Spring is a time for celebration - no doubt it’s one of the best times of year for individuals to enjoy a little bit of sunshine and warmth with their pets. However, your four-legged buddy may face many dangers during this season. As it is our duty to care for our dogs the best we can, New Pet Parent are on hand to present the three major risks to your furry friend this Spring. Spring Bulbs Much like your canine companion, you must be excited about playing in the grass or going on hikes in the sunshine! Spring is an excellent time to do so, however, some plants that bloom during this season can pose a significant risk to your pet. Several spring bulbs can be fatal, so you must avoid them at all costs, especially if your dog loves chewing or digging in gardens and parks. These plants include Daffodils, Tulips, Azaleas, Bluebells, Buttercups and more. Typical symptoms of upset after ingesting these plants include: ● An upset stomach ● Lethargy ● Irritation around the dog’s mouth ● Difficulty breathing. Please, if your dog ingests any of the above, contact your vet immediately for advice! Chocolate Everyone loves chocolate, and what a lovely treat it is after a hard days activity to just relax with your favourite chocolate bar, especially with some still left at home after Easter. As pet parents, most of us have a tendency is to share some of our food with our wonderfully loyal four legged buddies, how can you resist those “Puppy Eyes” peering up at you, seeking a piece of your favourite Chocolate bar. However, whilst chocolate sweets and chocolate bars are all delicious and fun, they can be a significant hazard to dogs, and can make them really ill. With chocolate bars and similar treats lie around your home all of the time and therefore it is of the utmost importance that you keep your dog safe and keep that chocolate out of your dogs reach at all times. You may be wondering why something so delicious is a threat to your pet? The answer is theobromine. This chemical can cause tremors, diarrhoea, vomiting, seizures, and death. Darker chocolate contains more theobromine and is, therefore, more poisonous. But even white chocolate can pose a potential risk to your dog. The fats in this type of chocolate can cause pancreatitis. Here are some tips to protect your dog: Keep chocolate out of reach of your dog. Beware of chocolate foil wrappers lying on the floor. Whilst these won’t give your dog chocolate poisoning, they can cause an obstruction in your dog’s gut that could require surgery. This last one may sound obvious, but don’t give in to those big puppy eyes! You should never feed your dog any chocolate. Other Seasonal Foods This time of year we indulge in various sweet treats. Whilst our dogs will be curious about the food we are eating, for the sake of their health we must also avoid feeding them dried fruits. Present in many springtime snacks, including the delicious hot cross buns, raisins, currants and sultanas can cause fatal kidney failure. Symptoms of acute kidney failure include: Vomiting Lethargy Lack of appetite Increased thirst Change in urination pattern (much less than normal) Acute renal failure can develop within 24 hr post poisoning and symptoms can develop within 5 days after your dog has ingested them. For this reason, it is important to keep an eye on your dog at all times and keep your favourite foods out of their reach. Above are some of the dangers to look out for and to protect your furry friend this Spring. Whilst prevention is always best, the curious nature of our pets means they may find their way into an easter egg or two; if this is the case you must seek veterinary attention right away. For any further information on keeping your dog safe and healthy, visit the New Pet Parent website today!

From the early days of welcoming a dog into your life, you and your family must be clear and consistent in what their training should be. For this reason, New Pet Parent are on hand to give you some tips for training your four-legged buddy. Following are two of the most important aspects to consider while training your dog; Toilet Training Help them to decide where their toilet is; Whilst your dog adjusts to its new routine it is essential for you to be very patient and consistent, it takes time. The breeder or rescue centre you acquired your dog from will be able to detail where your pet is used to going to the toilet - typically, this will include grass, gravel, cement, on paper or puppy pee mats. If the latter, and once fully vaccinated, they can be transitioned to a specific area in your garden where you would prefer them to be. Encourage them by using the natural toilet breaks( when they wake up, after playing, after eating) to take them to the chosen toilet area, and reward them when they go potty. With time they will learn, and they will go on their own. 2. Signs they need to go. Restlessness, lowered body posture, squatting, going to the door and sniffing the ground, crying, are all indications your dog may need to go to the toilet. If you notice any of these behaviours, swiftly and calmly take them to your desired toilet destination. 3. Establish a routine To prevent accidents and establish a routine in the long term, encourage your dog to go first thing in the morning, lunchtime, after naps, after prolonged activity and before bedtime. Obedience Show them their incentive Treats and toys work best as an incentive for your dog to comply with their obedience training. Rewarding your dog encourages good behaviour and strengthens your relationship - an important part of training your puppy or adult dog. Gradually increase distance As they perfect coming back to you, be sure to award praise your dog and then increase the distance between yourself and them. This will encourage them to return to you from afar. Start in a fenced area where there is no risk for your dog to run away, and once recall is mastered, this means they can be trusted to return to you! New Pet Parent’s Additional Tips Patience, calmness and consistency are key when training a pet. Whilst reward-based training works best, the following are more training tips from New Pet Parent. Choose their name wisely: Although more suited to puppies, choosing a name for your dog can make a world of difference to your training efforts. Some names are easier for dogs to hear, making training them easier - opt for a strong, short name that you can emphasise. Only use positive reinforcement: Praise your pup with a tasty treat to keep them engaged and interested throughout your training session. You should never punish your dog for their disobedience or misunderstanding; this will not resonate with them as part of training and will only make them afraid of you. Keep sessions short and sweet: Training is most effective when kept to one behaviour at a time, in short sessions of five to ten minutes. Be sure to reward your dog for their learnings throughout and finish their training with a fun game! Remove distractions: A calm space free of distractions is imperative for training your pet; otherwise, they will become overwhelmed, overstimulated and confused with what you are asking of them - ultimately contradicting all of your efforts to teach them. Recalling: When calling your dog to be put back on the lead, be sure to reward them - otherwise, they will make the association and become reluctant to come back to you. Products from New Pet Parent The ‘New Pet Parent Book: Dog Edition’ is an educational guide rich in all things necessary for pet parents to give their furry companion the best care. From detail on nutrition and exercise to advice on obedience, this book is second to none when training your dog. Additionally available from New Pet Parent is a range of delicious Superfood and accompanying treats! Your pets can enjoy a delightful range of flavours. Our range of treats and foods can be awarded to your dog for their obedience and compliance in your efforts to train them. The New Pet Parent website is rich in Superfood, Wellness Products, Accessories and Educational posts for dogs and their owners. Each product can assist owners on their journey to training their dogs to be perfectly obedient. Be sure to shop our exciting range today!

Whilst thoroughly inspecting and brushing your pet's teeth is not always the easiest task, it remains one that is imperative to their health and overall wellbeing. Hidden within your pet's mouth can be an extensive range of insights and indications about their health; therefore, it is important to check it regularly and clean thoroughly. As February is Pet Dental Hygiene month, New Pet Parent are on hand to guide you in caring for your pets oral health! What is Pet Dental Health Month? Much like humans, pets can suffer from a broad spectrum of oral problems - and the condition of their mouths can significantly impact their overall health and wellbeing. From bad breath to gum disease, dental care for cats and dogs is an equally important part of pet ownership - for this reason, regular inspection and consistent care are encouraged. National Pet Dental Health Month is been created to educate owners on the importance of their pets' Oral Health. Additionally, following are New Pet Parent's health care tips. New Pet Parent's Dental Hygiene Tips A Balanced Diet and Dental Chews: Whilst the mouth has its self-cleaning system, its efficiency can be aided by the consumption of a balanced diet and some biscuits/chews designed to assist in oral hygiene. Brush Their Teeth: A soft toothbrush and paste specially formulated for pets can be used to brush their teeth. You should enquire with a veterinary professional to ensure you are brushing effectively and should never use toothpaste for humans, as these can be considered toxic to animals due to the high fluoride and xylitol content. Regular Check-ups: Just like us, our pets should have regular veterinary check-ups with their vet to monitor and care for their health - particularly if they are older. If their oral health is currently suffering, they may require a professional veterinary dental treatment - in addition to ongoing plaque control. New Pet Parent's Collection Of Dental Hygiene Products Dog Dental Paste: When using this product, be sure to gradually introduce it to your pet and reward them for their cooperation. For daily use through a cycle of at least three weeks, the dog toothpaste should be applied to the teeth and gums and then brushed with a toothbrush or specifically designed finger toothbrush for a minute. This product does not require rinsing, and cycles vary depending on veterinary advice. Dog Finger Toothbrush: Perfectly accompanying the Dental Paste for Dogs from New Pet Parent, the Dog soft silicone Finger Toothbrush enables swift and minimally invasive brushing of the mouth of your pet; to reduce plaque tartar build-up and to prevent any oral diseases that will compromise their health. The Wellness Bundle: Equipped with the highly sought after Dental Paste and Finger Toothbrush for dogs, 'The Wellness Bundle' from New Pet Parent additionally includes Cleansing Shampoo, Omega Care tablets and Joint Care supplements - to encourage the optimum health and wellbeing of your furry friend. The oral health of our animals is just as important as other aspects of their physical wellbeing; therefore, dental hygiene should be a priority for pet owners! As a leading provider of Superfood for dogs, New Pet Parent are proud to additionally offer an extensive range of Wellness Products, Accessories and Educational Posts to assist owners in the caring of their beloved pets. This Pet Dental Health Month, be sure to browse our collection!

As a dog owner, you know the desire to keep your furry friend around thriving in health and wagging their tail for many years to come. Small changes to your lifestyle and daily routines can contribute significantly to avoid future health issues and improve the well-being of both yourself and your dog. From exciting activities to dietary swaps, New Pet Parent is on hand to detail how you can be healthy with your dog! Healthy Eating Much like humans, the food consumed by a dog can directly impact their health and well-being. From the shininess of their coat to a more severe impact on their energy levels, as a responsible and devoted pet owner, it is important to feed your dog the best quality food you can afford. As we like to say at New Pet Parent, your best friend deserves the best meal! For this reason, we are proud to stock an exciting, nutritionally rich range of affordable dog foods ready to be enjoyed by your puppy or adult dog. With superfoods and snack flavours, including scrumptious Salmon to delicious Duck, the quality ingredients inside are second to none! Activities For You And Your Dog In addition to strengthening your bond and motivating you to make the most of your workout, taking your dog along with you for exercise is another way to ensure the health of you both. Whilst simultaneously preventing them from wreaking havoc on your home furniture out of boredom. Activities exceeding playing fetch include: Running: Did you know that most breeds can reach top speeds of 19 miles an hour? Depending on your dog breed and your degree of athleticism, taking your furry friend with you on your daily jog is an excellent way for you both to exercise! Swimming: Although only accessible to those with a dog-friendly body of water nearby, swimming is a fun and exciting way to exercise with your pet! If you decide to take your dog swimming, it is imperative that you never throw them into the water! Let them explore first and make the decision if they want to take a dip, and if they do, keep a close eye on them as they may tire quickly, and never go in too deeply. Walking: As a general rule, dogs should be walked between 2-4 times a day for a minimum of 15 minutes. Whilst this is a necessity of dog ownership, walking is an excellent way for humans to increase their heart rate, stretch their legs and get some fresh air! Supplements Much like the human body, your dog's health can benefit significantly from high-quality supplements rich in nutrition they may not otherwise consume adequate amounts of. Each morning when you take your multivitamin, be sure to share the experience with your pet - with some veterinary recommended dog supplements suitable for their age and lifestyle. Additional ways to maintain health as a responsible dog owner Take your dog to the vet for regular checkups to ensure they are in good health Take out pet insurance Check your dog for fleas and ticks and use prophylactic products to prevent they get an infestation. Practice dental care to avoid health problems as a consequence of built-up plaque and tartar Leading a healthy life with your dog by your side has never been easier. New Pet Parent's online store is abundant in delicious doggy superfoods, tasty snacks and top of the range accessories! To view our products or for the latest in dog health and well-being, be sure to visit the website today!

Christmas is the time to have fun, indulge and celebrate festivities with family and friends - as part of the family, our dogs will of course be enjoying the action too! Despite the enjoyment of festive celebrations, from lavish food displays to stunning decorations, Christmas poses a world of hidden dangers when it comes to our dogs. To ensure your dog remains safe this Christmas, New Pet Parent are on hand to advise you of the dangers and how to keep your dog safe at Christmas. Harmful Foods and Beverages Christmas time means there are an abundance of exciting and tasty treats throughout the home. Although you want to spread the cheer your favourite festive snacks bring, it is vital that you recognise the foods that are poisonous to dogs in order to keep them safe. The following foods are HARMFUL and should NOT be give to your dog: Alcohol Chocolate Christmas Puddings and Mince Pies Grapes Dried Vine Fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas) Macadamia nuts Any Fatty Foods Onions Garlic Leeks Bones, from your meat of choice Xilitol (sweetener) The following foods are OKAY to feed to your dog (in moderation); Turkey Meat, with no skin or bones (only a small quantity to avoid digestive upsets) Lamb Meat, with no bones (only a small quantity to avoid digestive upsets) Salmon (fillets or cooked in spring water, as opposed to smoked) Green Beans Parsnips Carrots Brussel Sprouts Peas Mash Potato, without additional butter. New Potatoes Sweet Potatoes * Although considerably more healthy to be consumed by your dog, you should remain careful not to overfeed your pet the following foods, as too much of an unfamiliar food can still cause your pet to have an upset stomach and feel unwell. Festive Celebrations with Family and Friends Upon inviting guests into your home for Christmas celebrations, be sure to make them aware of your dog and introduce them. Your pet may become overwhelmed with an abundance of unusual scents and faces. Upon your guests arrival, put your dog into a different room. Once your dog and party guests are settled, allow your pet to go out and meet them. More so, dog owners should advise their guests that overindulgence in unfamiliar Christmas foods can make their dog considerably unwell. For this reason, they should refrain from feeding your dog at all. If they simply must spoil your dog, advise them of the above foods safe to give. Additional Precautions Decorative Greenery: From Holly and Mistletoe to Christmas trees themselves, the decorative trees, plants and berries we display throughout our homes can harm our pets. Whilst these decorations vary in toxicity to dogs; each can cause internal damage. Silica Gel: Silica Gel is present in the packaging of gifts we intend to put under the tree. Upon wrapping, these sachets can be misplaced, later found by your pet - something that can be harmful if ingested. Candles: Candles are considered to be of mild toxicity if ingested by pets, although their potential as a fire hazard remains. At all times, candles should be placed out of reach of pets and away from areas they have the potential to fall from. Christmas Crackers: Similar to fireworks, the loud bang of pulling Christmas Crackers can cause distress to dogs. Before sitting down for your Christmas dinner, it is best to put your furry friend in the next room. Tree Decorations: Be careful of hanging edible decorations from your tree. If this is a tradition that cannot be compromised, be sure only to allow your dog around the tree if supervised - this will prevent them from ingesting chocolate, a food that is toxic to them. New Pet Parent wishes you and your four-legged friends a very Merry Christmas! Taking the above safety precautions ensures you are doing your best to keep your pet safe and happy. To get them in on the festivities of the season, we are proud to stock an extensive range of products perfect and safe to give to your dog. For more information on keeping your furry friend safe and having an exciting Christmas, take a look at the other blog from New Pet Parent: How To Responsibly Buy Christmas Presents For Dogs - https://www.newpetparent.com/forum/educational-blogs/how-to-responsibly-buy-christmas-presents-for-dogs

Every year, man’s best friends are keen to participate in the parties and festivities of the season. To celebrate with them and ensure they too are having a ‘Holly-Jolly Christmas’, pet parents will often purchase themed gifts for their fluffy companions to enjoy on the big day. Amongst the chaos of Christmas, the last thing you want is to be concerned for your dog’s wellbeing, should they come over unwell as a consequence of consuming a poor quality toy or food item. For this reason, New Pet Parent are on hand to detail adoring dog owners everywhere how they can responsibly spoil their furry friend this Christmas - without compromising the wagging of their tails! What Makes A Good Present? Quality Toys: Whether they’re cuddly or perfect for you both to play with, durable dog toys of high quality will be set to last and considerably less hazardous. Dog Treats: Nothing says ‘Merry Christmas’ quite like a delicious display of food. Whilst you shouldn’t share your own food with your furry friend, you can still spoil them with treats. New Pet Parent is proud to stock premium treats that will make for the pawsome present for pups and adult dogs alike. Wellness Products: Nothing is worse than your pet being covered in mud from running amuck in the wetness of the garden. Treat them to cleanliness this year - afterall a clean dog is a well cuddled dog! From shampoos to caring supplements, the New Pet Parent Wellness Bundle has all required to make your dog sparkle like the star on top of the tree! What Presents Shall I Avoid? Foods: Although our households are abundant in advent chocolates, mince pies, gravy and the festive liquors of the season, it is strictly vital you do not feed these to your dog. Items such as chocolate and any products that contain raisins can be fatal for them. Additional consumable goods to avoid include cooked bones, garlic, tempting jerkys and fatty foods. Dress-up Costumes: Despite being utterly adorable and abundantly entertaining for the family, dressing your dog in funny costumes can be considerably uncomfortable and dangerous - especially when exposed to the naked flames placed about the property to make the celebration. Chewy Products: Cheap chewable products to avoid include anything that could splinter, become sharp or potentially a choking for your hazard. You should also avoid products that could damage the health of your dog's teeth. Veterinary Recommendations A Long Walk: Nothing makes your dinner go down quite like a long walk! Your dog will not understand the celebrations of the big day, but they will most certainly enjoy an outing with all of the family. A Big Bath: Although not their first choice of festive celebration, your dog will benefit from a big bath - it is Christmas time after all! New Pet Parent stock an exciting range of wellbeing and grooming products. A Charity Donation: Take advantage of your dog being oblivious to the meaning of Christmas time. Rather than purchasing them a potentially questionable gift, extend the Christmas cheer to an animal charity near you, with a donation on your dog's behalf. At New Pet Parent, we are proud to stock an extensive range of delicious treats and exciting accessories that would be the perfect christmas gift to place under the tree. Suitable for puppies and adults of all breeds, be sure to responsibly spoil your pet and shop our collection this Christmas! Make it a Christmas to remember with our guide to responsibly purchasing presents for your pup. For the pawfect present, there is no other than New Pet Parent. Each item within our range has been specifically designed and formulated to be adored by dogs everywhere - and could be yours at a discounted price! Use code ‘SANTAPAWS’ for 20% off site-wide until December 31st.

There is no joy like what a dog brings, from wagging their tails when they see you to licking your face and getting under your feet. They are members of your family, and their presence is not one you want to miss from your home prematurely. As a responsible dog owner, whether you have a small dog or a large one, the life of your pet is in your hands. New Pet Parent are on hand to detail the importance of feeding your dog the best quality food you can afford. The Importance of Quality Nutrition Puppies Upon leaving their mother, puppies will be deprived of the nutrients in their milk. To give your puppy the best start in life, they require a range of high-quality food formulations that will help them maximise their growth, strengthen their bones and immune systems, and set them up for life. Adults Soon after reaching sexual maturity, and depending on their breed, you will be classified as an adult dog. Like with us, the quality of their nutrition will directly affect their health and vitality, providing them with the energy they need to enjoy their life with you to the fullest. In Later Life Age-related changes to your dog begin to show between 7-12 years; these include their metabolic rate and body composition. It is very important to feed your senior dog an adequate diet for this life stage to maintain their lean weight and provide them with specific nutrients to support their specific needs. As you can see, nutrition is as crucial for dogs as it is for us in all their life stages. Ensuring you feed your furry companion a healthy and nutritionally balanced diet will positively impact their health and life span. A dog's quality of life is impacted by several factors, from the environment they live in to the possibility to exert their natural behaviours fully. Optimal nutrition is vital to provide them with the best possible health and the fuel to enjoy their life to the fullest, meaning they will be able to do more of what makes their tails wag! Life Expectancy Like humans, the quality of the food a dog consumes will determine its life expectancy. Foods rich in quality nutrients can strengthen bones, regulate metabolic rates, and have many other positive impacts on the body’s functioning, each contributing to a longer, healthier, and happier life. Food Allergies/Sensitivities/Intolerances As a general rule, low-cost dog foods usually reflect the low cost of their ingredients. Occasionally, when one particular ingredient is no longer available or its market price has substantially increased, the recipe formulation will vary as they need to keep their cost low. If your dog suffers from specific sensitivities, premium dog food will ensure a fixed recipe formulation with the same quality ingredients used at all times despite any ingredient market price changes or availability. New Pet Parent’s Superfood Contained in 2KG and 12KG zip locked bags to maintain their freshness, New Pet Parent’s Superfood is available in two delicious flavours for our furry friends. Cooked using the Freshtrusion(R) technique to preserve the protein quality, our food range includes single protein recipes with Duck or Salmon rich in all the nutrients your dog needs. Additionally, our unique blends of meat, fruits and vegetables contain no artificial colours or preservatives. Our FEDIAF approved Superfood blend contains 65% total meat content with 35% freshly prepared meat and a variety of 5 unique superfoods adding considerable nutritional value to dogs of all breeds and ages. Their activity level and weight will determine the amount you should feed your dog each day, and guidelines are detailed on our food packaging. Whether you have an adult dog or a puppy, the New Pet Parent Superfood is available in adult dog and puppy recipes that will meet your dog’s nutritional requirements no matter what stage of life they are in. Ingredients Benefits The New Pet Parent Superfood consists of unique ingredients, contributing to your dog’s health benefits and many more! 65% Total Protein Content (35% fresh): Responsibly sourced and rich in essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals to support everyday health and well-being. Superfood Blend: A blend of 5 carefully selected superfoods, each with its unique benefits. Joint Care Pack: To help support cartilage metabolism for healthy joints and helping to keep your dog active. Naturally Occurring Collagen: Found in freshly prepared ingredients, Collagen helps maintain healthy joints and skin for all life stages. If you wish for your dog to be by your side for many years to come, ensuring they consume the correct nutrition is paramount - this starts at an early age with their diet. Reputable nutritionists and experts have scientifically crafted New Pet Parent superfood to ensure you feed your pet all they need to live a long and healthy life. Available in various sizes and flavours, why not let your dog decide what is best for them? Shop yours today!

Bringing a puppy into your life is a truly precious experience, but it is also a commitment for life. When looking to bring a new pet into your home, it is of the utmost importance that you conduct research and consider all aspects of becoming a pet parent. Before making your decision you should ask yourself the following questions: Is a Dog Suited to Your Lifestyle? Despite the endless enjoyment a puppy brings, amongst an array of other crucial factors, it is important to appreciate that your little pet , although cute as a button, will grow into a dog in need of plentiful attention and care. Here at New Pet Parent, we ask you to carefully consider the following before welcoming a puppy to your life, for life! Their Environment Regardless of their breed, tiny puppies inevitably grow into larger dogs. You should have enough space for them to relax, exercise their natural behaviours such as playing and exercising - particularly if you intend to buy a larger breed! Their Cost In order to lead a healthy life, dogs should be fed a nutritious diet and cared for like any other family member. A dog will require an array of costly features including; health checks, vaccinations, Prophylactic Care (worming and flea treatments, etc), toys, grooming, a place to stay when you are on holiday and so on - in addition to their initial COST! As a responsible pet parent, you should be prepared for the unexpected veterinary costs of medical conditions and emergency treatments, and this requires factoring into your monthly bills. Here at the New Pet Parent, we strongly encourage you to purchase a pet insurance policy in order to help you protect your little one and your pocket! Should your furry friend become sick, you would want to avoid the heartbreaking situation of being unable to afford their vet bills. An owners responsibilities Dedicating yourself to a puppy is the responsibility of a lifetime. Much to many individuals' surprise, dogs do not clean up after themselves - these cute and cuddly pets must go to the bathroom and will inevitably shed their hair over your clean house! Before committing to welcoming a puppy into your life, you need to seriously consider if you will be able to provide him or her with adequate attention, care and all the exercise that they require - this is dependent on their breed. Are you choosing the right Breeder? An appalling amount of puppies and their parents are subject to exploitation in puppy farms and from third party dealers in order to turn a quick profit. These poor animals are suffering a clear violation of animal welfare standards in various countries, regrettably the UK is no exception. Although Lucy’s Law has helped to regulate this issue in the UK, we remain faced with the immense issue of puppy smuggling due to high demand, driven by lockdowns and social status. As a responsible prospective pet parent, you ought to seek out the following indications to learn if you are dealing with a suspicious breeder: The same contact number is listed on various puppy adverts on online shopping platforms. You should always meet the mother and her puppies in their home environment, not in a questionable space such as a car park. Not being invited to meet the puppies parents and siblings should raise immediate alarm bells - even if it is in a home environment. The puppies are not interacting with one another. The seller makes you feel uncomfortable when asking questions, they clearly just want your money. They claim the puppies have been vaccinated or microchipped, but have no documentation to prove so. The puppy has a passport, this means they have likely been imported. The puppies have cropped ears. This cruel and unnecessary mutilation is an illegal practice in the UK. The consequences of purchasing from an untrustworthy breeder are that you may be left with an incredibly sick and traumatised puppy. Although it is tempting to purchase the puppies to save them from the breeder and to take them to a loving home, you are simply making space for another litter and for more defenceless puppies to be subject to such treatment. Additionally, any reputable breeder will sign a puppy purchase contract and would be more than happy to answer all of the questions you may have. Carefully considering the above factors is a sure way to feel more prepared for the lifelong responsibility and commitment to a puppy. Here at New Pet Parent, we would like to ensure that you have all of the necessary information required before becoming a responsible pet parent and to help your puppy thrive. Products listed throughout the New Pet Parent website ensure the correct care and nutrition for your new furry friend. If you would like to learn more on how to care for your little one, additional guidance is available to those who purchase Dr Cristina’s highly renowned book ‘The New Pet Parent Book: A simple guide to help your dog thrive’.

When it comes to our furry friends, we want nothing but the best for them. However, it can be challenging to understand exactly what you’re feeding your pet when food labels are over complicated and occasionally misleading. Knowing what you feed your dog will help you better understand what exactly you are allowing them to eat; this can give peace of mind that you’re giving your dog nothing but the healthy food that they deserve. New Pet Parent are on hand to help you better understand food labels. The significance of understanding food labels Reading the label on your dog’s food will help you determine the quality of the food itself. In general, the food’s price reflects the concentration, quantity and quality of the ingredients that are used in that particular formulation. This highlights the importance of understanding what the label tells you to help you determine what is the best choice for your four-legged buddy depending on your budget. Unlike humans, your dog will likely eat the same food at every mealtime - therefore, it ought to be good! Careful and informed reading of your pets food labels can assist you in deciding if it is of good nutritional value for your pet. The food you choose will contribute massively to the well-being of your furry friend therefore we must always make sure that the food we feed our pets is nutritionally complete and balanced. By law, your dog food label must contain the following information*: Name and product description Composition Analytical constituents (information about nutrient levels) Additives Best before date, Batch code The name of the producer or the distributor and how to contact them for further information How to use the product (feeding instructions) Weight and/or quantity statement *(FEDIAF Code of Good Labelling for Pet Food) Being unclear on what exactly you are feeding your pet can be unsettling as we all want to make sure we feed our pets the best we can afford. Fortunately for all those adoring dog owners, New Pet Parent has developed an incredible and exceptionally nutritionally balanced superfood - finished with a clear and easy to read label that we are considerably proud of. What is inside the New Pet Parent Superfood? Our Superfood is enriched with all the nutrients necessary for your dog to thrive. We are proud to sell both puppy food and adult food that is FEDIAD approved and compact with balanced nutrients that are important for their health. Our Superfood is cooked using the Freshtrushion(™) method, helping to preserve the flavours, proteins and nutrients. Furthermore, New Pet Parent is proud to use all-natural ingredients and unique blends of fruits and vegetables - therefore, our recipe includes no preservative or artificial colourings. How our Superfood will benefit your dog Pet owners want their furry companion by their side for as long as possible. Without fully understanding the contents of the food you are feeding your dog, you could be unintentionally depriving them of the nutrients necessary for a long and healthy life. When feeding your dog New Pet Parent’s Superfood, you can rest assured they consume a nutritionally optimised and balanced blend. In addition to the range of exciting wellness products and accessories available from the website, New Pet Parent are proud to extend their Superfood to both puppy and adult dogs. The carefully included essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals of these pet food products are formulated to meet complete and balanced nutritional standards. Be sure to check out the New Pet Parent store today!

Dental Care is of great importance to your dog’s overall health. Like in humans, lack of dental hygiene will lead to gum disease and bad breath, unpleasant to say the least when your dog wants to lick you (AKA the kiss of death!). However, these are not the only issues how poor dental care can affect your dog. Dental disease is one of the most common diseases in dogs and affects up to 80% of dogs over three years of age. Gum disease in dogs is also a massive issue when it comes to dental hygiene in dogs. One of the most visible effects of poor dental hygiene is the formation of plaque, the sum-up of the build-up of food, bacteria and saliva. With time, this mixture solidifies turning into calculus (tartar), the brownie hard material that covers your dog’s teeth. These nasty bacteria don’t just remain in your dog’s teeth but can also travel via her/his bloodstream, usually ending up in your dog’s heart and potentially causing a serious infection called endocarditis that can be fatal for your dog. To prevent the development of calculus and plaque in the first place, you need to actively clean your dog’s teeth. The most effective method is by using toothpaste and a toothbrush (finger toothbrush or traditional shape) especially suitable for dogs. Although at first, it might seem mission impossible, don't give up! If possible, start brushing your teeth when your dog is still young. Besides maintaining good oral health, in this way, your dog will believe that it is a play and build the habit throughout their lifetime. You can introduce the concept of the doggy toothbrush to your dog by putting his or her favourite treat paste on it, and allow him or her to become customised to it. Once they are happy and confident with the presence of a toothbrush, you can start pressing the toothbrush gently onto their teeth and, with time, swap the paste treat for the toothpaste and voila’, you are there! Additionally, there are other methods available to help to keep your dog’s teeth clean such as a dental spray and doggy mouthwash. Please choose the method you find easier to use with your dog and let’s keep those pearlies clean at least once a week! Food is also key when it comes to keeping your dog’s mouth healthy too. As you know, nutrition is the staple of health, and a good quality diet will help to keep your dog's mouth healthy over its lifetime. Dry diets can be beneficial in helping to keep your dog’s teeth. By the mechanical action of chewing their biscuits, dry food can help to prevent the formation of tartar and bacterial plaque and contribute positively to your dog’s oral health. There are certain treats, called dental chews, that can also prove beneficial in keeping your dogs’ teeth clean. As with the dried food, the mechanical action of chewing will help to break down their tartar formation. However, do make sure these chews are chewed! If your dog does just swallow them, please use the brushing method, it never fails! Finally, certain toys made of natural rubber or nylon and designed to keep your dog’s teeth clean can also help this overall task. In addition to cleaning the teeth, these products massage the gums and can strengthen the gum line. As you can see, there are loads of methods to help you keep your dog’s teeth clean. Start slow and build it up over time, the key is perseverance. Make it a dental care routine and have fun with your dog!

I think we can all agree that going for a walk might just be the highlight of your dogs day. They get a chance to run wild and play with their owner. However, nature will not always be kind to dogs. Watch the video below to find out about blue-green algae and why you should avoid it at all times.

Summer is an amazing time of the year for most people. However, for dogs it can be a real struggle. Dogs do not cope nearly as well as humans in hot climates and can become extremely sick as a result. But fear not, watch the video below to find out how to make sure that your dog stays cool in the heat of the summer.

Every dog has it day! Yes, after a visit from the Dog Park is like sending your kid to school. On the play ground you have no idea of what they are getting themselves into or what they are catching from the other kids on the playground. Yes, the Dog Park is very much like a school yard's pay ground. Just like kids, dogs pass on ailments, fleas, ticks, worms, pink eyes and can even get hurt.. Did you know that once your dog gets fleas, you get fleas to. Your carpets will be a new home for the eggs. Setting your dog up to win by giving them the best care ever.. We love them so much and they love us more. By any means whatsoever is this YouTube Video meant to be a substitute for your vet. If you are concerned about your pet, please visit your trusted vet as soon as possible to get an appropriate diagnosis and treatment. As they say in Veterinary medicine, common things are common, but not everything that looks the same is the same! Your Host: Michael Habicht https://www.instagram.com/iiidesigns/https://www.instagram.com/healthypaws... My Guest: Dr. Christina Diaz-Madronero ~ Author of "The New Pet Parent Book" https://www.instagram.com/Drcristina....https://www.thenewpetparentbook.com Dr Nelva Bryant https://www.instagram.com/dr.nelva/

Dogs are cute, loyal and friendly. They can do many amazing things and learn tricks that can wow anyone. However, one thing they cant do is talk back to us. This means it is difficult for them to tell us when they are feeling unwell. Despite this, there is many signs they can give off to let us know when somethings not quite right. If you are worried about your dog being sick or would like to know how to spot when your dog is sick, simply watch the short video below to find out more.

Knowing if your dog has arthritis can be difficult for any pet owner. If you think your dog might have arthritis or if you want to know how to check for the future, read below to find out more. Osteoarthritis (OA), also known as degenerative joint disease (DJD), is a progressive and chronic condition that affects most dogs as they grow older. However, it can also occur at various ages depending on previous injuries, infections, type of breed, lifestyle and genetic makeup. Dog’s joints have three parts: bones, cartilage and synovial fluid. The bony parts of the joints are covered by a lining of cartilage that acts as a cushion and facilitates the smooth movement of the joints aided by the synovial fluid (lubricant). Due to daily wear and tear, the cartilage starts degenerating over time, leading to friction between the bony parts of the joint and causing inflammation and pain. With time, new bone formation occurs, making these joints thickened and less flexible, and restricting the range of movement and affecting the dog’s mobility as it hurts them when they move. Dogs are stoic creatures by nature. Generally, they tend to cope well with the first stages of OA. However as the latter becomes worse, it can affect their quality of life dramatically. Some of the most common symptoms of osteoarthritis are: Reluctance to run, play, climbs stairs. Slowing down when on a walk or stopping and wanting to go back home. Stiffness, joint swelling and muscle weakness. Occasional or permanent lameness. Discomfort/pain when raising after being asleep. Difficulty in finding a comfortable position when resting. Altered sleep patterns. Pain/heat in the affected joint/s. Consistent licking on the joint/s affected. Change in personality (grumpy when previously affectionate) If you are concerned that your dog is displaying some or all of these symptoms, please go to your vet for advice. Your Vet will perform a thorough clinical and orthopaedic examination and might suggest further tests to rule out other causes of pain and lameness. X-rays are the most common method to rule out the latter and diagnose OA. Although on occasions, more advanced imaging techniques such as CT, MRI etc., are necessary to reach this diagnosis. If your dog has been diagnosed with OA unfortunately, there is no cure. However, there are various treatments that (when used in combination) will help your dog to be able to better cope with this condition: Anti-inflammatories and painkillers: OA can cause severe pain when in the advanced stages, and some dogs will need long-term medication to help them maintain a good quality of life. Please discuss with your Vet a long-term management plan to monitor for possible side effects and manage this condition safely. Weight control: Often underestimated, optimal weight can slow down the progression and reduce the pain associated with OA. Exercise: Gentle and regular exercise tailored to each patient, can help to control your dog’s weight, keep them fit and reduce joint stiffness. Joint supplements: Glucosamine, chondroitin and green lip mussel have been clinically proven to protect the lining of the joint and help to slow down its progressive degeneration. There are a large variety of products in the markets of different qualities and strengths. Please do your research and ask your Vet for advice. Omega-3 fatty acids: Foods and supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids provide an additional natural anti-inflammatory action that is beneficial to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with this condition. Physio/ Hydrotherapy: These treatment modalities are very useful in preserving and building muscle mass and supporting the joints in the process. Surgery: This option is only considered in specific cases, and when all previous therapies have failed to improve the patient’s quality of life. Additionally, if your dog suffers from OA, there are a few things you can do at home to help them out. These will include regular short walks, using rugs, carpets or non-slip mats around your home to help their grip when they walk and using bedding made with a thick and supportive mattress that is kind to the joints. As we all know, a night of restful sleep does make one feel like a million dollars! For more information on this subject and lots of additional tips, please check www.caninearthritis.co.uk.

As we know, dogs have exceptional hearing in comparison to humans. Dogs can hear twice as many frequencies as humans and can hear up to 4 times further than the average human. Which is why it is so important to know when your dog has an ear infection. If you want to know if your dog has an ear infection or how to check for the future, then watch the short video below to find out more.

Summer! Such a lovely time of the year, but not for those who suffer from allergies! But what is an allergy exactly? Allergy, technically known as hypersensitivity, occurs when the immune system fails to recognise harmless substances, such as pollens and launches an attack to defend the body against them. These reactions can range from an immediate and acute response within minutes (hives), to delayed reactions observed within hours or days. Anaphylactic shock is the most critical of all. It is a real emergency and can be life-threatening. Fortunately, its incidence is low in our companion animals. The most usual sign observed in pets suffering from allergies is itchiness, technically known as pruritus. Other symptoms include skin inflammation and redness, ear disease and gastrointestinal problems amongst others. Pruritus can range from mild to severe, depending on the individual affected. These patients are especially susceptible to secondary skin infections, most commonly caused by bacteria, yeast and in some cases both, which do intensify the pruritus and can make their symptoms even worse. Environmental allergens are everywhere, and they vary in nature and concentration throughout the year. Some pets are sensitised to allergens that are typically found in higher concentrations during the winter, such as moulds or house dust mites, and they are ok during the summer. Some others tend to react to allergens typically present during the spring and summertime such as pollen, and are ok in the winter. Sadly, a large percentage of pets are sensitised to all of them and suffer from clinical signs all year round. Because of the latter, treatment to address the clinical signs can vary depending on if their presentation is seasonal or occurs continuously throughout the year. However, not all itchy pets have allergies, and it is essential to rule out other underlying conditions that can present in a similar way. The latter include fleas and other parasites, fungal disease, skin infections, food intolerance, etc. Once that your vet has performed various tests to rule out all of the latter, a presumptive diagnosis of underlying “allergies”, technically known as Atopic Dermatitis (AD) can be reached. Further testing in the form of blood tests or skin prick tests, can help to determine what are the allergens responsible for your pets’ clinical signs. This can be useful in deciding what type of treatment will be the most appropriate for your pet. The treatment chosen depends on the severity of the clinical symptoms, duration, age, lifestyle, home environment, etc. A multimodal treatment approach has been shown to be the most successful in treating AD and can include various therapies. These include anti-inflammatory drugs, immunotherapy, monoclonal antibody therapy, shampoo therapy, fatty acid supplementation and adequate antiparasitic control amongst others. Some cases are complex and will require referral to a veterinary dermatologist, to address other possible underlying issues contributing to the clinical signs, and establish the best treatment course for the affected individual. As you could see, allergy management can be complicated and will involve different approaches to treat this condition. Unfortunately, allergies cannot be cured but can be managed. Learning how to manage this condition long term can make a big difference to your pet’s quality of life. If you are concerned that your pet is suffering from allergic skin disease, please talk to your vet as soon as possible to discuss how best you can help your pet.

A process every puppy has to go through is changing losing and changing their teeth. This can be a painful and somewhat irritating time for puppies gums and teeth. This irritation can be greatly reduced with a few simple tips and tricks. If you want to find out how you can help your puppy, simply watch the short video below.