Give your furry friends some love during National Pet Week.

Our pets make us feel special every day with their playful natures, unconditional love and unwavering loyalty, so it only makes sense to show them a little gratitude every now and then.

Sponsored by the American Veterinary Medical Association, National Pet Week promotes responsible pet ownership, celebrates the human-animal bond and raises awareness of veterinary medicine. So in honor of National Pet Week, treat your furry friends to a day of love and pampering and show them how much you care. Here’s how.

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Treat Yourself
No, we’re not talking about Pup-Peroni or Beggin’ Strips. It’s now easier than ever to make your pets healthy, delicious homemade treats without spending a lot of money on frou-frou ingredients. For dogs, plain cooked, boneless chicken breast, prepared without seasoning or oil, is a simple and healthy snack, while ice cubes made from chicken or beef broth is a refreshing treat on a hot day. For cats, make catnip biscuits by combining flour, catnip and a few other ingredients. Or, drain the liquid from a can of tuna into a bowl for a simple pick-me-up.

More from Apartment Guide
What Do You Need to Know to Rent an Apartment with a Pet?
Top 5 Apps for Pet Owners
Fido Vs. Fluffy: What’s Your Preference?

Toy Story
Take an inventory of your pet’s toys. If you see a lot of beat up, worn-out toys, it may be time to upgrade. While Fido may adore his 5-year-old squeaky porcupine, chances are he’ll also love accompanying you to your local pet store and picking out a few new ones. And if your cat has managed to knock every catnip mouse into the unreachable nooks and crannies of your apartment, he or she would probably appreciate a restock.

Spa Retreat
It’s no secret that your pets need to be cleaned regularly, especially if they play a lot outdoors, but why not make bath time for your pup more like a day at the spa? Help your dog massage and relax before a bath by giving him a massage. If your pup has longer hair, spray a detangling product and let it sit before brushing. After washing, dry your dog with a soft, fluffy towel. If your dog really just doesn’t enjoy bathing or you don’t have the space for it, take him or her to a pet salon for a bath and brushing as well as other perks like treats and social interaction.

Play Date
Just as a human’s mood and happiness can benefit from regular social interaction, your pets can, too. So make sure your dog spends an adequate amount of time at the dog park or other pet-friendly areas to play and meet new friends. If your cat or dog is friendly and gets along with other animals, schedule play dates with a friend or neighbor who also has a four-legged friend.

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Nothing says love to our furry pals than a nice, homemade pet treat

For Dogs

Hot Dogs — Bring your franks to room temperature, and cut into pieces the appropriate size for your dog. Turkey or reduced fat kosher hot dogs are best, but hot dogs are generally higher in fat, so limit your serving size.

Vegetables — While we usually think of our furry friends primarily as meat eaters, most dogs will gladly eat a green bean or carrot, fresh or frozen. To make sure you are not accidentally giving them an unhealthy treat, check out this list of foods poisonous to dogs.

Ice Cubes — Simple ice cubes are a great dog treat on a hot day, but you can also make them with chicken or beef broth, low sodium and onion free, of course. Then you can freeze them and save them for the next time he brings you your slippers.

Chicken — Plain cooked, boneless chicken breast is a special treat that will make your dog love you forever. The next time you are making a chicken dish for yourself, just set aside a small amount to cook without seasoning or oil. Allow it to cool, then cut into appropriate sizes.

For Cats

Tuna Pops — Drain the liquid from a can of tuna and pour into a plastic pill organizer with dividers and freeze. Once they’re frozen, pop them out into a bowl so your cat can lick them.

Tuna Balls —Take the tuna you just drained and add half a cup of cut turkey or chicken and two thirds of a cup of dry cat food. You can even add sliced vegetables if you want. Mix the ingredients in a bowl, roll into balls and chill in the refrigerator for half an hour. Cover in crackers or bread crumbs, and serve.

Giving your dog or cat the occasional pet treat doesn’t have to break the bank. You can make your own pet treats at home that are safe and healthy, and will make your dog or cat love you even more.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Tina_Rencelj

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Keep your pup happy this holiday season with these gifts.

Healthy treats for dogs
Although we may try to watch our waistline at the holidays, it’s also important to make sure we’re not handing out too many treats to our four-legged friends. To keep your dog from adding empty calories, try to offer only treats made from 100 percent natural ingredients. Three Dog Bakery makes dog biscuits from peanut butter, apples and oats that are both tasty and nutritious for your pet. Visit www.threedog.com for locations or to shop online.

Canine-friendly cleansers
If you’re planning to host family and friends during the holidays, a bath might be in order for your pup. Why not use a new organic shampoo to keep his coat cuddle-ready? Both Kiehl’s and many pet specialty stores carry organic dog shampoo and conditioner, or you may want to ask for a referral from your vet. Using a gentle cleanser can help prevent your dog’s skin from getting too dry in winter weather.

Join the neighborhood light display
Show off your dog’s holiday spirit on your next evening walk with a new LED leash and collar. Not only will these illuminated accessories keep him safe and visible to cars, they can also be a festive fashion statement in red or white. Make Clark Griswold proud!

Not a creature was stirring…
Winter is also the perfect time to bring home a cozy new pet bed for your dog. Choose a soft fleece or cotton fiber lining that will breathe while your pet snoozes after a hard day of opening presents. When the festivities are over, and the wrapping paper and gift boxes have been sufficiently pounced upon, Fido will be happy to sink his paws into a plush new bed.

The holidays are an exciting time of year for both people and dogs. Remember that animals can be sensitive and may need some quiet time away from new guests, noise and additional stimulation. Allowing for sufficient down time will also give them the chance to dream about their new toys and gifts. Happy Howlidays!

Photo credit: iStockphoto/cmannphoto

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Follow these steps to ensure that your kitten feels at ease in her new home.

There’s nothing quite like the affection and joy you’ll receive from a lovable new kitten. Whether you’ve taken a long time to decide which furry friend to adopt, or received a kitten as a gift, you should have your camera ready to capture a flurry of feline antics! Bringing your kitten to the vet for a checkup is also a good idea within its first week under your care, so be sure to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

Before she arrives, stock up on food, toys, a litter box, grooming tools, a collar with ID tag and a crate with a bed that includes a warm blanket or towel so your kitten can start getting comfortable right away.

By now you may feel prepared to welcome home a new kitten…but is your apartment ready? Here are a few tips to help your kitten (and your furniture) get through the transition unscathed.

Prior to Arrival: Kitten-Proofing 101

Before your kitten arrives, be sure to remove any items she might chew or swallow. Paper towels, tissues, paper clips or pencils lying around may pose choking hazards. Tape exposed wires or electrical cords to baseboards and put caps on outlets. Remove household plants that might be toxic to pets and put away cleaning products, medications and any food that can be easily opened.

In the laundry room, remember to keep washer and dryer doors closed, as a kitten may climb into a warm dryer for a nap.

Save your furniture and curtains from your kitten’s claws by providing a sturdy, rough-textured scratching post—at least three feet high—to allow her to stretch completely while scratching.

Privacy Please

Without littermates or a mother nearby for comfort, your kitten needs to feel secure as well as warm. Choose a low-traffic room that children and other pets don’t frequent to become your kitten’s own area as she gets her bearings. Arrange her bed, food and water bowls, toys and litter box here.

Give her some time alone in her room to get comfortable before you come in to play. If you have other pets, it’s a good idea to keep your kitten separated for a few days and allow the other animals in the house to become familiar with her sounds and scent.

Many people may want to hold and play with your new kitten, but it’s important to limit handling for the first few days while she adjusts. Introduce one family member at a time, allowing the kitten to come to each person gradually.

The Grand Tour

After you’ve kitten-proofed and your new pet seems at peace in her own space, introduce her to the rest of your apartment one room at a time. Place the open carrier in whichever room you are introducing her to so she has a retreat available, and let her explore while you sit quietly.

A Little Routine Goes a Long Way

Give your kitten a little structure to start out with. For the first few weeks, provide her with a consistent brand of food and litter, and stick to a regular feeding schedule. Later on, if you wish to switch to different products, try to make a slow transition.

The Scoop on Litter

Litter training is relatively easy since cats instinctively bury their waste, but a little patience helps. Place the litter box in a corner or other sheltered spot. After your kitten wakes from a nap, or shortly after eating, place her in the box. If she doesn’t dig or scratch, gently hold one of her front paws and simulate digging with it. Praise her if she uses the box, but never punish her if she doesn’t. She may need to be placed in the box every couple hours until she gets the hang of it.

Should I Stay or Should I Go?

Leaving your new kitten alone may be difficult after you’re treated to a few hours of cuddling and purring. But when you’re away, be sure to secure the kitten in one room with a bed, litter box, scratching post, food and water. If you’ll be gone until evening, add a nightlight.

Turn on a radio with soft music and make sure to have enough safe toys nearby to keep Kitty’s attention focused on playing instead of tackling the furniture. If you are away for the majority of the day, remember to spend extra time petting and playing with your kitten when you return!

A new kitten will depend entirely on you to ease the transition from mother’s side to an unfamiliar new place. With a little planning and a lot of love, you and your kitten will enjoy a purr-fectly happy relationship!

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Xseon

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Our list of the top five apps for pet owners will keep your four-legged friends connected to the future of the pet set.

There’s a smartphone application for just about everything these days. Your collection of apps might help you keep up with the latest weather forecast, plan a trip or find a discount on your favorite local restaurant. But pet owners should know that many helpful apps also exist for keeping tabs on your tabby or for profiling your pooch.

Our list of the top five apps for pet owners will keep your four-legged friends connected to the future of the pet set.

For the iPhone

Dog Park Finder Plus – Tech Wanderings ($1.99)

Whether you and your dog are settling into a new neighborhood or just enjoying a “best friends” vacation, Dog Park Finder Plus from DogGoes.com can help you quickly and easily find the nearest dog-friendly spots. For only $1.99, you’ll have access to over 6,000 dog parks, dog-friendly beaches and 12,000 dog friendly restaurants (North American version only). DogGoes.com has compiled over four years of editorial research including user photos and reviews, and the app also provides site details for humans like location markers, restrooms and hours of operation. A free version is available with less information.

Pet Dossier – Yep Yup ($1.99)

Pet Dossier will work for your dog, but its creators at Yep Yup agree that other pets should be “app”-reciated, too! This digital organizer will keep profiles for your dog, cat, bird, fish or other animals. Build a profile to keep track of your pet’s history, medications and appointments. You will also be able to email the information directly to your pet’s caregivers, and have the flexibility to edit your notes and add new fields. This app is also known as “the pet app that gives back” because 25 percent of the sale price supports ASPCA.

Pet First Aid – Jive Media ($3.99)

One of the top-rated apps on our list is the Pet First Aid app from Jive Media. Although a bit pricier at $3.99, it will allow you to be prepared for a pet medical emergency at any time. And who can put a price on your precious pet’s health?

Pet First Aid provides users with detailed articles, videos and step-by-step illustrations to help you care for your pet in case of poisoning, bleeding, drowning, fractures and sprains, heat or cold injuries and disaster preparedness. It even gives instructions for proper bandaging, rescue breathing and pet CPR. You can also record your pet’s veterinarian contact info and medical history of vaccinations, medications and medical conditions.

For Android

Pets Next Door: Dogs, Cats, and More – Animal Compass Org

Does your cat have her own Facebook page? Does your bird actually “Tweet” instead of chirp? Now pets have a dedicated social app all their own! Pets Next Door is a social app for your pet, which allows you to share your pet’s stories and posts with others. Make a profile of your pet and share it with your friends, family or other plugged-in pet owners. Trade pet stories and photos in your neighborhood or around the world. This app is free.

Petometer – Triad Retail Media

Perhaps Fluffy the French poodle is looking, well, a little too fluffy. The free Petometer app from Purina is the answer for pets who need to shed a few ounces of extra treats—and it helps pet owners stay in shape, too! First, enter your pet’s information into the app (you can even add a photo), and then go for a walk together. Track your walk time, distance and route with the Petometer and sync a map of your walk with Google Maps or share your time on Facebook. You can even view a history of your walks, set reminders of when to take your dog out again and view a list of recommended exercises for your dog.

With a few simple downloads, you and your pets will be ready to unlock the convenience and fun just waiting in these apps.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Fertnig

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If you’re looking for pet groups in San Diego, check out our guide.

If you are a pet lover who has recently moved to San Diego, it can be tough finding like-minded folks to share your passion for pets with. That’s why we have put together this handy dandy guide for San Diego pet lovers.

For all you San Diego dog lovers, check out Meetup.com, where several dog groups have already formed.

San Diego Off-Leash Meetup (www.meetup.com/San-Diego-Off-Leash-Meetup/)

This group is for those who enjoy getting together with other pet owners for off-leash dog recreation in the San Diego area. Gather to discuss this growing trend with other dog owners and bring your dogs!

Dog Play Groups (http://dog-play-groups.meetup.com/cities/us/ca/san_diego/)

This Meetup listing contains several different types of meetings for dog lovers, including groups for poodles and small breeds, as well as a group for twenty- and thirty-something dog owners. Whatever your dog’s breed, you’re sure to find a group just for you. There’s even a group devoted to owners of deaf dogs!

And if your love of pets extends to the kind with scales rather than fur, there are also several groups devoted to reptiles, turtles and snakes.

San Diego Herpetological Society (www.sdherpsociety.org).

This group co-sponsors a Reptile, Amphibian and Bug Club for owners of these types of pets and researchers. There are dues for this organization. Check the website for details.

San Diego Turtle and Tortoise Society (http://sdturtle.org/) is devoted to helping turtles, tortoises and their owners. The group hosts monthly meetings that are open to the public, and offers care tips, turtle adoptions and rescue information. Memberships start at $25 per year.

Still can’t find the right club for you? Then start your own. Join Meetup.com, check out Facebook or other social media sites or just put an ad in the paper. You never know who or what you’ll find! The right group for you and your pet could be just a click or phone call away!

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Fenne

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There are a lot of things to consider when choosing a veterinarian for your pet.

Finding the right veterinarian for you and your pet can be a difficult task. You want to find a courteous, knowledgeable professional that fits your budget. Read on to find our tips on how to find a veterinarian that is right for you and your furry friend.

Tap your network. Ask your friends, family members, coworkers, neighbors, and other pet owners you know who they recommend.

Consider your pet’s needs. If you have a ferret or a reptile, look for vets who specialize in those animals.

Check the web. The Internet can be a useful tool in your vet search. The following websites are a great place to start:

• www.localvets.com – This is a directory of over 20,000 veterinarians and animal hospitals all over the country. Search by zip code and even get discounts on services.
• www.vetstreet.com – This site not only lets you search for vets by zip code, but offers lots of helpful articles on pet care.
• www.aspca.org – The official website of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has tons of helpful resources on veterinarians and pet care.
• www.avma.org – The American Veterinary Medicine Association has many useful tips on finding a veterinarian and animal care.

Professional Organizations. Is the vet you’re looking into a member of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)? AAHA membership means that they have voluntarily pursued and met AAHA’s standards in the areas of facility, equipment, and quality care.

Are they a specialist? Ask the vet about board certification. This means he or she has studied an additional two to four years in the specialty area and passed a rigorous exam.

Schedule a visit. Once you have narrowed down your search, schedule a meeting with them without your pet. No reputable vet will have a problem with this. Look them over carefully. Are their facilities clean? Is their staff courteous and caring? Do they keep the dogs and cats caged in separate rooms?

Consider your wallet. Do the vet’s fees fit your budget? Is it within easy driving distance from your home or work? Does the vet make house calls if necessary?

There are a lot of things to consider when choosing a vet. You want a professional who truly cares about your and your pet, at a price that won’t break the bank. But if you follow this checklist, you’ll find a great veterinarian for your best friend in no time.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/spxChrome

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Yes, many pets can be shipped professionally as precious cargo. (Though not in boxes, of course!)

Though it might seem unlikely, many pet breeds can, in fact, be shipped professionally as precious cargo.  While safety in shipping your beloved pet might be your primary concern, sometimes it is the easiest and most humane way to transport your pet to a new home.

Start your apartment search today!

Check out these tips to learn about pet shipping.

Find a pet shipping company
For a pet shipping service, you might visit the website of the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA). The IPATA site lists pet shipping services that follow the regulations of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal Welfare Act. You might also ask your veterinarian for a recommendation.

Papers, please
Before the shipping process begins, make sure that your pet’s health papers are in order. Shippers may require you to obtain a health certificate from your vet within a certain timeframe of the travel date. Also, as some states have regulations about vaccination protection an animal must have in order to cross the border, make sure you know the rules of the state to which you are moving.

Pick the right travel kennel
The shipping company you use will have detailed rules about what type of kennel transport to use. Read the rules carefully, and follow them exactly.

Here are some examples of common standards for travel kennels:

• No wheels
• Non-collapsible
• Hard plastic with side ventilation holes
• Large enough for the pet to stand up and turn around with two inches of clearance above the head

Don’t sedate your pet
Even if your pet is a nervous traveler, never sedate your pet before shipping him or her. The results can be unpredictable and sometimes fatal. Instead, get your pet used to the shipping kennel. This will make it less of a shock on moving day when your pet is loaded into the kennel space for the trip.

Pack toys separately
Many pet shipping companies have strict rules about items allowed in the kennel with a pet during travel. Even though you think it would be nice for Fido to have a chew toy or bone mid-flight, a treat might pose a safety hazard. Be sure to check with your pet shipping service for a complete list of what is allowed inside the shipping kennel.

Pick the right time to move
For safety reasons, airlines will refuse to fly your pet if conditions are too hot or too cold. If possible, plan your move for a time of year when the climate is not extreme.

Realize that, even though the shipping process is a foreign experience for pets, it will also be a temporary one. You will soon be reunited with your loved one, safe and sound in your new home!

Photo Credit: Shutterstock / WilleeCole

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Have a small pool so your dog can keep cool this summer.

Summertime means lots of time spent in the sun, whether it is visits to the beach, swimming in the pool or even free concerts in the park. Whatever the reason may be for going outside this summer, be sure to keep yourself and your family cool. And don’t forget about your four-legged friend. Just like humans, dogs and puppies are susceptible to heatstroke, and some breeds are at a higher risk than others, including bulldogs, pugs and boxers. So, if you plan on leaving your apartment this summer with Fido, here are a few tips to keep your puppy cool this summer.

Water – lots of it. Whether you’re taking a long hike or just a quick stroll around your community, bring along a water bowl. There are several options, including a collapsible fabric water bowl ($8) and a water dispenser ($13). If you’re just playing with Fido outdoors, keep the water bowl in a shaded area, if possible, and be sure to frequently change out the water with fresh water.

Fresh drinking water will help, as well as pools or tubs with a shallow layer of water. Purchase a small plastic kiddie pool and fill it with water so your dog can jump in and out and splash around in the water to keep cool. Just like the drinking water, keep the tub or pool in a shaded spot, and change the water frequently.

Provide a shade. Just like humans, dogs can get sunburned, too. Sunscreen is available for dogs, but it is not ideal. An insulated dog house may not be ideal in an apartment community, but consider an open-air tent or canopy. This will provide shelter from the sun, and if possible, add a fan, which will help further cool your dog down.

Trim their coats. For dog breeds with longer hair, get them a shorter haircut to last through the summer.

Try a cooling dog bed. After running around, Fido may get tired and will need a place to lay down. A dog bed is comfortable, but it may also be too hot in the sun. Try a cooling dog bed ($45-60), which is soft and comfortable, as well as cool.

Avoid leaving Fido in the car. Even if it doesn’t seem too hot outside, the temperature inside the car can rise to dangerous levels. Avoid leaving your dog in the car, even if you’re doing a quick run into the store. If you must leave the dog in the car, have another person sit in the car with it running and the air conditioning on.

Watch out for potential hazards at public events. Although some events are great for dogs to go out and socialize with other four-legged friends, some large outdoor festivals can be overwhelming and can increase the chance of injury, dehydration and exhaustion. If you do take your dog to an event, be cautious of the food scraps and trash on the ground, and remember to bring lots of water.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/USGirl

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