The Brunette Diaries

5 Things That Cats Dislike Like Hell

We have all grown up to remember two animals that have formed a major part of our life. One is the dog and the other is the cat. Dogs and cats are perhaps the most loved pets worldwide. Cats are usually the quieter lot, moving around with a certain enigma. If you expect them to play like a dog, then we are sorry that’s not going to happen. So, before you decide to bring home the feline grandeur as your pet, you should know the things that cats dislike. Those who have them currently can also pay attention.

Also read: Keep Your Beloved Pet Stress Free!

They need the human element

Once you have them as your pet or decide on having them as one, your first obligation should be to spend time with them. Yes, it might sound odd but it’s true. Treat them like a member of your house and make them feel wanted. Inability to do this makes them aggressive and you can ill afford that.

Cats hate stinking things

Just because they hunt and kill mice doesn’t mean that they have a penchant for dirty things. In fact, they are big on cleanliness. Provide them stinky litter boxes and they’ll quickly search for alternatives. There’s a good reason behind this as our feline friends have 14 times the sense of smell that we have. So, even a hint of stench for us gets magnified in their case. Now you get the point.

Also read: 10 Tips To Make Your House Pet Friendly

Spoiled food? No, never

Always give fresh and healthy food to your cat. They don’t appreciate spoilt food

The cats have a keen sense of taste. Offering them stale food is a strict no-no. Not only is it harsh on them from a moral point of view, but also from a health point of view. The spoilt food contains toxins which end up affecting the cat’s health. Ideally, the food for cats shouldn’t be left out in the open for more than 15 minutes. Keep their food fresh always!

Watch that petting

Cats are moody when it comes to petting. A few strokes on the head is enough

There’s a basic difference between dogs and cats. While the former likes the owner to play and roll him around with heavy petting, the latter is the complete opposite. Heavily petting a cat is a recipe for disaster. The ideal way is to tenderly stroke the back of her head or the neck. Doing this a few times is more than enough, unless of course you wish to get bitten, scratched or hissed at.

Keep the noise down

Cats dislike loud noise! They would shout at the top of their voice, if only they could speak. Loud noise has a detrimental effect on them. The first sign of this is the increase in their stress levels. So, the next time you think firecrackers or plan to have loud music at your house party, spare a thought for your beloved pet cat.

Also read: Take Extra Care Of Your Pets This Diwali

Watch out for these 5 pointers to ensure that your cat stays in the pink of its health.

Monsoon Season Pet Care Dos And Don’ts

When the first shower of rains hit the earth, we earthlings rejoice as the scorching summer has finally ended. However, the happiness we feel when it rains isn’t shared by our animal friends. This season is a stressful time for your pets. Monsoon season pet care involves special care and attention from you.

Immunisation And Vaccination

Our furry friends are likely to be victims of rabies, aggravated flea infections, fungal infections, gastro enteritis, feline flu, etc during the monsoons. These, however, can be easily treated by the vet. Regular immunity shots and vaccines are essential to maintain good health.

There are no vaccinations for birds, the best thing you can do for them is ensure they are kept indoors at all times, not even the balcony will do. Keep them in a dry place and don’t forget to change their water regularly. Stagnant water breeds germs.

Also read: Care For Your Dog: 6 Common Mistakes To Avoid

Breathing Problems

As a result of the high moisture content in the air it is likely that your pet will suffer from respiratory diseases. They mostly suffer from respiratory tract infections which may also be related to an allergy. Cats are especially prone to this condition. To keep your pets comfortable, make sure their surroundings are dry and warm. Avoid air-conditioners and coolers.

High Humidity

The high levels of humidity in this season make their wet fur smell. Damp fur is a breeding ground for fleas and worms. Medicated talc and deodorants will help you tackle the smell and avoid fungal infections, while a constant check for worms and fleas is essential.

The high humidity has harmful effects on the health of your feathered friends as well. They can undergo skin infections and feather loss. Use topical anti-bacterial lotions to avoid this and keep them healthy.

Also read: Keep Your Beloved Pet Stress Free!

Bed And Bath

Don’t let your pets sleep on the floor during the rains. The cold floor may cause them to catch a cold. Prepare warm bedding for them, and make sure it is clean and dry at all times.

Bathing your pets may be required more often than usual, as going outdoors will result in them returning home covered in muck. Since a regular water bath isn’t advisable either, try investing in a dry shampoo for your pet.

As for birds, try and avoid baths for them as they are most likely to catch a cold because of it.

Diet

Give your pets ample food and fresh clean water, but don’t overdo it. Give them their prescribed dietary recommendation only, and don’t overfeed them. Vomiting and diarrhoea is common during the monsoon. Maintain a healthy diet for them, to keep their tummies functioning smoothly.

Exercise And Indoor Activities

Our pets, especially dogs, love the outdoors, but because of the downpour outside one must limit their outings. This may result in them becoming lazy and lethargic which isn’t very healthy for them. Get creative and come up with fun activities to do with your pets indoors. Your aim is to keep them busy, moving and active.

Also read: 5 Things That Cats Dislike Like Hell

Fashionable Monsoon Wear

When your pets do go out, cover them in some trendy pet wear. There are so many colourful options available in the market, that not only make your pets look adorable, but also serve as great protection against the downpour.

Things you should remember:

The sound of thunder is extremely unpleasing to your pets. Turn on the television to keep them distracted and mask the thunder’s noise.

Keep them dry at all times.

Don’t let them eat stale food and water. Give them a fresh meal in a clean dish.

Keep birds far from moisture and water.

Baby pets need extra attention and care.

At the slightest sign of an infection or itch, take them to a vet immediately; don’t medicate them yourself. Remember you aren’t a vet (unless you actually are one).

Lastly, keep in mind prevention is better than cure. Monsoon season pet care requires efforts from your side. Your pets are your responsibility; don’t be lazy in caring for them.

7 Places To Take Your Dog For A Delightful Outing

Dogs by nature are loyal and outgoing. They love the outside world; and it is a good practice to take your pet outside your house frequently. Going out keeps their energy levels up and does not let lethargy set in, thus also keeping them healthy and active. Here are a few outdoor places to take your dog, that they will enjoy for sure.

Also read: 3 Ways How Your Love Is Killing Your Dog

Dog Park

This is an absolute no brainer, but I am going to mention it either way. Look for a dog park in your vicinity and make sure to make a trip to it along with your pawed buddy as often as you can. These areas are especially made for your dogs where you can unleash them, something that you know they love.

Dog Play Dates

If you visit the dog park often, your pet will most likely develop camaraderie of sorts with the other dogs who play in the park. You can then develop a friendship with the owners of those dogs and set up play dates for your pets. It needn’t be the park alone; it could even be one of your homes. It will certainly make your dog happy to have some time to play with his pal.

Sporting Events

Now I don’t mean a professional cricket match in a stadium, for that isn’t allowed. However, if you and your buddies are playing a match of football at the local ground then why not let your dog tag along? All the energy he is going to get by simply watching you guys play, is going to get him all pepped up. And after the match you can kick about a few balls with your pet as well.

Also read: Easy Tips For Effective Dog Training Sessions

Drive Through

It is no secret that all dogs love going out for drives in a car. They simply love the wind brushing past their face in the fast moving car. So, if you own a car, try and spare some time and take your furry friend out for drives.

Also read: Easy Tips For Effective Dog Training Sessions

Drive Through

Ice Cream Runs

Feel like having ice cream late at night, and are planning to make a quick trip to the ice cream parlour? Take your dog with you. A lot of ice cream parlours today have outdoor seating where you can enjoy your cold treat. Here you can also treat your pet to a scoop of vanilla ice cream. I bet you, your pet will love you for the sweet treat. Just keep the chocolate flavours far away from them.

Sun And Sand

Your dog is going to love the beach. Dogs love water, and the beach has a never ending supply of it. Let your pets loose and let them splash around in the water and run around in the sand. Carry a Frisbee or ball with you; your pooch will love to play ‘catch’ and ‘fetch’ with you here, as the beach is a perfect place for the game.

Also read: Grooming Tips To Curb Excessive Shedding In Dogs

Treks And Camps

As I mentioned before, all dogs love the outdoors, and what is more outdoor than camping in the open. Plan a trip with your buddies and your pet, and even their pets if possible. Spend the night in the open. Your dog will love the fresh air and the ample space to run around, explore and chase squirrels too. It will be a good change for your pet, away from the busy hustle and bustle of the city.

Now that you know the apt places to take your dog for an outing, when are you taking your furry pal out?

8 Fruits And Vegetables That Keep Your Dog Healthy And Fit

In many households, dogs are looked at as a furry member of the family and not just an animal. We treat our dogs like our own children. We ensure that they get good exercise, are free from ticks and are fed a healthy and nutritious diet. There may be tons of dog food products being advertised which say that there are plenty of healthy vegetables in them, but nothing beats feeding your dog fresh vegetables. It’s good for his teeth, coat, bones, eyesight and overall health. With that being said, here are 8 fruits and vegetables that keep your dog healthy and fit… and psst, psst… he will love them too.

Apples:

This fruit is rich in Vitamin A, C and fiber and is very good to keep your furry friend fit and healthy. Please make sure that you don’t give the centre of the apple or its seeds as they could choke the dog. Red juicy apples help to clean the residue and make your dog’s teeth strong.

Sweet Potatoes Or Regular Potatoes:

Healthy for the heart and easy on the digestive tract, sweet potatoes are a healthy option as they contain more nutrients. They reduce blood pressure and are very good for weight management. They are high in fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and B-vitamins. If sweet potatoes aren’t available in your neighbourhood, you can always give your pooch regular boiled potatoes.

Also read: Foods that can poison your dog

Watermelon:

It is made up of 92% water. Therefore, it’s excellent for your furry baby’s hydration and skin! Watermelon is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, dietary fiber, potassium, and magnesium.

Carrots:

Why give your dog artificial chewies when they can chew on the natural healthy options? So, the next time your dog or pup needs to chew something, simply scrape a carrot and give it to him. You’ll be surprised to see how much he enjoys chewing it. What’s more, carrots are good for the skin, eyesight and cleaning of teeth and gums.

Also read: 7 Places To Take Your Dog For A Delightful Outing

Celery:

This leafy vegetable can improve the health of your dog’s heart. It can also lower blood pressure while helping to fight with cancer because of its rich minerals and vitamins like Vitamin A, B and C and calcium, potassium, phosphorous, iron and sodium.

Green Beans:

Giving your furry friend a bowl of green beans is the best thing you can do for them. Green beans make a fantastic low calorie and filling snack. It is a great source of natural plant fiber and high in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese. The next time your dog is hungry give him a bowl of green beans and watch him gobble it down.

Pumpkin:

Have you ever thought of feeding your pumpkin real pumpkin? What I meant was, it’s good to give your dog a real pumpkin as it is a low calorie food rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, beta-carotene, fiber, potassium, zinc, calcium, and magnesium. About one cup of cooked pumpkin contains 3 grams of filling fiber.

Bok Choy:

Bok Choy is a type of Chinese cabbage with thick white or green stems filled with water and green leafy tops. It contains calcium for healthy, strong bones and teeth, and is good for your dog’s heart and it also helps fighting against cancer. This low calorie veggie is packed with vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K, and potassium.

Also read: Grooming Tips To Curb Excessive Shedding In Dogs

Ensure that these fruits and vegetables when given to your dog are thinly sliced, chopped well or even pureed. It becomes easier for them to eat it.

Now that you know the naturally healthy snack options for dogs, do ensure you feed your four-legged best friend the same.

Various Services You Can Expect At A Salon For Dogs

First of all, yes, there are salons for dogs as well. And they’ve got way more crowd than you probably think. Trends have changed, and it’s not just the owner who is the one with all the bling, dogs can flaunt their personal style statement too. It isn’t just about taking care of your dogs now; it’s much more than that! Here are some generic and a few special services you could get at a dog grooming salon.

Also Read: 7 Places To Take Your Dog For A Delightful Outing

So let us list the typical, generic ones first.

Bath, Haircut And Wash:

This would be a generic service, where the dogs are given a bath and a haircut. In case you want to splurge a little more, you could get a top up and get your dog shampooed and conditioned as well. And if you are still willing to spend some more, you could get a tick and flea removal done for your pet.

Aromatherapy:

Hey, your dog has skin too, and it needs care just as you do. Aromatherapy is known to ease tension, improve skin and a lot of other things. So, if it can work for us, it works for the dogs as well.

Nail Services:

Yes, there are trimming, filing, grinding and many other nail services that can be availed. What’s more, you could also gift your dog a pedicure. You wouldn’t want them to claw you in their excitement; so, yes, these services will not only clean them up but also smoothen their nails.

Also Read: Tips For Long Distance Travel With Your Pet

Ear Cleanup:

You can’t use your cotton buds here, right? Your dog’s ear cleaning needs are different and need to be taken care of. Salons offer various ear cleaning and ear flushing services. So, make good use of it for your pet.

Now let’s talk about the special services these pet grooming salons offer.

Stenciling:

Stenciling is nothing but painting or drawing stencil based shapes on your dog. Yes. It’s a thing. You could get basic geometric shapes, designs, hearts, etc stenciled on your dog. This can be done in various colors and sizes.

Chalking:

We see many people with wacky colored hair. Now, picture the same color combination on a dog. Yes, that is exactly what this service is about. You could get one color or multiple colored streaks for your dog’s fur. Although temporary colors are used, they give the dog a very catchy and stylish look.

Also Read: Keep Your Pet Happy And Healthy In Your Absence

Nail Polish and Stickers:

Ladies, you all know how hard it is to decide which nail paint to apply, right? Well, if you like manicure et al, then you could get that done on your dog too. Yes, nail paints and stickers for dogs! This service has a huge variety of options between colors and stickers, and you could find the perfect one that suits you and your dog.

Jewels:

This basically involves an addition of small jewels to your dog’s fur, which last for about a couple of weeks. Of course, they will complement the fur and the skin color, and also add a nice sparkle. These are available in multiple colors to suit your preferences.

Your four-legged best friend certainly deserves indulgence and pampering once in a while. Although there are these out-of-the-ordinary sides to every salon for dogs, the most important thing they do is care for a being that you love dearly. So, when are you taking your pet for a salon and spa outing?

Also Read: Keep Your Beloved Pet Stress Free!

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TBD Pet Love: Tips To Deal With An Extra Naughty Dog

Yes, we know that you’re head over heels in love with your adorable new pooch. But be very sure of one thing; once the initial excitement of being a proud pet-owner dies, your impish dog will become a cause of worry. After all, who wants to come back home after a tiring day at work, just to see tattered sofa covers and wet floors!

Also Read: Pet Tips: How To Photograph Your Pet The Right Way!

Super naughty dogs can become a pain, especially if you leave them alone. So today, we’re going to list down ways to deal with a naughty dog and keep them out of trouble 🙂

– It’s super important to pay attention to how you’re training your dog. Rewarding your pet for a good action and scolding him for a bad one is essential during the initial training; that’s how your dog will learn what he’s supposed to and not supposed to do. Owners usually punish their pet for a wrong action but don’t treat him for a good one; that’s when a dog doesn’t know what’s right and what’s wrong.
– Taking the above step further, you could stuff his chew toys with his favourite treats. After a few times, he will automatically know that it’s better to chew on his toys instead of the sofa leg. The trick here is to not force him, but to lead him into making the right choice 🙂

Also Read: Various Services You Can Expect At A Salon For Dogs

– Training experts say that burning the excess energy of your hyperactive four-legged buddy is important. Before you head out each day, ensure that you take your dog for a walk or a run to release its pent up energy. Otherwise, it may attack the things that it shouldn’t when you leave it in closed doors for a long time.
– Keep your dog busy with a variety of toys and balls; this curbs the chance of doggy-destruction by a huge margin.
– If you’re pissed with the frequent pits dug up in your otherwise well-maintained garden, here’s the solution. Create a special digging pit for your pet and fill it with sand, dirt, treats, chewy bones, and his favourite toys. After a few days, he will innately know which the permissible area to dig is. The result – Your dog is busy!

Also Read: 7 Places To Take Your Dog For A Delightful Outing

We’re pretty sure that these dog-training tips will help you in changing the behavioural pattern of your adorable but naughty pet.

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Pet Tips: How To Photograph Your Pet The Right Way!

We’ve all been viewers of the stock images that appear on the first screen of the search results. When you usually search for stuff like ‘pet photos’, you usually get those ultra-HD images of dogs in fields, cats jumping midair and what not. Then you wonder why the photos you click of your pet don’t come out that way! Well, look no further! I’m listing down a few tips that will teach you how to photograph your pet and get the perfect shot!

Also Read: Things You Can Do To Protect Your Dog During Summers

Go For Natural Light

Avoid any kind of artificial light, especially the flash. They can cause disturbance to your pets. Natural light gives a realistic feel to the picture. If you’re indoors, use a white wall as a background, as white tends to boost the effect of natural light.

Avoid Clutter

Let the background of the image be as neat as possible, so that the focus remains solely on your pet. If you are using a DSLR for the shoot, change the aperture settings to blur the background for an amazing effect.

Try For An Eye Level Shot

When you come down to your pet’s level, it will give a nice natural view, and also allow you to have the right balance of the subject (your pet) and the background.

Use Treats Or Toys If Necessary

There are only two ways to get your pet’s attention: treats and toys. So, if you want that typical shot in which your pet is happily staring into the lens, try to keep a treat or their favourite toy near the lens. This will immediately make the pet look where you want it to. However, the downside here could be that your pet could just jump towards you for the item you’re holding, so you have to be careful with that.

Use Props

If you want an indoor shot where your pet is striking a pose, they would seem really empty if nothing else is in the frame. Therefore, go for props like furniture, toys and anything colourful that can enhance the aesthetic value of the shot.

Work Off Their Excess Energy

Pets like dogs are always high on energy, to the point where you get exhausted. So it is pretty obvious that they won’t be still all the time while the shoot is on. Therefore, to counter this problem, take them for a walk or a run before the shoot to work off their excess energy.

Use A Box For Cats

It is no news that cats have an affinity towards confined spaces like boxes. So, if you’re looking for a candid shot of your cat, a small box is all you need to keep it occupied in one place. For additional aesthetic value, go for a decorated box.

So people, now it’s time to get your cameras ready and begin shooting your pets! Do you have any additional ideas on how to photograph your pet? Let us know in the comments below!

Also Read: 7 Places To Take Your Dog For A Delightful Outing

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How To Pet A Dog Without Upsetting It

The ones who are shit scared of dogs… sorry, but this one is for those who fall in love with every pooch in just one look! Oh yes, I’m one of them 🙂

Though most of us can’t keep our hands off a dog, it’s a fact that people don’t actually know how to pet a dog. Especially the ones who are not dog-owners themselves have a pretty tough time initiating friendship with a pet pooch! If you, too, are taken aback by a dog’s unfriendliness, here’s what you need to know. Let The Brunette Diaries guide you on how to pet a dog.

Also Read: TBD Pet Love: Tips To Deal With An Extra Naughty Dog

The Greeting

Never initiate physical contact with an unfamiliar dog without greeting him it .Squat down to its levels and let it decide if you’re safe to approach. Every dog takes a few seconds to judge a human, so give it time. If it leans in, extend your hand from the side instead from over its head. However, if it depicts uninviting and hesitant behaviour, back off. Such body language may include things like acting jumpy, licking its lips, freezing, looking away, or yawning.

Also, never hug an unfamiliar dog. While petting it, stop midway, and see how it reacts. Most friendly dogs will lean in for more love while some may show signs of retreat, which means that it has had enough of love for a day.

Also Read: Pet Tips: How To Photograph Your Pet The Right Way!

The Hotspots

The best places to pet a dog are its chest, shoulder, their tummy, and under the chin. Apart from these general areas, every dog also has a few specific areas where it loves to be pampered.

However, don’t get your hands on places like the top of its head, end of the tail, or its belly. Also, holding it by its collar or using force can evoke signs of aggression in the dog. Always remember that petting should be calming for you as well as your four-legged buddy. So take it slow and run your hands in the direction of its fur.

Also Read: Various Services You Can Expect At A Salon For Dogs

While dogs might make you happy, the correct petting styles will have them circling you with tail-wagging happiness. So, take heed of our pet advice and strike a bond with each dog in your colony 🙂

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5 Important Life Lessons You Can Learn From Your

I’ve been cribbing for a dog all my life, but the fact that I’ve kept moving cities and living alone stops me. Nevertheless, it’s a dream that I will fulfil when the time is right 🙂

Ever noticed how even an amusing doggy video cracks you up right in the middle of a stressful day? Well, that’s the happiness they spread! Apart from unconditional love, there are a number of things that you can learn from your pet. Even the ones who are scared of canines can take life lessons from them. Listing the things that we all can imbibe from doggies 🙂

Also Read: How To Pet A Dog Without Upsetting It

Living In The Moment

Dogs are stress busters because they don’t believe in living in the past or the future. All they know is the present moment and making the most of it. Can we humans learn to stop dwelling in the past and worrying about the future?

Forgive And Forget

Unlike us, dogs don’t hold grudges. If you haven’t noticed, your dog will not show resentment if you didn’t give him a treat last night.

Be Expressive

A dog loves you and he shows it; he doesn’t stress about what your reaction would be. Perhaps we, too, should learn how to express our feelings to our loved ones. Isn’t it amazing how they can be so much more expressive without being able to communicate with words!

Also Read: TBD Pet Love: Tips To Deal With An Extra Naughty Dog

Don’t Be Judgemental

Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni once said that his dog doesn’t judge him, irrespective of the fact whether he’s won or lost a match. Be that way and love unconditionally!

Be Grateful

No matter how long you’ve stayed with your dog, notice how it always looks at you gratefully every time you give it a treat. In the same way, you need to stop taking people for granted and be grateful fr whatever little they do.

So, the next time you’re out playing fetch with your pooch, spare a thoughtful moment and learn what it is subconsciously teaching you 🙂

Also Read: Pet Tips: How To Photograph Your Pet The Right Way!

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