provide preventive and quality care for your pets, especially since there is a gap in the local market for pet health and wellness services—despite the massive increase in pet owners in recent years.

Pet Insurance in Manila that Covers the Basics

For only P1,200 a month, you can get Life by Petto’s basic health plan that covers your pet’s primary health and wellness needs including diagnostics, vaccines, common illnesses, and accidents—services that most pets and their owners would greatly benefit from.

Want more customized coverage? My Petto Plan Add-ons also let owners top up their basic plan to cover additional services including minor to major surgeries like dental or spay/neuter services, cancer treatment, hospitalization, and other non-common illnesses.

Life by Petto accepts cats and dogs from three months onwards, no matter the breed (yes, aspins and puspins included!), and as long as they’re in good health upon registration.

Through the app, you can customize the plan you want for your fur babies (and yes you can get multi-pet plans!), manage your balance, check available vet clinics, and file claims whenever and wherever you are.

Visit www.lifebypetto.com for more details and how to avail or download the app now via App Store and Google Play.

That being said, apart from the basic pet care items and pet insurance, we are all aware of how the pandemic has allowed society to be more conscious of our health and well-being – and this includes taking care of our beloved pets at home.

So, for those who have dogs at home, here’s an article from November 13, 2021, which you can use as a guide to looking after your barking besties as we return to a “new normal”:

New Normal Care Tips For Your Dogs

Uncertainties in this “new” daily life we live in cause anxiety and an abundance of worries. For some, having a “buddy” contributes greatly to one’s well-being and proves to be a great companion that reduces our stress while giving us comfort and even contentment.

While this may be a positive aspect during these times, one has to take time to consider all factors in being a pet owner. It’s best to evaluate if you’re fit to take in a fur baby in your home and one has to be knowledgeable of the responsibilities needed before you take the leap. Why? Because raising a pet is almost like raising a human being with needing to provide them with security, comfort, basic needs, and regular medical care.

Deciding whether to get a dog or not is one thing; being a responsible owner is a whole other level. Our dogs may relieve us of stress and anxiety, especially during these troubling times, but one must always keep in mind that they too need their owners to be responsible in giving them the utmost care they deserve.

Based on a recent online survey from Rakuten Insight*, the Philippines has the highest rate of pet ownership in Asia at 67% with dogs occupying the majority of homes in the country. However, only around 20% of dog owners bring their dogs regularly to the vet for medication and check-ups; most bring them when they’re already sick or in need of immediate care.

Much like us, preventive measures are our safe bets in keeping our dogs healthy. Regular visits to their respective veterinarians not only promote responsible practice as a dog owner but also help keep them in good health and may aid in detecting possible risks that may affect their health.

Even with the limited time outside to take them for walks, the risk of our beloved dogs getting sick is a worry that most owners stress about. Minimal health care is a big factor that can impede on our dog’s health which may lead them to suffer from preventable diseases or conditions including three major health issues: heartworm disease, ticks & fleas, and roundworms & hookworms.

To minimize the chances of dogs getting infected, a highly efficient medication is a must to give them complete protection against silent threats.

Distributed by Zoetis, Simparica Trio, the first monthly, chewable and yummy supplement contains three proven ingredients designed to defend your fur babies from these unseen health risks. This preventative supplement is an FDA-approved prescription product that is deemed safe for puppies as young as 8 weeks old (weighing at least 2.8 lbs) and guarantees 100% satisfaction that will keep your worries at bay.

As per Dr. Sherlyn Subiaga – De Lima, a clinic owner, practicing veterinarian and technical consultant for small animal practice, part of being a responsible dog owner is making sure that they get the best medical care there is for our pets.

“As dog owners, we try to be as responsible as best as we can by making sure that they’re well taken care of. However, some possible diseases may be unavoidable, and this is where preventive measures apply. Even with their empathy, it’s a literal fact that dogs can’t communicate with us directly on what they’re feeling. We notice if they’re uncomfortable and behaving unusually but to be able to pinpoint the exact cause of their discomfort is quite difficult. The last thing we want to happen is for us to lose them without a fight, that is why regular check-ups with their veterinarian and compliance to treatment help ensure that they are always at their best so they can continue living happily with their fur parents,” shared the trusted vet.

It may be essential for dog owners to remember three crucial steps for their fur babies’ health: Detect, Disinfect and Protect.

• Detect:When dogs are in good health, it’s easy to identify if they behave differently. Monitor them and bring them to the vet to check for signs of possible disease. Immediate response helps lessen the risk of further sickness for our pets.
• Disinfect: Disinfection not only points to pet grooming but also for their internal health. Diseases like worms, ticks, and fleas can be prevented thru regular medication. Left untreated, these health issues may pose as a greater threat to their health in the long run.
• Protect:Even after being cured. It’s always best to keep them protected for any future health risks. Continue giving them nutritional food, fresh water, clean space to sleep, and regular vitamins and additional medication to keep them healthy for a longer time in your company.

Always bear in mind that having a dog is a lifetime commitment. Trust in a brand that understands that canine preventative health is a must for every dog owner. Consult your veterinarian for more information and ask for guidance on the proper use of Simparica Trio so we can give back the love they unconditionally give us.

Simparica Trio comes in the following variants: 2.5 to 5 kg dogs, 5 to 10 kg dogs, 10 to 20 kg dogs, and 20 to 40 kg dogs, as prescribed by veterinarians. Visit https://www.facebook.com/ZoetispetcarePH, follow @zoetispetcareph on Instagram, and get to know more about the brand and Zoetis Philippines on their official website https://ph.zoetis.com/.

In addition to showing some extra tender loving care to our furry friends as we reclaim a sense of normalcy during the pandemic, here’s an article on how you can look after your older buddies. Written by Angeline Rodriguez on March 18, 2021, we talk about the proper way to take care of your senior pets:

How to Care for Senior Pets

As pets grow older; their routine, lifestyle, and nutritional requirements change. One of the most common signs that comes with aging is a pet’s loss of appetite. Despite this, pet owners must continue to ensure that their pets meet their nutritional requirements every day; otherwise, these pets are at risk of developing serious health issues such as obesity, diabetes, liver disease, and heart disease.

Committed to educating the Filipino pet community on nutrition and proper pet care, the Pet Food Institute (PFI) shares insights on how pet owners can take care of their senior pets.

Nutritional Requirements of Senior Pets

Every pet requires a well-balanced diet, regardless of their age. Many commercially-available pet food is scientifically developed by experts to provide pets the required nutrients they need to stay healthy every day.

As pets age, they typically become more sedentary; and a well-balanced diet becomes a must for senior pets. Some pet owners avoid protein. However, this nutrient is important to help fuel their pets’ muscles and avoid muscle loss, another common problem among senior pets. Some pet owners may also see food specifically formulated for senior pets, which is often lower in fat and calories.

Much like younger pets, senior dogs and cats must avoid toxic treats which include grapes, raisins, onions, chocolates, or anything with caffeine in it. Pet owners are also discouraged from giving their older pets hard food such as bones and hooves. To better understand an aging pet’s diet, pet owners are encouraged to consult their local veterinarian.

Everyday Exercise

Another common sign of aging in pets is their energy level. As pets age, their energy levels drop and many pet owners may find them becoming more lethargic compared to when they were younger. This adjustment in their pet’s lifestyle may lead to obesity and other health issues. To avoid this, pet owners must provide their four-legged companions the opportunity to exercise every day. Although running with older pets may not be suitable, pet owners may opt to take longer walks and light jogs around the neighborhood as an alternative to ensure their beloved senior pets continue to get their daily dose of exercise.

Aging pets may also begin to experience sore and stiff joints. In consulting with a veterinarian, pet owners can develop mobility exercises to help keep their pet safely moving if he or she is experiencing joint point.

Veterinary Visits

Regardless of a pet’s age, pet owners must regularly check in with their veterinarians to make sure that their pets are in tiptop condition. These visits can help pet owners establish the proper diet and exercise regimen, as well as acquire vaccinations to protect their pets from fleas, ticks, worms, and other parasites.

These visits should happen on a regular basis and not just when a pet is sick. For pets with underlying illnesses, a regular trip to the vet will ensure that they are receiving proper treatment to secure a better quality of life.

Pet Food Institute (PFI) is committed to educating pet owners about proper pet nutrition to keep pets healthy and happy. Through its local initiative, Well-Fed, Well-Nurtured campaign, in partnership with the Veterinary Practitioners Association of the Philippines (VPAP); PFI seeks to advocate responsible pet ownership to the ever-growing Filipino pet community.

Now that we’ve covered the basics of pet items, pet insurance, and taking care of senior pets, let’s move on to what you should keep away from your cuddly creatures at home. Written by Sky Gavin just recently on September 16, 2022, here are the five most common food items to be on the lookout for:

5 Common Food Items That You Should Keep Away from Your Pets

For many people, we treat our pets like our children, and we will do anything to keep them safe.

But during the rainy season, our pets are spending more time indoors. That would also mean that they could get bored and end up rummaging through your cabinets or even find food that may be toxic to them.

Here are some common household foods that your furry babies should stay away from.

#1 Caffeinated drinks

As hoomans spend more time at home, we are usually powered by coffee, but did you know that our favorite caffeinated drink is harmful to your pets? These can range from coffee, tea, sports drinks, and soda.

Though our favorite cup of coffee doesn’t affect our bodies too much, the caffeine content in these drinks can raise the blood pressure of our pets. It can also affect their tummies which can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

Other items that contain caffeine are different medicines like pain relievers, diet pills, and many more.

#2 Onions

Our dogs’ sense of smell is more sensitive than humans’ so hovering as we cook in the kitchen is expected. Though onions could seem harmless (except for when they make us cry), each part of an onion is toxic to dogs. Onions contain N-propyl disulfide which causes the breakdown of red blood cells.

Aside from fresh onions, onion and garlic powders are toxic to dogs because they are more potent in powder form.

#3 Grapes and raisins

Though small, grapes and raisins are considered highly toxic to dogs. Ingesting this fruit can cause sudden kidney failure.

#4 Chocolates

Most dog owners know that chocolates are poisonous to dogs, yet these are commonly ingested often resulting in a quick visit to the vet. Whilst milk chocolates are the most accidentally consumed type, dark chocolates are more potent because of the concentration of Theobromine.

Chocolate poisoning symptoms may appear from hours to days after ingestion. It is important to know the volume amount that your pet took. This will help the vet with their diagnosis and the right treatment plan.

#5 Alcohol

We can have a little drink or two, but our furry babies can’t. Any type of alcohol, whether the ones with lower alcohol content can be dangerous for your dogs.

Even small amounts of alcohol can be toxic so it’s important to keep the bubbly away from them, especially during parties. These drinks can cause them to act “drunk”, but it is actually their central nervous system being impaired. It can also cause dogs to have higher acidity levels and excessively low blood sugar.

An Accessible Solution to Pet Problems

There are many toxic food items that can be dangerous to dogs so it’s important to keep our veterinarian close by. Vet bills can be expensive, but not to worry, we discovered a health plan for your pets!

Life by Petto is the first app-based, pet health plan. Just like the health plans for humans, Life by Petto takes care of the basic health and wellness services that your dogs and cats may need. Plans start at Php1,200 per month and cover vaccinations, check-ups, laboratory tests like x-ray, blood test, MRIs, urinalysis, etc.  It also covers accidents and common illnesses with coverage of Php100,000/year.

The Life by Petto app is available on google play and the apple store.

Life by Petto

www.lifebypetto.com

www.facebook.com/lifebypetto

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What You Should Be Feeding Your Pet Dogs and Cats

Given the common food items that you should keep away from your little buddies, we also provide you with a list of the healthy and nutritious food items that you should be giving your pets at home.

These food items should be readily available in your local groceries or supermarkets, so it won’t cost you an arm and a leg or be too difficult to find. That being said, it is always safe to check in with your pet’s vet just to be sure.

The 5 Types of Healthy Food for Your Pet Dogs

There are a variety of food items that you can give your pet dogs, but we’ll just be focusing on the most common ones.

1. Home-prepared raw food diet

This is recommended for those who want to have more control over the ingredients of their pet’s food. Just be sure to do your research first and consult with your pet’s vet to make sure that you’re giving them the right nutrients.

Some examples include:

• Muscle meat
• Organ meat
• Bones
• Raw eggs
• Vegetables

2. Frozen raw food diet

Much like the home-prepared raw food diet, this also gives you more control over the ingredients. It is, however, a bit more expensive and may not be as easily available as the others on this list.

Some examples include:

• Raw ground meat
• Raw meaty bones

3. Freeze-dried and dehydrated food diet

This is a great alternative for those who don’t have the time to prepare their pet’s meals from scratch. However, it can be a bit more costly to buy or prepare than the other types of food on this list.

Some examples include:

• Freeze-dried meat
• Dehydrated vegetables

4. Canned dog food diet

This is among the most common type of pet food diet and is also the most affordable. It is, however, important to read the labels carefully to make sure that you’re giving your pet food that is nutritious and not full of fillers.

Some examples include:

• Beef
• Chicken
• Turkey

5. Dry kibble sometimes mixed with carrots, Mexican turnip, bok choy, or Romaine lettuce

This is the most affordable type of pet food diet and is also the easiest to find. However, like canned dog food, it is important that the content is recommended for your dog.

The 5 Types of Healthy Food for Your Pet Cats

Much like dogs, there are also a variety of food items that you can give your pet cats. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. Proteins found in meats, poultry, and fish

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning that they require animal protein to survive. Some of the ways to prepare cat food for the protein can be cooked, raw, or canned.

2. Food with high moisture content

Boiled bone, chicken, or meat broth, for example, can be used as a way to increase the moisture content in your cat’s food. You can also look for foods that have a higher water content, such as:

• Canned tuna
• Canned sardines

3. Food rich in Taurine

Taurine is an amino acid that is found in animal tissue, and it is essential for a variety of functions in your pet cat’s body, including:

• Heart health
• Brain development
• Eye health

Some of the best sources of taurine for cats include:

• Muscle meat
• Organ meats

4. Cat food with no fillers

Be sure to always check the label or nutritional value when buying cat food. Fillers are ingredients that are used to bulk up cat food but don’t provide any nutritional value. Some examples of fillers include:

• Corn
• Wheat
• Soy
• Feathers

It’s important to avoid foods with these ingredients as they can cause digestive issues and other health problems for your cat.

5. Dry or wet cat food?

There is no definitive answer when it comes to whether dry or wet cat food is better for your pet. It really depends on your cat’s preferences and needs. Some cats may prefer dry food because it’s easier to eat, while others may prefer wet food because it’s more flavorful.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what type of food is best for your cat.

Hopefully, this article has given you a better understanding of the different types of food that you can give your pet dogs and cats. Remember to always consult with your pet’s veterinarian before making any changes to their diet.

Where to Buy Pet Food in the Philippines?

While you can most likely find a local pet store for your little fur ball’s dietary needs, we’ll be providing you with a list of shops where you can buy the best available pet food in the Philippines, so you won’t have to worry!

Pet Warehouse

Recommended by Diane Nicole Go, Pet Warehouse offers delivery and pick-up options.

With the Luzon-wide quarantine still ongoing, pet parents need online and delivery services more than ever – even more so if your pet has a special diet. That’s why Pet Warehouse, one of the biggest online pet supply shops, is ready with your Royal Canin Veterinary Diet prescriptions. All you need is a valid prescription of your pet’s veterinary diet.

How to Order

To order, visit their site and place your order. Take note that website orders will be limited to ensure prompt deliveries, but this resets at 12 midnight daily. Pet Warehouse will then contact you via email to fill out the prescription form. Their in-house veterinarian may need to contact your veterinary clinic to verify your prescription. Once you’ve paid via Credit Card (Visa or Mastercard) or PayPal and they’ve confirmed it, they’ll send out your orders.

For inquiries and concerns, Pet Warehouse is opening up their Customer Service via SMS and Viber from Mondays to Fridays, 9AM to 6PM. There may be a delay in responses because of the volume, though, so please be patient.

SMS or Viber: 09778238050

Website: https://www.petwarehouse.ph

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PetWarehousePH

Instagram: @petwarehouseph

And in case what you’re looking for isn’t available at the Pet Warehouse, here’s a list by Mara Sugue of other healthy pet food options that you can easily find online:

1. Aozi Organic Puppy Dog Food

This dog food from Aozi is great for dogs who are picky eaters. It is organic and formulated with different vitamins and minerals to ensure the dog’s healthy growth. It comes in a resealable bag to help keep its freshness when stored.

2. Pedigree Dry Mini Beef

This dog food is recommended for small breeds because it is made with a smaller kibble. It has real meat flavor for a tasty dog’s meal. It is also packed with different vitamins and minerals to keep your dog healthy.

3. Wagg Dog Treats

These dog treats come in different flavors so you can choose one that you think your dog will enjoy. It is enriched with Omega 3 & 6 oils to keep your dog’s coat healthy and shiny. These dog treats are recommended for dogs 8 weeks and older.

4. Royal Canin Shih Tzu

Do you own a Shih Tzu? Then, this dog food is for them! It has a formula that helps support the Shih Tzu puppy’s natural defenses. The formula also has borage oil to nourish the dog’s coat and keep its skin healthy.

5. Monge Vet Solution Gastrointestinal Cat Feline (100 G)

This complete dietetic pet food for cats is formulated with special ingredients to keep the cat’s digestive system healthy. It is also grain-free and has no dyes and preservatives.

6. Whiskas Junior Tuna Pouch

This wet cat food is specially formulated for kittens 2-12 months old. It is enriched with calcium and phosphorus for healthy bones and overall growth. This cat food is also suitable for pregnant and lactating cats.

Now that you also know how to feed your pet dogs and cats, let’s move on to another important part of pet ownership – grooming!

Grooming Your Pets in the Philippines

Grooming your pets is not only important for their hygiene, but it’s also essential for their health. Pets that are groomed regularly have less chance of developing skin and coat problems, and they’re also less likely to become infected with parasites.

In this section of the blog, we’ll discuss the importance of grooming your pets in the Philippines, and we’ll provide a list of tips to make the process easier for both you and your pet. Whether you need a home service for pet grooming in Manila, such as dog or cat grooming, we’ve got you covered.

Read this article by Angeline Rodriguez, originally published on October 10, 2020, it provides you with some helpful tips on grooming your pets at home.

5 At-Home Pet Grooming Tips for Fur Parents

For fur parents, the love and fondness they have for their pets go beyond their cute looks and distinct smell. That is why, aside from spoiling them with treats and teaching them new tricks, owners practice responsible pet parenting by keeping their furry friends safe and cared for.

One of the ways you can prioritize your pets’ welfare is by ensuring they are always well-groomed. Although certain limitations are barring people from visiting pet grooming salons, there are ways in which you can keep your pets looking sharp and smelling great, even just at home and all by yourself.

1. Determine their breed.

It is important to understand the level of grooming your pets would need to help them feel better. According to TopBreed ambassador Dr. Nielsen Donato, there are long-haired breeds that need more frequent grooming. There are also dogs with long ears that need more frequent ear cleaning compared to those with erect ears. (To know more about details like these, you may get in touch with a vet.)

TopBreed ambassador Doctor Nielsen Donato with his furry pals

2. Practice the right dog bathing habits.

Since the Philippines is a tropical country, the heat can sometimes get really harsh. This can lead to dogs’ glands secreting too much oil, which causes them to feel icky and uncomfortable. To check up on this, you can stroke your dog’s fur and see if there is dust clinging onto it. If there is, bathing them once a week with warm water can do the trick. If your dog is of a bigger breed and is prone to heatstroke, bathe them with cooler water instead.

TopBreed ambassador Doctor Nielsen Donato

Dr. Nielsen Donato says the ideal time to bathe your dogs is during the morning at around 9-10AM. Regular baths should last for about 15-20 minutes — starting from the shoulders, then slowly moving on to the back. For the head, it is good to use a wet towel or a sponge. Dogs with erect ears may feel irritated when water gets inside their ears.

Apply dog shampoo with slow, gentle strokes, making sure to keep shampoo from getting into your pets’ eyes. Let pets get used to you grooming them, too. When you start grooming your pets yourself, they might find it unusual. However, similar to any methods of pet training, you can practice positive reinforcement before their regular grooming session.

Try giving them treats when they follow through the bathing area. If their nervousness persists, it is best to consult with a veterinarian or a trusted pet groomer.

3. Choose the right shampoo.

There are different ways you can keep your dog’s furs shiny and healthy. This can be achieved by keeping them stress-free, maintaining their good hygiene, giving them fish oil for essential fatty acids, and using a shampoo suitable for them.

One important tip when choosing a pet shampoo is to veer away from those with strong scents.

Make TopBreed’s ShamPooch your trusted pet grooming companion

TopBreed’s ShamPooch has a mild citrus lavender scent that pets will surely love. Made from organic ingredients friendly for dogs, ShamPooch has Madre de Cacao and Neem Extracts, which have antibacterial and antiparasitic properties, and Organic Glycerin that helps moisturize and nourish their skin. It also has Organic Keratin, which revives and protects the smoothness of the dog coat.

4. Let the experts handle it.

While it can be exciting to unlock a new skill and learn how to groom a pet yourself, you might find some parts of the grooming routine daunting. When in doubt, it is best to entrust more complex tasks such as nail trimming and oral grooming to the experts to ensure safety.

5. Listen to your pets’ needs.

Remember: a pet’s physical well-being can affect their emotional stability. So, make sure your fur babies stay well-groomed and happy!

Check out this article by Sky Gavin, which was recently published on March 19, 2022, to make your pet grooming life so much easier:

This Home Service Pet Grooming in Manila is a Must-Try!

More and more people are going out and if you are a fur parent, you may have a hard time looking for grooming services. Most grooming salons are always full especially during the weekends! Luckily, we found Wizard of Paws who can drive to your home and provide grooming services for your pets.

Wizard of Paws was started in October 2013 by Vincent Ross Halili and when asked about his inspiration for the business. He shares that he started with research about pet ownership in the Philippines.

“I did research regarding the population of pet owners in the Philippines back in 2012, and based on my own findings, our country has one of the highest numbers of pet parents in the world. This number has been growing rapidly each year,” he shared.

In addition, he also adds that, “Another factor that helped me decide to consider putting up this kind of business was the traffic situation here in Metro Manila. Most of the working class are always stuck in traffic and sometimes this causes them to neglect to do certain chores such as bringing their pets to the grooming salon.”

This empathy for pets gave him the idea. He said that, “A relative told me that mobile pet grooming salons were already a thing in other countries so why not put up something similar here in Metro Manila. Now, instead of the monster traffic that pet parents will have to endure to and from the groomer, they finally have an option to make all of that hassle-free since we are bringing the grooming salon at their doorstep”, he shared.

And yes, we agree! A dog grooming home service, and maybe even cat grooming in Manila, is exactly the solution that many fur parents need.

Wizard of Paws has an iconic yellow truck that has everything needed for your pet’s grooming. They have their own water supply and all they have to do is park in front of your home and plug in for power.

Once you hand over your pet to their well-trained and experienced staff, you can take a peek at your pet getting pampered in the window.

“Our service starts with a full grooming package that includes everything that our pets need such as bath and blowdrying, hairstyling, ear cleaning, nail clipping, and toothbrushing. We also offer additional services such as anal sac draining, detangling, medicated baths, and ticks & fleas treatment,” shared Vincent.

What we loved about the home service pet grooming is that we don’t have to leave the comforts of our own home. With gas prices at an all-time high, it’s more ideal to just stay at home.

So, what do you think? Are you willing to try home service pet grooming for your fur baby? Apart from Wizard of Paws, here’s another pet grooming salon we’d like to highlight: Groom N’ Go. And because they offer something special, Sky Gavin wrote about it on April 3, 2022:

This Grooming Studio Offers Photo Shoot For Your Pets!

We have always been a lookout for grooming studios that knows how to properly cut the hair and we are so excited to find Groom N’ Go.

Located in Marikina, Groom N’ Go offers pet grooming services, pet supplies, and photoshoots for your furry friends.

Owned by Ann and Patrick, they shared that what inspired them to create the business is their own pets. “We went to many grooming studios where we have our dogs groomed. Then we thought of having our own instead where they could be groomed anytime they needed to,” Ann shared.

Though Groom N’ Go seems like a heavy load, the owners shared that they run this business while having full-time jobs. “Both of us have our own jobs. But we also want to have a business where we could still do our jobs at the same time,” Patrick said.

“Our main goal is to be the best grooming studio in Marikina that offers photoshoots for their furbabies. Then hopefully, in God’s time, we will have other branches in different cities in the Metro or even beyond,” Ann added.

We brought our corgi to Groom N’ Go and since we are struggling with a groomer to perfectly cut his hair, we are happy that they have a resident corgi so they know how to properly treat him.

Aside from the amazing service they do for their pets. One of the highlights of Groom N’ Go is their photoshoot for pets.

Patrick personally takes the photos of their loyal pet customers, but of course, hoomans can join too.

Ready for a photoshoot? Or does your pet need a much-needed grooming? Or maybe you just need to restock their food and snacks? Groom N’ Go has everything for you.

Also, if you really want to treat your fur baby to something special that will create memories to last a lifetime, Vivien Del Valle just recently penned something on October 6, 2022 about a pop-up event that had just concluded.

This Pop-up Self-Shoot Studio Lets You Take Photos with Your Pets for Only 100 Pesos!

Want to create more fun and long-lasting memories with your furbaby? This pop-up self-shoot studio that had just happened on October 7 to 9, 2022 is something to watch out for.

Klick! Self-shoot Studio, located in Marikina, opened up a mobile booth at the UP Town Center Amphitheater for the Floof Market fair.

For only 3 days, pet parents and their furbabies enjoyed as much as 10 minutes of shoot time, 1 photo print, and studio-quality digital copies of their photos at a super low discounted rate of only 100 PESOS!

This is such a great deal, especially considering that this usual self-shoot package is at PHP 850. It’s definitely a promo you wouldn’t want to miss – especially if you haven’t had a really cool portrait with your fur baby.

There’s no need for registration. You just have to show up with your pet(s) and enjoy the mobile studio that’s complete with props and a vibrant background!

You can start lining up with your pets as early as 10 AM, and the studio will be up until 9 PM.

Sounds fun, simple, and affordable, right? So, be sure to follow Klick! Self-shoot Studio on their social media accounts so you can catch their next event!

And for fur mommies and daddies who really want to go all out for their babies, here’s something you might want to check out. Sky Gavin writes about how to style your boujee pets, recently published on June 28, 2022:

Gucci Just Released Items for your Boujee Pets!

Our pets are a big part of our lives and some of us don’t mind giving them the luxury and pampering they deserve.

 

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Gucci just released a wide range of items designed for dogs and cats. The new campaign by Alessandro Michele and captured by Max Siedentopf shows off dogs and cats strutting their stuff wearing Gucci clothes, bags, collars and harnesses. The collection also includes designed homeware like feeding mats, bowls, and beds.

 

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Keeping true to Gucci’s promise of individuality, the brand created a retro-inspired campaign that makes each pet stand out.

The products come in Gucci’s signature GG Supreme canvas, green and red colors and the brand’s signature interlocking G detail. The clothes, on the other hand, features a wide range of designs from the Gucci signature logo, geometric patterns and many more.

 

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The pet collars range from approx Php14,000-Php22,000 while pet clothes range from approximately Php14,000-Php53,000. The homeware like feeding mats and bowls range from Php18,000-Php52,000.

Are you getting these for your pets? Which one will you get?

What it Means to be an “Extra” as a Fur Parent

As a fur parent, you definitely want to give your pet the best life possible. And sometimes, that means going above and beyond what’s necessary. You might buy them the best food, or get them the best toys, or even take them to the best groomers.

But sometimes, it means spending a lot of money on luxury items – like the Gucci items that were just released for pets. If you have the money to spare, why not spoil your furry friend with some of the most fashionable clothes and accessories around?

After all, they’re part of the family! And as any good fur parent knows, you should always try to give your pet the best of everything.

So, what does it mean to be an “extra” as a fur parent to boujee pets? It means going above and beyond what’s necessary to make sure your pet is happy and healthy. It might mean spending a bit more money, but it’s always worth it in the end.

Do you consider yourself an extra fur parent? What kind of things do you do to make sure your pet is happy and healthy? Let us know in the comments below!

On Being a Fur Parent: The Benefits of Owning a Pet Today

Times have changed and so has our view on pets. In the past, they were seen as just animals that we kept around for hunting or protection. But now, they’re considered part of the family. They’re always there for us, no matter what. And in return, we want to provide them with the best care possible.

Owning a pet comes with many responsibilities, but it’s also very rewarding. If you’re thinking about getting a pet, be sure to do your research first and choose an animal that’s right for you and your lifestyle.

There are many benefits to owning a pet in the Philippines today. Not only do they provide companionship, but pets can also help reduce stress and anxiety, promote exercise, and improve mental health. In addition, owning a pet can teach children important life lessons such as responsibility and empathy.

So, if you’re already a fur parent, be sure to give your furry friend plenty of love and attention! They deserve it.

What are some of the benefits you’ve experienced as a fur parent? Let us know in the comments below!