Mysterious origins to lofty thrones. We don’t know exactly where Pugs got their start, but it’s likely that these dogs originated in Eastern Asia, especially since they bear some resemblance to Pekingese. Pugs were bred in ancient China, and they could be found as pets in the Buddhist monasteries of Tibet. Eventually, Pugs made their way to Europe, where, over time, they climbed the English social ladder and ended up becoming the official dog of the House of Orange. As the story has it, a little Pug actually saved the life of William of Orange by alarming him to the approach of the Spanish army during a 16th-century war.

In 1790, Napoleon’s wife Josephine reportedly had her pet Pug, named Fortune, carry secret messages to the famous emperor during his imprisonment in Paris’s Carmes jail. According to the AKC, one of the best descriptors for Pugs is the Latin “multum in parvo” – or, “a lot of dog in a small space.” It’s hard to measure dog intelligence, so sources disagree on how bright Pugs are. But there’s no disputing their larger-than-life personality. It’s probably why so many Pugs have made a splash throughout history and continue to do so today.

Famous and inspiring Pugs. While Fortune, that clever Pug of Josephine’s, is one of the more famous examples of this well-loved breed, other Pugs have also left their mark on history – often through inspiring their pet parents and offering companionship. Pug Village notes that the author Harriet Beecher Stowe kept two Pugs named Punch and Missy. Meanwhile, the beloved English painter William Hogarth had a Pug named Trump, who showed up in at least one or two famous works. And it’s known that the renowned Italian designer Valentino was also a Pug lover. His dog, Oliver, was the nominal inspiration behind Valentino’s famous lines of shirts and cardigans, notes the news source.

This content post is provided by the pet experts at Hartz.

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Remove toxic plants. To err on the side of caution, you should make an effort to remove any plants from your home that could be poisonous to your cat. According to Care2.com, common plants like aloe vera, amaryllis, azalea, begonia, daffodils, lilies and many more could cause digestive problems and even death in some cases, so make sure you do your research before purchasing one to ensure that you aren’t putting your cat at risk.

Invest in cat grass. While cats are carnivores by nature, there’s a reason they’re drawn to house plants. In the wild, cats eat grass to aid their digestion, and you can pick up a similar product at your local pet store. According to VetInfo.com, cat grass is a great source of fiber, niacin and B vitamins, and you can usually buy it in potted form at the nearest pet store. This will satiate your cat’s need to chomp down on some greenery and avoid your plants, as well as holding a number of unique health benefits.

Utilize chili powder. If you have a plant in your home that isn’t toxic but your cat never seems to leave it alone, a good way to keep him or her away is by sprinkling chili powder on the leaves. Lightly dust the plant with the spice and you’ll soon notice that your cat will avoid it altogether. Be sure to water your plants from the bottom in the weeks following the application of the chili powder to prevent the spice from washing off. Last but not least, you can also place aluminum foil around your potted plants – cats hate the feeling underneath their feet and will avoid your plants in the future.

This content is provided by the pet wellness experts at Hartz. We know that adopting a dog or cat is a huge commitment, so we’re here to help you feel confident and become the best pet parent you can be.

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While these options are all great, make sure you abide by summertime dog safety tips! Keep plenty of water on hand and remember that the sun can be especially taxing on your canine friend. In fact, dogs can even be susceptible to sunburn, so dog-friendly sunscreen is a must. Dog owners with Pugs or other short-snouted breeds will want to be especially careful not to overexert their companions, since these breeds can sometimes experience heath troubles when overheated.

The local dog park. Let’s start with an easy one: When the weather’s nice, where would you or your pet rather be than a wide-open space with lots of other friendly pups to hang out with? Brush up on your dog park etiquette and head out to your local canine stomping grounds.

On a jog with you. If you think your pet is up for it, you might want to consider jogging together. This often takes some work and training, especially when it comes to pacing. While your dog might be a speed demon when chasing after a tennis ball, not all pets are quite as good with stamina, so experienced joggers should start slow with their dogs.

The doggy gym. If you live in the city, your opportunity for dog parks may be slightly more limited. And running along the streets of Manhattan with your pet probably isn’t all that tempting, either. In these cases, there’s always the doggy gym to escape to! This is especially handy on hot days when the sun is just a bit too intense to have any fun outside. You can look up dog gyms in your area and find out what activities or programs they have to offer your pet.

A day trip. City dog or country dog, there’s nothing our pets love more than adventures. Why not load up the car for a day trip to the beach or some other exotic locale – or, exotic to your dog, anyway! Just grab your dog travel checklist and pick a fun and pet-friendly destination to roam! This content post is provided by the pet experts at Hartz.

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You already know that skin cancer is a big concern, especially when the weather is warm and you start spending more time under the sun. However, this is also a concern for pets, because they may not have the protection they need from ultraviolet rays. Dogs that have short coats are prone to sunburns, and all animals can develop skin cancer just like their owners. That being said, you don’t have to wait for the worst to happen. Here are some tips for staying safe, whether you spend your summer camping in the woods or splashing around the pool with your dog.

1. Utilize sunscreen. Just like Hartz® UltraGuard Pro® Flea & Tick Treatment for Dogs and Puppies, which can be applied to the coat of a dog to prevent fleas, ticks and mosquitoes, there are topical remedies for sun protection available as well. Animal Planet recommends visiting your local pet store to find dog-designed sunscreen to keep your animal shielded from the sun. This will give you peace of mind in addition to knowing that your dog is also protected from parasites.

2. Identify your dog’s sensitive areas. There tends to be thinner skin around the ears and muzzle of dogs, and Country Living magazine recommends focusing on these areas when applying sunscreen. Doing so can prevent painful burns.

3. Know your breed. Depending on your type of dog, your pet may be more susceptible to sunburns than you think. For instance, breeds with thinner coats are more likely to soak up rays than others. Be mindful of this as you have fun with your dog outside. If you want to play it safe, limit the amount of time you spend under direct sunlight. In the end, your dog will thank you!

This content is provided by the flea treatment experts at Hartz. We offer flea sprays, shampoos and drops to keep your pets safe inside and outside your home.

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1. Perform a full home safety check. In the same way that you would prepare your home for the arrival of a newborn baby, the same tact should be used when looking through your abode for potential trouble spots. According to Catster.com, you should pay particular attention to small spaces like pipes, chimney grates, door and window screens, as well as cupboards and closets that your kitten could squeeze into. Last but not least, make sure to remove small items like pens, scissors, needles and thread, cords and wires and any potentially toxic houseplants that may tempt your kitten.

2. Add cat furnishings. If you’re worried about your kitten running amok in your home and posing a threat to your furniture, there is a wealth of decorating ideas for a cat-friendly home. Cat furniture like cat trees, carpet-covered scratching posts and a few padded window boxes will provide plenty of places for your kitten to bare his or her claws, climb, and reap the benefits of regular exercise. Be sure to place these furnishings near a large window to give your cat a view to the outdoors to provide a bit of mental stimulation.

3. Make comfort a priority. Kittens will showcase both ends of the behavioral spectrum – bouts of intense energy and plenty of sleeping to recharge. As a result, Discovery.com suggests placing a premium on comfort in your kitten’s first few weeks in your home. For instance, consider placing both your cat’s bedding and litter box in low-traffic areas, so he or she will feel secure when taking a nap or doing his or her business.

This content is provided by the pet wellness experts at Hartz. We know that adopting a dog or cat is a huge commitment, so we’re here to help you feel confident and become the best pet parent you can be.

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1. Visit the business beforehand. According to Prevention magazine, you should do extensive research like checking online reviews, asking fellow pet owners and visiting the facility yourself. Be on the lookout for a lack of supervision, the building’s state of cleanliness and that the building itself is secure. If you get a good feeling about the place and its employees, there’s a good chance they are worth your time and money.

2. Activities. Being stuck in a cage during your entire trip certainly isn’t a vacation for your dog, so inquire with the boarding facility’s staff to see what kinds of activities the dogs will participate in while you’re gone. Look for outdoor areas where dogs can play and stretch their legs, and inquire about daily dog walking policy to see if your pet will get plenty of exercise.

3. Food and toy requirements. If your dog happens to be a picky eater, inquire with the boarding facility staff to see whether you can provide a supply of your dog’s food while you’re away. This could ease some of your pet’s anxiety of being in a new place and you can stick with your tried and true diet. Additionally, consider bringing along a few toys and a blanket from home.

4. Provide emergency information. According to ThatMutt.com, before you set off on your family vacation, provide the boarding facility with as much emergency information as possible, including your cell phone numbers, the number of the hotel you’ll be staying at, as well as an emergency contact at home that can take care of any pet-related issues while you’re away.

5. Thank the employees. Taking care of dozens of dogs is no walk in the park, so make sure you provide a nice tip to the people who walked, bathed and looked after your dog during your trip, or simply drop off a card to thank them for all of their hard work!

What is the most important thing to you when choosing a place to board your pets?

This content is provided by the pet wellness experts at Hartz. We know that adopting a dog or cat is a huge commitment, so we’re here to help you feel confident and become the best pet parent you can be.

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Many experts agree that one of the most overlooked areas of the house is the dog or cat bed. Parasites can thrive in this place and make a comfortable home within proximity to their host. To make matters worse, many of these fleas and ticks may carry diseases that can negatively impact animal wellness. “Fleas thrive in a warm environment, and their larvae feed off debris such as pet dandruff and adult flea feces, making your pet’s bed the perfect breeding ground,” said Sean Wensleya, a veterinarian with People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals. “If your dog or cat sleeps on your bed, then that’s one of the places where the fleas will thrive.”

It’s also worth noting that fleas can reproduce at a rapid rate. This means that if they’re allowed to linger in an area such as where an animal sleeps, the situation can quickly develop into an infestation. However, there are a few ways that pet parents can ensure that they aren’t allowing this to occur. Here are some tips for dog and cat owners who want to take proactive measures.

1. Wash pet bedding frequently. Ideally, an animal’s bed should be washed once a week to eliminate any fleas and eggs that may be lingering in the material.

2. Vacuum routinely. In between washings, pet owners should be adamant about vacuuming around areas where animals sleep. This can not only remove dirt and debris, but keep ticks and fleas from sticking around if they’ve come in from the outdoors.

3. Use an efficient parasite treatment. Prevention can be one of the best defenses against parasites and infestations. Products such as Hartz® UltraGuard Pro® Flea & Tick Treatment for Dogs and Puppies can keep fleas, ticks and mosquitoes away for up to 30 days. Flea collars can provide similar results and keep parasites at bay for a maximum of seven months.

This content is provided by the flea prevention experts at Hartz. From flea drops to flea treatments for the home and yard, we have the solution for you.

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1. Teach your dog to swim. Believe it or not, it’s possible to teach dogs to swim in the same way that you would teach little kids to do so for the first time! ABC News claimed that there are now classes available in some areas for pet owners who want their animals to get used to water. Water 4 Dogs is one example of an organization that teaches both disabled and capable dogs to swim when necessary.

2. Prepare for parasites. If you’re going to be attending an area where other dog owners take their pets for a swim, you’ll want to ensure that your animal is protected from parasites that may be lurking. Products such as Hartz®  First Defense™ topical flea & tick treatment for dogs and puppies can keep ticks, mosquitoes and fleas at bay for up to 30 days. Flea and tick control can give you peace of mind if you intend to let your dog swim alongside his peers.

3. Know your dog’s limitations. In some instances, your dog might simply not be suited for water. For instance, his limbs could be too short or he may be too small in size to effectively paddle through large pools of water. Dog Channel claims that it’s essential to take your pet’s body and breed into account before you let them jump right in. Doing so can prevent an accident or even save your pet from drowning.

While it can be fun to take your dog for a dip when the weather is warm, there are numerous safety precautions worth considering beforehand. Take these three tips to heart to ensure that your dog has a fun, healthy summer. This content is provided by the flea and tick experts at Hartz. We believe in offering safe, effective and affordable parasite prevention for every dog and cat.

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Do a sweep of your yard. There are a number of items that you might have left around your yard during the winter or in the early spring that could be contributing to mosquito levels on your property. While there is nothing you can do about nearby bodies of water, you can make an effort to get rid of any buckets or containers that hold standing water. These receptacles are prime breeding grounds for mosquitoes, so overturning these items and storing them properly will ensure that your patio and yard have fewer bugs this spring and summer.

Alter your daily walks. Because mosquitoes are prevalent at specific times of the day, such as during the early morning and evening, make an effort to alter your schedule to limit your dog’s chances of coming into contact with mosquitoes. Additionally, since these insects like to hang around bodies of water like streams, ponds and lakes, you should also alter your walking route during the spring and summer to avoid these potentially hazardous areas.

Utilize topical drops. Not every anti-parasite product on the market will give your dog a full spectrum of protection against seasonal insects, so make sure you make the right choice by using Hartz® UltraGuard Pro® Flea & Tick Treatment for Dogs and Puppies. This product will kill fleas, brown dog ticks and deer ticks at any stage of their life cycles, as well as repel mosquitoes for up to 30 days after application. The topical drops are placed at the skin level between a dog’s back and down the length of the back to the tail and will provide superior protection throughout the height of flea season.

This content is provided by the pet wellness experts at Hartz. We offer complete flea and tick protection for your pet, home and yard.

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Invest in slipcovers. One way to quickly and easily curb the amount of pet hair on your furnishings this spring is to invest in a series of slipcovers for your couches and chairs. This will make it much easier to spot any tufts of pet hair that may accumulate in your seating area, and many of these covers are machine washable, so you can quickly remove, wash and then slip them back into your furnishings with ease. As an added bonus, most slipcovers come in neutral colors, so they can provide a neutral backdrop that gives your seasonal interior design a major boost.

Incorporate a daily grooming routine. During the peak of shedding season, taking the time to help out your dog or cat with daily grooming can dramatically improve his or her quality of life. Because stray hair can be ingested by both dogs and cats and can cause a wide range of digestive problems, you should make an effort to brush out your pet’s coat each day and give your companion the occasional bath. This proactive plan can keep your home clear of pet hair and can nurture the growth of your pet’s new spring coat. Be sure to choose the right brush for your dog or cat.

Look into vitamin supplements. According to CatSter.com, spring is a great time of year to look into vitamin supplements that can aid coat growth - especially those that contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Fish oil capsules are a wonderful addition to any pet’s diet, and they hold the additional benefit of promoting good joint health. Consider taking a trip to your veterinarian this season or look into your dog and cat vitamin options at your local pet store to find beneficial options that can provide many benefits to your pet’s spring and summer coat.

This content is provided by the pet grooming experts at Hartz. Our professional staff is here to keep you educated on the proper grooming techniques while offering tips to keep your pet happy and healthy.

See also: Tips on brushing dog fur.

How to Brush Your Cat’s Coat

Pet Grooming Tips Pinterest Board

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