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Almost all dog owners understand the struggle of taking a picture of your pet. From dogs who are seen just as a blur on camera, to lack of eye contact, there are many things to take into consideration when hosting a photoshoot for your dog. Here are some key tips to get the perfect shot:
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Big, brown eyes. They stare at you deeply, seemingly into your soul, as you chow down on the sandwich you just painstakingly crafted. You look away quickly. You try to distract yourself, focusing instead on watching the TV in front of you but your eyes seem to be drawn to theirs like a magnet. They inch closer, knowing they have you right where they want you, never breaking eye contact. And finally, you break. “Alright!” you say, giving them a scrap of bread and some turkey which they quickly gulp down, their tail wagging as they know they have won yet again.
This instance has likely happened to all dog owners since the dawn of time. The only problem is that sometimes ‘people food’, isn’t necessarily the best for Fido. Most people know they should never give their pup food such as grapes, chocolate, and gum as they all put dogs at a health risk. However, there are certain foods that have multiple health benefits for dogs. So, the next time you break down and give your dog scraps, make sure they’re these top ten foods:
Carrots: Low in calories and high in various vitamins, carrots have wonderful health health benefits especially helping with sight. If your dog is a chewer, then they’ll love carrots due to their texture and crunch.
Salmon : Dogs benefit from cooked salmon just as humans do due to the omega 3 fatty acids. Salmon has also been known to improve dogs’ coats.
Eggs (cooked): While many claim cooked eggs help dogs with nausea, this has not been proven. However, cooked eggs have multiple benefits such as having high protein levels and high levels of good fats.
Green Beans: Green beans are low calorie and high in a variety of vitamins. It is important though to make sure there is no added salt and the vegetables are fresh.
Chicken: Chicken is a great source of protein for your pup. However, it is necessary to make sure there are no bones still on the chicken and that it is not seasoned.
Beef: Again, beef provides a great source of protein. Again it is neccessary to ensure there are no bones or spices.
Bananas: This is another food many claim prevents nausea in dogs, though this has never been proven. Bananas however are high in vitamins and most dogs go crazy for them.
Blueberries: Blueberries are high in Vitamin C and help protect bones.
Oatmeal: A great source of fiber for dogs, but make sure there is not too much added sugar.
Plain yogurt: High in protein and calcium, yogurt is a great food for dogs. Again, watch the sugar count and artificial sweeteners.
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//Most students would be lying if they said they have never thought of sneaking a dog (or four) into their dorm rooms. While these intrusive thoughts could be the culmination of missing your own pet, having too many adorable pups pop up on the insta feed, or not being able to get that cute dog you saw on campus out of your head, getting a dog while in college is a huge commitment. So before you make a mad dash to the pet store or animal shelter, here are five questions you need to have answered before you commit to a new addition.
Nobody likes talking about money but the cost of a dog is hard to swing for many who are in the midst of their ‘broke college student’ years. The ASPCA estimates that depending upon the size of your furry friend, the annual cost of a dog can vary from $700-$1,000, excluding an initial cost which includes medical expenses and training courses that ranges from $400-575. Additionally, it is necessary to set aside a ‘just-in-case’ fund. If a medical emergency arises it is necessary to plan for the cost of your pup’s care.
All dogs, but especially puppies, require a huge time commitment. Once you factor in time for walks, bathroom breaks, grooming, check-ups, feedings, and play—in addition to a heavy work or course load— many people might accidentally stretch themselves too thin. It is necessary to think about who might be able to aid you in taking out a dog between classes or work as well as overall lend a helping hand.
While this varies due to the breed and size of your pup, figuring out spacing is still important before getting a dog. If your space is shared, gaining you roommate’s consent is essential before moving forward. Make sure everyone’s space is respected: both your roommate and a potential new dog’s. It’s not fair to them if your apartment or dorm is too small, so it is necessary to plan accordingly.
The responsibility of owning a dog, especially in college, is a lot to take in. It’s hard enough taking care of yourself for the first time on your own, let alone another. Staying up-to-date on vet appointments, obedience training, schedules, and their happiness is all necessary when getting a dog. It is a commitment that is to last for their lifetime, not just for however long you are in school for.
Lastly but most importantly check the regulations and rules regarding pet ownership for wherever you are living. For dorms there might be restrictions on size while for apartments there might be an additional fee for pet ownership. Make sure to do your research!
